ELSA Listening and Reading Practice Test 1 Contents : Answer Sheet Practice Listening Test 1 Practice Reading Test 1 Listening Tapescript Answer Key: Listening Test Answer Key: Reading Test

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Practice Test 1 (British English)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS ASSESSMENT

LISTENING PRACTICE TEST 1

__________ Instructions to Candidates (a) DO NOT OPEN YOUR TEST BOOK UNTIL THE SUPERVISOR TELLS YOU TO START. (b) This is a multiple–choice test. The test has 4 parts with a total of 60 questions, and takes about

30 minutes. (c) You will listen to a series of short recordings. You will only hear each listening passage once, so

you must listen carefully. After hearing each recording, choose the correct answer (A, B, C or D) to each question and mark your choice in pencil on your answer sheet.

(d) Do not mark your answers in this test book – only answers marked on the answer sheet can be

scored. There is no time allowed at the end of the test to go back and check your answers or make any changes.

(e) During the test use a rubber eraser to erase any mistakes on the answer sheet. (f) Do not cross out answers, as this means the question will automatically be scored as wrong. (g) Mark only one answer per question – if you mark more than one answer for a question (for

example, both A and C) it will automatically be scored as wrong. (h) Do not make any other marks on the answer sheet as this could accidentally affect your score. (i) You are not allowed to use a dictionary during the test.

NOW WAIT UNTIL THE SUPERVISOR TELLS YOU TO OPEN YOUR BOOK.

__________

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Part 1 Instructions In Part 1, you will hear someone ask a question or make a statement. You will then hear another person give 3 alternative responses (identified as A, B, and C) to the question or statement. NOTE: These responses are NOT printed in your test book. Choose the correct response, and mark your choice on the answer sheet next to the question number. Now listen to the following example.

(recorded example) Choice ‘C’ (‘I’m from Singapore’) is the correct answer to the question ‘Where are you from?’, so you would fill in ‘C’ on the answer sheet. Now look at the answer sheet and find where you should start filling in the answers for Part 1. There are 20 questions in this part, questions 1 − 20. Now listen for question number 1. (NO PRINTED QUESTIONS FOR PART 1)

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Part 2 Instructions In Part 2, you will hear a series of short conversations between 2 people. You will also read a question about each conversation, with 4 alternative answers, A, B, C and D. Choose the correct answer, and mark your choice on your answer sheet. Now listen to an example conversation, and read the question about the conversation: Q: What should Bill do?

(A) Call a client (B) Contact the man (C) Leave work early (D) Go to the meeting Option (B) is the correct answer, so you would fill in 'B' on the answer sheet. Now look at the answer sheet and find where you should start filling in the answers for Part 2. There are 12 questions in this part, numbers 21 − 32. Now listen for the first conversation and choose the correct answer. 21 What is learned about the woman?

(A) She has been promoted. (B) She is leaving Hong Kong. (C) She is looking for a new job. (D) She will not be able to attend a meeting.

22 What does the man say he will do?

(A) Call Alan (B) Arrive late for a meeting (C) Practice his presentation (D) Give the woman more time to finish a project

23 What is learned about the company?

(A) It makes washers and dryers. (B) It publishes a monthly magazine. (C) It plans to release a new line of products. (D) It has increased spending on advertisements.

24 What does the man ask how to do?

(A) Access his online bank account (B) Forward calls from his phone (C) Retrieve messages (D) Enter a password

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25 What is learned about the man?

(A) His figures are not correct. (B) His office is on the 14th floor. (C) He will introduce a new product. (D) He has not met Peter Okondo.

26 Why has Tom called the IT department?

(A) He is unable to print. (B) His computer keeps crashing. (C) His computer will not turn on. (D) His accounting software is not working.

27 What does the woman suggest that the man should do?

(A) Contact a client (B) Attend a conference (C) Summarise what he learned (D) Give a presentation on quality control

28 What have the speakers discovered?

(A) Each training session lasts 50 minutes. (B) Attendance at the training will be higher than expected. (C) Very few replies have been received to the questionnaire. (D) The training will be more expensive than in previous years.

29 What are the speakers discussing?

(A) Buying a house (B) Renting property (C) Finding employment (D) Rates of pay for student jobs

30 What has the man commented on?

(A) The woman's ability to bring in new clients (B) The woman's willingness to travel (C) The woman's family business (D) The woman's language ability

31 Which of the following does the man NOT say he requires?

(A) A large car (B) Unlimited mileage (C) A child’s safety seat (D) The option to return the car on Sunday evening

32 What concern does the man have?

(A) His supplier has run out of acid. (B) The woman may cancel her order. (C) His order must be delivered on time. (D) The woman is not available on Wednesday.

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Part 3 Instructions In Part 3 you will hear a series of longer conversations between 2 people. There are then 2 questions about each conversation. There are 9 conversations, giving a total of 18 questions, numbers 33 − 50. Now listen for the first conversation. 33 What has happened to the men?

(A) They have run out of petrol. (B) They have a flat tyre. (C) They have got lost. (D) They have missed their bus.

34 What have the men decided to do?

(A) Take a taxi (B) Return to the office (C) Cancel their meeting (D) Make a telephone call

35 What is the problem with the jacket? (A) It has a hole.

(B) It is the wrong style. (C) It is not the correct size. (D) It was not labelled correctly.

36 What does the woman offer to do?

(A) Order the correct item (B) Talk to her supervisor (C) Refund the customer's money (D) Exchange the jacket for another one

37 What is the problem?

(A) A delivery has gone out late. (B) A printer is not working correctly. (C) An order is missing some items. (D) The computers were damaged in shipping.

38 What concern does the man have?

(A) It is too late to change an order. (B) The order has already been paid for. (C) The printer may have to be replaced. (D) The computers might not arrive on time.

39 What is true of the presentation?

(A) It will last over an hour. (B) It will take place in the large conference room. (C) It will be similar to one that has already been given. (D) It will require more time to prepare for than was expected.

40 What does the man say he will do? (A) Send the woman a set of charts (B) Prepare the presentation materials (C) Make a presentation to the Drayer Group (D) Look for the original Drayer Group report

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41 What is said about the flat? (A) It is very cheap. (B) It has a nice view. (C) It has three bedrooms. (D) It is in an older building.

