Ejercicios de Listening B1 para aprobar el examen ISE I de Trinity
Ya puedes practicar con ejercicios de listening de b1 para certificar tu nivel de Inglés aprobando el examen ISE I de Trinity.
Mejorar el listening hasta llegar al punto de sentirte confiado no es tarea fácil. Es por eso que hemos recopilado una serie de 28 ejercicios en formato ISE I que vas a encontrar de muchísima utilidad. Aún así, antes de que te lances a practicar permítenos que te dejemos unos consejos para que les saques el mayor partido
Consejos para mejorar el Listening en Inglés
- Constancia. Lo primero es darte cuenta de que vas a tener que ser constante a la hora de entrenar tu escucha. Cuando hablamos del listening hablamos de, sin duda, la parte más difícil de mejorar. Dedícale tiempo cada día y en no demasiadas semanas comenzarás a notar la diferencia.
- Ver películas, series y vídeos en versión original con subtítulos en castellano. Comienza con sitcoms como Friends o How I Met Your Mother ya que el rango de vocabulario que utilizan no es muy específico. Si quieres saber cómo sacar el máximo partido a Netflix para aprender Inglés haz click en este artículo donde te contamos un método por el que vas a querernos muchísimo.
- Escuchar música en Inglés y tratar de comprender lo que dicen utilizando la letra. Puedes comenzar simplemente escuchando y tratando de determinar qué palabras o frases has reconocido y después comprobarlo en la letra. Si te habitúas a hacer esto no sólo mejorarás sino que vas a encontrar un montón de artistas geniales.
- Busca Meeting Points en tu ciudad donde la gente quede para hablar en Inglés. Incluso en las ciudades más pequeñas suele haber varios, ¡sólo tienes que investigar un poco!
Ejercicios de Listening B1 para Trinity ISE I
Lista de Listenings
LISTENING 1 – BORDER COLLIES (part 1)
Where does the border collie originally come from?
What is its personality like?
How big are border collies?
What colour is the typical border collie?
Why are border collies not suitable for some homes?
Why do farmers use border collies?
From Scotland, more specifically on the border between Scotland and England.
It is known for its obedience and intelligence.
Medium-sized dogs
Black and white is the most common colour pattern.
They can be unhappy in homes that do not give them a lot of stimulation.
They’re cheaper and more reliable than hiring people or using machines
The Border Collie is a working and herding dog breed originally developed in Scotland, more specifically on the border between Scotland and England, which is where the name comes from.
It is known for its obedience and intelligence in its personality, and because they are so intelligent, they often compete in dog sports.
In general, border collies are medium-sized dogs and black and white is the most common colour pattern.
Because of their demanding personality, they can be unhappy in homes that do not give them a lot of stimulation, so they are sometimes not the ideal pet for your typical family.
However, the use of border collies for managing sheep still makes good economic sense for many farmers. They’re cheaper and more reliable than hiring people or using machines. So this dog continues to have an important function in modern society.
LISTENING 2 – AUSTRALIA DAY (part 2)
It’s about the Official National day of Australia, and what Australians do on this day.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about Australia Day. Are you ready?
- Australia Day is the official National Day of Australia.
- Celebrated annually on 26 January.
- Marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British Ships in Australia, the birth of the modern nation.
- It is a public holiday in all the states of Australia, and the biggest celebratory event in the country.
- The holiday is marked by the presentation of the Australian of the Year Awards and the announcement of the Australia Day Honours list.
- Takes place in January, summer in Australia, people normally have parties outside, especially with barbecues.
Australia Day is the official National Day of Australia, which is celebrated annually on 26 January.
This day marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British Ships in Australia, the birth of the modern nation.
It is a public holiday in all the states of Australia, and the biggest celebratory event in the country.
In contemporary Australia, the holiday is marked by the presentation of the Australian of the Year Awards and the announcement of the Australia Day Honours list.
Some indigenous people have criticised Australia Day, which they call Invasion Day, because it celebrates the European domination of the continent.
Taking place in January, summer in Australia, people normally have parties outside, especially with barbecues.
Some Australians like to eat kangaroo meat on the barbecue, because there is an abundant supply available in the country.
LISTENING 3 – RIO OLYMPICS (part 1)
Why were the Rio Olympics unusual?
Before Rio, when was the last time the Olympics were in South America?
How many countries participated in the games?
How much money was spent organising the games?
Which country won the most medals?
Why was Great Britain happy with the result?
Because they were the first ever to be held in a Portuguese-speaking country.
Since 1968 in Mexico City, that they took place in South America.
