TOEFL Listening – Academic Talk (Topic 1): Psychology & Behavior (Part 2)
Passage 1: Memory and Forgetting
Academic Talk Script :
Memory is often thought of as a storage system that simply records information, but psychologists emphasize that memory is an active and selective process. When we experience events, our brains do not store every detail. Instead, information is filtered based on attention, emotional significance, and relevance.
One important distinction psychologists make is between short-term memory and long-term memory. Short-term memory holds information briefly, such as a phone number we plan to dial, while long-term memory stores knowledge and experiences over extended periods. However, not all information in short-term memory becomes long-term memory.
Forgetting, therefore, is not always a failure of memory. In many cases, it helps the brain remain efficient by removing unnecessary information. Problems arise when important information is forgotten due to stress, lack of sleep, or insufficient attention during learning.
Research shows that techniques like repetition, meaningful association, and adequate rest can significantly improve memory retention. As a result, psychologists argue that forgetting is a natural part of how memory functions, not merely a weakness of the human mind.
Questions – Passage 1
- What is the main purpose of the talk?
A. To explain why people have poor memories
B. To describe how memory works and why forgetting occurs
C. To compare short-term and long-term stress
D. To criticize traditional learning methods
Answer: B
Explanation: The talk explains memory processes and presents forgetting as a natural function. - Why does the speaker mention a phone number?
A. To show an example of emotional memory
B. To explain how attention affects learning
C. To illustrate short-term memory
D. To describe memory loss
Answer: C
Explanation: A phone number is used as a typical example of information held briefly in short-term memory. - According to the speaker, why is forgetting sometimes helpful?
A. It reduces emotional stress
B. It prevents memory overload
C. It improves creativity
D. It increases attention
Answer: B
Explanation: Forgetting removes unnecessary information, helping the brain function efficiently. - What can be inferred about improving memory?
A. It depends mostly on intelligence
B. It requires eliminating forgetting
C. It involves lifestyle and learning strategies
D. It happens automatically over time
Answer: C
Explanation: The speaker mentions repetition, association, and rest as ways to improve memory.
Passage 2: Motivation and Goal Achievement
Academic Talk Script :
Motivation plays a crucial role in human behavior, especially when it comes to achieving goals. Psychologists often distinguish between intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation comes from internal satisfaction, such as enjoyment or personal interest, while extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards like grades, money, or praise.
Research suggests that intrinsic motivation tends to lead to deeper engagement and longer-lasting commitment. For example, students who study because they enjoy learning are more likely to persist through challenges than those motivated only by grades.
However, extrinsic motivation is not necessarily ineffective. In fact, external rewards can be useful for initiating behavior, particularly when tasks are unfamiliar or difficult. The problem arises when external rewards replace internal interest entirely.
Psychologists therefore argue that the most effective motivational strategies combine both types. By supporting autonomy and providing meaningful goals, educators and employers can help individuals develop internal motivation while still benefiting from appropriate external incentives.
Questions – Passage 2
- What is the talk mainly about?
A. The psychology of rewards
B. Differences between types of motivation
C. Why people dislike difficult tasks
D. How motivation affects memory
Answer: B
Explanation: The speaker explains intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and their effects. - Why does the speaker mention students who enjoy learning?
A. To criticize grading systems
B. To explain extrinsic motivation
C. To give an example of intrinsic motivation
D. To describe learning difficulties
Answer: C
Explanation: Enjoying learning illustrates motivation driven by internal interest. - According to the talk, when is extrinsic motivation useful?
A. When tasks are enjoyable
B. When tasks are unfamiliar or difficult
C. When goals are personal
D. When motivation is permanent
Answer: B
Explanation: External rewards help initiate behavior in challenging or new tasks. - What can be inferred about effective motivation strategies?
A. They should rely only on rewards
B. They should avoid external incentives
C. They should combine different types of motivation
D. They work the same for everyone
Answer: C
Explanation: The speaker supports a balanced approach using both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
Passage 3: Sleep and Cognitive Performance
Academic Talk Script :
Sleep is often viewed as a passive state, but psychologists emphasize its active role in cognitive functioning. During sleep, the brain processes information, consolidates memories, and prepares for future learning. As a result, sleep deprivation can significantly impair attention, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
Studies show that individuals who consistently get insufficient sleep are more likely to experience reduced concentration and slower reaction times. These effects are especially noticeable in tasks that require complex thinking or sustained attention.
Sleep also affects emotional responses. When people are tired, they may react more strongly to stress and find it harder to manage negative emotions. Over time, chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to mental health problems.
Because of these effects, psychologists argue that sleep should be considered a critical factor in performance and well-being, not a luxury. Establishing regular sleep schedules and reducing screen exposure before bedtime are commonly recommended strategies.
Questions – Passage 3
- What is the main idea of the talk?
A. Sleep is mainly important for physical health
B. Sleep affects emotional responses only
C. Sleep plays an active role in cognitive performance
D. Sleep problems are difficult to prevent
Answer: C
Explanation: The speaker highlights sleep’s role in memory, attention, and decision-making. - Why does the speaker mention slower reaction times?
A. To describe physical weakness
B. To show effects of sleep deprivation
C. To explain memory consolidation
D. To compare different sleep cycles
Answer: B
Explanation: Slower reactions illustrate cognitive impairment caused by lack of sleep. - According to the speaker, how does sleep affect emotions?
A. It eliminates stress
B. It improves emotional intelligence
C. It influences emotional regulation
D. It has little emotional impact
Answer: C
Explanation: The talk states that tired individuals struggle to manage emotions. - What can be inferred from the talk?
A. Sleep habits are a personal preference
B. Performance depends mainly on talent
C. Improving sleep can improve performance
D. Sleep problems affect only adults
Answer: C
Explanation: The speaker implies that better sleep leads to better cognitive functioning.
