Asking for Directions to a Campus Event - TOEFL iBT® Listening Practice Test

In the TOEFL iBT® Listening section, you’ll often listen to conversations and dialogues involving everyday scenarios, like 'Asking for Directions to a Campus Event.' Recognizing details in these kinds of interactions is important for developing the ability to understand and interpret spoken English accurately.

With this practice topic, you’ll focus on listening for location cues, directions, and relevant details that are commonly tested in the TOEFL Listening section. Engaging with these exercises will help you become familiar with typical dialogue structures, improving your ability to identify key points and respond accurately to questions.

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.

Now listen to the audio.

Questions

Directions: Mark your answer by selecting your choice.

Gist-Content Question 

1. What is the main purpose of Tom's conversation with Sam? 
   
   1. To ask for directions to the student union 
   2. To discuss the orientation event details 
   3. To find out about local cafés 
   4. To complain about the campus layout 

Detail Question

1. How long does Sam estimate it will take Tom to walk to the student union? 
   
   1. Five minutes 
   2. Ten minutes 
   3. Fifteen minutes 
   4. Twenty minutes 

Function Question

1. What does Sam imply when he says, “If you hurry, you might be able to”? 
   
   1. Tom should skip the coffee 
   2. Tom may not have time for coffee 
   3. Tom should take his time 
   4. Tom should rush to the orientation 

Attitude Question

1. What is Sam's attitude towards the orientation event? 
   
   1. Indifferent 
   2. Supportive and encouraging 
   3. Critical of the event 
   4. Uncertain about its value 

Detail Question

1. What time does the orientation event start? 
   
   1. One o'clock 
   2. One-thirty 
   3. Two o'clock 
   4. Two-thirty

Transcript of the Audio Conversation on Asking for Directions to a Campus Event

Answers and Explanations of the Conversation on Asking for Directions to a Campus Event

1. Answer: A. 

Explanation: The main focus of Tom's conversation with Sam is to inquire about the location of the student union, where the orientation event for new students is taking place. While they do touch on details about the orientation, the primary purpose is clearly to get directions. The other options, such as discussing event details, local cafés, or complaining about the campus layout, are not the main focus of the conversation.

2. Answer: B

Explanation: Sam estimates that it will take Tom about a ten-minute walk to reach the student union, depending on his pace. The other options, such as five, fifteen, or twenty minutes, are incorrect as they do not reflect Sam's estimation.

3. Answer: B

Explanation: When Sam says, “If you hurry, you might be able to,” he implies that Tom should be quick if he wants to grab a coffee before the orientation starts. This suggests that time is limited, and if Tom takes too long, he may miss out on the coffee. The other options do not accurately reflect Sam's implication regarding Tom's time management.

4. Answer: B

Explanation: Sam's attitude towards the orientation event is supportive and encouraging, as he provides helpful information and suggests that Tom arrive early to meet other students. He does not express indifference, criticism, or uncertainty about the event, making the other options incorrect.

5. Answer: C

Explanation: Sam clearly states that the orientation event starts at two o'clock. The other options, such as one o'clock, one-thirty, or two-thirty, are incorrect as they do not match the time mentioned in the conversation.

Practicing with passages such as 'Asking for Directions to a Campus Event' can build confidence and boost comprehension for the TOEFL Listening section. Consistent engagement with similar topics prepares you for interpreting various conversation types, setting a solid foundation for listening success on test day.

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