TOEFL® Podcast #8

Asking Clarification Questions

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

Audio Index:
Slow dialog: 0:52
Explanations: 2:50
Fast dialog: 11:37
Questions: 13:00


Professor: This theory is supported by a series of studies conducted beginning in the 1960’s. You’ll be reading about that in your assigned chapter for next week and we’ll be deconstructing it in class next Monday. Any questions?...Yes, you have a question?

Student: Could you please explain how this theory is related to the discussion we had last week?

Professor: Well, the ideas we discussed last week are the foundation upon which this theory is based. One is a precursor to the other. Any other questions?...Yes you have another question?

Student: Yes, I’m not sure what you mean by “deconstruct.”

Professor: When we talk about deconstructing an idea, theory, image, or whatever else in this class, I’m using it to mean that we will examine the underlying assumptions and the driving principles. Is that clear?

Student: I’m sorry, but I didn’t hear that last part. Could you repeat what you said?

Professor: I said that I use deconstruction to mean looking at the underlying assumptions and the principles behind the idea.

Student: Thank you. Will this be on the midterm?

Professor: As I’ve said before, any of the lecture or reading material can be on the midterm. If there are no other questions, I’ll see you on Friday.

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse