Author: theieltsbridge

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 346

    Part 1: Questions 1-10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/ OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    Children’s Engineering Workshops

    Tiny Engineers (ages 4-5)
    Activities
    • Create a cover for an (1)  so they can drop it from a height without breaking it.
    • Take part in a competition to build the tallest (2) 
    • Make a (3)  powered by a balloon.

    Junior Engineers (ages 6-8)
    Activities:
    • Build model cars, trucks and (4)  and learn how to program them so they can move.
    • Take part in a competition to build the longest (5)  using card and wood.
    • Create a short (6)  with special software.
    • Build, (7)  and program a humanoid robot.

    Cost for a five-week block: £50
    Held on (8)  from 10 am to 11 am

    Location
    Building 10A, (9)  Industrial Estate, Grasford
    Plenty of (10)  is available.

    Part 2: Questions 11-14
    Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.

    11. Stevenson’s was founded in
     A 1923
     B 1924
     C 1926

    12. Originally, Stevenson’s manufactured goods for
     A the healthcare industry
     B the automotive industry
     C the machine tools industry

    13. What does the speaker say about the company premises?
     A The company has recently moved
     B The company has no plans to move
     C The company is going to move shortly

    14. The programme for the work experience group includes
     A time to do research
     B meetings with a teacher
     C talks by staff

    Questions 15-20
    Label the map below. Write the correct letter A-J next to questions 15-20.

    15. Coffee room 
    16. Warehouse 
    17. Staff Canteen 
    18. Meeting Room 
    19. Human Resources 
    20. Boardroom 

    Part 3: Questions 21 and 22

    Choose TWO letters, A-E. Which TWO parts of the introductory stage to their art projects do Jess and Tom agree were useful?

     A the Bird Park visit
     B the workshop sessions
     C the Natural History Museum visit
     D the projects done in previous years
     E the handouts with research sources

    Questions 23 and 24

    Choose TWO letters, A-E. In which TWO ways do both Jess and Tom decide to change their proposals?

     A by giving a rationale for their action plans
     B by being less specific about the outcome
     C by adding a video diary presentation
     D by providing a timeline and a mind map
     E by making their notes more evaluative

    Questions 25-30
    Which personal meaning do the students decide to give to each of the following pictures? Choose SIX answers from the list and write the correct letter, A-H, next to Questions 25-30.

    Personal meanings
    A childhood memory
    B hope for the future
    C fast movement
    D a potential threat
    E the power of colour
    F the continuity of life
    G protection of nature
    H a confused attitude to nature

    Pictures
    25. Falcon (Landseer) 
    26. Fish hawk (Audubon) 
    27. Kingfisher (van Gogh) 
    28. Portrait of William Wells 
    29. Vairumati (Gauguin) 
    30. Portrait of Giovanni de Medici 

    Part 4: Questions 31-40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    Stoicism
    Stoicism is still relevant today because of its (31)  appeal.

    Ancient Stoics
    • Stoicism was founded over 2,000 years ago in Greece.
    • The Stoics’ ideas are surprisingly well known, despite not being intended for (32) 

    Stoic principles
    • Happiness could be achieved by leading a virtuous life.
    • Controlling emotions was essential.
    • Epictetus said that external events cannot be controlled but the (33)  people make in response can be controlled.
    • A Stoic is someone who has a different view on experiences which others would consider as (34) 

    The influence of Stoicism
    • George Washington organised a (35)  about Cato to motivate his men.
    • The French artist Delacroix was a Stoic.
    • Adam Smith’s ideas on (36)  were influenced by Stoicism.
    • Some of today’s political leaders are inspired by the Stoics.
    • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
    – the treatment for (37)  is based on ideas from Stoicism
    – people learn to base their thinking on (38) 
    • In business, people benefit from Stoicism by identifying obstacles as (39) 

    Relevance of Stoicism
    • It requires a lot of (40)  but Stoicism can help people to lead a good life.
    • It teaches people that having a strong character is more important than anything else.

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 345

    Part 1: Questions 1-10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/ OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    Customer Satisfaction Survey

    Customer details
    Name: Sophie Bird
    Occupation: (1) 
    Reason for travel today: (2) 

    Journey information
    Name of station returning to: (3) 
    Type of ticket purchased: standard (4)  ticket
    Cost of ticket: (5) £ 
    When ticket was purchased: yesterday
    Where ticket was bought: (6) 

    Satisfaction with journey:
    Most satisfied with: the wifi
    Least satisfied with: the (7)  this morning

    Satisfaction with station facilities
    Most satisfied with: how much (8)  was provided
    Least satisfied with: lack of seats, particularly on the (9) 
    Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with: the (10)  available

    Part 2: Questions 11-16
    Label the map below. Write the correct letters A-H next to questions 11-16.

    11. café 
    12. toilets 
    13. formal gardens 
    14. outdoor gyms 
    15. skateboard ramp 
    16. wild flowers 

    Questions 17 and 18
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    What does the speaker say about the adventure playground?
     A children must be supervised
     B it costs more in winter
     C some activities are only for younger children
     D no payment is required
     E it was recently expanded

    Questions 19 and 20
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    What does the speaker say about the glass houses?
     A they are closed at weekends
     B volunteers are needed to work there
     C they were badly damaged by fire
     D more money is needed to repair some of the glass
     E visitors can see palm trees from tropical regions

    Part 3: Questions 21-24
    Choose the correct letter A, B or C.

