TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Practice #009 - Old… | English Rhino

TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Practice 009

TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Practice #009

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Reading passage

Opposition to Additional Outdoor Lighting Plan I strongly oppose the university's plan to install an additional outdoor lighting system. While the university claims that it would enhance the campus's appearance by lighting up the buildings at night, it would come with a hefty price tag of an extra $1,000 per month in electricity costs. I believe this money would be better spent accelerating the completion of the library renovation project. Moreover, there is another crucial reason to reconsider the lighting system. The powerful lights would not only illuminate the buildings but also flood the sky, disturbing our ability to use the astronomy equipment. As our university's academic mission should take priority, it is vital to remember that astronomy works best when the sky remains dark. Best regards, Valerie Nixon, Professor of Astronomy

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Listening transcript

Narrator:Now listen to two students discussing the opinion expressed in the letter.

Man:I totally agree with the letter.

Woman:How come? Don't you think the campus looks prettier at night?

Man:Well, it might make the buildings look nice at night, but why should we waste so much money on something we really don't need, just for looks. There are more important things than that.

Woman:I can see your point.

Man:I mean, how long has that library project been going on?

Woman:Yeah, the whole third floor has been closed for the last few months.

Man:Exactly. And just last night, I had my Astronomy class with Professor Heinrik. He told us something that was totally disappointing. We've been tracking a comet all semester long, and he says that if the university's plan goes through, we won't be able to see the comet through the telescopes anymore.

Woman:That's so sad. You chose this school just because of the astronomy program, didn't you?

Man:Yeah, it's such a good program. But if it's too bright out here at night, we'll have to go back to looking at pictures of comets in the textbook. You can tell Professor Heinrik is disappointed too. It's the hands-on experience that gets everyone all excited.

Your speaking task

The speaker expresses an opinion about the proposal in the reading passage. Summarize the proposal, state the speaker's opinion, and explain the reasons given.

Record up to 60 seconds. Nothing is uploaded until you submit it.