42 What is said about the location of the flat?

(A) It is across from a park. (B) It is on the first floor. (C) It is near the train station. (D) It is close to a school.

43 What has the man done?

(A) Taken the wrong report (B) Deleted an important file (C) Got lost on his way to a meeting (D) Forgotten to charge the battery in his laptop computer

44 What does the man say he will do?

(A) Print a document (B) Go back to the office (C) Use the woman’s computer (D) Make a copy of the woman’s report

45 What does the woman find out about Trident Industries?

(A) They are building a new manufacturing plant. (B) They plan to lay off 1700 workers. (C) They have had a profitable year. (D) They are going out of business.

46 What does the man say about a business deal with Trident Industries?

(A) He is glad it was not completed. (B) It will cost £11,000 more than expected. (C) He needs to discuss it with a colleague. (D) It will be delayed until the end of the year.

47 What does the woman want to discuss?

(A) Reducing costs (B) Training new engineers (C) Replacing a broken machine (D) Increasing production speed

48 What is said about the sorting machine?

(A) It runs 24 hours a day. (B) It uses a lot of electricity. (C) It needs engineers to run it. (D) Spare parts for it are expensive.

49 What does the man suggest that the woman should do?

(A) Arrive early (B) Order an appetiser (C) Make reservations (D) Rent a private room

50 What is learned about the buffet?

(A) It costs £15 per person. (B) It is available all day long. (C) It does not include drinks. (D) It is held only in the main dining room.

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Part 4 Instructions In Part 4 of the test you will hear a series of recordings. In your test book there are 2 questions for each recording. There are 5 recordings, giving a total of 10 questions (numbers 51 − 60). Now listen for the first recording. 51 What number should a person press to discuss a bill?

(A) 2 (B) 3 (C) 4 (D) 5

52 What type of business has been contacted?

(A) A hotel (B) A moving company (C) An express mail service (D) A mail–order clothing company

53 What is the speaker doing?

(A) Being interviewed (B) Introducing a speaker (C) Hosting a radio programme (D) Promoting an investment company

54 Who is Yoshi Tanaka?

(A) A writer (B) A stockbroker (C) A business executive (D) A former government official

55 What is learned about Alpha Bank?

(A) It is strong in Europe. (B) Its headquarters are in the US. (C) Its share price has fallen to £11.00 (D) It will open an office in Latin America.

56 What is said about the pipeline project?

(A) It is the largest project of its type in Uzbekistan. (B) It will require millions of additional pounds to complete. (C) It is the first project the newly formed bank will finance. (D) It was financed jointly by Alpha Bank and Union Bank.

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57 What does the Department of Agriculture predict?

(A) There will be an above average cotton harvest for most areas. (B) The cotton harvest will be much smaller than last year. (C) Farmers will plant less cotton next year due to falling prices. (D) Rising prices will encourage farmers to increase cotton production.

58 What problem are Chinese cotton producers facing?

(A) The weather has been too wet. (B) Over–production has reduced prices. (C) Cheap imports have flooded the market. (D) The harvest has been affected by disease.

59 What does the speaker say the company has decided to do?

(A) Introduce a new line of products (B) Combine two existing divisions (C) Expand its manufacturing capability (D) Reduce costs by closing one of its plants

60 What promise does the speaker make?

(A) Salaries will not be cut. (B) Workers will not lose their jobs. (C) Planned expansion will go ahead. (D) Employees will receive more training.

This is the end of the ELSA Listening Test. Put down your pencil and wait for instructions from the supervisor.

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Practice Test 1 (British English)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS ASSESSMENT

READING PRACTICE TEST 1

Time allowed: 45 minutes

__________ Instructions to Candidates

(a) DO NOT OPEN THIS TEST BOOK UNTIL THE SUPERVISOR TELLS YOU TO START. (b) This is a multiple-choice test. The test has 4 parts with a total of 60 questions. You will have

45 minutes to complete the test. (c) Each question has 4 answer choices, A, B, C or D. You must mark your choice in pencil on your

answer sheet. Although you may make notes on this test book, only answers marked on the answer sheet can be scored.

(d) During the test use a rubber eraser to erase any mistakes on the answer sheet. Do not cross out

answers, as this means the question will automatically be scored as wrong. (e) Mark only one answer per question – if you mark more than one answer for a question (for

example both A and C) it will automatically be scored as wrong. (f) Do not make any other marks on the answer sheet, as this could accidentally affect your score. (g) You are not allowed to use a dictionary during the test.

NOW WAIT UNTIL THE SUPERVISOR TELLS YOU TO OPEN YOUR BOOK.

__________

Part 1 (Suggested maximum time: 8 minutes) Instructions In Part 1, you will read 12 sentences. Each sentence contains a blank space, with a choice of 4 words or phrases (A, B, C, or D) to fill the space. Choose the correct word or phrase, and mark your choice on the answer sheet. 1 According to our records, our ______ number XPT 1035 of 16th August remains unpaid.

(A) note (B) receipt (C) invoice (D) delivery

2 Sales have ______ dramatically since the introduction of our new product line.

(A) gone (B) risen (C) made (D) received

3 Orders received by 4pm Friday will be ______ on Monday.

(A) sailed (B) flown (C) organised (D) dispatched

4 Patients who ______ appointments less than 24 hours in advance will be charged a £25.00

rescheduling fee.

(A) cancel (B) refuse (C) delay (D) meet

5 Under the new rules, millions of taxpayers can ______ to be paying more than £100 a

month extra by next year.

(A) expect (B) charge (C) result (D) demand

6 Your home is at ______ if you do not keep up loan repayments.

(A) danger (B) risk (C) loss (D) sale

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7 A ______ of the functions of the new photocopier on the second floor will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2.00.

(A) show (B) training (C) conference (D) demonstration

8 Analysts predict that nuclear power plants will account for 23% of the nation’s total

generating ______ by the end of the decade.

(A) size (B) amount (C) capacity (D) production

9 In order to ______ the local economy a new employment creation plan will be introduced

later this year.

