General Overview 1

A About the test

The Duolingo English Test is an English test designed for the test takers which is convenient, fast, affordable,
and trusted around the world. The test takers can take the test online from their computers at anytime and
anywhere. The duration of the test is not more than 1 hour, and the result encompassing overall score, sub
scores, and writing and speaking sample can be received in 2 days. In addition, the result certificate can be
accepted by thousands of top institutions around the world.

B Test structure

1) Test length
The test takers will need about 1 hour of uninterrupted free time to take the Duolingo English Test. Unlike
other tests, the test takers won’t see the same types of questions grouped together. Different questions
will appear one after another. The test takers will not know which type of question will be asked next.

2) Test type
The Duolingo English Test is a computer adaptive test, which means that the question sequence and
difficulty changes for each test taker and test session. The test takers will not see the same types of
questions grouped together. Different questions will appear one after another. The test takers will not
know which type of question will be asked next. Next, there is no set number of questions which draw
from an extremely large pool. It is highly unlikely that the test takers will encounter the same question
twice.

3) Test sections
a) Introduction and onboarding [5 minutes]
- The test takers ensure the computer’s camera, speakers, and microphone are functioning properly.
- The test takers submit the government-issued photo ID.
- The test takers review the test rules and requirements.

b) Adaptive test [45 minutes]

- The test measures English skills through a series of different question types.
- Random test questions are administered.
- Question difficulty changes based on test taker’s performance.

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 c) Writing and speaking sample [10 minutes]
- The test takers are given a prompt and asked to respond at length.
- Speaking sample allows for 1-3 minutes response and Writing sample allows for 3-5 minutes
response.
- The test takers are able to review the samples responses after the test has concluded.

C Get ready for the test

Because you can choose when and where you take the test, you should take it when you feel your best
mentally and physically. The following tips may be useful for you.

• Plan to take the test at the time of day when you perform best.
• Sleep well the night before.
• Use the bathroom before the test.
• Drink enough water before the test.
• Have a brain-boosting snack before the test.
• Put any devices in another room and turn them off.
• Put away any pens and paper. [Taking notes is against the rules.]
• Warn anyone in the area not to disrupt you.
• Make sure your computer is sufficiently charged or plugged in.
• Verify that your internet connection is strong.
• Check that your ID is not expired.
• Take your headphones off and put them in another room.
• While taking the test, don’t look away from the screen or exit out of the test application. [Try not to look
at the timer too often.]
• Having finished, wait until the test has completely uploaded before leaving the Duolingo English Test
desktop app. [There is a notification on the screen when the results have been uploaded.]

D Test rules

The Duolingo English Test is the first high-stakes test they have taken from home, instead of in a test center.
This new model of testing comes with different rules that help maintain the integrity of each test session.
Unfortunately, some test takers don’t receive their results on the first try—not because they were cheating,
but because they unintentionally broke one of the rules.
If you violate any of the rules of the Duolingo English Test, Duolingo reserves the right to not certify your test
results, or to invalidate any previously certified results, without providing a refund. Depending on the
severity of the violation, test takers may also be banned permanently from taking the Duolingo English Test
again.

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In some situations, you may be eligible to appeal your invalid results. If you are eligible for an appeal, you
will see a button that says “Appeal This Result” next to your invalid result on the Duolingo English Test home
page. The following information can be done to ensure the test certified.

• Stay focused on your screen

Each test is proctored to ensure that you’re not getting help from an outside resource. Looking away
from your computer could be an indication of this. It’s natural to want to look up when thinking or trying
to find the right words but try to remember to look at the question as you answer it.

• Close all program on the computer

Before you start the test, close programs including all browsers, telecommunication software and
remote desktop software. You should also double check that there aren’t any programs running in the
background without you knowing.

• Make sure the test environment is private

Make sure you have one hour of uninterrupted time. Let everyone around you know not to enter your
testing area. Also, it’s best to put your phone, smart watch, or connected device in another room to be
certain you won’t get distracted or disturbed during the test.

• Speak and write naturally

During open response sections of the test, try to respond naturally with answers that you come up with
in the moment. Even if you have practiced answers to similar types of questions, your response should
be specific to the topic, and in your own words.

• Other rules to know and follow

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4
 E Certificate and Score Comparison

The following is the example of the certificate.

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• Comparison with TOEFL iBT

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• Comparison with IELTS Academic

• Comparison with CEFR

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 Test Questions: Adaptive Test
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A Read and Complete

Read and Complete asks you to “Type the missing letters to complete the text below.”
For this question type, you will fill in the blanks of unfinished words in a passage.
The directions for this question will appear when the timer begins. Here is the example.

TIPS
• Read the passage before focusing on each individual word.
• Use context clues to help you complete the words.
• Use the backspace or delete button to go back one space and delete a letter.

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 Basic English Sentences

1) SUBJECT
The subject of a sentence is the person, place, or thing that primarily acts, experiences, or is described in a
sentence. The subject of a sentence can be a noun or a pronoun.

A preposition connects a noun, pronoun, or verb with other information about it.

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2) VERBS
Action Verbs
An action verb tells what action the subject performs.

