TOEFL Speaking Interview – Urban Transportation

Note: On the real test you won’t be able to read the questions. You will only hear them.

הערה: במבחן האמיתי לא תוכלו לקרוא את השאלות, אלא רק לשמוע אותן.

You will be asked four questions about the same topic. You will have 45 seconds to answer each one, with no preparation time.

אתם תישאלו ארבע שאלות על אותו נושא. לכל שאלה יהיו לכם 45 שניות לענות, ללא זמן הכנה.

Introduction

You have agreed to take part in a research study about urban transportation. You will have a short online interview with a researcher. The researcher will ask you some questions.

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Question One

Thanks for speaking with me today. First, think about the last time you traveled around your city without using a private car. How did you get around, and why did you choose that method?

Sample Answer, Question One:

The last time I traveled without a car was last weekend when I took the tram to the city center. I chose it because parking in that area is really expensive and hard to find. The tram was also faster than driving since it has its own lane and doesn’t get stuck in traffic. I enjoyed the ride because I could relax, listen to music, and look out the window instead of worrying about navigating. It was also cheaper, so it felt like a win-win.

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Question Two

Great. People have different reactions to public transportation. Some find it convenient and affordable, while others see it as crowded or unreliable. How do you personally feel about using public transportation, and why do you think you feel that way?

Sample Answer, Question Two:

I generally like public transportation because it saves me the stress of driving and finding parking. I also appreciate that it’s more environmentally friendly than using a private car. However, I have to admit that during rush hour it can be crowded and uncomfortable. I think I feel this way because I’ve lived in big cities most of my life, so I’m used to it and I know how to avoid the worst times. Overall, I see it as a practical and necessary option.

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Question Three

OK. Some people believe cities should invest more in improving public transportation, while others think resources should go toward building better roads for cars. Which approach do you agree with, and why?

Sample Answer, Question Three:

I believe cities should invest more in public transportation. First of all, better public transit can reduce traffic congestion, which benefits everyone, including drivers. Second, it helps lower pollution and makes the city more livable. Building more roads often just encourages more people to drive, which leads back to the same problems. In my view, improving buses, trains, and bike lanes is a smarter long-term investment.

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Question Four

Good points. One last question: Some cities are experimenting with car-free zones in busy areas to reduce traffic and pollution. Do you think this is a good idea? Why or why not?

Sample Answer, Question Four:

Yes, I think car-free zones can be a great idea, especially in crowded downtown areas. They make the streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists, and they often make the neighborhood more attractive for shopping and tourism. It’s true that some drivers may find it inconvenient, but if the city provides reliable public transport alternatives, most people can adapt. In the long run, these zones can improve air quality and create more pleasant public spaces.