    Presentation about refrigeration

    21. What did Annie discover from reading about icehouses?
     A why they were first created
     B how the ice was kept frozen
     C where they were located

    22. What point does Annie make about refrigeration in ancient Rome?
     A it became a commercial business
     B it used snow from nearby
     C it took a long time to become popular

    23. In connection with modern refrigeration both Annie and Jack are worried about
     A the complexity of the technology
     B the fact that some are disposed of irresponsibly
     C the large number that quickly break down

    24. What do Jack and Annie agree regarding domestic fridges?
     A they are generally good value of money
     B there are plenty of useful variations
     C they are more useful than other domestic appliances

    Questions 25-30
    Who is going to do research into each topic? Write the correct letter A-C next to questions 25-30.

    People
    A Annie
    B Jack
    C both Annie and Jack

    Topics
    25. the goods that are refrigerated 
    26. the effects on health 
    27. the impact on food producers 
    28. the impact on cities 
    29. refrigerated transport 
    30. domestic fridges 

    Part 4: Questions 31-40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    How the Industrial Revolution affected life in Britain

    19th century
    • For the first time, people’s possessions were used to measure Britain’s (31) 
    • Developments in production of goods and in (32)  greatly changed lives

    Main areas of change
    Manufacturing
    • The Industrial Revolution would not have happened without the new types of (33)  that were used then
    • The leading industry was (34)  (its products became widely available)
    • New (35)  made factories necessary and so more people moved into towns

    Transport
    • The railways took the place of canals
    • Because of the new transport:
    o Greater access to (36)  made people more aware of what they could buy in shops
    o When shopping people were not limited to buying (37)  Goods

    Retailing
    • The first department stores were opened
    • The displays of goods were more visible:
    o Inside stores because of better (38) 
    o Outside stores because (39)  were bigger

    • (40)  that was persuasive became much more common

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 344

    Part 1: Questions 1-10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/ OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    Employment agency: Possible jobs

    First job
    Administrative assistant in a company that produces (1)  (North London)

    Responsibilities
    • Data entry
    • Go to (2)  and take notes
    • General admin
    • Management of (3) 

    Requirements
    • Good computer skills including spreadsheets
    • Good interpersonal skills
    • Attention to (4) 

    Experience
    • Need a minimum of (5)  of experience of teleconferencing

    Second job
    Warehouse assistant in South London

    Responsibilities
    • Stock management
    • Managing (6) 

    Requirements
    • Ability to work with numbers
    • Good computer skills
    • Very organized and (7) 
    • Good communication skills
    • Used to working in a (8) 
    • Able to cope with items that are (9) 

    Need experience of
    • Driving in London
    • Warehouse work
    • (10)  service

    Part 2: Questions 11-16
    Choose the correct letter A, B or C.

    Street Play Scheme

    11. When did the Street Play Scheme first take place?
     A two years ago
     B three years ago
     C six years ago

    12. How often is Beechwood Road closed to traffic now?
     A once a week
     B on Saturdays and Sundays
     C once a month

    13. Who is responsible for closing the road?
     A a council official
     B the police
     C local wardens

    14. Residents who want to use their cars
     A have to park in another street
     B must drive very slowly
     C need permission from a warden

    15. Alice says that Street Play Schemes are most needed in
     A wealthy areas
     B quiet suburban areas
     C areas with heavy traffic

    16. What has been the reaction of residents who are not parents?
     A many of them were unhappy at first
     B they like seeing children play in the street
     C they are surprised by the lack of noise

    Questions 17 and 18
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    Which TWO benefits for children does Alice think are the most important?
     A increased physical activity
     B increased sense of independence
     C opportunity to learn new games
     D opportunity to be part of a community
     E opportunity to make new friends

    Questions 19 and 20
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    Which TWO results of the King Street experiment surprised Alice?
     A more shoppers
     B improved safety
     C less air pollution
     D more relaxed atmosphere
     E less noise pollution

    Part 3: Questions 21-26
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    What Hazel should analyse about items in newspapers:
    • What (21)  the item is on
    • The (22)  of the item, including the headline
    • Any (23)  accompanying the item
    • The (24)  of the item e.g. what’s made prominent
    • The writer’s main (25) 
    • The (26)  the writer may make about the reader

    Questions 27-30
    What does Hazel decide to do about each of the following types of articles? Write the correct letter A, B or C for questions 27-30.