Linking Verbs
A linking verb connects (links) the subject to another word or group of words that describes the subject.
Linking verbs show no action.

Helping Verbs
A helping verb joins the main verb in a sentence to form the complete verb. The helping verb is often a form
of the verbs be, have, or do. A sentence may have more than one helping verb along with the main verb.

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SIX BASIC ENGLISH SENTENCE PATTERNS
In English, there are six basic sentence patterns. Although there are other patterns, they build on these six.

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EXERCISES
Type the missing letters to complete the text below.
1) Physical exercise is recommended for management of mild depression and has a moderate eff_ _ _
on symp_ _ _ _. It i_ equivalent t_ the u_ _ of medic_ _ _ _ _ _ or psycho_ _ _ _ _ _ _ therapies f_ _
most peo_ _ _. In older people, it does appear to decrease depression.

2) In 1996 Canberra was the first city in the world to set a vis_ _ _ of n_ waste b_ 2010. The stra_ _ _ _
aimed t_ achieve a waste-free soc_ _ _ _ by 2010, thr_ _ _ _ the comb_ _ _ _ efforts o_ industry,
government, and comm_ _ _ _ _. By early 2010, it was apparent that the ACT Government initiative
had failed.

3) Electrical engineering has many subdisciplines, the most popular of which are listed be_ _ _.
Although th_ _ _ are elect_ _ _ _ _ engineers w_ _ focus exclu_ _ _ _ _ _ on o_ _ of th_ _ _
subdisciplines, many de_ _ with a combination o_ them. Sometimes certain fields, such as electronic
engineering and computer engineering, are considered separate disciplines in their own right.

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4) The orchestral score of the opera was published in late 1899 by Casa Ricordi. In cont_ _ _ _ to h_ _
other ope_ _ _, Puccini appeared t_ be sati_ _ _ _ _ with h_ _ initial sc_ _ _, wh_ _ _ remained relat_
_ _ _ _ unchanged i_ the 1909 edition prep_ _ _ _ by Osbourne McConachy. An unamended edition
was published by Dover Press in 1991.

5) The performance of teenagers in analogous situations al _ _ confirms the fi_ _ _ _ _ [Williams, 2009].
Williams found that in_ _ _ _ _ _ language, in particular slang, intensifies the stress le_ _ _ _ of
subjects undertaking simultaneous translation. The _ _ _ _ _ _ the lack of changes t_ _ _ we found
in our present research in the st_ _ _ _ levels of bilingual adults with respect to bil_ _ _ _ _ _
teenagers w_ _ _ simultaneously tran_ _ _ _ _ _ _ extracts from a teenage soap opera, would s _ _
_ to indicate that experience plays an important role.

6) The great ship, Titanic, sailed for New York Southampton on April 10th, 1912. It was ca_ _ _ _ _ _
1316 passengers and a crew of 891. E_ _ _ by modern standards, the 66.000-ton Titanic was a col_
_ _ _ _ ship. At that time, however, i_ was not only the lar_ _ _ _ ship that had ever been built but
was regarded as uns_ _ _ _ _ _ _, for it had sixteen watertight com_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _. Even if t_ _ of
these were flooded, it wo_ _ _ still be able to float. The tragic sin_ _ _ _ _ of this great liner will
always be remembered, for it w_ _ _ down on her first v_ _ _ _ _ with heavy loss of life.

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 B Complete the Sentences

Complete the Sentences asks you to “Select the best option for each missing word.”
In this task, you will see a passage with several blank spaces, and select a word to complete the sentence.

TIPS
• Read the entire sentence and use context clues to help you determine the best word choice.
• Time permitting, read the passage after you’ve completed all of the sentences, as a way to double
check your responses.
• You can complete the sentences in any order.
• You won’t be able to click “NEXT” until you’ve selected a response for each blank.
• To navigate between the sentences, you can use your mouse/touchpad or the tab button.

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EXERCISES
Select the best option for each missing word.

1) There is some [same/of/good/some/new] news for monarch butterflies, which are known for
their long journeys from Canada to Mexico. Scientists have found a new reserve where there
[become/are/lot/more/will] more milkweed plants and the [king/males/two/larvae/butterflies]
will have some place to land. Monarchs are well-known for the [long/best/kind/fine/last]
journey they make twice a [time/span/year/weekend/beat].They head from Canada to Mexico.
The butterflies need milkweed plants to lay eggs. Scientists from organizations in Mexico, the
United States and Canada counted the butterflies this year. They found that fewer than one in
10 of them had [seen/during/experienced/spent/changed] the winter in Mexico.

2) The extremely hot and [moist/humid/tropical/heat/dampness] weather that occurs in the

United States in July and August is commonly called the "dog days" of summer. This name
[commonly/starts/derives/are/comes] from the star Sirius, which is known as the Dog Star.
Sirius is the [long/brightest/light/more/good] visible star, and in the hot summer months it rises
in the [western/southern/polar/east/northern] at approximately the same time as the Sun. As
ancient people [think/saw/were/seen/imagined] this star rising with the Sun when the weather
was at its hottest.