(A) add (B) prepare (C) stimulate (D) complete

10 On-line sales have had a dramatic ______ on the bottom line of several publishing companies this year.

(A) rise (B) result (C) impact (D) increase

11 The financial director of communications company Globalcom is being questioned by

fraud investigators because of suspected business ______.

(A) details (B) issues (C) dealings (D) irregularities

12 Friday’s Jenifer Merino benefit concert at Central Arena ______ an estimated 24,000 fans

and raised over £300,000 for the National Cancer Fund.

(A) drew (B) played (C) enjoyed (D) attended

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Part 2 (Suggested maximum time: 10 minutes) Instructions In Part 2, you will read 3 passages. Each passage has 5 numbered blank spaces, with 4 choices (A, B, C, or D) for each space printed below the passage. Choose the correct word or phrase, and mark your choices on the answer sheet. Questions 13 to 17 refer to the following passage:

A good way of reducing long-term stress is to take ___ (13) ___ a relaxing sport or hobby in your own time. If you ___ (14) ___ all your working day competing or stressed, ___ (15) ___ it is very pleasant to be non-competitive for part of your free time. Slow physical activities such as sailing or walking can be very pleasant, ___ (16) ___ can others where there is little or no pressure for performance. Similarly you can reduce stress by making a routine period of time for yourself every day for undirected ___ (17) ___ such as: reading a novel, watching television or listening to music, meditating, having a long bath or having a massage.

13 (A) in 16 (A) so (B) up (B) as (C) off (C) and (D) over (D) since 14 (A) sit 17 (A) plans (B) stand (B) sports (C) think (C) activities (D) spend (D) freedoms 15 (A) then (B) even (C) which (D) because

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Questions 18 to 22 refer to the following passage: The Brazilian beverage giant Cola de las Americas, or CoAm, increased its profits more ___ (18) ___ 1,000 per cent last year. The massive increase was ___ (19) ___ strong beverage sales supplemented by cost savings from the merger of the country’s two largest soft drinks makers. Only a year ___ (20) ___ a merger between Bravo and Hola Cola ___ (21) ___ CoAm, now the world’s eighth largest beverage maker, this year the company announced a net profit of $88.2 million, compared with last year’s $4,36 million. Among plans for the future is an aggressive attempt to ___ (22) ___ a share of the lucrative North American market.

18 (A) to 21 (A) created (B) by (B) entered (C) than (C) supplied (D) less (D) combined 19 (A) given to 22 (A) buy (B) based on (B) sell (C) believed to (C) gain (D) improved on (D) profit 20 (A) ago (B) after (C) before (D) behind Questions 23 to 27 refer to the following passage:

Macau is a great place to find ___ (23) ___ with different types of cuisine: Portuguese, Macanese, Chinese, Shanghainese, European, Japanese and more. Traditional dishes from Portugal include bacalhau, the country’s beloved cod, ___ (24) ___ baked, grilled, stewed or boiled; rabbit prepared in various delicious ways; and soups ___ (25) ___ as caldo verde and sopa á alentejana both rich with vegetables, meat and olive oil. In Africa and India the Portuguese ___ (26) ___ how to use the local spices with the ___ (27) ___ that Macau’s most popular dishes include African and Goanese chicken and spicy prawns, all baked or grilled with peppers and chillies.

23 (A) meals 26 (A) learn (B) dishes (B) learned (C) eating (C) to learn (D) restaurants (D) were learning 24 (A) made 27 (A) idea (B) served (B) food (C) cooked (C) result (D) offered (D) meaning 25 (A) so (B) such (C) that (D) those

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Part 3 (Suggested maximum time: 10 minutes) Instructions In Part 3 there are 15 sentences. Each sentence has 4 words or phrases printed like this and marked as (A), (B), (C), and (D). One of these 4 words or phrases contains an error, a mistake in either the grammar or the vocabulary. Decide where the error is, and mark your choice on the answer sheet. 28 Netgate has recently made a number of changes to its browser software, made access to the (A) (B) Internet easier than ever before. (C) (D) 29 Insurance firms are anticipating a substantial increase in the number of claims following the (A) (B) recent series of storms that has caused so many damages on the West coast. (C) (D) 30 If you’re travelling on a budget in New York, you should take the Staten Island Ferry and see (A) (B) the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the famous skyline – ferries leave every half hours and for (C) foot passengers they’re absolutely free. (D) 31 A presentation for investors, analysts and other interesting parties will begin at 1.00 pm and (A) (B) (C) will be led by the company chairman Mark Ryan. (D) 32 To provide high quality services, we need high motivated professional staff and we (A) (B) are seeking a first-class individual to lead the development of a strong, proactive and (C) (D) coherent Human Resources strategy. 33 Please read the section of the contract dealing about rent payments, and note that these are (A) (B) to be made by credit transfer on a monthly basis. (C) (D) 34 Many researchers question whether the health benefits of drinking black tea outweigh the (A) (B) dangers of consuming caffeine, tannin, and other compounds find abundantly in the popular (C) (D) drink.

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35 We are an establish Internet consultancy with a proven track record of developing (A) (B) (C) cost-effective, user-friendly websites, in a wide range of market areas. (D) 36 The sooner you start a pension, the better your prospects are on retirement – but you must (A) (B) be still prepared to pay in a sizeable proportion of your income. (C) (D) 37 Aberdeen Lodge offers a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere convenient in the city centre and (A) (B) a five-minute walk from a range of excellent shops and fine restaurants. (C) (D) 38 Planning is based on the advice of the Marketing department, who draws up a target for the (A) (B) year, setting monthly production targets in accordance with the annual production plan. (C) (D) 39 This machine must be secured using the bolts provided; failure to do could result in injury. (A) (B) (C) (D) 40 Although similar it seems on paper, your new job will be very different from your existing one; (A) (B) (C) there will be new people and different clients as well as different working methods.

