Discussing Class Attendance Policies with a Professor - TOEFL Listening Practice Test

The TOEFL Listening Section focuses on various types of dialogues, often focusing on topics relevant to university life, such as class policies, assignments, and academic support to ace the TOEFL iBT^® exam. The TOEFL Listening Practice Test on 'Discussing Class Attendance Policies with a Professor' would provide an opportunity to build your ability to grasp important details and implications. Remember to practice diligently so that you get familiarised with various conversational topics which will enhance your ability to understand different accents, tones, and contexts.

Let’s get started on enhancing your listening abilities! Take notes by paying attention to the specific attendance requirements, the professor's explanations, and any advice given to the student in this practice test.

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.

1. What is the main purpose of Oliver’s conversation with Professor Thompson?  
   
   1. To discuss the grading criteria for the sociology course 
   2. To clarify the class attendance policy 
   3. To request an extension on an assignment 
   4. To inquire about the course syllabus

1. According to Professor Thompson, how many unexcused absences are allowed before it affects a student's grade?
   
   1. One
   2. Two
   3. Three
   4. Four

1. What does Professor Thompson mean when he says, “I’m quite understanding about genuine circumstances”?
   
   1. He is strict about attendance policies 
   2. He is willing to consider valid reasons for absences
   3. He does not believe in excuses for missing class
   4. He expects students to attend every class

1. How does Oliver feel about the information provided by Professor Thompson?
   
   1. Confused and frustrated 
   2. Reassured and appreciative  
   3. Indifferent and uninterested 
   4. Annoyed and dissatisfied 

1. What should a student do if they arrive more than fifteen minutes late to class?
   
   1. Inform the professor after class
   2. Leave and not attend that day
   3. Accept it as an absence   
   4. Ask a classmate for notes

Transcript of the Audio Conversation on Discussing Class Attendance Policies with a Professor

Answers and Explanations of the Conversation on Discussing Class Attendance Policies with a Professor

1. Answer: B

Explanation: The correct answer is B. The main focus of Oliver's conversation is to seek clarification on the attendance policy for their sociology course, particularly regarding the number of absences allowed before it impacts grades. The other options, such as discussing grading criteria, requesting an extension, or inquiring about the syllabus, are not the primary concern of the conversation.

2. Answer: C

Explanation: The correct answer is C. Professor Thompson explicitly states that students are allowed three unexcused absences without penalty. If a student exceeds this number, their final grade will be affected. The other options (one, two, or four) do not align with the information provided in the conversation.

3. Answer: B

Explanation: The correct answer is B. When Professor Thompson mentions being "quite understanding about genuine circumstances," he indicates that he is open to accepting valid reasons for absences, such as medical issues or family emergencies. This contrasts with options a, c, and d, which suggest a strict or unsympathetic stance towards attendance.

4. Answer: B

Explanation: The correct answer is B. Oliver expresses gratitude and relief after receiving clarification from Professor Thompson, indicating that he feels reassured about the attendance policy. He does not display confusion, indifference, or annoyance, which makes options a, c, and d incorrect.

5. Answer: C

Explanation: The correct answer is C. Professor Thompson clearly states that if a student arrives more than fifteen minutes late, it will count as an absence. Therefore, the appropriate action is to accept it as such. The other options (informing the professor, leaving, or asking a classmate for notes) do not address the consequence of being late as specified in the conversation.

Great job! Keep up the pace with more practice test papers to familiarise yourself with the actual exam pattern and also to improve your listening skills!

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