    A she will definitely look for a suitable article
    B she may look for a suitable article
    C she definitely won’t look for an article

    Types of articles
    27. national news item 
    28. editorial 
    29. human interest 
    30. arts 

    Part 4: Questions 31-40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    Early history of keeping clean

    Prehistoric times:
    • Water was used to wash off (31) 

    Ancient Babylon:
    • Soap like material found in (32)  cylinders

    Ancient Greece:
    • People cleaned themselves with sand and other substances
    • Used a strigil – scraper made of (33) 
    • Washed clothes in streams

    Ancient Germany and Gaul:
    • Used soap to colour their (34) 

    Ancient Rome:
    • Animal fat, ashes and clay mixed through action of rain, used for washing clothes
    • From about 312 BC, water carried to Roman (35)  by aqueducts

    Europe in Middle Ages:
    • Decline in bathing contributed to occurrence of (36) 
    • (37)  began to be added to soap

    Europe from 17th century:
    • 1600s: cleanliness and bathing started becoming usual
    • 1791: Leblanc invented a way of making soda ash from (38) 
    • Early 1800s: Chevreul turned soapmaking into a (39) 
    • From 1800s, there was no longer a (40)  on soap

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 343

    Part 1: Questions 1-4
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    FESTIVAL INFORMATION
    DateType of eventDetails
    17tha concertperformers from Canada
    18tha balletcompany called (1)……………
    19th – 20th (afternoon)a playtype of play; a comedy called Jemima has had a good (2)………………..
    20th (evening)a (3)…………..showshow is called (4)………………

    (1) 
    (2) 
    (3) 
    (4) 

    Questions 5-10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    Workshops:
    • Making (5)  food
    • (children only) making (6) 
    • (adults only) making toys from (7)  using various tools

    Outdoor activities
    • Swimming in the (8) 
    • Walking in the woods, led by an expert on (9) 

    See the festival organisers’ (10)  for more information

    Part 2: Questions 11-14
    Choose the correct letter A, B, or C.

    Minster Park

    11. The park was originally established
     A as an amenity provided by the city council
     B as land belonging to a private house
     C as a shared area set up by the local community

    12. Why is there a statue of Diane Gosforth in the park?
     A she was a resident who helped to lead a campaign
     B she was a council member responsible for giving the public access
     C she was a senior worker at the park for many years

    13. During the first World War the park was mainly used for
     A exercises by troops
     B growing vegetables
     C public meetings

    14. When did the physical transformation of the park begin?
     A 203
     B 2015
     C 2016

    Questions 15-20
    Label the map below.

    15. statue of Diane Gosforth 
    16. wooden sculptures 
    17. playground 
    18. maze 
    19. tennis courts 
    20. fitness area 

    Part 3: Questions 21 and 22
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    Which TWO groups of people is the display primarily intended for?
     A students from the English department
     B residents of the local area
     C the university’s teaching staff
     D potential new students
     E students from other departments

    Questions 23 and 24
    Choose TWO letter A-E.

    What are Cathy and Graham’s TWO reasons for choosing the novelist Charles Dickens?
     A his speeches inspired others to try to improve society
     B he used his publications to draw attention to social problems
     C his novels are well know now
     D he was consulted on a number of social issues
     E his reputation has changed in recent times

    Questions 25-30
    What topic do Cathy and Graham chose to illustrate with each novel? Choose SIX answers from the list below.

    Topics
    A poverty
    B education
    C Dicken’s travels
    D entertainment
    E crime and the law
    F wealth
    G medicine
    H a woman’s life

    Novels by Dickens
    25. The Pickwick Papers 
    26. Oliver Twist 
    27. Nicholas Nickleby 
    28. Martin Chuzzlewit 
    29. Bleak House 
    30. Little Dorrit 

    Part 4: Questions 31-40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    Agricultural programme in Mozambique

    How the programme was organised
    • It focused on a dry and arid region in Chicualacuala district near the Limpopo river
    • People depended on the forest to provide charcoal as a source of income
    • (31)  was seen as the main priority to ensure the supply of water
    • Most of the work organised by farmer’s associations was done by (32) 
    • Fenced areas were created to keep animals away from crops
    • The programme provided
    o (33)  for the fences
    o (34)  for the suitable crops
    o Water pumps
    • The farmers provided
    o Labour
    o (35)  for the fences on their land

    Further developments
    • The marketing of produce was sometimes difficult due to lack of (36) 
    • Training was therefore provided in methods of food (37) 
    • Farmers made special places where (38)  could be kept
    • Local people later suggested keeping (39) 

    Evaluation and lessons learned
    • Agricultural production increased improving incomes and food security
    • Enough time must be allowed, particularly for the (40)  phase of the programme

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 342

    Part 1: Questions 1-10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/ OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    Bankside Recruitment Agency

    • Address of agency: 497 Eastside, Docklands
    • Name of agent: Becky (1) 
    • Phone number: 07866510333
    • Best to call her in the: (2) 

    Typical jobs
    • Clerical and admin roles, mainly in the finance industry
    • Must have good (3)  skills
    • Jobs are usually for at least one (4) 
    • Pay is usually £ (5)  per hour

    Registration process
    • Wear a (6)  to the interview
    • Must bring your (7)  to the interview
    • They will ask questions about each applicant’s (8) 

    Advantages of using an agency
    • The (9)  you receive at interview will benefit you
    • Will get access to vacancies which are not advertised
    • Less (10)  is involved in applying for jobs

    Part 2: Questions 11-14
    Choose the correct letter A, B, or C.