3) Basketball was [found/invented/discover/produces/originally] in 1891 by a physical education

instructor in Springfield, Massachusetts, by the name of James Naismith. Because of the terrible
weather in winter, his [most/natural/basic/physical/many] education students were indoors
rather than outdoors. They really did not like the idea of boring, repetitive exercises and preferred
the [interesting/exhausted/excitement/happy/tired] and challenge of a game. Naismith figured
out a team sport that could be played indoors on a [enormous/large/big/gymnasium/sport] floor,
that involved a lot of running, that kept all team members involved, and that did not allow the
tackling and physical [style/contact/connected/type/associated] of American style football.

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 C Read and Select

Read and Select asks you to “Select the real English words in this list.”
You will need to read each word in a list and decide if it is an actual word in English.
The directions for this question will appear when the timer begins.

TIPS
• Select only the words you know are real! Trust yourself.
• There could be any number of real words in the list, so don’t worry if one question has more than
another.
• Read carefully. Some words look real but have small differences from real English words.
• Click a word to select it as a real English word. It will turn orange once you’ve selected it.
• Click the word again to deselect it if you change your mind.

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 Parts of Speech

The following are some parts of speech in English.

1) Nouns
Nouns name persons, places, things, or ideas.
Many nouns can be identified by their suffixes or endings:
-ness, -ation, -tion, -ment, -tude, -hood, -ence, -ance, -ity, -dom

Examples: happiness, capitalization, recreation, government, aptitude, fatherhood, existence,

defiance, celebrity; freedom; wisdom; gratitude; kingdom, carefulness

2) Adjectives
An adjective describes a noun or pronoun. It modifies or changes nouns or pronouns to make them
more specific or exact.
Many adjectives can be identified by their suffixes, or endings:
-ful, -ish, -able, -y, -less, -ous, -some, -ic,- iant, -ient

Examples: comfortable, selfish, laughable, joyous, happy, careless, wholesome, patient, stoic

3) Adverbs
Adverbs modify, or describe, verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They answer one or more of the
following questions: When/Time, How, Where/Place, To what extent/Degree.
Many adverbs end in -ly

Example: fast, slowly, well, poorly, oddly, crazily

EXERCISES
Select the real English words in the list.

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D

18
F

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 D Listen and Select

Listen and Select asks you to “Select the real English words in this list.”
Similar to Read and Select, you will be trying to identify real English words, but in this question, you will listen
to the words to identify them.
The directions for this question will appear when the timer begins.

TIPS
• Make sure to pay attention to each syllable of each word—some fake words may have small differences
from real ones.
• Select only the words you know are real.
• Double check your selected words before clicking NEXT.
• You can play each word as many times as you want. Use the speaker icon next to the words to play them
again.
• Click the check mark (√ ) to select a word if you think it is a real English word.
• Your selections will be highlighted in orange. Click the check mark again to deselect a word if you change
your mind.

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EXERCISES
Select the real English words in the list.
A

21
E

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 E Listen and Type

Listen and Type asks you to “Type the statement that you hear.”
In this task, you will listen to a person speaking a statement and then transcribe what you hear.
The directions for this question will appear when the timer begins.

TIPS

• Type out what you hear first. Then check your response by replaying the statement and comparing it
to what you wrote. You can replay the statement up to two times (three plays total) by clicking on the
orange speaker icon.

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EXERCISES
Type the statement that you hear.

1)

2)

3)

24
4)

5)

6)

25
7)

8)

8)

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 F Read Aloud

Read Aloud asks you to “Record yourself saying the statement below.”
In this question type, you will read a written statement, and then speak it out loud into the microphone.
The directions for this question will appear when the timer begins.

TIPS
• If you have time, practice speaking the statement once out loud before recording if you have time.
• Look at the punctuation in the statement to help you pace yourself—briefly pausing at each comma,
for instance.
• Speak loudly, at a natural pace, and make sure to enunciate clearly.
• You only have 20 seconds, and you only have one chance to record the statement, so use your time
wisely.
• When you are ready to record, click RECORD NOW and start speaking. When you are finished recording,
click NEXT. If you do not click NEXT, the test will advance automatically when the timer runs out.
• Make sure you capture your full response in the recording.

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EXERCISES
Record yourself saying the statement below. Go to vocaroo.com to record your voice.

1)
I am certain that the professor will find at least one error.

2)
I don’t know what the future will bring or when I will be back.

3)
I will have gone to the movies by the time you decide what you want to do.

4)
Mathematical and computer models are produced, and field research is
done to test the models.

5)
Women earn only 10 percent of the world’s income, yet work two-thirds
of the world’s working hours.

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 G Write about the Photo

Write About the Photo asks you to “Write one or more sentences that describe the image.”
For this question type, you will see an image on the screen and you will write a description of the image.
The directions for this question will appear when the timer begins.

TIPS

• Try to go beyond simple labeling and describe the image in detail.

• The directions ask for one complete sentence, but try to write more than one, as a longer response can
help demonstrate more of your skills.
• You will be able to see the image as you write your response.
• Use your mouse or trackpad to scroll back through your response if you need to check it for spelling
and grammar.

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EXERCISES
Write one or more sentences that describe the image.

Write one or more sentences that describe the image.

1)

Write one or more sentences that describe the image.

2)

Write one or more sentences that describe the image.

