ascertaining

"My friend told me there was something in the box, but I didn't know what it was yet. "

"Instruction will be provided on how to handle difficult customers."

"As soon as we ascertain what the situation is, we can plan how to proceed."

"He examined the crime scene for clues."

"He listened carefully to his mother's concerns, feeling sorrowful about her disappointment. "

"The new teacher worked hard to establish a routine in her classroom. "

"The United States is in an awkward situation with debt default looming."

"The detective investigated the theft of the school's valuable computer equipment. "

"My teacher said the test is definitely going to be difficult. "

"The teacher patiently explained the math problem, and the students were able to understand the steps involved. "

"My closest confident, my sister, always listens patiently and gives good advice. "

"My teacher explained the new math concept, and I understood it perfectly. "