Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. The professor is discussing the concept of 'urban heat islands'.
'Urban heat islands occur when cities are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. This happens because buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorb and re-emit the sun's heat more than natural landscapes do. For example, dark roofs and asphalt parking lots can reach temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit on a hot summer day, while nearby parks with trees and grass remain much cooler. Additionally, cities generate their own heat through vehicles, air conditioners, and industrial processes. This extra heat can affect local weather patterns, increasing the frequency of thunderstorms. To combat this, many cities are adopting green roofs, planting more trees, and using reflective materials for pavements. These strategies not only lower temperatures but also reduce energy consumption for cooling, which in turn decreases greenhouse gas emissions. So, addressing urban heat islands is not just about comfort—it's a key part of climate action.'
❓ Question What is the main purpose of the lecture?
A. To explain why rural areas are cooler than cities
B. To describe the causes and potential solutions of urban heat islands
C. To discuss the history of city planning
D. To compare different types of roofing materials
✅ Correct Answer
To describe the causes and potential solutions of urban heat islands
TOEFL Listening Tips
Skim the questions first to predict the content
Watch for signal words in lectures and conversations (however, actually, in fact)
For main idea questions, focus on the beginning; for detail questions, focus on examples and data
For attitude questions, pay attention to the speaker's tone and word choice
Take notes on keywords; don't try to write down every word
