ELTIS - English Language Test for International Students Comprehending Academic Lectures Questions and Answers

Question 1

While listening to a long academic lecture, what is the MOST effective strategy for a student to use?

Accepted Answer

Focus on understanding the main ideas and key supporting details.

Answer

Try to write down every word the professor says.

Answer

Translate the lecture into your native language in your head.

Answer

Only listen for vocabulary words that you don't know.

Question 2

Listen to this short excerpt from a history lecture: '...So, while many people associate the Industrial Revolution with inventions like the steam engine, its effects were not just technological. In fact, the migration of people from rural farms to urban centers in search of factory work fundamentally reshaped society, creating new social classes and challenges.' What is the main point of this excerpt?

Accepted Answer

The Industrial Revolution caused significant social changes.

Answer

The steam engine was the most important invention.

Answer

Factory work was very difficult for most people.

Answer

People should have stayed in rural farm areas.

Question 3

Listen to this part of a biology lecture: 'The process of photosynthesis is complex, but we can break it down. Essentially, plants use three key ingredients: sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. Through a series of chemical reactions within the chloroplasts, they convert these ingredients into glucose—a type of sugar that provides energy for the plant—and oxygen, which is released into the atmosphere.' According to the lecturer, which of the following is a PRODUCT of photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen

Answer

Water

Answer

Sunlight

Answer

Carbon dioxide

Question 4

Imagine your art history professor says the following: 'When you first look at this painting, it might seem chaotic. Several artists from this period, however, were known for using what appeared to be disorder to convey a deeper, more emotional truth. We see that technique used masterfully here.' What can you infer about the professor's opinion of the painting?

Accepted Answer

The professor has a positive view of the painting's technique.

Answer

The professor thinks the painting is confusing and poorly made.

Answer

The professor believes the artist was not very skilled.

Answer

The professor prefers paintings that are neat and orderly.

Question 5

During a literature lecture, the professor says: 'The author uses a great deal of symbolism. For instance, the recurring image of the broken clock can be seen as representing the main character's feeling that his life is stuck.' What is the function of the phrase 'For instance'?

Accepted Answer

To provide a specific example of a general statement

Answer

To introduce a contrasting idea

Answer

To signal the end of the lecture

Answer

To repeat the main idea in a different way

Question 6

A geology lecture begins with the following sentence: 'Today, we're going to shift our focus from the slow, gradual changes that shape our planet to the sudden, violent events that can alter landscapes in an instant.' Which of the following topics is most likely to be discussed in the lecture?

Accepted Answer

The causes and effects of earthquakes and volcanoes

Answer

The formation of mountains over millions of years

Answer

The process of soil erosion by wind and water

Answer

The life cycle of rocks and the rock cycle