(D)

41 Employees are reminded that tomorrow’s meeting to discuss the move to our new offices will (A) (B) be held at 8.30 am sharp in conference room six, but attendance is compulsory. (C) (D)

42 Visitors are encouraged to join one of the guided tours, which take place from Monday to (A) (B) Saturday every hour on the hour and leave from the outside of visitor’s centre. (C) (D)

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Part 4 (Suggested maximum time: 15 minutes) Instructions In Part 4 of the test you will read a series of passages (for example letters, advertisements, information, etc). Each passage is followed by 2 to 5 comprehension questions, each with 4 answer choices (A, B, C or D). For each question choose the correct answer and mark your choice on the answer sheet. Questions 43 to 45 refer to the following invoice: Mr George T Soemo Account No: 412-909-9898-6 Invoice period: 08/02/2002 – 07/03/2002 Balance due: £37.75 Date due: 29/03/2002 Payments: 19/02 Payment – Thank you 37.75 cr Monthly services: 08/02-07/03 Basic Service 15.16 08/02-07/03 Movie Channel 9.95 08/02-07/03 History Channel 2.95 08/02-07/03 Equipment charge 4.07 Taxes and Fees: Value Added Tax @ 17.5% 5.62 Balance Due 37.75

CABLELAND For billing information and questions call (0412) 887-9009

43 By when does Mr Soemo have to pay the invoice?

(A) 8 February (B) 19 February (C) 7 March (D) 29 March

44 What is NOT classified as part of Mr Soemo’s monthly services?

(A) Value Added Tax (B) The Movie Channel (C) The History Channel (D) The equipment charge

45 How much has Mr Soemo been billed for use of equipment?

(A) £2.95 (B) £4.07 (C) £5.62 (D) £37.75

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Questions 46 to 48 refer to the following email: Email From: “Dante Pires” dante@interpro.com Subject: Administration Assistant job interviews Date sent: Tues, 10 Sept, 2002 2.19 pm Dave – can we meet up some time this week to draw up a structure and a list of questions for the interviews we’ll be doing together next Monday? I’ll ask Eva to join us too as she will be doing the interviews with you in the afternoon (I’ll have to leave around lunch time as I’ve got a meeting up in Milan at 2.00). I’m free tomorrow in the morning until 11, Thursday after 3.30, or any time Friday afternoon. When would suit you best? Regards Dante Pires Personnel Manager

46 What does Dante wish to discuss with Dave?

(A) When to have the interviews (B) Where to hold the interviews (C) Who to invite to the interviews (D) What to include in the interviews

47 Which of these times would NOT be a suitable time for a meeting?

(A) Tuesday at 9.00 am (B) Wednesday at 10.00 am (C) Thursday at 4.00 pm (D) Friday at 2.30 pm

48 Who will conduct the interviews in the morning?

(A) Dante and Dave (B) Dave and Eva (C) Dante and Eva (D) Dave by himself

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Questions 49 to 51 refer to the following article:

Central Library Home Page – General Reference Information Brief Guide to Internet Search Engines This is a list of search engines that Central Library has found particularly useful. Zappower www.zappower.com This site indexes about 140 million web pages. It provides a rough translation from English into about twenty languages. It can also translate into approximate English. Whatswhat www.whatswhat.com This is a consumer information website. It searches about 40,000 current discussion forums for information on specific products. Archives go back to March 1995. Whizbang www.whizbang.com Marketed as “the world’s biggest search engine”, whizbang.com scans 200 million web pages. The entire index is updated every fifteen days. Search results appear extremely quickly. Tunein www.tunein.com This site has a fee-based collection of about 5,400 journals and magazines. Students may wish to check if Central Library already has an article before purchasing it over the internet.

49 Which search engine provides particularly current information? (A) Zappower (B) Whatswhat (C) Whizbang (D) Tunein 50 Which search engine is useful for people who do not speak English? (A) Zappower (B) Whatswhat (C) Whizbang (D) Tunein 51 Which search engine might give useful information to someone buying a new car? (A) Zappower (B) Whatswhat (C) Whizbang (D) Tunein

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Questions 52 to 54 refer to the following article:

One-Day Course in Self-Assertiveness

Are you reluctant to give your opinions to senior management for fear that they might not agree with them and then think less of you? Do you find it difficult to strike a balance between friendly relations with staff you supervise and being firm enough to obtain their best performance? The Institute of Management is holding a one-day course in self-assertiveness for junior and middle management at the Royal Parks Hotel, to take place on Monday 14th July. The day will consist of: • • • •

talks by successful senior managers from the Institute of Management question-and-answer sessions role-play sessions group discussions

Participation in the course will be free of charge, but places are limited and must be reserved in advance, all bookings to be made by 5 pm Monday 7th July.

52 Who is this course designed for? (A) People who are regularly taking difficult decisions at senior management level (B) People who want to be more friendly with the staff working under them (C) People who would like to be more confident and sure of themselves (D) People who often disagree with their managers 53 Which of the following is NOT part of the course programme? (A) Taking part in simulated conflict situations (B) Practising giving a talk to important customers (C) Talking with other participants about common problems (D) Asking experts about problems that have been encountered 54 What is stated about places on the course? (A) Payment may be made by cheque or credit card. (B) Companies are limited to sending two participants. (C) Bookings must be made at least a week ahead of time. (D) Reservations may be made between 9 am and 5 pm Monday to Thursday.

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Questions 55 to 57 refer to the following article:

Farmers Relieved by Recent Rainfall The first heavy rainfall this spring has given hope to corn and soya bean farmers in the Western region. The extremely dry and cold winter season left farmers fearful that growing conditions this year would be poor. Steven Lim, an agriculture expert from National University, said that the recent rain should be enough to get a good start to the crop, but more rain will be needed. The crops are normally planted in May, and to reach maximum growth these plants require a very deep reserve of moisture in the ground during the hot months of July and August. Mr Lim said that 900 millimetres of rain before summer is generally required so that crop production is not limited. Corn and soya beans are the region's two largest crops, and speculation over a possible drought caused prices for these commodities to rise recently. Although the rain was good news, traders are cautious and will be keeping a close eye on the weather in the area over the next two months.