206 countries took part.
Almost 30 billion Brazilian Reals was spent organising the games.
The USA won the most medals.
Because they finished a surprising second in the medal table, ahead of China.
The Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 were the 31st modern Olympics, and interesting for several reasons.
Unusually, they were the first ever to be held in a Portuguese-speaking country.
It was also the first time – since 1968 in Mexico City – that they took place in South America In addition, these were the biggest games ever organised, as athletes from 206 countries took part.
In the selection process, Rio was chosen ahead of Madrid to host the 2016 Olympics. As for the money, well, holding such an event isn’t cheap – almost 30 billion Brazilian Reals was spent organising the games.
The USA won the most medals, but Great Britain were probably happier with the result as they finished a surprising second in the medal table, ahead of China.
LISTENING 4 – NEW BALANCE (part 2)
It’s about the sporting clothes company New Balance and how they make shoes.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about New Balance. Are you ready?
- New Balance – an American footwear manufacturer based in Boston, Massachusetts.
- The company was founded in 1911 as the New Balance Shoe Company.
- They are most famous for their sports shoes, such as trainers.
- They also manufacture clothes, particularly T-shirts and sporting clothes.
- New Balance manufactures their shoes in the United States and United Kingdom.
- Their shoes are better quality and therefore good value for money.
If you walk down the street today you’re likely to see Nike, Adidas and many other famous brands, such as New Balance – an American footwear manufacturer based in Boston, Massachusetts.
The company was founded in 1911 as the New Balance Shoe Company.
They are most famous for their sports shoes, such as trainers, but they also manufacture clothes, particularly T-shirts and sporting clothes.
New Balance manufactures their shoes in the United States and United Kingdom, instead of in China which makes them more expensive.
However, they say their shoes are better quality and therefore good value for money. They have promised to continue making shoes in the USA and the UK.
It seems like the business plan is working – the company has an annual profit of $2 billion. New Balance entered the soccer market in 2015 and now sponsors teams such as Liverpool and Seville FC.
LISTENING 5 – NATIONAL LOTTERY (part 1)
How much money in the national lottery goes to the winners?
What is the rest of the money spent on?
How old do you have to be to take part?
When is the lottery draw?
How much does a ticket cost?
What’s the most popular dream after winning the lottery?
50% goes to the people who win the lottery.
The rest is taken by the government and the organisers of the lottery.
You must be 16 years old to buy a lottery ticket.
The Lottery takes places every Wednesday and Saturday with a bigger prize on the Saturday.
It now costs £2 to buy a ticket.
According to a study, the most popular desire after winning the lottery is to buy a new house.
Many people dream of getting rich quickly, and a lottery ticket can be one easy way of doing this.
The National Lottery is the official government-franchised national lottery in the United Kingdom.
Of all money spent on National Lottery games, 50% goes to the prize fund – to the people who win the lottery.
The rest is taken by the government and the organisers of the lottery.
25% of the money is spent on good causes such as community centres, sporting activities or libraries.
You must be 16 years old to buy a lottery ticket.
The Lottery takes places every Wednesday and Saturday with a bigger prize on the Saturday. It is televised on the BBC, the public television channel in the UK.
It now costs £2 to buy a ticket.
According to a study, the most popular desire after winning the lottery is to buy a new house.
LISTENING 6 – TOURISM IN JAPAN (part 2)
It’s about tourism in Japan and a new campaign to attract visitors to Japan.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about tourism in Japan. Are you ready?
- Tourists visiting Japan increased to over 20 million per year in 2016.
- One of the fastest growing tourist markets in the world.
- The Japanese Tourism Organisation has recently launched a big new campaign in Europe to attract people from the UK, France, Spain and other countries to Japan.
- The campaign is called “Japan – where tradition meets the future”.
- Visiting Japan is less expensive.
- Food and drink in Japan can be very cheap.
The number of tourists visiting Japan increased to over 20 million per year in 2016, and it is one of the fastest growing tourist markets in the world.
The Japanese Tourism Organisation has recently launched a big new campaign in Europe to attract people from the UK, France, Spain and other countries to Japan.
The campaign is called “Japan – where tradition meets the future” and will include posters, TV adverts, and an online campaign.
The important message is the mix between tradition and innovation.
The campaign will show videos of Japan’s hi-tech cities and bullet trains, for the innovation, and also areas of natural beauty such as parks and mountains – the tradition.
Especially important are the Buddhist temples which attract many visitors.
On the practical side of things – visiting Japan is less expensive than you might imagine, a return ticket from London can cost around 600 euros at some times of the year.
