The new TOEIC test was first administered in May, 2006 with tasks redesigned to be “more authentic” and “more closely resemble what a person using the language in the real world would have to do”. According to ETS, the new TOEIC test emphasizes authentic language contexts which require learnes to use multiple strategies and abilities to comprehend and connect information. While the number of test items and the basic test format remain unchanged, several major changes are introduced: a shift from individual questions to sets of questions in Part 3, a replacement of error-recognition questions by text-completion questions in Part 6, the inclusion of questions based on two-interrelated passages in Part 7 and the use of đặc broader range of accents in the Listening section. These changes reflect the test designers’ commitment to continuous reevaluation and improvement of the test while addressing the need to ensure high TOEIC scores actually correlate with real ability to communicate in English. Time will tell whether, and how well, the new TOEIC test can improve the accuracy in mesuring the testtakers’ proficiency, but it is clear that the enhancements in the new test will pose new challenges to most testtakers, who have been more or less comfortable with the traditional version of the test for many years.
The TOEIC ICON series is designed to help you cope with these challenges. Beginning with the Basic level (LC and RC), the TOEIC ICON series introduces basic vocabulary and grammar patterns and provides the users with extensive practise to acquire them. Through step-by-step lessons, the skills and strategies to effectiely handle all parts of the test are at the forefront of the series. The higher level, Intensive level, is intended to give you intensive strategy building and in-depth practice to help you achieve a high score in the new TOEIC test. Whether your target score is any entry level of 400s or a more advanced score of 700-800s, the TOEIC ICON series is your ideal choice.
