Understanding Tone and Attitude in Academic Conversations
Listen to the following conversation between a student, Rachel, and her professor, Dr. Liu, regarding an upcoming project:
Rachel: I’m really anxious about our presentation next week. The topic is quite broad, and I’m not sure how to narrow it down.
Dr. Liu: I understand that it can be overwhelming, but I believe you have the skills to make it work. Have you considered focusing on a particular aspect that interests you the most?
Rachel: That might help, but every time I think I’ve chosen a path, I end up second-guessing myself.
Dr. Liu: It’s perfectly normal to feel that way when tackling such a significant project. Just remember to lean into your strengths. I’ve seen how you handle challenges with creativity and diligence.
Rachel: I appreciate your encouragement. It’s just the pressure of grades that adds to my stress.
Dr. Liu: Grades are important, but they don’t define your worth. Try to focus on the learning experience—what you will gain from the research and the presentation itself.
Rachel: Thank you, Dr. Liu. I’ll shift my perspective and approach it as an opportunity to learn.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
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