Asking a Professor for Help with Research Proposal Development - TOEFL Listening Practice Test

The TOEFL Listening section is designed to evaluate your ability to comprehend spoken English in academic contexts, a critical skill for success in English-speaking academic environments. This section features conversations and discussions that simulate real-world academic interactions, helping you build strong listening comprehension skills.  

In this practice set, we’ll focus on a conversation between Oliver, a student, and Dr. Thompson, his professor, as they discuss the challenges of developing a research proposal. This dialogue emphasizes the value of seeking guidance from mentors and demonstrates effective communication of academic ideas.  

As you prepare for the TOEFL Listening exam, keep in mind the importance of understanding context and recognising the nuances of conversations. Practicing with scenarios like this one will improve your ability to identify main points, supporting details, and the structure of discussions. Let’s dive in and strengthen your listening skills with this insightful conversation!  

Listening Instructions

• You can listen to each conversation and lecture only once.
• You have approximately 8 minutes to listen to the conversation/lecture and respond to the questions.
• Each question generally carries one point unless otherwise specified in the instructions, which will explicitly state the assigned points for specific questions.
• After listening to the Conversation, respond to questions related to the topic based on explicit or implicit statements made by the speakers.
• Feel free to make notes as you listen. You can refer to your notes to aid in answering the questions. 
• We recommend practicing note-taking with a pen and paper, similar to what you'll do during the TOEFL Exam.

Conversation on Asking a Professor for Help with Research Proposal Development

Now listen to the audio.

Questions

Directions: Mark your answer by selecting your choice.

1. What is the main purpose of Oliver’s conversation with Professor Thompson?  
   
   1. To seek advice on a research proposal
   2. To discuss the importance of renewable energy
   3. To request an extension on a project
   4. To submit a completed research paper

1. According to Professor Thompson, what should Oliver consider to narrow down his research topic?
   
   1. Focusing on the economic impact of renewable energy
   2. Examining a specific type of renewable energy, such as solar or wind power
   3. Comparing renewable energy with fossil fuels
   4. Investigating the history of renewable energy sources   

1. What does Professor Thompson mean when he says, “Just remember to outline your research questions clearly in your proposal”?
   
   1. Oliver should avoid asking questions in his proposal
   2. Oliver should ensure his proposal is concise and straightforward   
   3. Oliver should clearly define what he intends to investigate in his research
   4. Oliver should include as many questions as possible in his proposal

1. How does Oliver feel about the guidance he received from Professor Thompson?
   
   1. Frustrated and confused
   2. Grateful and more confident  
   3. Indifferent and uninterested
   4. Overwhelmed and anxious

Transcript of the Audio Conversation on Asking a Professor for Help with Research Proposal Development

Answers and Explanations of the Conversation on Asking a Professor for Help with Research Proposal Development

1. Answer: A. To seek advice on a research proposal.

Explanation: The conversation primarily revolves around Oliver asking Professor Thompson for guidance on his research proposal related to renewable energy sources. The other options, such as discussing the importance of renewable energy, requesting an extension, or submitting a completed paper, are not the focus of their discussion.

2. Answer: B. Examining a specific type of renewable energy, such as solar or wind power.

Explanation: Professor Thompson suggests that Oliver should consider focusing on a specific type of renewable energy to help narrow down his research topic. The other options, like focusing on economic impact, comparing renewable energy with fossil fuels, or investigating the history of renewable energy, were not mentioned as suggestions in the conversation.

3. Answer: C. Oliver should clearly define what he intends to investigate in his research.

Explanation: When Professor Thompson advises Oliver to outline his research questions clearly, he means that Oliver should specify the focus of his investigation to provide clarity in his proposal. The other options, such as avoiding questions, ensuring conciseness, or including as many questions as possible, do not accurately reflect the intent of the advice given.

4. Answer: B. Grateful and more confident.

Explanation: Oliver expresses gratitude for the guidance he received and states that it has helped him feel more confident about moving forward with his proposal. The other options, such as feeling frustrated, indifferent, or overwhelmed, do not align with Oliver's expressed feelings during the conversation.

5. Answer: B. Academic journals specialising in energy policy and environmental science.

Explanation: Professor Thompson recommends that Oliver look into academic journals that focus on energy policy and environmental science, as well as using resources like Google Scholar for peer-reviewed articles. The other options, such as popular magazines, general websites, or social media platforms, were not suggested as suitable sources for his research.

Reaching the end of this practice test marks real progress. Enhance your preparation with our series featuring sophisticated academic content and detailed feedback.

Additional Reads:

• TOEFL Listening iBT: Refining Your Listening Comprehension
• Business Psychology Class Discussion- TOEFL iBT® Listening Practice Test with Answers
• Library Orientation - TOEFL Listening Practice Test with Answers
• Cafeterias and Food Courts - TOEFL Listening Practice Test with Answers