3)

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 H Speak about the Photo

Speak About the Photo asks you to “Speak for at least 30 seconds about the image below.”
In this task, you will talk about an image that appears on the screen.
The directions and image will appear for 20 seconds before automatically advancing to the record screen.
You can also click NEXT to manually advance.
You will need to speak for a minimum of 30 seconds before moving on.

TIPS
• Try to describe the image as if explaining it to someone who can’t see it.
• Speak at a natural pace and enunciate clearly.
• Don’t panic if you stumble on a word or phrase, just recover and keep going.
• You will have 20 seconds to look at the photo before the recording begins automatically. Take this time
to observe and mentally plan your response before recording your answer.
• You will also be able to look at the image as you speak.
• You have only one opportunity to record your answer.

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EXERCISES
Speak for at least 30 seconds about the image below.

1)

2)

3)

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 I Read, then Write

Read, Then Write asks you to “Respond to the question in at least 50 words.”
For this question type, you will read a written prompt. Then, you will respond in writing with at least 50
words.
The directions for this question will appear when the timer begins.

TIPS
• Use all of the time you have to make sure your response is the best it can be.
• Write as much as you can, as long as you are using English effectively and it is relevant to the topic.
• Use writing best practices to help you develop your response (see “GENERAL TIPS” at the beginning of
this section).
• You will be able to see the question as you write, if you need inspiration to write more.
• Your word count will appear below the text box, and you will not be able to click NEXT until you have
written at least 50 words.
• Proofread carefully! Do not click NEXT until you have checked your response and are ready to submit

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EXERCISES
Respond to the question in at least 50 words.
1) Describe a people who inspires you. Why?

2) Describe a time you were jubilant. What happened?

3) People have jobs because they need money to live, but what are some other important reasons that
people have jobs?

4) People are never satisfied with what they have; they always want something more or different. Do you
agree or disagree? Why? Give specific reasons for your answer.

5) Big salary is much more important than job satisfaction. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

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 J Read, then Speak

Read, Then Speak asks you to “Speak your answer to the question below.”
For this question type, you will see a written prompt. You will speak your response to this prompt for at
least 30 seconds.
The directions will appear for 20 seconds before the timer begins.

TIPS
• Speak naturally and clearly and use varied words and structures.
• Make sure you’ve answered all of the components to the question.
• Take your time to read the question carefully and start thinking about your response before the test
advances to the recording screen.
• You will still be able to see the question as you speak your response.

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EXERCISES
Speak your answer to the question below.
1) Talk about a hobby or activity that you enjoy doing.
• What is it?
• How long have you been doing it?
• Who do you do it with?
• Why is it important to you?

2) Talk about a film you saw recently.

• What was it about?
• When did you see it?
• Who was the main character?
• What else do you remember about it?

3) Talk about a gift that you gave to someone recently.

• What was it?
• Who did you give it to?
• How did it make you feel? Why did you give it to this particular person?

4) Describe something you did that was new or exciting.

• What did you do?
• Where and when did you do this?
• Who are you shared the activity with?
• Why this activity was new or exciting for you?

5) Describe a journey that you remember well.

• Where did you go?
• How did you travel?
• Why did you go on the journey?
• Why did you remember this journey well?

6) Describe a party that you enjoyed.

• Whose party was it?
• What was it celebrating?
• Where was the party held and who went to it?
• What did people do during the party?
• Why did you enjoy about the party?

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 K Listen, then Speak

Listen, Then Speak asks you to “Speak the answer to the question you hear.”
For this question type, you will listen to a prompt, then speak your response.
Note that the directions will appear for 20 seconds before recording begins.
During this time, you can hear and replay the prompt.

TIPS

• Speak naturally and clearly and use varied words and sentence structures.
• Make sure you have a clear understanding of the prompt before you start to record. You can replay it
up to two times (three plays total).
• You will need to speak for a minimum of 30 seconds. Once 30 seconds have gone by, you will see the
NEXT button turn orange, and you will then be able to come to a natural conclusion and click the
button to submit your response.

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EXERCISES
Speak your answer to the question below. Go to vocaroo.com to record your voices.

1)

2)

3)

4)

5)

6)

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 L Complete the passage

Complete the Passage asks you to “Select the best sentence to fill in the blank.”
In this task, you will see two sections of a passage with a missing sentence in the middle.

TIPS
• Some parts of the passage will be familiar to you from the Complete the Sentences question.
• Make sure to read each section thoroughly, especially new material.
• Pay special attention to the sentences before and after the blank, especially if you are undecided.

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EXERCISES
1) There is some good news for monarch butterflies, which are known for their long journeys from
Canada to Mexico. Scientists have found a new reserve where there are more milkweed plants and
the butterflies will have some place to land. Monarchs are well-known for the long journey they
make twice a year. They head from Canada to Mexico. The butterflies need milkweed plants to lay
eggs. Scientists from organizations in Mexico, the United States and Canada counted the butterflies
this year. They found that fewer than one in 10 of them had spent the winter in Mexico.

