Asking a Resident Assistant About Dormitory Quiet Hours - TOEFL Listening Practice Test

The TOEFL Listening section evaluates your ability to comprehend spoken English in diverse settings, such as conversations between students and staff. It includes multiple-choice questions based on these dialogues, requiring close attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the topics discussed.  

This practice set focuses on a conversation between Tom and Alex, a resident assistant, regarding dormitory quiet hours. Grasping the rules and expectations about noise levels is essential for fostering a productive living space, especially for students who need to focus on studying or resting.  

When preparing for the TOEFL Listening exam, it’s important to listen actively—not just to the words spoken but also to the underlying meaning and context. This practice set will enhance your listening comprehension and build your confidence for similar conversations on the test. Ready to improve your skills? Let’s begin!

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 Resident Assistant About Dormitory Quiet Hours

Now listen to the audio.

Questions

Directions: Mark your answer by selecting your choice.

1. What is the main purpose of Tom's conversation with Alex?  
   
   1. To discuss the rules for using the common area
   2. To inquire about the quiet hours in the dormitory
   3. To complain about other residents
   4. To ask for advice on studying

1. What are the designated quiet hours during the week according to Alex? 
   
   1. 9 PM to 7 AM
   2. 10 PM to 8 AM
   3. 11 PM to 9 AM
   4. Midnight to 8 AM

1. What does Alex mean when he says, “communication is key”?
   
   1. It is important to talk loudly to be heard
   2. Residents should avoid discussing issues with each other  
   3. Open dialogue can help resolve conflicts effectively
   4. Only the resident assistants should communicate about issues

1. How does Tom feel about the guidance provided by Alex?
   
   1. Confused and frustrated
   2. Grateful and reassured 
   3. Indifferent and uninterested
   4. Annoyed and dismissive  

Transcript of the Audio Conversation on Asking a Resident Assistant About Dormitory Quiet Hours

Answers and Explanations of the Conversation on Asking a Resident Assistant About Dormitory Quiet Hours

1. Answer: B. To inquire about the quiet hours in the dormitory.

Explanation: The main focus of Tom's conversation with Alex is to ask about the specific quiet hours in the dormitory, as he has been hearing noise during those times. The other options, such as discussing common area rules, complaining about residents, or seeking study advice, do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of the conversation.

2. Answer: B. 10 PM to 8 AM.

Explanation: Alex clearly states that the designated quiet hours during the week are from 10 PM to 8 AM. The other options, such as 9 PM to 7 AM, 11 PM to 9 AM, and midnight to 8 AM, do not match the information provided in the conversation.

3. Answer: C. Open dialogue can help resolve conflicts effectively.

Explanation: When Alex says, “communication is key,” he is emphasising the importance of discussing issues openly to resolve conflicts and maintain a peaceful living environment. The other options suggest misunderstandings about communication, such as talking loudly or avoiding discussions, which do not align with the context of the conversation.

4. Answer: B. Grateful and reassured.  

Explanation: Tom expresses gratitude and feels reassured after receiving guidance from Alex, indicating that he feels better about handling the noise issue. The other options, such as feeling confused, indifferent, or annoyed, do not reflect Tom's positive response to the assistance provided.

5. Answer: B. Politely ask the noisy residents to keep it down.

Explanation: Alex advises Tom that if he hears noise during quiet hours, he should politely ask the noisy residents to lower their volume. The other options, such as ignoring the noise, leaving the dormitory, or complaining to the university administration, do not align with the recommended course of action provided by Alex.

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