Inquiring About Faculty - TOEFL Listening Practice Test

The TOEFL Listening section is designed to assess your ability to understand spoken English in an academic context. This part of the exam features conversations between students and professors, providing a realistic glimpse into university life. You will encounter various topics, from course selection to faculty inquiries, which are essential for navigating your academic journey.

In this practice set, we focus on a conversation between a student, James, and Professor Thompson, where James seeks advice on selecting a dissertation supervisor in the history department. Understanding the nuances of such dialogues is crucial for success in the TOEFL Listening section, as it tests not only your comprehension but also your ability to identify key information and context.

By practicing with real-life scenarios like this one, you can improve your listening skills and become more comfortable with the types of questions you may face on the exam. Let’s get started and enhance your preparation for the TOEFL Listening section!

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 Inquiring About Faculty

Now listen to the audio.

Questions

Directions: Mark your answer by selecting your choice.

1. What is the main purpose of James's conversation with Professor Thompson?  
   
   1. To discuss the history departments' curriculum
   2. To seek advice on choosing a dissertation supervisor
   3. To inquire about faculty members' research interests
   4. To request an extension on his dissertation

1. According to Professor Thompson, what is Dr. Harris known for? 
   
   1. His focus on cultural history
   2. His extensive research on medieval Europe
   3. His publications on modern history
   4. His collaborative teaching style

1. What does Professor Thompson mean when he says, “He loves a good debate”?
   
   1. Dr. Harris enjoys arguing with students
   2. Dr. Harris encourages critical thinking and discussion
   3. Dr. Harris prefers to work alone
   4. Dr. Harris is not open to new ideas

1. What is Professor Thompson's attitude towards James reaching out to potential supervisors?
   
   1. Indifferent, as it is not necessary
   2. Supportive, encouraging early contact
   3. Critical, suggesting he should wait
   4. Unsure about the benefits of contacting them  

Transcript of the Audio Conversation on Inquiring About Faculty

Answers and Explanations of the Conversation on Inquiring About Faculty

1. Answer: B. To seek advice on choosing a dissertation supervisor.

Explanation: The main focus of the conversation is James asking Professor Thompson for guidance on selecting a suitable supervisor for his dissertation on medieval Europe. The other options, such as discussing the curriculum, inquiring about research interests in general, or requesting an extension, do not accurately reflect the purpose of the conversation.

2. Answer: B. His extensive research on medieval Europe.

Explanation: Professor Thompson specifically mentions that Dr. Harris has extensive research on medieval Europe and has published several papers on that period. The other options, such as focusing on cultural history, modern history publications, or his teaching style, are not mentioned in the conversation.

3. Answer: B. Dr. Harris encourages critical thinking and discussion.

Explanation: When Professor Thompson states that Dr. Harris "loves a good debate," he implies that Dr. Harris values engaging discussions and critical thinking with his students. This does not suggest that he enjoys arguing or prefers to work alone, which makes options a, c, and d incorrect.

4. Answer: B. Supportive, encouraging early contact.

Explanation: Professor Thompson expresses a supportive attitude towards James reaching out to potential supervisors, advising him to email them soon to express his interest. This indicates that he believes early contact is beneficial, contrasting with the other options that suggest indifference, criticism, or uncertainty.

5. Answer: B. Dr. Patel.

Explanation: Professor Thompson suggests Dr. Patel for insights on art and literature in medieval life, highlighting her focus on cultural history. Dr. Harris is not mentioned in this context, and the other options (Dr. Smith and Dr. Johnson) are not referenced in the conversation at all.

Want to continue with the TOEFL Listening preparation? We've created different practice tests that mimic the actual exam format to boost your confidence and self-assurance, especially on the test day.

So, let's take a step forward and check out a few more practice tests to level up your listening skills!

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