    Matthews Island Holidays

    11. According to the speaker, the company
     A has been in business for longer than most of its competitors
     B arranges holidays to more destinations than its competitors
     C has more customers than its competitors

    12. Where can customers meet the tour manager before traveling to the Isle of Man?
     A Liverpool
     B Heysham
     C Luton

    13. How many lunches are included in the price of holiday?
     A three
     B four
     C five

    14. Customers have to pay extra for
     A guaranteeing themselves a larger room
     B booking at short notice
     C transferring to another date

    Questions 15-20
    Complete the table below. Write ONE WORD AND/ OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    TIMETABLE FOR ISLE OF MAN HOLIDAY
    ActivityNotes
    Day 1Arrive– introduction by manager
    – hotel dining room has view of the (15)………………
    Day 2Tynwald Exhibition and PeelTynwald may have been founded in (16)…………..not 1979
    Day 3Trip to Snaefelltravel along promenade in a tram; train to Laxey; train to (17)……………of Snaefell
    Day 4Free daycompany provides a (18)……………..for local transport and heritage sites
    Day 5Take the (19)………….railway train from Douglas to Port Erinfree time, then coach to Castledtwn – former (20)…………has old castle
    Day 6Leavelease the island by ferry or plane

    (15) 
    (16) 
    (17) 
    (18) 
    (19) 
    (20) 

    Part 3: Questions 21-26
    What did findings of previous research claim about the personality traits of a child is likely to have because of their position in the family?

    Choose SIX answers from the list A-H below.

    Personality traits
    A outgoing
    B selfish
    C independent
    D attention-seeking
    E introverted
    F cooperative
    G caring
    H competitive

    Position in family
    21. the eldest child 
    22. a middle child 
    23. the youngest child 
    24. a twin 
    25. an only child 
    26. a child with much older siblings 

    Questions 27 and 28
    Choose the correct letter A, B or C.

    27. What do the speakers say about the evidence relating to birth order and academic success?
     A There is conflicting evidence about whether oldest children perform best in intelligence tests
     B There is little doubt that birth order has less influence on academic achievement than socio-economic status
     C Some studies have neglected to include important factors such as family side

    28. What does Ruth think is surprising about the difference in oldest children’s academic performance
     A It is mainly thanks to their roles as teachers for their younger siblings
     B The advantages they have only lead to a slightly higher level of achievement
     C The extra parental attention they receive at a young age makes little difference

    Questions 29 and 30
    Choose TWO letter, A-E.

    Which TWO experiences of sibling rivalry do the speakers agree has been valuable for them?

     A learning to share
     B learning to stand up for oneself
     C learning to be a good loser
     D learning to be tolerant
     E learning to say sorry

    Part 4: Questions 31-40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    The Eucalyptus Tree in Australia

    Importance
    • It provides (31)  and food for a wide range of species
    • Its leaves provide (32)  which is used to make a disinfectant

    Reasons for present decline in number:
    Diseases:
     Mundulla Yellows
    o Cause:
    – lime used for making (33)  was absorbed
    – trees were unable to take in necessary iron through their roots
    • Bell-miner Associated Die-back
    o Cause:
    – (34)   feed on eucalyptus leaves
    – they secrete a substance containing sugar
    – bell-miner birds are attracted by this and keep away other species

    Bushfires:
    Willian Jackson’s theory:
    • High frequency bushfires have impact on vegetation, resulting in the growth of (35) 

    • Mid frequency bushfires result in the growth of eucalyptus forests, because they:
    o make more (36)   available to the trees
    o maintain the quality of the (37) 

    • Low frequency bushfires result in the growth of (38)  rainforest which is:
    o a (39)  ecosystem
    o an ideal environment for the (40)  of the bell-miner

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 341

    Part 1: Questions 1 – 7
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/ OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    Enquiry about booking hotel room for event

    Andrew is the Events Manager

    Rooms
    Adelphi Room
    – number of people who can sit down to eat: (1) 
    – has a gallery suitable for musicians
    – can go out and see the (2)  in pots on the terrace
    – terrace has a view of a group of (3) 

    Carlton Room
    – number of people who can sit down to eat: 110
    – has a (4) 
    – view of the lake

    Options
    Master of Ceremonies:
    – can give a (5)  while people are eating
    – will provide (6)  if there are any problems

    Accommodation: in hotel rooms or (7) 

    Questions 8 – 10
    What is said about using each of the following hotel facilities?

    Choose THREE answers from the box and write the correct letter, A, B or C, next to Questions 8-10.

    Availability
    A included in cost of hiring room
    B available at extra charge
    C not available

    Hotel facilities
    8. outdoor swimming pool 
    9. gym 
    10. tennis courts 

    Part 2: Questions 11-16
    What information does the speaker give about each of the following excursions?

    Choose SIX answers from the box and write the correct letter, A-H, next to Questions 11-16.

    Information
    A all downhill
    B suitable for beginners
    C only in good weather
    D food included
    E no charge
    F swimming possible
    G fully booked today
    H transport not included

    Excursions
    11. dolphin watching 
    12. forest walk 
    13. cycle trip 
    14. local craft tour 
    15. observatory trip 
    16. horse riding 

    Questions 17 and 18
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    Which TWO things does the speaker say about the attraction called Musical Favourites?
     A You pay extra for drinks.
     B You must book it in advance.
     C You get a reduction if you buy two tickets.
     D You can meet the performers.
     E You can take part in the show.

