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 learners to use multiple strategies and abilities to comprehend and connect information.

While the number of test items and the basic test format are kept 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 a broader range of accents are used in the Listening section. The reason for all these changes is of course part of the test designers' commitment to continually re-evaluating and improving the test, but at the same time, a response to some criticism that there is a weak correlation between a high TOEIC score and the real ability to communicate in English. Time will tell whether, and how well, the new TOEIC test can improve the accuracy in measuring the testtakers' proficiency, but it is clear that the enhancements in the new test do reflect how the language is used in a more authentic setting. It is also clear that 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 new challenges. Beginning with the Basic level (LC and RC) , the TOEIC ICON series introduces basic vocabulary and grammar patterns and provides you with extensive practice to acquire them. Through step-to-step lessons, the skills and strategies to effectively 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 an entry level of 400s or a more advanced score of 700-800s, TOEIC ICON series is your ideal choice.