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Listen to a conversation. Take notes on the problem presented and the possible solutions suggested.
lab – short for laboratory, a place or room dedicated to scientific research and experimentation
data – factual information
suggestion – a proposal or idea
occupied – busy or engaged
converse – to talk or communicate
clarify – to explain
Listening:
View the transcriptW: Hi, Brandon. How's that lab report coming along?
M: All right, I guess. I've got all the data. There's just one problem. I have no idea how to organize it all.
It's really frustrating.
W: Have you talked with your professor? I bet she would have some suggestions.
M: I'm sure she would. My problem is that I have class during her office hours. I can't just go talk with her about it. And the project is due in a few days.
W: Yeah, that doesn't give you a lot of time to speak with her. Couldn't you meet with her another time when you don't have class? I'm sure she could accommodate you by making an appointment.
M: Hmm ... I suppose I could ask her to schedule an appointment outside of office hours. But I'm afraid she might be too occupied with other classes. I'm also extremely busy.
W: Well, you might be able to work something out. Or you could just email her your questions.
M: True. That'd be a lot easier.
W: But it might be hard to clarify what you're having trouble with through email.
M: Yeah, and I'd like to be able to show her my data. It's all in my field notebook. I haven't entered it in the computer yet, Like I said, I'm not sure of the best way to organize it.
W: Well, I hope you get help somehow. I know you've put a lot of work into this lab.
Read the prompt below.
The students discuss two possible solutions to the man's problem. Describe the problem. Then state which of the two solutions you prefer and explain why.
Look again at your notes from the listening. Decide which solution sounds best and why.
Listening:
Write down your opinion on the best solution.
Notes for the Response
Deliver your response, including all the facts and using necessary transitions.
Listen to two sample responses. Note any useful ideas and expressions that could improve your response.
The man wants to ask his professor questions about his lab report. However, he has class during the professor's office hours. The woman suggests that he either make an appointment to talk with the professor another time or email the professor his questions. I think he should schedule an appointment with his professor outside of office hours. His professor is probably aware that her students, may have class during her regular office hours. I am sure she would be willing to accommodate those students. Also, by meeting with his professor in person rather than through email, the man can fully explain what he is having trouble with. He will be able to work directly with hte professor to come up with possible solutions.
Notes for the Response
Listening:
Now give your response to the prompt again, incorporating useful expressions from the sample, while also paying attention to your pronunciation and intonation. Record your time.