    Questions 19 and 20
    Choose TWO letters, A-E.

    Which TWO things does the speaker say about the Castle Feast?
     A Visitors can dance after the meal.
     B There is a choice of food.
     C Visitors wear historical costume.
     D Knives and forks are not used.
     E The entertainment includes horse races.

    Part 3: Questions 21 – 25

    Choose the correct letter A, B or C.

    21 What does Trevor find interesting about the purpose of children’s literature?
     A the fact that authors may not realise what values they’re teaching
     B the fact that literature can be entertaining and educational at the same time
     C the fact that adults expect children to imitate characters in literature

    22 Trevor says the module about the purpose of children’s literature made him
     A analyse some of the stories that his niece reads.
     B wonder how far popularity reflects good quality.
     C decide to start writing some children’s stories.

    23 Stephanie is interested in the Pictures module because
     A she intends to become an illustrator.
     B she can remember beautiful illustrations from her childhood.
     C she believes illustrations are more important than words.

    24 Trevor and Stephanie agree that comics
     A are inferior to books.
     B have the potential for being useful.
     C discourage children from using their imagination.

    25 With regard to books aimed at only boys or only girls, Trevor was surprised
     A how long the distinction had gone unquestioned.
     B how few books were aimed at both girls and boys.
     C how many children enjoyed books intended for the opposite sex.

    Questions 26 – 30
    What comment is made about each of these stories?

    Choose FIVE answers from the box and write the correct letter, A-G, next to Questions 26-30.

    Comments
    A translated into many other languages
    B hard to read
    C inspired a work in a different area of art
    D more popular than the author’s other works
    E original title refers to another book
    F started a new genre
    G unlikely topic

    Stories
    26. Perrault’s fairy tales 
    27. The Swiss Family Robinson 
    28. The Nutcracker and The Mouse King 
    29. The Lord of the Rings 
    30. War Horse 

    Part 4: Questions 31 – 40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    The hunt for sunken settlements and ancient shipwrecks

    ATLIT-YAM
    • was a village on coast of eastern Mediterranean
    • thrived until about 7,000 BC
    • stone homes had a courtyard
    • had a semicircle of large stones round a (31) 
    • cause of destruction unknown – now under the sea
    • biggest settlement from the prehistoric period found on the seabed
    • research carried out into structures, (32)  and human remains

    TRADITIONAL AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLES (AUVs)
    • used in the oil industry, e.g. to make (33) 
    • problems: they were expensive and (34) 

    LATEST AUVs
    • much easier to use, relatively cheap, sophisticated

    Tests:
    • Marzamemi, Sicily: found ancient Roman ships carrying architectural elements made of
    (35) 

    Underwater internet:
    • (36)  is used for short distance communication, acoustic waves for long distance
    • plans for communication with researchers by satellite
    • AUV can send data to another AUV that has better (37)  , for example

    Planned research in Gulf of Baratti:
    • to find out more about wrecks of ancient Roman ships, including
    – one carrying (38)  supplies; tablets may have been used for cleaning the (39) 
    – others carrying containers of olive oil or (40) Show Answers

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 340

    Part 1: Questions 1 – 10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/ OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    Flanders Conference Hotel

    Customer Services Manager – Angela

    Date available
    • weekend beginning February 4th

    Conference facilities
    • the (1)  room for talks, (projector and (2)  available)
    • area for coffee and an (3) 
    • free (4)  throughout
    • a standard buffet lunch costs (5) $  per head

    Accommodation
    • Rooms will cost (6) $  including breakfast.

    Other facilities
    • The hotel also has a spa and rooftop (7) 
    • There’s a free shuttle service to the (8) 

    Location
    • Wilby Street (quite near the (9)  )
    • near to restaurants and many (10) 

    Part 2: Questions 11 and 12
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    Which TWO activities that volunteers do are mentioned?
     A decorating
     B cleaning
     C delivering meals
     D shopping
     E childcare

    Questions 13 and 14
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    Which TWO ways that volunteers can benefit from volunteering are mentioned?
     A learning how to be part of a team
     B having a sense of purpose
     C realising how lucky they are
     D improved ability at time management
     E boosting their employment prospects

    Questions 15 – 20
    What has each of the following volunteers helped someone to do?

    Choose SIX answers from the box and write the correct letter, A-G, next to Questions 15-20.

    What volunteers have helped people to do
    A overcome physical difficulties
    B rediscover skills not used for a long time
    C improve their communication skills
    D solve problems independently
    E escape isolation
    F remember past times
    G start a new hobby

    Volunteers

    15. Habib 
    16. Consuela 
    17. Minh 
    18. Tanya 
    19. Alexei 
    20. Juba 

    Part 3: Questions 21 – 26
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    Background on school marching band

    It consists of around (21)  students.
    It is due to play in a (22)  band competition.
    It has been invited to play in the town’s (23) 
    They have listened to a talk by a (24) 
    Joe will discuss a (25)  with the band.
    Joe hopes the band will attend a (26)  next month.

