The Rise of Islamic Civilization and Its Contributions to Mathematics - TOEFL Listening Test

The TOEFL Listening section is designed to test your understanding of spoken English in an academic setting, especially in lectures. This part of the test includes various topics, requiring attentive listening and answering multiple-choice questions based on the content you hear. Each lecture aims to replicate real classroom discussions, allowing you to engage with intricate ideas and themes.

To help you prepare, we've created a listening practice set on "The Rise of Islamic Civilization and Its Contributions to Mathematics." This set will not only refine your listening skills but also deepen your insight into how art shaped public opinion in ancient Rome. By familiarizing yourself with the test format and question types, you'll increase your confidence and enhance your test strategies.

While listening, focus on the main ideas and critical details, as these will be key to answering questions correctly. Ready to improve your TOEFL Listening abilities? Let's dive in!

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 a lecture, 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 below.

Questions

Gist-Content or Gist-Purpose Question

1. What is the main topic of the lecture?
   1. The history of mathematics in Europe
   2. The contributions of Islamic scholars to mathematics  
   3. The development of algebra in the Middle Ages
   4. The significance of Arabic numerals in modern calculations

Detail Question

1. According to the professor, what was one of the most significant achievements of Islamic mathematicians?
   1. The invention of calculus
   2. The introduction of Arabic numerals 
   3. The discovery of pi
   4. The formulation of the Pythagorean theorem

Function Question

1. What does the professor mean when he says, "His influential work... laid the groundwork for future developments in the field"?
   1. Al-Khwarizmi's work was the first to use Arabic numerals.
   2. Al-Khwarizmi's methods were outdated and not useful.
   3. Al-Khwarizmi's contributions were foundational for later mathematical advancements.
   4. Al-Khwarizmi's work was primarily focused on geometry.

Attitude Question

1. What is the professor's attitude towards the contributions of Islamic scholars to mathematics?
   1. Dismissive
   2. Appreciative
   3. Critical
   4. Indifferent

Organization Question

1. Why does the professor mention Al-Battani in the lecture?
   1. To illustrate the introduction of Arabic numerals
   2. To highlight advancements in trigonometry and their impact on astronomy  
   3. To discuss the development of algebraic methods
   4. To compare Islamic mathematics with European mathematics

Connecting Content or Inference Question

1. What can be inferred about the legacy of Islamic mathematicians based on the lecture?
   1. Their contributions are no longer relevant in modern mathematics.
   2. Their work has had a lasting influence on contemporary mathematical practices.  
   3. Their achievements were limited to the field of astronomy.
   4. Their methods have been completely replaced by modern techniques.

Before delving into the answers, go through the top tips to prepare for your TOEFL exam and make your way to your desired institution!

Answers and Explanations of the Lecture on The Rise of Islamic Civilisation and Its Contributions to Mathematics

1. Answer: B

Explanation: The lecture focuses on the significant advancements made by Islamic scholars in mathematics during the Islamic Golden Age. It highlights their contributions, such as the introduction of Arabic numerals and developments in algebra and trigonometry, which have had a lasting impact on modern mathematical thought.

2. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage specifically mentions that the introduction of the numeral system known as Arabic numerals was a revolutionary achievement. This system, which includes the concept of zero, transformed calculations and mathematical notation, making it a pivotal contribution to the field of mathematics.

3. Answer: C

Explanation: The professor indicates that Al-Khwarizmi's work was crucial in establishing methods and approaches that would be built upon by future mathematicians. This suggests that his contributions were not only significant in their own right but also served as a basis for further developments in algebra and mathematics as a whole.

4. Answer: B

Explanation: The professor expresses a positive attitude towards the contributions of Islamic scholars, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the profound influence they have had on modern mathematics. There is no indication of criticism or dismissal; rather, the tone reflects admiration for their legacy and impact.

5. Answer: B

Explanation: Al-Battani is mentioned to illustrate the significant contributions made by Islamic mathematicians in the field of trigonometry, particularly in enhancing astronomical calculations. This connection underscores the importance of these advancements for practical applications such as navigation and timekeeping, showcasing the broader impact of their work.

6. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage suggests that the contributions of Islamic mathematicians continue to resonate in modern mathematics, indicating that their work remains relevant and influential. This inference highlights the enduring significance of their achievements, which have shaped the development of mathematical sciences over the centuries.

Now that you have solved this test and verified your answers, be prepared to take up more of these TOEFL listening practice tests and boost your confidence! 

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