Narrator: Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class.
Professor: Today we're going to talk about the role of wetlands in flood control, but I want to start with a common misconception. Many people think wetlands are just wastelands—places to drain and build on. However, research shows that wetlands act like natural sponges. They absorb excess rainwater and slow down its flow into rivers. For example, in the Mississippi River basin, studies have found that the loss of over half of the original wetlands has contributed to more severe downstream flooding. This is because the water that once spread out over floodplains now rushes downstream at once. Moreover, wetlands also filter pollutants and provide habitat for wildlife. So when we talk about flood prevention, it's not just about building higher levees—it's about preserving these ecosystems. In fact, a single acre of wetland can store about one million gallons of floodwater. That's a significant amount. So, the next time you see a marsh, remember it's not just a muddy area—it's a critical piece of infrastructure for our environment.
❓ 문제 What is the professor's main point about wetlands?
A. A. Wetlands are often mistakenly considered useless but are crucial for flood control.
B. B. Building higher levees is the most effective way to prevent flooding.
C. C. Wetlands have become less important due to modern engineering.
D. D. Wetlands mainly serve as habitats for wildlife rather than providing flood control.
✅ 정답
A. Wetlands are often mistakenly considered useless but are crucial for flood control.
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