    Questions 27 – 30
    What problem does Joe mention in connection with each of the following band members?

    Choose FOUR answers from the box and write the correct letter, A-F, next to Questions 27-30.

    Problems
    A makes a lot of mistakes in rehearsals
    B keeps making unhelpful suggestions
    C has difficulty with rhythm
    D misses too many rehearsals
    E has a health problem
    F doesn’t mix with other students

    Band members
    27. flutist 
    28. trumpeter 
    29. trombonist 
    30. percussionist 

    Part 4: Questions 31 – 40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer

    Concerts in university arts festival

    Concert 1
    • Australian composer: Liza Lim
    • studied piano and (31)  before turning to composition
    • performers and festivals around the world have given her a lot of commissions
    • compositions show a great deal of (32)  and are drawn from various cultural sources
    • her music is very expressive and also (33) 
    • festival will include her (34)  called The Oresteia
    • Lim described the sounds in The Oresteia as (35) 
    • British composers: Ralph Vaughan Williams, Frederick Delius

    Concert 2
    • British composers: Benjamin Britten, Judith Weir
    • Australian composer: Ross Edwards
    • festival will include The Tower of Remoteness, inspired by nature
    • The Tower of Remoteness is performed by piano and (36) 
    • compositions include music for children
    • celebrates Australia’s cultural (37) 

    Concert 3
    • Australian composer: Carl Vine
    • played cornet then piano
    • studied (38)  before studying music
    • worked in Sydney as a pianist and composer
    • became well known as composer of music for (39) 
    • festival will include his music for the 1996 (40) 

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 339

    Part 1: Questions 1-10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    TOTAL HEALTH CLINIC

    PATIENT DETAILS
    Personal Information
    Name: Julie Anne Garcia

    Contact phone:                                     (1) 
    Date of birth:                                          (2)  , 1992
    Occupation works as a:                       (3) 
    Insurance company:                            (4)  Life insurance

    Details of the problem
    Type of problem:                                  pain in her left (5) 
    When it began:                                     (6)  ago
    Action already taken:                          has taken painkillers and applied ice

    Other information
    Sports played:                                     belongs to a (7)  club
    goes (8)  regularly

    Medical history:                                  injured her (9)  last year
    no allergies
    no regular medication apart from (10) 

    Part 2: Questions 11 – 15
    Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.

    Visit to Branley Castle

    11. Before Queen Elizabeth I visited the castle in 1576,
     A repairs were carried out to the guest rooms.
     B a new building was constructed for her.
     C a fire damaged part of the main hall.

    12. In 1982, the castle was sold to
     A the government.
     B the Fenys family.
     C an entertainment company.

    13. In some of the rooms, visitors can
     A speak to experts on the history of the castle.
     B interact with actors dressed as famous characters.
     C see models of historical figures moving and talking.

    14. In the castle park, visitors can
     A see an 800-year-old tree.
     B go to an art exhibition.
     C visit a small zoo.

    15. At the end of the visit, the group will have
     A afternoon tea in the conservatory.
     B the chance to meet the castle’s owners.
     C a photograph together on the Great Staircase.

    Questions 16 – 20
    Label the plan below. Write the correct letter A-H next to questions 16-20.

    16. Starting point for walking the walls 
    17. Bow and arrow display 
    18. Hunting birds display 
    19. Traditional dancing 
    20. Shop 

    Part 3: Questions 21 – 24
    Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.

    Woolly mammoths on St Paul’s Island

    21 How will Rosie and Martin introduce their presentation?
     A with a drawing of woolly mammoths in their natural habitat
     B with a timeline showing when woolly mammoths lived
     C with a video clip about woolly mammoths

    22 What was surprising about the mammoth tooth found by Russell Graham?
     A It was still embedded in the mammoth’s jawbone.
     B It was from an unknown species of mammoth.
     C It was not as old as mammoth remains from elsewhere.

    23 The students will use an animated diagram to demonstrate how the mammoths
     A became isolated on the island.
     B spread from the island to other areas.
     C coexisted with other animals on the island.

    24 According to Martin, what is unusual about the date of the mammoths’ extinction on the island?
     A how exact it is
     B how early it is
     C how it was established

    Questions 25 – 30
    What action will the students take for each of the following sections of their presentation?
    Choose SIX answers from the box and write the correct letter, A-H, next to Questions 25-30.

    Actions

    A make it more interactive
    B reduce visual input
    C add personal opinions
    D contact one of the researchers
    E make detailed notes
    F find information online
    G check timing
    H organise the content more clearly

    Sections of presentation
    25. Introduction 
    26. Discovery of the mammoth tooth 
    27. Initial questions asked by the researchers 
    28. Further research carried out on the island 
    29. Findings and possible explanations 
    30. Relevance to the present day 

    Part 4: Questions 31 – 40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    The history of weather forecasting

    Ancient cultures
    • many cultures believed that floods and other disasters were involved in the creation of the world
    • many cultures invented (31)  and other ceremonies to make the weather gods friendly
    • people needed to observe and interpret the sky to ensure their (32) 
    • around 650 BC, Babylonians started forecasting, using weather phenomena such as
    (33)
     
    • by 300 BC, the Chinese had a calendar made up of a number of (34)  connected with the weather

    Ancient Greeks
    • a more scientific approach
    • Aristotle tried to explain the formation of various weather phenomena
    • Aristotle also described haloes and (35) 

    Middle Ages
    • Aristotle’s work considered accurate
    • many proverbs, e.g. about the significance of the colour of the (36)  , passed on accurate information.

