Discussing Options for Language Proficiency Testing - TOEFL Listening Practice Test

The TOEFL Listening section is crafted to test your comprehension of spoken English in academic settings. This part of the exam simulates real-life conversations and discussions, which is especially important for students preparing to study abroad. With a mix of question formats, including multiple-choice and sentence completion, the section challenges you to understand key concepts, supporting details, and the speaker’s intentions.

For this practice session, we’ve included a conversation between James and Tom, two friends discussing their options for language proficiency tests. This dialogue not only compares the IELTS and TOEFL but also explores the factors students must consider when selecting a test. By engaging with this conversation, you’ll improve your listening skills and become more comfortable with the types of dialogues you’ll encounter on the TOEFL exam. Let’s dive in and start honing your listening abilities!

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 Discussing Options for Language Proficiency Testing

Now listen to the audio.

Questions

Directions: Mark your answer by selecting your choice.

1. What is the main purpose of the conversation between James and Tom? 
   
   1. To discuss study abroad application requirements
   2. To compare language proficiency tests for study abroad
   3. To recommend a specific language test
   4. To share personal experiences with language tests

1. According to Tom, what aspect of the IELTS test does he find more appealing? 
   
   1. Its straightforward structure
   2. The face-to-face speaking component
   3. The emphasis on academic English
   4. The availability of preparatory courses

1. What does James mean when he says, “It can feel less robotic”?
   
   1. The IELTS speaking section is more engaging than the TOEFL
   2. The TOEFL is easier to prepare for
   3. The IELTS test is more difficult
   4. The TOEFL has a more complex structure

1. What is Tom's attitude towards the preparation time required for the TOEFL?
   
   1. He is indifferent
   2. He is concerned about it  
   3. He is confident in his abilities
   4. He is excited to start preparing  

Transcript of the Audio Conversation on Discussing Options for Language Proficiency Testing

Answers and Explanations of the Conversation on Discussing Options for Language Proficiency Testing

1. Answer: B. To compare language proficiency tests for study abroad.

Explanation: The conversation primarily revolves around Tom's research into language proficiency tests, specifically the IELTS and TOEFL, as he considers which one to take for his study abroad application. The other options, such as discussing application requirements or sharing personal experiences, are not the main focus of their dialogue.

2. Answer: B. The face-to-face speaking component.

Explanation: Tom expresses that he finds the face-to-face speaking component of the IELTS more appealing because it seems more natural compared to the TOEFL's format. The other options, such as the straightforward structure or emphasis on academic English, do not reflect Tom's specific preference mentioned in the conversation.

3. Answer: A. The IELTS speaking section is more engaging than the TOEFL.

Explanation: When James says, “It can feel less robotic,” he is referring to the more personal interaction involved in the IELTS speaking section, which contrasts with the more structured and potentially impersonal nature of the TOEFL. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of James's comment about the engagement level of the speaking sections.

4. Answer: B. He is concerned about it.

Explanation: Tom expresses concern regarding the preparation time required for the TOEFL, indicating that he feels overwhelmed by the amount of practice needed for its listening and reading sections. The other options, such as being indifferent or excited, do not accurately reflect Tom's expressed feelings about the preparation time.

5. Answer: B. The language centre on campus.

Explanation: James suggests that Tom check out the language centre on campus for preparatory courses for both the TOEFL and IELTS. The other options, such as online resources or local community colleges, are not mentioned in the conversation as potential sources for preparatory courses.

Your successful completion of this test shows promise. Elevate your preparation with our comprehensive collection of test series targeting language proficiency.

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