And the food and drink in Japan can be very cheap, especially street food – you can find a meal for 2 euros.
So what are you waiting for! Visit Japan – where tradition meets the future!
LISTENING 7 – THE GENETICS OF HAPPINESS (part 1)
- Which people are normally the happiest in the world?
- Why do scientists say Scandinavian people are the happiest?
- What is special about the DNA of Scandinavian people?
- What economic factor contributes to happiness?
- What does the speaker say about working in Scandinavia?
- What do Scandinavians do in their personal life to be happy?
- The Scandinavian countries are normally the happiest people in the world.
- Because Scandinavian people have a genetic make-up that makes them more likely to be happy.
- People from Denmark, Norway and Sweden have less of the “short”, dangerous kind of genetic pattern in their DNA, making them happier.
- The lifestyle of Scandinavian people.
- People actually work less hours than in most other countries.
- Scandinavians have a healthy diet and do lots of exercise, a big contributing factor when it comes to happiness.
You have probably seen articles in the newspapers or online ranking the happiness of people from different countries. Have you ever noticed that people from the Scandinavian countries are normally the happiest people in the world?
Some scientists believe this is actually because Scandinavian people have a genetic make-up that makes them more likely to be happy.
Studies have shown that people from Denmark, Norway and Sweden have less of the “short”, dangerous kind of genetic pattern in their DNA, making them happier.
However, this is just one factor. We should also consider the lifestyle of Scandinavian people. Firstly, the Scandinavian countries are among the richest in the world, a good reason to be happy. What’s more, the people actually work less hours than in most other countries.
Finally, in their personal life, Scandinavians have a healthy diet and do lots of exercise, a big contributing factor when it comes to happiness.
LISTENING 8 – CRICKET IN INDIA (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about sport. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about the game of cricket in India an how popular it is.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about cricket in India. Are you ready?
- After football, cricket is the most popular sport in the world.
- Cricket is the national sport of India.
- Apart from men,women and children also play a lot of cricket.
- The Indian Premier League is one of the most important cricket tournaments in the world.
- The Indian national team is one of the best in the world.
- The next cricket World Cup will take place in India in 2019.
You might not know this, but after football, cricket is the most popular sport in the world. This is because of the huge number of people who participate in Asia, especially India. Cricket is the national sport of India, and it is no exaggeration to say that Indians are crazy about it.
In every school, park, sports centre and even on the street, you can see people playing cricket.
And not just men. Women and children also play a lot of cricket. The Indian Premier League is one of the most important cricket tournaments in the world, and the top players can earn millions of dollars participating.
The most popular games are international matches between India and Pakistan and England and Australia.
The Indian national team is one of the best in the world, and their captain, Virat Kohli, is probably the best player in the world today.
The next cricket World Cup will take place in India in 2019.
LISTENING 9 – LIVERPOOL (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a UK city. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about the UK city. Are you ready?
Where is Liverpool located?
What is the population?
What was Liverpool like in the past?
How many number ones did the Beatles have?
Why is the song Penny Lane called Penny Lane?
What colour do Everton football club wear?
Located in the north-west of England.
The modern population is about 500,000.
Liverpool was an important industrial city in the past.
17 number one hits
Name taken from the area in their hometown.
Blue.
Located in the north-west of England, the city of Liverpool is rich in culture and history. The modern population is about 500,000, making it one of the major UK cities.
Liverpool was an important industrial city in the past, because of its position on the River Mersey which made it ideal for trade with America and Europe.
However, today, most people associate Liverpool as the birthplace of the Beatles.
The band that began in Liverpool achieved 17 number one hits during their time together, and two of their songs – Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields — take their names from areas in their hometown.
Natives of Liverpool are referred to as Scousers, and Scouse also describes the strong Liverpool accent.
The city has two Premier league football teams, Liverpool , in red, and Everton, in blue.
Liverpool was the European Capital of Culture in 2008, bringing many more visitors and economic growth to the region.
LISTENING 10 – PHOBIAS (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about fear. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about some phobias and how to overcome them.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about phobias. Are you ready?
- One of the most common animal phobias is fear of dogs.
- You have to be comfortable in the presence of their dog.
- Psychologists recommend spending some time with a calm.
- Another phobia is fear of flying.
- Most people need to fly for business, holidays or travelling, but some are still scared of the little “what if” of crashing.
- To overcome this fear, you have to try distracting yourself with a movie or a book.
Why are we scared of some things when really they pose no danger to us? This type of irrational phobia is very common. Let’s look at some examples, and some tips for beating phobias.