55 Why are farmers in the Western region concerned? (A) Demand for corn and soya beans has declined. (B) Heavy rainfall has damaged crop production. (C) Dry winter conditions have threatened plant growth. (D) It has been too cold to plant crops at the normal time. 56 According to the article, what is true of corn and soya beans? (A) They are easily damaged by frost. (B) They are planted at the end of winter. (C) They need a lot of rainfall in the summer. (D) They are the most important crops in the Western region. 57 What is the present state of affairs? (A) Prices have gone down now that a drought is no longer likely. (B) Farmers are hoping that the government will help them. (C) Traders are still not sure that it will be a good harvest. (D) Weather forecasters are predicting more rain soon.

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Questions 58 to 60 refer to the following article:

Who Buys the Toys?

Japanese toy manufacturers are becoming concerned about a contracting market due to the declining birth rate and the decreasing number of children in the country. According to government statistics, 14.6 per cent of the population in 2000 comprised children aged 14 and younger. The age group is expected to fall to 12 per cent of the population by 2021. While some analysts believe expenditure per child will increase with the declining number of children, many toy manufacturers believe it will be impossible to compensate entirely for the reduced demand caused by the falling birth rate. Many companies are therefore now putting their efforts into creating demand for toys among adults. One manufacturer said the increasing adult demand for toys was a consequence of the economic slump, which had made many adults seek to escape reality by revisiting the nostalgic toys of their childhood. This wish to return to childhood when life was full of dreams has reportedly contributed to the phenomenon in which adults buy large amounts of snacks that include figurines of fictional characters popular with children. According to some forward-thinking companies, the adult market for toys holds great potential, with the elderly likely to become valued customers in the future. Having won the hearts of children, the toy manufacturers’ next challenge appears to be to open the wallets of their parents. 58 Why are toy manufacturers worries according to the article?

(A) Toys may be much less affordable in 20 years’ time. (B) Today’s children are not so interested in toys. (C) There will be fewer children in the future. (D) Adults are buying children’s toys.

59 What does the article say about demand for toys among adults?

(A) Demand for realistic toys is growing. (B) There is no significant demand as yet. (C) It is healthier than buying snacks containing free gifts. (D) Buying them makes older people feel young and carefree.

60 According to the article, what market are toy manufacturers likely to focus on in the future? (A) Toys for teenagers (B) Toys for the elderly (C) Toys using new technology (D) Popular fictional characters

THIS IS THE END OF THE TEST

Remember to fill in all your answers on the answer sheet.

25 © LCCI CET 2002

26 © LCCI CET 2002

ELSA Listening Test 1 Tapescript

ELSA Listening Practice Test 1 (British English) Recording Script

The complete text of the recording for Listening Practice Test 1 is printed below for study purposes. In live examinations, candidates will only hear the material, they will NOT see it printed. To get the most out of the practice material, we recommend that you read this script only after you have attempted the Practice Test under examination conditions. (Man A) This is the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Examinations Board – English

Language Skills Assessment Listening Test, Practice Test 1. Copyright 2002 by LCCI CET.

(Man A) Part 1 Instructions In Part 1, you will hear someone ask a question or make a statement. You will then hear another person give three alternative responses (identified as A, B, and C) to the question or statement. NOTE These questions and responses are NOT printed in your test book. Choose the correct response, and mark your choice on the answer sheet next to the question number. Now listen to the following example. (Woman) Where are you from? (Man B) A – My name is Lee. B – I’m twenty−four. C – I’m from Singapore. (Man A) Choice "C" − “I’m from Singapore.” − is the correct answer to the question “Where are you from?”, so you would fill in “C” on the answer sheet. Now look at the answer sheet and find where you should start filling in the answers for Part 1. There are 20 questions in this part, questions 1−20. Now listen for question number 1. (Man A) Number 1 (Man B) When are you leaving? (Woman) (A) At a hotel near here. (B) On Saturday afternoon. (C) With my family. (5 seconds)

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(Man A) Number 2 (Woman) Did anyone phone for me while I was out? (Man B) (A) OK I will − what should I tell him? (B) No, he didn't say what his name was. (C) Fred Kang did − he asked you to call him back. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 3 (Woman) Can you tell me when the order will be delivered? (Man A) (A) It should be there by Tuesday. (B) It'll be sent directly to the warehouse. (C) I ordered them three days ago. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 4 (Man B) Are you planning to go to the conference in Rio de Janeiro in April? (Woman) (A) Sales and Marketing are planning it. (B) No, unfortunately, I can't make it this year. (C) Yes, I was here two years ago. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 5 (Woman) When will the network upgrade be completed? (Man B) (A) Mainly because of the cost, I imagine. (B) John's memo said by the end of July. (C) Yes, by Friday at the latest. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 6 (Man B) What was the weather like when you were in Tokyo? (Woman) (A) It's very hot, isn't it? (B) Yes I did, very much. (C) It was lovely, very pleasant. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 7 (Man B) Do you know when the coffee machine will be fixed? (Man A) (A) Some time this afternoon, hopefully. (B) I'd prefer tea, please. (C) I think it only takes coins. (5 seconds)

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(Man A) Number 8 (Man A) How long will the stopover be on this flight? (Woman) (A) An hour and forty−five minutes, sir. (B) Yes, you have to change in Dubai. (C) It’s about twenty kilometres into the town centre. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 9 (Woman) Has Martin come in yet? (Man B) (A) No, I’ve already been there. (B) Yes, that could be the reason he's late. (C) Yes, but he's in with Mr Park right now. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 10 (Man A) Which part of the city are your offices in? (Woman) (A) We've been there for about four years now. (B) They're in the centre, in the commercial district. (C) Mainly because we wanted to be in a more central location. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 11 (Woman) Do you know when Ms Santini's plane is scheduled to arrive? (Man B) (A) It’s due in at ten−forty. (B) He was delayed due to bad weather. (C) She'll be flying from Kansai airport. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 12 (Man A) Have you read Ms Larson’s report? (Man B) (A) No, I’ve never met her. (B) Yes, she's going to show it to me tomorrow. (C) Yes − I thought it was excellent, very good indeed. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 13 (Man A) Has Carl seen the blueprints? (Man B) (A) No, I prefer the red one. (B) No, but I left them on his desk. (C) Yes, I’ve seen it before (5 seconds)

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(Man A) Number 14 (Man B) I'm looking forward to my trip − I've never been to Vietnam before. (Woman) (A) Oh, you'll love it − the people are really friendly and the food's fantastic.