Scientists say the low number is probably because of a lack of milkweed plants where they live.
Select the best sentence to fill in the blank
A. This is the lowest number they have seen in 25 years.
B. In 1961, the species was found to be extinct in its home area.
C. But how great a toll might humans have taken on the butterflies?
D. But the butterflies didn’t return for another eight days.

2) The extremely hot and humid weather that occurs in the United States in July and August is
commonly called the "dog days" of summer. This name comes from the star Sirius, which is known
as the Dog Star. Sirius is the brightest visible star, and in the hot summer months it rises in the east
at approximately the same time as the Sun. As ancient people saw this star rising with the Sun when
the weather was at its hottest.

They believed that this bright star added its heat to the heat of the Sun and that these two together
made summer weather so unbearably hot.
Select the best sentence to fill in the blank
A. They believed that Sirius was the cause of the additional heat.
B. However, the hottest days are not affected by Sirius.
C. Although the star rising with the Sun, it doesn’t make the days hotter.
D. They assumed that Sirius and the Sun do not have relation to the weather.

3) The term "primitive art" has been used in a variety of ways to describe works and styles of art. One
way that this term has been used is to describe the early period within the development of a certain
style of art. Another way that this term has been used is to describe artists who have received little
professional training and who demonstrate a nontraditional naivete in their work. A wonderful
example of this second type of primitive artist is Grandma Moses, who spent all her life living on a
farm and working at tasks normally associated with farm life.

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Totally without formal education in art, she began to paint and created panoramic images of
everyday life on the farm that have achieved international fame.

Select the best sentence to fill in the blank

A. She did not begin painting until she reached the age of seventy-six, when she switched to
painting from embroidery.
B. She spent her life with making embroidery about the farm life.
C. She started making embroidery after learning painting because the arthritis in her hands made
embroidery too.
D. She had never learned embroidery in formal education.

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 M Highlight the Answer

Highlight the Answer asks you to “Click and drag the text to highlight the answer to the question below.”
You will see a question on screen, then you will find and highlight the answer within the passage.

TIPS
• Be precise but thorough in your selection, and make sure to highlight only the answer to the question
asked. You don’t want to highlight too much or too little.
• Once you highlight the text, it will appear in the box below the answer so you can read it in context.
• If you want to change your highlighting, you can click and drag your cursor on the screen again to
highlight. Be sure the answer you want is in the box before clicking Next.

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EXERCISES
Highlight the answer to the question below.
QUESTION
1) What are the monarch butterflies known for?
There is some good news for monarch butterflies, which are known for their long journeys from
Canada to Mexico. Scientists have found a new reserve where there are more milkweed plants and
the butterflies will have some place to land. Monarchs are well-known for the long journey they
make twice a year. They head from Canada to Mexico. The butterflies need milkweed plants to lay
eggs. Scientists from organizations in Mexico, the United States and Canada counted the butterflies
this year. They found that fewer than one in 10 of them had spent the winter in Mexico. This is the
lowest number they have seen in 25 years. Scientists say the low number is probably because of a
lack of milkweed plants where they live.
2) What do monarch butterflies need to lay eggs?
There is some good news for monarch butterflies, which are known for their long journeys from
Canada to Mexico. Scientists have found a new reserve where there are more milkweed plants and
the butterflies will have some place to land. Monarchs are well-known for the long journey they
make twice a year. They head from Canada to Mexico. The butterflies need milkweed plants to lay
eggs. Scientists from organizations in Mexico, the United States and Canada counted the butterflies
this year. They found that fewer than one in 10 of them had spent the winter in Mexico. This is the
lowest number they have seen in 25 years. Scientists say the low number is probably because of a
lack of milkweed plants where they live.

3) What is star Sirius known as?

The extremely hot and humid weather that occurs in the United States in July and August is commonly
called the "dog days" of summer. This name comes from the star Sirius, which is known as the Dog Star.
Sirius is the brightest visible star, and in the hot summer months it rises in the east at approximately the
same time as the Sun. As ancient people saw this star rising with the Sun when the weather was at its
hottest. They believed that Sirius was the cause of the additional heat. They believed that this bright star
added its heat to the heat of the Sun and that these two together made summer weather so unbearably
hot.

4) What is the effect of Sirius?

The extremely hot and humid weather that occurs in the United States in July and August is commonly
called the "dog days" of summer. This name comes from the star Sirius, which is known as the Dog Star.
Sirius is the brightest visible star, and in the hot summer months it rises in the east at approximately the
same time as the Sun. As ancient people saw this star rising with the Sun when the weather was at its
hottest. They believed that Sirius was the cause of the additional heat. They believed that this bright star
added its heat to the heat of the Sun and that these two together made summer weather so unbearably
hot.

43
5) What is primitive art used for?
The term "primitive art" has been used in a variety of ways to describe works and styles of art. One
way that this term has been used is to describe the early period within the development of a certain
style of art. Another way that this term has been used is to describe artists who have received little
professional training and who demonstrate a nontraditional naivete in their work. A wonderful
example of this second type of primitive artist is Grandma Moses, who spent all her life living on a
farm and working at tasks normally associated with farm life. She did not begin painting until she
reached the age of seventy-six, when she switched to painting from embroidery. Totally without
formal education in art, she began creating panoramic images of everyday life on the farm that have
achieved international fame.