    15th-19th centuries
    • 15th century: scientists recognised value of (37)  for the first time
    • Galileo invented the (38) 
    • Pascal showed relationship between atmospheric pressure and altitude
    • from the 17th century, scientists could measure atmospheric pressure and temperature
    • 18th century: Franklin identified the movement of (39) 
    • 19th century: data from different locations could be sent to the same place by
    (40)
     

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 338

    Part 1: – Questions 1-10
    Complete the form below. Write ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

    CRIME REPORT FORM

    Type of crime: theft

    Personal information

    Example: Name – Louise Taylor

    Nationality:                    (1) 
    Date of birth:                  14 December 1977
    Occupation:                   interior designer
    Reason for visit:            business (to buy antique (2)  )
    Length of stay:               two months
    Current address:           (3)  Apartments (No 15)

    Details of theft
    Items stolen:                 – a wallet containing approximately (4) £ 
    – a (5) 
    Date of theft:                  (6) 

    Possible time and place of theft
    Location:                                outside the (7)  at about 4 pm
    Details of suspect:                – some boys asked for the (8) then ran off
    – one had a T-shirt with a picture of a tiger
    – he was about 12, slim build with (9)  hair

    Crime reference number allocated – (10) 

    Part 2: Questions 11 – 20

    Induction talk for new apprentices

    Questions 11 and 12
    Choose TWO letters, A-E.

    Which TWO pieces of advice for the first week of an apprenticeship does the manager give?
     A get to know colleagues
     B learn from any mistakes
     C ask lots of questions
     D react positively to feedback
     E enjoy new challenges

    Questions 13 and 14
    Choose TWO letters, A-E.

    Which TWO things does the manager say mentors can help with?
     A confidence-building
     B making career plans
     C completing difficult tasks
     D making a weekly timetable
     E reviewing progress

    Questions 15 – 20
    What does the manager say about each of the following aspects of the company policy for apprentices?

    Write the correct letter, A, B or C, next to Questions 15-20.

    A It is encouraged.
    B There are some restrictions.
    C It is against the rules.

    Company policy for apprentices

    15. Using the internet 
    16. Flexible working 
    17. Booking holidays 
    18. Working overtime 
    19. Wearing trainers 
    20. Bringing food to work 

    Part 3: Questions 21 – 25
    Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.

    Cities built by the sea

    21. Carla and Rob were surprised to learn that coastal cities
     A contain nearly half the world’s population.
     B include most of the world’s largest cities.
     C are growing twice as fast as other cities.

    22. According to Rob, building coastal cities near to rivers
     A may bring pollution to the cities.
     B may reduce the land available for agriculture.
     C may mean the countryside is spoiled by industry.

    23. What mistake was made when building water drainage channels in Miami in the 1950s?
     A There were not enough of them.
     B They were made of unsuitable materials.
     C They did not allow for the effects of climate change.

    24. What do Rob and Carla think that the authorities in Miami should do immediately?
     A take measures to restore ecosystems
     B pay for a new flood prevention system
     C stop disposing of waste materials into the ocean

    25. What do they agree should be the priority for international action?
     A greater coordination of activities
     B more sharing of information
     C agreement on shared policies

    Questions 26 – 30
    What decision do the students make about each of the following parts of their presentation?

    Choose FIVE answers from the box and write the correct letter, A-G, next to Questions 26-30.

    Decisions
    A use visuals
    B keep it short
    C involve other students
    D check the information is accurate
    E provide a handout
    F focus on one example
    G do online research

    Parts of the presentation
    26. Historical background 
    27. Geographical factors 
    28. Past mistakes 
    29. Future risks 
    30. International implications 

    Part 4: Questions 31 – 40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    Marine renewable energy (ocean energy)

    Introduction
    More energy required because of growth in population and (31) 
    What’s needed:
    • renewable energy sources
    • methods that won’t create pollution

    Wave energy
    Advantage: waves provide a (32)  source of renewable energy
    Electricity can be generated using offshore or onshore systems
    Onshore systems may use a reservoir

    Problems:
    • waves can move in any (33) 
    • movement of sand, etc. on the (34)  of the ocean may be affected

    Tidal energy
    Tides are more (35)  than waves
    Planned tidal lagoon in Wales:
    • will be created in a (36)  at Swansea
    • breakwater (dam) containing 16 turbines
    • rising tide forces water through turbines, generating electricity
    • stored water is released through (37)  , driving the turbines in the reverse direction

    Advantages:
    • not dependent on weather
    • no (38)  is required to make it work
    • likely to create a number of (39) 

    Problem:
    • may harm fish and birds, e.g. by affecting (40)  and building up silt

    Ocean thermal energy conversion
    Uses a difference in temperature between the surface and lower levels Water brought to the surface in a pipe

  • IELTS Listening Practice Test – Exercise 337

    Part 1: Questions 1-10
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD OR A NUMBER.