(B) Really? How long were you there for? (C) Yes, about four years ago, when I was with Trans Asia.

(5 seconds) (Man A) Number 15 (Woman) Have you heard from Mr Mo yet? (Man A) (A) Yes, that’s what I heard as well. (B) No, not yet, but he will tomorrow. (C) Yes, he confirmed by email this morning. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 16 (Man B) Did Datatek say when they would be sending an engineer? (Woman) (A) They said they would send it today by courier.

(B) Yes, they said someone should be here by two o’clock. (C) No, they won’t be ready by then.

(5 seconds) (Man A) Number 17 (Man B) Excuse me, do you run guided tours of the city on Saturdays? (Woman) (A) No, I took one on Sunday.

(B) Yes, but I’d recommend you go on one of the guided tours, instead. (C) Yes we do, every hour on the hour, beginning at ten. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 18 (Man B) Did you say fourteen people would be attending the workshop? (Man A) (A) Actually it's up to twenty now. (B) No, it’s been moved to room seventeen. (C) Yes, the shops will be open until ten. (5 seconds) (Man A) Number 19 (Man A) Here, let me help you with those boxes. (Man B) (A) No, they’re full of old files. (B) Yes, check the storage room, they've probably been put in there. (C) If you could open the door, that would be great. (5 seconds)

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(Man A) Number 20 (Woman) Does head office need the original document? (Man B) (A) Yes, it was originally.

(B) No, a faxed copy will be fine. (C) No, they’re needed at head office.

(5 seconds)

(Man A) Part 2 Instructions In Part 2, you will hear a series of short conversations between two people. You will also read a question about each conversation, with four alternative answers, A, B, C, and D. Choose the correct answer, and mark your choice on your answer sheet. Now listen to an example conversation, and read the question about the conversation: (Man B) Have you seen Bill today? (Woman) Yes, but he’ll be in a meeting all morning. (Man B) Well, when you see him, please tell him that I need to talk to him. Option "B" is the correct answer, so you would fill in B on the answer sheet. Now look at the answer sheet and find where you should start filling in the answers for this part. There are 12 questions in this part, numbers 21−32. Now listen for the first conversation and choose the correct answer. (Man A) Number 21 (Man B) Congratulations, Sue; I hear you’ve been named the head of the Hong Kong office. (Woman) Thanks. Yes, it's very exciting. It's going to be a challenge but I'm certainly looking

forward to it. (Man B) Well, with your abilities, I’m sure you’ll make a great success of it. (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 22 (Woman) Alan called to say he won’t be here until four. (Man B) Oh. Well, I guess that gives me time to rehearse my presentation one more time. (Woman) That’s a good idea. I could listen to it if you’d like. (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 23 (Man B) Did you see? We got a top rating for both washing machines and dryers in Consumer

Monthly. (Woman) Really? That's a great advertisement for our products. Can I borrow it when you're

finished? (Man B) Sure. I’ll leave it in your in−tray. (10 seconds)

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(Man A) Number 24 (Woman) So, to access your voicemail messages, you press the “message” button, and enter your

extension number and your password. Then just follow the prompts. (Man B) OK, but I haven’t entered a password yet. How do I do that? (Woman) Here, it’s quite simple. I’ll just show you… (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 25 (Woman) These figures look right to me. You should take them up to Peter Okondo for final

approval. (Man A) OK. And his office is on the fourteenth floor, right? (Woman) Sorry. I forgot that you hadn’t met Peter yet. If you hold on a second I’ll go up with you

and introduce you to him. (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 26 (Man A) Hello, IT department, Troy speaking. (Man B) Yes, hello, Troy. My name is Tom Petrowski and I work on the twenty−second floor in

accounting. I’m having a problem connecting to my printer. It was fine yesterday, but since I came in today I haven’t been able to print anything.

(Man A) OK, Tom, I think I can help you with that, but first I’ll need to know what model of computer and printer you’re using.

(10 seconds) (Man A) Number 27 (Woman) So, how did the conference go? (Man A) It was great−a lot better than I expected, in fact. I made a lot of contacts, and I actually

learned quite a bit from the presentations, especially the one on quality control. I think there are some ideas we could implement here.

(Woman) Great. Perhaps you could write a brief summary of what you learned and email it to me. (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 28 (Man B) How many people have signed up for next month’s training session? (Man A) Let’s see. I’ve had most of the replies in already and it looks like there’ll be around fifty. (Man B) Great, that’s more than we expected, certainly more than last year. (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 29 (Woman) Is it expensive renting around here? (Man B) Yes, it really is. There are so many students looking for flats and so little on offer. It’s a

real seller’s market. Landlords can ask whatever they want. (Woman) What would the monthly rent be for a two−bedroom place? (10 seconds)

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(Man A) Number 30 (Man A) I didn’t know you could speak German so fluently. (Woman) My father’s father was German, and I lived there for two years after I graduated from

college. (Man A) I’m really impressed. But more importantly, so were our clients. You probably saved the

deal. (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 31 Man B) Hi, I need a car for the weekend. I'll need something with unlimited mileage that’s large

enough for two adults and a child, plus all our luggage. I'd like to pick it up early Friday morning, and return it late Sunday night.

(Woman) Well, we have a special weekend rate for a family−sized car. The entire package, including unlimited mileage and taxes, comes to eighty−nine dollars and ninety−nine cents.

(Man B) That sounds good. Does that include insurance? (10 seconds) (Man A) Number 32 (Man B) Are you sure you can you get the order to us by Wednesday? I really can’t go ahead with

this unless you can guarantee delivery by then. (Woman) No problem. Have we ever let you down in the past? Now, that was five drums of

sulphuric acid, wasn’t it? (Man B) Yes, that’s right. Now I’m counting on you to get it here. (10 seconds)

(Man A) Part 3 Instructions In Part 3 you will hear a series of longer conversations between two people. There are then TWO questions about each conversation. There are 9 conversations, giving a total of 18 questions, numbers 33−50. Now listen for the first conversation. (Man A) Questions 33 and 34 refer to the following conversation. (Man A) It's flat all right. We'll have to change it. (Man B) I'm afraid I won't be much help−I've never changed a tyre before. (Man A) Don't worry about it; it's no bother. There's a spare in the boot. It'll take me no more than

ten or fifteen minutes. (Man B) In that case, should I phone ahead to say we might be late? As it is now, we only have

thirty minutes to get there. (Man A) That would be a good idea. We might make it on time, but you might as well warn them

we could be delayed. (20 seconds)

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(Man A) Questions 35 and 36 refer to the following conversation. (Woman) Can I help you? (Man B) Yes, I was here yesterday and bought this jacket. When I took it home my wife noticed

this small hole here just under the arm. Unfortunately, it was the last jacket in this style you had in my size.