6) Who demonstrates the nontraditional naivete in works and art?

The term "primitive art" has been used in a variety of ways to describe works and styles of art. One
way that this term has been used is to describe the early period within the development of a certain
style of art. Another way that this term has been used is to describe artists who have received little
professional training and who demonstrate a nontraditional naivete in their work. A wonderful
example of this second type of primitive artist is Grandma Moses, who spent all her life living on a
farm and working at tasks normally associated with farm life. She did not begin painting until she
reached the age of seventy-six, when she switched to painting from embroidery. Totally without
formal education in art, she began creating panoramic images of everyday life on the farm that have
achieved international fame.

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 N Identify the Idea

Identify the Idea asks you to “Select the idea that is expressed in the passage.”
In this task, you will select an idea from the list that best represents what you read in the passage.

TIPS
• Read and consider all of the options carefully.
• Some of the options may be somewhat relevant, but make sure to choose the one that best describes
the text.
• Once you select your response, the box around it and the circle next to it will turn orange.

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EXERCISES
1) There is some good news for monarch butterflies, which are known for their long journeys from
Canada to Mexico. Scientists have found a new reserve where there are more milkweed plants and
the butterflies will have some place to land. Monarchs are well-known for the long journey they
make twice a year. They head from Canada to Mexico. The butterflies need milkweed plants to lay
eggs. Scientists from organizations in Mexico, the United States and Canada counted the butterflies
this year. They found that fewer than one in 10 of them had spent the winter in Mexico. This is the
lowest number they have seen in 25 years. Scientists say the low number is probably because of a
lack of milkweed plants where they live.

Select the idea that is expressed in the passage

A. The monarch butterfly migrates to Mexico to find milkweed, which is the only source of nectar
for the monarch.
B. The Mexican government will introduce the monarch butterfly into the northern region of
Mexico, which will be home to its wintering grounds.
C. Scientists have found a new reserve in Mexico where there are more milkweed plants and
monarch butterflies will have a place to land.
D. The monarch butterfly’s breeding grounds are located in the Midwest, which is one reason it
has been so successful there.

2) The extremely hot and humid weather that occurs in the United States in July and August is
commonly called the "dog days" of summer. This name comes from the star Sirius, which is known
as the Dog Star. Sirius is the brightest visible star, and in the hot summer months it rises in the east
at approximately the same time as the Sun. As ancient people saw this star rising with the Sun when
the weather was at its hottest. They believed that Sirius was the cause of the additional heat. They
believed that this bright star added its heat to the heat of the Sun and that these two together made
summer weather so unbearably hot.

Select the idea that is expressed in the passage

A. The name for the summer days came from Sirius, the Dog Star.
B. Dogs generally prefer hot summer days.
C. The hottest days occur in the summer because of the movements of the Sun and stars.
D. Sirius rises at almost the same time as the Sun during the summer months

3) The term "primitive art" has been used in a variety of ways to describe works and styles of art. One
way that this term has been used is to describe the early period within the development of a certain
style of art. Another way that this term has been used is to describe artists who have received little
professional training and who demonstrate a nontraditional naivete in their work. A wonderful
example of this second type of primitive artist is Grandma Moses, who spent all her life living on a
farm and working at tasks normally associated with farm life. She did not begin painting until she
reached the age of seventy-six, when she switched to painting from embroidery. Totally without
formal education in art, she began creating panoramic images of everyday life on the farm that have
achieved international fame.

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Select the idea that is expressed in the passage
A. Grandma Moses spent her life on a farm.
B. Art critics cannot come to any agreement on a definition of primitive art.
C. Grandma Moses is one type of primitive artist because of her lack of formal training.
D. Many artists receive little professional training.

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 O Title the Passage

Title the Passage asks you “Select the best title of the passage.”
You will select a title from a list of given options.

TIPS
• Read and consider all of the options carefully.
• Some of the options may be somewhat relevant, but make sure to choose the one that is the best title
for the whole text.
• Once you select your response, the box around it and the circle next to it will turn orange.

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EXERCISES
1) There is some good news for monarch butterflies, which are known for their long journeys from
Canada to Mexico. Scientists have found a new reserve where there are more milkweed plants and
the butterflies will have some place to land. Monarchs are well-known for the long journey they
make twice a year. They head from Canada to Mexico. The butterflies need milkweed plants to lay
eggs. Scientists from organizations in Mexico, the United States and Canada counted the butterflies
this year. They found that fewer than one in 10 of them had spent the winter in Mexico. This is the
lowest number they have seen in 25 years. Scientists say the low number is probably because of a
lack of milkweed plants where they live.
Select the best title for the passage.
A. Favorite Plants for Butterflies
B. Monarchs Near Extinction North America
C. Monarchs Reach Land in Puerto Rico
D. Good News for Monarch Butterflies

2) The extremely hot and humid weather that occurs in the United States in July and August is
commonly called the "dog days" of summer. This name comes from the star Sirius, which is known
as the Dog Star. Sirius is the brightest visible star, and in the hot summer months it rises in the east
at approximately the same time as the Sun. As ancient people saw this star rising with the Sun when
the weather was at its hottest. They believed that Sirius was the cause of the additional heat. They
believed that this bright star added its heat to the heat of the Sun and that these two together made
summer weather so unbearably hot.
Select the best title for the passage.
A. How dogs like to play during the summer.
B. The causes of hot and humid weather.
C. Why the hot summer days are known as the "dog days".
D. The days that dogs prefer.