One of the most common animal phobias is fear of dogs. Man’s best friend, according to some, or a dangerous, aggressive beast with sharp teeth for others.
To counter this, psychologists recommend spending some time with a calm, adult dog until you’re comfortable in their presence.
Fear of flying is another great example. Logically, most people need to fly for business, holidays or traveling, but some are still scared of the little “what if” of crashing.
To overcome this fear, try distracting yourself with a movie or a book, the flight will pass much quicker.
In conclusion, it is natural to be anxious about some things, but we should remember to be rational as well.
LISTENING 11 – CYCLING (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a type of transport. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about the type of transport. Are you ready?
When where bicycles introduced?
What percentage of people in London cycle to work?
What is a bike share programme?
What are the benefits of cycling to work?
How do cyclists record their routes?
How far does the average cyclist travel on a weekend trip?
Bicycles were introduced in the late 19th century in Europe.
About 20% of people in London cycle to work.
It is for people to use a public bike for a small annual price.
The benefits are that it helps combat traffic and pollution, but it also helps people to keep fit.
Many cyclists use a GPS device or an app on their mobile phone to record their routes.
The average cyclist travels approximately 50 kilometres on a weekend trip.
Bicycles were introduced in the late 19th century in Europe, and by the early 21st century, more than 1 billion have been produced worldwide Cycling is becoming a more popular way of travelling to work, about 20% of people in London cycle to work for example.
Indeed, many cities such as London have bike share programmes which allow people to use a public bike for a small annual price.
Not only does this combat traffic and pollution, but it also helps people to keep fit as they do a little exercise before and after work.
However, cycling is not just practical. For millions of people, cycling is a passion and a hobby. Many cyclists use a GPS device or an app on their mobile phone to record their routes.
The GPS tracking company Garmin revealed that the average cyclist travels approximately 50 kilometres on a weekend trip.
So, with new technology, cycling seems to be more popular than ever.
LISTENING 12 – TEA (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a type of drink. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about drinking tea and why it is good for you.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about tea. Are you ready?
- Drinking tea began in China.
- It wasn’t until the 17th Century, when the British began drinking tea.
- At first, tea was so expensive.
- As the popularity of tea grew, the price went down.
- Doctors see tea as a very healthy drink.
- Tea contains anti-oxidants, which help fight disease and illness.
Drinking tea began in China. The legend says that emperor was sitting under a tree when some leaves fell in his water, and tea was born.
However, it wasn’t until the 17th Century, when the British began drinking tea, that it became very popular.
At first, tea was so expensive that most normal people couldn’t drink it.
However, as the popularity of tea grew, so the price went down.
Nowadays, doctors see tea as a very healthy drink.
In comparison with coffee, sugary drinks and alcohol, tea is very good for you. Tea contains anti-oxidants, which help fight disease and illness.
Some studies have shown that tea can also improve your concentration. And finally, it can help people lose weight.
So, the best advice is to sit down, relax and have a cup of tea.
LISTENING 13 – BACTERIA (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about science. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about the talk. Are you ready?
How many bacteria are there in the human body?
What do good bacteria do?
What is the connection between bacteria and anxiety?
Where can you find L. Casei Immunitas?
What is the best source of good bacteria?
What is the message of these studies?
There are 39 trillion bacteria in the human body.
Helps digestion in the stomach.
Bacteria can help reduce anxiety.
You can find this type of bacteria in yoghurt.
The best source is homemade bread.
The message of these studies is that bacteria is essential for our health.
Scientists estimate that there are 39 trillion bacteria in the human body.
That’s more bacteria than human cells, meaning, effectively, we are more bacteria than human. Lots of television adverts talk about “good bacteria”, bacteria which help digestion in the stomach.
Recent research has also suggested bacteria can help reduce anxiety – in studies, animals without bacteria in their body were more stressed than animals with bacteria.
You can find this type of bacteria in yoghurt, as seen in the famous adverts for L. Casei Immunitas.
But scientists say the best source is homemade bread, because the fermentation process is perfect for the good bacteria.
The message of these studies is that bacteria is essential for our health, so killing bacteria with cleaning products and medicine can actually be dangerous. We depend on them.
LISTENING 14 – MERMAIDS (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a mythical creature. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about mermaids: the history and modern opinions.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about mermaids. Are you ready?
- Mermaids are the legendary aquatic creatures that are half-human, half-fish.
- They are sometimes associated with disasters.
- The Little Mermaid, originally written in 1836 was the most famous.
