Skill 1: Focus on the second line (List. Part A)

In Listening Part A you will hear a short conversation involving two people; this conversation is followed by a question. It is important to understand that the answer to this type of question is more often (but not always) found in the second line of the conversation.

Example:

On the recording, you hear:

(Man) : Billy really made a big mistake this time.
(Woman) : Yes, he forgot to turn in his research paper.
(Man) : What does the woman say about Billy?

In your test book, you read:

(A) It was the first time he made a mistake
(B) He forgot to write his paper.
(C) He turned in the paper in the wrong place.
(D) He didn't remember to submit his assignment.
Analysis:

The second line of the conversation indicates that Billy forgot to turn in his paper, and this mean that he did not remember to submit his assignment. Therefore, the best answer is (B)

The following information outlines the most important strategy for Listening Part A

  • The second line of the conversation probably contains the answer to the questions
  • Listen to the first line of the conversation. If you understand, that's good. If you don't understand it, don't worry because it probably does not contain the answer.
  • Be focus on the second line of the conversation because it probably contains the answer. Repeat the second line in your mind as you read through the answer in the text.

About Paper version of the TOEFL Test


OVERVIEW OF THE TEST

The TOEFL test is a test to measure the English proficiency of nonnative speaker of English. It is required by the English-language colleges and universities. Additionally, institutions such as government agencies, business, or scholarship programs may require this test. The TOEFL test currently exists in paper and computer formats. (The purpose of this book is to prepare students for the paper version of the TOEFL Test. There are other Longman products to prepare students for the computer version of the TOEFL test).

DESCRIPTION OF THE TEST

The paper version of the TOEFL test currently has the following sections:
  • Listening Comprehension: To demonstrate their ability to understand spoken English, examinees must listen to various types of passages on a recording and respond to multiply choice questions about the passages.
  • Structure and Written Expression: To demonstrate their ability to recognize grammatically correct English, examinees must either choose the correct way to complete sentences or find errors in sentence.
  • Reading Comprehension: To demonstrate their ability to understand written English, examinees must answer multiple-choice questions about the ideas and the meanings of words in reading passages.