Answer Explanation

[PASSAGE] Student: It's about our presentation on animal migration. I'm a little... stuck. ... Well, the topic 'animal migration' is so big. I don't know where to start. There are birds, fish, insects... It's overwhelming. The student is stuck because his presentation topic, animal migration, feels too broad and overwhelming. [WHY CORRECT] Option 2 is correct because the student explicitly states he is "stuck" due to the topic being "so big" and "overwhelming," indicating he needs advice on narrowing or focusing it. The professor then guides him to "narrow it down" and suggests focusing on navigation for the Arctic Tern. [TRAPS] Option 1 is wrong because the student doesn't mention needing an extension; he needs help defining his topic. Option 3 is wrong because he isn't changing from migration to navigation, but rather focusing his migration presentation by using navigation as a sub-topic. [TIP] When listening for 'purpose' questions, pay close attention to the very beginning of the conversation. The student's initial problem or direct request often reveals their main reason for speaking to the professor. Look for keywords like "stuck," "trouble with," or "need help with."

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

• Option A (“To ask for an extension on his presentation deadline.”) assigns an intent the context does not support.
• Option C (“To change his presentation topic from migration to navigation.”) confuses the example with the point it illustrates.
• Option D (“To find reading materials about Arctic Terns.”) misreads the speaker’s purpose for the remark.

Key Language in Context

Watch how academic vocabulary around Animal Migration signals meaning. TOEFL function items reward readers who track tone, transitions, and precise word choice rather than surface keywords.

Skill Takeaway

Listen for the intent behind the wording, especially after signal phrases.