(Woman) Let’s have a look….oh yes, I see what you mean about the hole. I’m afraid we won’t be getting any more of those jackets in. I’d be happy to give you a credit note.

(Man B) Well, I was hoping you’d be able to give me a refund. (Woman) Our store policy doesn’t include giving refunds I’m afraid. Normally we’d give you a credit

note which you could then use to buy something else. When did you say you bought it? (Man B) Yesterday. I have the receipt here if you’d like to see it. And I think given the

circumstances, a refund would be in order, don’t you? (Woman) Well, what I’ll do is just phone a supervisor and see if I can help you with this. (Man B) I mean I’ve never worn the jacket and I haven’t really seen anything else I’d like to buy,

so a credit note would be no good. (Woman) Right. Can I have your receipt please and I’ll be with you again in just a moment. (20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 37 and 38 refer to the following conversation. (Woman) Didn't we order three computers? (Man A) Yes. Three new computers and two new printers. (Woman) Well, the printers are both here, but there's only one computer. (Man A) Ooh, that's a problem. Better call and find out what's happened to the other two

computers. The new employees start Monday; we have to be ready before then, and no one will be here over the weekend to accept a delivery.

(Woman) That means they have to be delivered either today or tomorrow. I'll call and ask if they can put a rush on this, since it was their mistake.

(20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 39 and 40 refer to the following conversation. (Woman) How much time are we going to have to give our presentation? (Man B) About forty minutes. (Woman) OK. Do we still have those large charts that we used for the Drayer Group presentation? (Man B) No. We left them there for them to keep. But we can make another set. (Woman) OK, then, could you take care of that? Since this is almost an identical presentation, we

might as well re−use as much material as we can. (Man B) Yes, I agree. I’ll make another set of charts. And I think I still have a copy of the

handouts we used for Drayer. I can just copy those. (Woman) Mmmm, no, because, as I recall, those have “Drayer Group” printed on them. (Man B) Yes, actually, I think, you’re right. Well, I’ll find the original file, and delete that bit, then

print a new set. (Woman) Great, that would be a big help. (20 seconds)

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(Man A) Questions 41 and 42 refer to the following conversation. (Man A) Good morning, Mayfield Properties, how can I help you? (Woman) Good morning. I’m looking for a flat in this area, and I’ve just seen your advertisement in

the newspaper for one on Woodridge Road – can you tell me if it’s still available? (Man A) Yes, it is. We’ve had a few calls about it, but no one has actually viewed it yet. (Woman) I see. Well, can you tell me a bit about it? (Man A) Yes, it’s quite spacious, with two large bedrooms, and a good size living room. It’s on the

fifth floor of a newer building, and it has a wonderful view. But the best thing about it is the location; it’s very close to the shops and the train station.

(Woman) That sounds very interesting. When could I come and see it? (Man A) Well, anytime this afternoon would be all right. (Woman) Would one o’clock be OK? (Man A) Yes, that would be fine. (20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 43 and 44 refer to the following conversation. (Man B) Hello Jane? This is Robert. Listen, I’m on my way to the meeting, but I just realised I

took the wrong report with me. I’m wondering if you can find the original on my computer, and email a copy to me so I can get it on my laptop and print it when I get there.

(Woman) Sure, that’s no problem. What’s the name of the file? (Man B) It’s called “First quarter summary dot doc”. (Woman) Hang on a second …. right, there it is. I’m attaching it to an email … and …. there, I’ve

just sent it. If there’s a problem, call me back and I can try sending it again. (Man B) Great. Thanks a lot, Jane. (Woman) No problem. Good luck! (20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 45 and 46 refer to the following conversation. (Man A) Have you heard the latest about Trident Industries? (Woman) No. What's going on? (Man A) It's finally official. They announced this morning that they’re laying off eleven hundred

workers, and shutting down all their plants by the end of the year. (Woman) That’s a shock. Does Dan know about this? (Man A) Yes, I was just talking about it with him. And needless to say, both he and I are pretty

happy that the deal we were discussing with them last autumn didn't go through. (20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 47 and 48 refer to the following conversation. (Woman) Hi Jim, come on in. I just wanted to take a look at some of the budget items for your

department for the next year. We’re trying to get all this tied up. (Man A) Fine Rita, what items did you want to discuss? (Woman) Well, the sorting machine for one thing. It seems the machine needs permanent

supervision from engineers. That costs a lot of money. (Man A) That’s true, but there’s not really much we can do about it. The machine is old and

breaks down a lot. That’s why we need engineers there all the time. Obviously that’s expensive, but we’ve calculated that it would cost a lot more to invest in a new machine. Well you’d know better than me, but I’m not sure we can afford to do that right now.

(Woman) I see. Well maybe you could let me see your figures on that. (Man A) Certainly. I’ll get them to you later this morning. Was there anything else? (20 seconds)

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(Man A) Questions 49 and 50 refer to the following conversation. (Woman) Good morning, one of my colleagues will be leaving next week, and we'd like to arrange a

dinner party for her. I'm wondering if you might be able to accommodate a group of fifteen or so on Friday evening, at about seven.

(Man B) Fifteen for Friday evening? We could probably seat you all together in the main dinning room, but for such a large party, perhaps you'd be interested in renting our private party room. It'll hold fifteen people very comfortably.

(Woman) Oh? I wasn't aware you had a party room. How much does it cost? (Man B) We have a couple of options: you can rent it at a flat rate of a hundred pounds for the

evening, which includes the services of three waiters. Food isn’t included, but you'll be able to order anything off the standard menu. For an additional fifteen pounds per person, we can offer a special buffet menu that includes several appetisers, main courses, desserts and soft drinks.

