NEW TOEFL 2026: Speaking Task 4 — Complete Guide

Understanding the NEW TOEFL Speaking Task 4

The NEW TOEFL 2026 Speaking Task 4, launched on January 21, 2026, is an integrated task that requires you to combine information from reading and listening materials. You will have 40 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak. This task evaluates your ability to understand and synthesize academic content, use academic language, and present a clear, coherent response.

Key Features of the NEW TOEFL Speaking Task 4

• Task Type: Integrated Task
• Preparation Time: 40 seconds
• Response Time: 60 seconds
• Scoring: 1-6 CEFR scale (A1-C2), with legacy 0-120 dual-scoring during the transition period
• Test Duration: 90 minutes total
• Adaptive: Multistage adaptive for Reading and Listening sections

How to Approach Speaking Task 4

Step 1: Understand the Task

You will be given a reading passage and a listening clip. The question will ask you to combine information from both sources. Pay attention to the key points and details in both the reading and listening materials.

Step 2: Take Notes

Use the 40 seconds preparation time effectively. Take notes on the main points from the reading passage and the listening clip. Focus on key details that are relevant to the question.

Step 3: Organize Your Response

Structure your response clearly. Start with a brief introduction, followed by key points from the reading and listening materials, and conclude with a summary or your opinion if required.

Step 4: Practice Academic Language

Use academic language and formal expressions. Avoid slang and informal language. Practice using transitional phrases to connect your ideas smoothly.

Step 5: Time Management

Manage your time effectively. Use the 60 seconds to speak clearly and concisely. Practice speaking within the time limit to ensure you can complete your response on time.

Examples of Speaking Task 4

Example 1

Reading Passage: A new policy requires all students to attend a workshop on academic integrity. Listening Clip: A student expresses concerns about the workshop's timing and relevance. Question: Discuss the new policy and the student's concerns. How do you think the policy will affect student behavior?

Sample Response: The new policy requires all students to attend a workshop on academic integrity. This workshop aims to educate students about the importance of maintaining academic honesty and the consequences of plagiarism. However, a student in the listening clip expresses concerns about the workshop's timing, stating that it conflicts with other important activities. The student also questions the relevance of the workshop, arguing that it does not address specific issues faced by students. In my opinion, while the workshop may be beneficial, the university should consider scheduling it at a more convenient time and tailoring the content to address specific student concerns. This approach would ensure that students engage more effectively with the material and understand the importance of academic integrity.

Example 2

Reading Passage: The university is implementing a new system for course registration to reduce waitlists. Listening Clip: A professor discusses the potential challenges and benefits of the new system. Question: Describe the new course registration system and the professor's views on its implementation.

Sample Response: The university is introducing a new system for course registration aimed at reducing waitlists. This system will use an algorithm to allocate courses based on student preferences and availability. In the listening clip, a professor discusses the potential challenges and benefits of this new system. The professor mentions that while the system may reduce waitlists, it could also lead to scheduling conflicts and increased competition for popular courses. Overall, the professor believes that the new system has the potential to improve course registration efficiency, but it will require careful monitoring and adjustments to address any issues that arise.

Tips for Success in Speaking Task 4

• Practice Regularly: Regular practice with integrated tasks will help you become familiar with the format and improve your ability to synthesize information.
• Use Academic Language: Practice using formal and academic language to enhance the quality of your response.
• Manage Your Time: Use the preparation time effectively to take notes and organize your thoughts.
• Speak Clearly and Confidently: Focus on delivering a clear and coherent response within the time limit.
• Seek Feedback: Use tools like English AIdol to get feedback on your speaking tasks and identify areas for improvement.

What This Means for You

Whether you are preparing for university admission, immigration, or a scholarship, understanding the NEW TOEFL 2026 Speaking Task 4 is crucial. The integrated nature of this task requires you to demonstrate your ability to understand and synthesize information from different sources. By practicing regularly and using academic language, you can improve your performance and achieve your desired score.