3) The term "primitive art" has been used in a variety of ways to describe works and styles of art. One
way that this term has been used is to describe the early period within the development of a certain
style of art. Another way that this term has been used is to describe artists who have received little
professional training and who demonstrate a nontraditional naivete in their work. A wonderful
example of this second type of primitive artist is Grandma Moses, who spent all her life living on a
farm and working at tasks normally associated with farm life. She did not begin painting until she
reached the age of seventy-six, when she switched to painting from embroidery. Totally without
formal education in art, she began creating panoramic images of everyday life on the farm that have
achieved international fame.
Select the best title for the passage.
A. An example of one of the types of primitive art
B. Grandma Moses's life on the farm
C. how primitive art differs from formal art
D. Grandma Moses's primitive lifestyle

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 Writing and Speaking Samples
3
A Writing Sample

The Writing Sample asks you to “Write for 3 to 5 minutes about the topic below.”
For this question type, you will be given a written prompt. You will write at length for at least 3 minutes.

TIPS
• Practice good writing habits: vary your sentence structure and word choice and express a variety of
thoughts with logical transitions.
• Make sure to leave time to check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• The topic will be shared with the recipients of your results, so make sure your response is relevant to
the topic.
• Think of this as a short essay. The recipients of your results may use the Writing Sample as additional
information about your writing skills.

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 Description

Look at the example.

The Peach Tree by Cathy Vittoria
When I reminisce about my childhood, the fondest memories I have revolve around food. Our family
often went on picnics to the beach. There at the water’s edge, my father would struggle to light the
charcoal in the gusty wind. My mother’s anise-flavored bread was the perfect match for ham on Easter
morning and the days that followed. On my birthday we always had gnocchi, fluffy pillows of pasta that
melted in my mouth, tossed with a heavenly tomato sauce. In August we had peaches, not just any
peaches, but the peaches from our own peach tree. I loved our peach tree; it produced the sweetest,
most succulent peaches I’ve ever eaten. When I think about my past, that peach tree plays an integral
part in my childhood memories.
— Diablo Valley Community College Web site (Brian McKinney, instructor)

Description can use any of the orders of organization — time, space, or importance — depending on
the purpose of the description. If you are writing to create a main impression of an event (for example,
a description of fireworks, an explosion, or a storm), you might use time order. If you are describing
what someone or something looks like, you might use space order, the most common way to organize
description. If one detail about your topic is the strongest, you could use order of importance and leave
that detail for last.

Order Sequence
Time First to last/last to first, most recent to least recent/ least recent to most recent
Space Top to bottom/bottom to top, right to left/left to right, near to far/far to near
Importance End with detail that will make the strongest impression

Use transitions to move your readers from one sensory detail to the next. Usually, use transitions that
match your order of organization.

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 Argument

Look at the example.

The government should not require all citizens, particularly young people, to have health insurance. I
am a recent college graduate and have a decent job, but my company does not provide health insurance.
To require me to buy an individual policy is not fair or reasonable. One reason is that such a policy would
be expensive and would take most of my income. As someone just starting out in life, my income barely
covers my rent and food. If I had to buy health insurance, I would have to take another job, find another
roommate, or try to find a cheaper apartment. Another reason is that any policy I could buy would have
such a high deductible that I would have to pay most of my own expenses anyway. Most inexpensive
policies have deductibles of $250 to $1,000, so I would be paying that on top of a high monthly premium.
The most important reason that young people should not be required to buy individual health insurance
is that, statistically, we are not likely to need expensive medical treatment. So why should we be
expected to pay for it? Although the people who want everyone to have insurance hope that the
government plan will provide lower rates for low-income families and children, they haven’t considered
how such a requirement will penalize the many young people who are just getting started. A new system
may be needed, but not one that is unfair to a whole generation of citizens.

Argument is writing that takes a position on an issue and gives supporting evidence to persuade
someone else to accept, or at least consider, the position. Argument is also used to convince someone
to take (or not take) an action.

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Four Basics of Good Argument
1. It takes a strong and definite position.
2. It gives good reasons and supporting evidence to defend the position.
3. It considers opposing views.
4. It has enthusiasm and energy from start to finish.

In argument, the topic sentence (in a paragraph) or thesis statement (in an essay) usually includes the
issue/topic and your position about it.

Many good topic sentences or thesis statements in argument use words such as these:

WRITING A STATEMENT OF YOUR POSITION

Write a statement of your position for each item.

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Support in Argument
A strong position must be supported with convincing reasons and evidence. Remember that you want
to persuade readers that your position is the right one. Use strong reasons and supporting evidence that
will be convincing to your audience, consider opposing views, and end on a strong note.

