Task 2
Questions 6-13
You will hear people talking in eight situations.
For each question (6-13), choose the correct answer (A, B or C).
You will hear each recording twice.
A: Alex, what made you decide to start learning Spanish?
B: I'd always wanted to immerse myself in the culture, you know? So, next year I'm going to travel to South America to learn about the people and things like that. Plus, I think learning a new language can open up a lot of opportunities. It looks really good on your CV.
A: How's it going so far?
B: It's challenging, but fun. I'm even starting to socialize with people who speak Spanish.
A: Good for you.
There's a lot of good stuff there, things I've never seen before. For most people, nothing can beat the paintings, done in oil by local artists. The fascinating drawings will certainly open your eyes, in my opinion. And there are also the sculptures of local people. Not that I've ever heard of any of them, which are worth a visit, if you're into sculptures. Remarkable exhibition. There's obviously a lot of talent there not to be missed.
A: Hey Paul, what's up?
B: I've just had a job interview. I hope I did well since everything happened so suddenly. There were so many candidates.
A: Don't worry. I'm sure you did your best. What are the benefits?
B: Well, the hours are great. Even better, I knew the pay was generous. With a bit of luck, there'll be professional development and paid time-off.
A: I bet you'll get it.
B: Well, it's a bit touch-and-go.
A: Well, Italy could be the perfect spot to recharge my batteries, but been there, done that. I was hoping to explore the beaches in Bali. You know, soaking in all the culture, were I not strapped for cash right now. It stays on my bucket list though, unlike France, which I'll be ticking off. I'm really looking forward to a change of scenery.
B: Go girl. You are in for a treat.
A: Finally, I'm moving out. Yay! But, now finding a flat worries me a bit. Do you have any advice?
B: Well, there are many things to think about. The area, the rent, the people, just name it. Nowadays, flats are really pricey, even in some remote places. So you have to be extra careful. If you ask me, a close-knit community should be everyone's priority. So make sure it meets that requirement.
A: Yeah, you're right. Thanks.
What a game. Both teams needed those points, but to my disappointment, the match didn't start well. Poor performance, strange refereeing decisions, lots of misses. In the second half, things heated up. It became so intense that last-minute goal had me on the edge of my seat. But then, with the final whistle, all the tension just vanished. Those are the moments we live for as fans. Nothing beats that feeling. In the end, it was a draw, but what a match.
A: Hey, have you met Danny yet?
B: Yeah, but I've heard mixed things about him. Overall, he's okay. All smiley, you know, when he's in a good mood, but he can become really distant.
A: Got it. Sounds like he has some issues.
B: Definitely. Quirky, but successful, I'd say. It's like he's got the Midas touch, you know? Everything he touches turns to gold. But, approach with caution on a bad day.
A: Right. Maybe I'll pass on hanging out with him.
To start off, engaging with stories regularly can enhance creativity and imagination, allowing readers to explore new worlds and perspectives, which comes in handy later in life. Of course, there's more. Your state of mind can be improved by boosting your mood and promoting relaxation. And something that really strikes me as important is compassion, which develops by understanding different characters, emotions and experiences.
You hear Alex talking to a friend about a language course. Why did Alex start learning a new language?
You hear a woman talking about a local exhibition. What did she like most there?
You hear Paul talking to his friend about a job. Why did he want this job in the first place?
You hear Lucy talking to a friend about her summer holidays. Where is Lucy going for her next holiday?
You hear a man talking to a friend about renting a flat. What do they agree is the main factor?
You hear a man talking about a football match. How did he feel afterwards?
You hear two friends talking about Danny. What is Danny like?
You hear a woman giving a persuasive speech. What is the main topic of her speech?