(Woman) The buffet sounds good. Just to make sure I've got it right: the buffet option is a hundred pounds for the room, and then an additional fifteen pounds per person. Does that include taxes and service?

(Man B) Yes, that includes everything. (20 seconds)

(Man A) Part 4 Instructions In Part 4 of the test you will hear a series of recordings. In your test book there are TWO questions for each recording. There are 5 recordings, giving a total of ten questions (numbers 51−60). Now listen for the first recording. (Man A) Questions 51 and 52 refer to the following recording. (Woman) Thank you for calling EXS Overnight Shipping. We’re glad you have chosen us for your

shipping needs. If you are calling to schedule a pick−up of an envelope, press 'one.' If you are calling to schedule a pick up of a package, press 'two.' If you are calling to trace a package, press 'three.' If you are calling to order EXS packaging materials, press 'four.' If you are calling about a billing issue, press 'five.' If you would like to speak to an EXS Overnight Shipping customer representative, press 'six.' To hear this menu again, press 'seven.'

(20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 53 and 54 refer to the following recording. (Man A) And that brings us to the end of tonight’s show. I hope you’ve enjoyed listening to my

guest, Mr Bob Bratton, successful stockbroker, Wall Street insider and author of the current bestseller, Tearing Down the Wall Around Wall Street. I hope you’ll join me again tomorrow night for another edition of “Inside Business,” when my guest will be the CEO of Nippon Semiconductors, Mr Yoshi Tanaka. Good night, I’m Bernie Morgan and thanks again for listening to “Inside Business.”

(20 seconds)

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(Man A) Questions 55 and 56 refer to the following recording. (Man B) Alpha Bank has announced that it has opened merger talks with Union Bank, to form a

new bank called Alpha Union International, which would have its headquarters in London. Analysts say the new bank would enjoy the combined benefits of Alpha’s strengths in Europe and Union’s strengths in the US and Latin America. The two banks have worked together previously on a number of joint ventures, including the financing of a major pipeline construction project in Uzbekistan. Shares of Alpha Bank closed yesterday at eleven pounds, up sixty pence from the day before.

(20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 57 and 58 refer to the following recording. (Woman) The continuing drought in the South is expected to cut the nation's cotton crop by up to

twenty percent compared to last year, according to the latest projection from the Department of Agriculture. Less cotton was planted this year, in response to a three−year decline in prices, but droughts and extreme heat have reduced this year's expected harvest even further. China, meanwhile, is also experiencing bad weather, but at the opposite extreme − too much rain. Flooding in China's prime cotton producing areas is expected to reduce the harvest significantly, although no official estimates have so far been released. The world decline in cotton production is expected to push up prices for raw cotton, which will be reflected in a rise in prices of cotton goods such as t−shirts.

(20 seconds) (Man A) Questions 59 and 60 refer to the following recording. (Man B) Good afternoon, and thank you for coming. As you have no doubt heard, the company is

about to embark on a major reorganisation. Our aim is to reduce costs and improve efficiency. One approach we are taking is to identify redundant areas that can be consolidated, so we are planning to integrate two of our divisions: the Mobile Communications systems division, and Personal Computing Systems. We are also looking into the possible introduction of new lower−cost manufacturing techniques, as well as ways to extend our sales activities and improve our business planning. One thing I can promise, however, is that our plans do not at the moment include any plant closures or job cuts.

(20 seconds) (Man A) This is the end of the ELSA Listening Test. Put down your pencil and wait for instructions

from the supervisor. (2 seconds) (Man A) End of Recording.

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ELSA Listening Practice Test 1 Answer Key Part 1 Part 3 Question Answer Question Answer 1 B 33 B 2 C 34 D 3 A 35 A 4 B 36 B 5 B 37 C 6 C 38 D 7 A 39 C 8 A 40 B 9 C 41 B 10 B 42 C 11 A 43 A 12 C 44 A 13 B 45 D 14 A 46 A 15 C 47 A 16 B 48 C 17 C 49 D 18 A 50 A 19 C 20 B Part 2

Part 4

Question Answer Question Answer 21 A 51 D 22 C 52 C 23 A 53 C 24 D 54 C 25 D 55 A 26 A 56 D 27 C 57 B 28 B 58 A 29 B 59 B 30 D 60 B 31 C 32 C

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ELSA Reading Practice Test 1 Answer Key Part 1 Part 3 Question Answer Question Answer 1 C 28 B 2 B 29 D 3 D 30 C 4 A 31 B 5 A 32 B 6 B 33 B 7 D 34 D 8 C 35 A 9 C 36 C 10 C 37 B 11 D 38 B 12 A 39 C 40 A 41 D 42 D Part 2 Part 4 Question Answer Question Answer 13 B 43 D 14 D 44 A 15 A 45 B 16 B 46 D 17 C 47 A 18 C 48 A 19 B 49 C 20 B 50 A 21 A 51 B 22 C 52 C 23 D 53 B 24 B 54 C 25 B 55 C 26 B 56 D 27 C 57 C 58 C 59 D 60 B

39 © LCCI CET 2002

Name: A CANDIDATE Date of Birth: 05 February 1979 ID Number: 500749447 Test Location: Germany Test Date: November xxxx Score Achieved Level

LISTENING (Out of 250) 234 SUPERIOR

READING (Out of 250) 210 ADVANCED HIGH

Combined Score (Out of 500) 444 --- Level Descriptions LISTENING SUPERIOR – Understanding of most speech in standard dialect on familiar and unfamiliar topics is reasonably complete. Has good awareness of appropriate levels of language. Can easily follow complex extended speech although highly colloquial language or language with many cultural references may still cause problems.

READING ADVANCED HIGH - Can understand complex and extended texts in areas of special interest or competence. Can follow the essentials of abstract or literary texts where the subject matter is unfamiliar. Occasional misunderstanding will occur where the material is highly complex or abstract.

IMPORTANT: This is not a certificate. Date of Issue: 21 November xxxx

London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Examinations Board English Language Skills Assessment Tests

Score Report

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