Reasons and Evidence

The primary support for your position is the reasons you give. Your reasons need to be supported by
evidence, such as facts, examples, and expert opinions.
• FACTS: Statements or observations that can be proved. Statistics — real numbers from actual
studies — can be persuasive factual evidence.
• EXAMPLES: Specific information or experiences that support your position.
• EXPERT OPINIONS: The opinion of someone who is considered an expert in the area or topic you
are exploring in your paper. The person must be known for his or her expertise in your topic. For
example, the opinion of the head of the FBI about the benefits of a low-fat diet is not strong evidence.
The FBI director is not an expert in the field of nutrition.

In the following examples, a reason and appropriate evidence support each position.

POSITION : It pays to stay in college.

REASON : College graduates generally earn more than people without degrees.
EVIDENCE / FACT : Community-college graduates earn 58 percent more than high-school
graduates and 320 percent more than high-school dropouts.

POSITION : Genetically modified foods should be banned until they have been
thoroughly tested for safety.
REASON : Currently, nobody is certain about the effects of such foods on humans
and animals.
EVIDENCE / EXAMPLE: The government and the biotech industry have not produced convincing
evidence that such foods are as safe or nutritious as foods that have not been
genetically modified.

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POSITION : The drug Ritalin is overprescribed for attention-deficit / hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD) in children.
REASON : It is too often considered a “wonder drug.”

EVIDENCE / EXPERT OPINION : Dr. Peter Jensen, a pediatric specialist, warns, “I fear that
ADHD is suffering from the ‘disease of the month’
syndrome, and Ritalin is its ‘cure.’ ”

FINDING EVIDENCE
For each of the following positions, give the type of evidence indicated (you may have to make up the
evidence).

Opposite Positions
Part of your support for your position involves the opposing position: Acknowledge it, and present some
evidence against it. If, for example, you are arguing in favor of lowering the drinking age to eighteen, you
should not ignore the position that it should be kept at age twenty-one. If you don’t say anything about
the other position, you are leaving your argument unprotected. To defend your own position, show some
weakness in the opposing position.

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ACKNOWLEDGING AND ADDRESSING THE OPPOSING VIEW
For each of the following positions, in the spaces indicated, state the opposing position and at least
one point someone holding the opposing view might make against your position. Answers will vary.
Suggested answers follow.

Faulty Reasoning
As you write and review the support for your position, be sure that your evidence is good and your
reasoning is logical. Unfortunately, we are exposed to faulty reasoning all the time, specially in
advertising. Certain kinds of errors in logic are so common that there is a name for them —logical
fallacies. You don’t need to remember the name, but you should be aware of what the common ones
are as you form and evaluate your argument.

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57
The Conclusion
Your conclusion is your last opportunity to convince readers of your position. Make it memorable and
dramatic. Remind your readers of the issue, your position, and the rightness of your position.
Before writing your conclusion, build up your enthusiasm again. Then, reread what you have written. As
soon as you finish reading, write a forceful ending. Aim for power; you can tone it down later.

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IDENTIFYING FAULTY REASONING
Read the sentences below, and identify which kind of faulty reasoning each represents. In the space
provided, explain why it is an example of faulty reasoning.

Organization in Argumentative Essays

Most arguments are organized by order of importance, starting with the least important evidence, and
saving the most convincing reason and evidence for last.
Use transitions to move your readers smoothly from one supporting reason to another. Here are some
of the transitions you might use in your argument.

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EXERCISES
Write for 3 to 5 minutes about the topic below
1) What is one thing you like about your personality? How has this quality helped you succeed or be a
good friend to others? Is this a quality that everyone should have?

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2) Choose a plant or animal that you think is interesting. Describe some of the threats or challenges it
faces and explain how it overcomes those threats or challenges.

3) Some people think that education should be about memorizing the important ideas of the past. Do
you agree or disagree? Why?

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4) Some educational systems promote inclusive education which means inclusion of students with
special needs in public schools. Do you think this is the right approach to education or should they
have separate schools?

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 B Speaking Sample

The Speaking Sample asks you to “Speak for 1 to 3 minutes about the topic below.”
For this question type, you will read a written prompt. Then, you will speak at length about the topic
shown.
Note that the directions appear for 30 seconds before recording begins.
During this time you will read and consider the prompt, and prepare to respond.

TIPS
• Do not watch the timer, as it may distract you from thinking and speaking clearly.
• Keep talking at least until the NEXT button turns orange, and speak even longer if you can. Then, come
to a natural conclusion before clicking NEXT to finish and submit the recording.
• Practice speaking about a topic in English for 1-3 minutes before taking the test so you are familiar
with the length.
• Remember that the Speaking Sample will be sent as a video recording, so the recipients of your scores
will be able to see you during this response.
• While the Speaking Sample is ungraded, the topic will be shared with the recipients of your results, so
make sure your response is relevant to the topic and do your best to show your speaking skills.

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EXERCISES
Speak for 1 to 3 minutes about the topic below. Use vocaroo.com to record your voices.
1) Describe a story that you enjoy. It can be a book, a movie, a TV show—any story. What do you like best
about the story? How do you think it could be better?
2) Describe the geography of the country where you currently live. How does the geography of the
country affect its people and its culture?
3) Describe a piece of electronic equipment that you find useful. What its is. How do you learn to use it
and why do you find piece of electronic useful?

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