    Alex’s Training
    Alex completed his training in 2014

    About the applicant:
    • At first Alex did his training in the (1)  department
    • Alex did not have a qualification from school in (2) 

    • Alex thinks he should have done the diploma in (3)  skills
    • Age of other trainees: the youngest was (4) 

    Benefits of doing training at JPNW:
    • Lots of opportunities because of the size of the organization
    • Trainees receive the same amount of (5)  as permanent staff
    • The training experience increases people’s confidence a lot
    • Trainees go to (6)  one day per month
    • The company is in a convenient (7) 

    Advice for interview:
    • Do not wear (8) 
    • Do not be (9) 
    • Make sure you (10) 

    Part 2: Questions 11-16
    Choose the correct letter A, B or C.

    The Snow Centre
    11. Annie recommends that when cross-country skiing, the visitors should
     A get away from the regular trails.
     B stop to enjoy views of the scenery.
     C go at a slow speed at the beginning.

    12. What does Annie tell the group about this afternoon’s dog-sled trip?
     A Those who want to can take part in a race.
     B Anyone has the chance to drive a team of dogs.
     C One group member will be chosen to lead the trail.

    13. What does Annie say about the team relay event?
     A All participants receive a medal.
     B The course is 4 km long.
     C Each team is led by a teacher.

    14. On the snow-shoe trip, the visitors will
     A visit an old gold mine.
     B learn about unusual flowers.
     C climb to the top of a mountain.

    15. The cost of accommodation in the mountain hut includes
     A a supply of drinking water.
     B transport of visitors’ luggage.
     C cooked meals.

    16. If there is a storm while the visitors are in the hut, they should
     A contact the bus driver.
     B wait until the weather improves.
     C use the emergency locator beacon.

    Questions 17-20

    What information does Annie give about skiing on each of the following mountain trails?

    Choose FOUR answers from the options below and write the correct letter A-F next to questions 17-20

    Information
    A it has a good place to stop and rest
    B it is suitable for all abilities
    C it involves crossing a river
    D it demands a lot of skill
    E it may be closed in bad weather
    F it has some very narrow sections

    Mountain trails
    17. Highland trail 
    18. Pine trail 
    19. Stony trail 
    20. Loser’s trail 

    Part 3: Questions 21-26
    Choose the correct letter A, B or C.

    Labels giving nutritional information on food packaging

    21. What was Jack’s attitude to nutritional food labels before this project?
     A He didn’t read everything on them.
     B He didn’t think they were important.
     C He thought they were too complicated.

    22. Alice says that before doing this project.
     A she was unaware of what certain foods contained.
     B she was too lazy to read food labels.
     C she was only interested in the number of calories.

    23. When discussing supermarket brands of pizza, Jack agrees with Alice that
     A the list of ingredients is shocking.
     B he will hesitate before buying pizza again.
     C the nutritional label is misleading.

    24. Jack prefers the daily value system to other labelling systems because it is
     A more accessible.
     B more logical.
     C more comprehensive.

    25. What surprised both students about one flavour of crisps?
     A The percentage of artificial additives given was incorrect.
     B The products did not contain any meat.
     C The labels did not list all the ingredients.

    26. What do the students think about research into the impact of nutritional food labelling?
     A It did not produce clear results.
     B It focused on the wrong people.
     C It made unrealistic recommendations

    Questions 27 and 28
    Choose TWO letters A-E.

    Which TWO things surprised the students about the traffic-light system for nutritional labels?

     A its widespread use
     B the fact that it is voluntary for supermarkets
     C how little research was done before its introduction
     D its unpopularity with food manufacturers
     E the way that certain colours are used

    Questions 29 and 30
    Choose TWO letters, A-E

    Which TWO things are true about the participants in the study on the traffic-light system?

     A They had low literacy levels.
     B They were regular consumers of packaged food.
     C They were selected randomly.
     D They were from all socio-economic groups.
     E They were interviewed face-to-face.

    Part 4: Questions 31-40
    Complete the notes below. Write ONE WORD ONLY for each answer.

    The history of coffee
    Coffee in the Arab world
    • There was small-scale trade in wild coffee from Ethiopia.
    • 1522: Coffee was approved in the Ottoman court as a type of medicine.
    • 1623: In Constantinople, the ruler ordered the (31)  of every coffee house.

    Coffee arrives in Europe (17th century)
    • Coffee shops were compared to (32) 
    • They played an important part in social and (33)  changes.

    Coffee and European colonisation
    • European powers established coffee plantations in their colonies
    • Types of coffee were often named according to the (34)  they came from.
    • In Brazil and the Caribbean, most cultivation depended on (35) 
    • In Java, coffee was used as a form of (36) 
    • Coffee became almost as important as (37) 
    • The move towards the consumption of (38)  in Britain did not also take place in the USA.

    Coffee in the 19th century
    • Prices dropped because of improvements in (39) 
    • Industrial workers found coffee helped them to work at (40)