- The story was adapted for the cinema by Disney much later.
- Legend started much earlier, originally appearing in Ancient Greek mythology when mermaids were known as sirens.
- National Ocean Service of the USA has stated clearly that no evidence of aquatic humanoids has ever been found.
Mermaids are the legendary aquatic creatures that are half-human, half-fish.
They are sometimes associated with disasters, such as storms and accidents, and sometimes associated with benevolent actions, such as rescuing sailors or falling in love with them.
Perhaps the most famous interpretation is Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy-tale, The Little Mermaid, originally written in 1836.
The story was adapted for the cinema by Disney much later.
However, the legend started much earlier, originally appearing in Ancient Greek mythology when mermaids were known as sirens.
Many people claim to have seen mermaids, but the National Ocean Service of the USA has stated clearly that no evidence of aquatic humanoids has ever been found.
LISTENING 15 – PASSPORTS (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about passports. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about passports. Are you ready?
1- What colour have UK Passports been for the last 30 years?
2- Why are they changing colour?
3- What does the blue Passport represent for some British people?
4- How many British and American people have passports?
5- How much does a new Passport cost?
6- Who is the only person who doesn’t need a Passport to travel?
- Red/burgundy colour passports.
- Because of Brexit.
- It represents a symbol of British independence and a reference to a time when Britain was more important.
- There are currently about 49 million valid British passports in use, about 85% of British people have one, compared to just a third of Americans.
- A new Passport costs £75.
- The Queen.
One consequence of Brexit is that Britain is returning to the old-fashioned blue passports that were last used in 1988.
Many British people prefer these traditional passports instead of the European red/burgundy colour passports that have been in use for the last 30 years.
They seem to see the blue Passport as a symbol of British independence and a reference to a time when Britain was more important.
There are currently about 49 million valid British passports in use. This means about 85% of British people have a Passport, compared to just a third of Americans.
A new Passport costs £75, and can be applied for online or at the post office. It comes with the information written in English and French.
A Passport is obligatory for British people to travel across borders. The only exception to this rule is the Queen, who doesn’t have one.
A UK Passport allows a person to visit 174 countries without a visa, making it one of the most powerful in the world.
Any new passports made in the UK after October 2019 will be blue in colour.
LISTENING 16 – RATS (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a type of animal. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about rats and how common they are.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about rats. Are you ready?
- Scientists say that there is one rat for every 35 people.
- The rat is one of the most successfully adapted species to the urban environment.
- The rat population of New York – known as one of the worst rat cities – is about 2 million.
- There first specie of rat is the roof rat.
- Lives in high places such as in roofs or trees.
- The Norway rat, or brown rat, prefers living on the the ground, especially in wet places, such as sewers.
It is often said that there is one rat for every one person in the modern city. However, most scientists agree that this is probably an exaggeration, and in fact there is more like one rat for every 35 people.
Even so, there is no doubt that the rat is one of the most successfully adapted species to the urban environment.
It has been estimated that the rat population of New York – known as one of the worst rat cities – is about 2 million.
There are two common species of rat. Firstly, the roof rat, which lives in high places such as in roofs or trees.
Secondly, the Norway rat, or brown rat, which prefers living on the the ground, especially in wet places, such as sewers.
The average rat is about 25cm long, and in addition has a 25cm tail. The tail helps the rat to balance when in search of food.
It also controls the rat’s temperature by expanding and contracting.
Rats don’t like to travel far from their home, they normally look for food no more than 20 metres from their nest.
They may be a big problem, but they don’t actually live for very long – most die before they are a year old.
The problem is, they can reproduce every 3 weeks, so populations quickly multiply. This is one of the reasons why rats have been so successful in the city.
LISTENING 17 – KFC (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a fast food restaurant. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about the fast food restaurant. Are you ready?
Where are the headquarters of KFC?
How many locations does KFC have globally?
What makes KFC chicken special?
Why does KFC use two different companies to make the seasoning?
Where is it traditional to eat KFC at christmas?
What is the most well-known KFC slogan?
Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. The USA.
KFC has almost 20,000 locations globally in 123 different countries.
What makes KFC chicken special is the secret mix of 11 herbs and spices.
Because it doesn’t want one company to have the whole recipe.
In Japan.
“It’s finger-licking good”
KFC, or Kentucky Fried Chicken, is an American fast food restaurant chain that specializes in fried chicken.
Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, it is the world’s second-largest restaurant chain (as measured by sales) after McDonald’s.
KFC has almost 20,000 locations globally in 123 different countries.
What makes KFC chicken special is the secret mix of 11 herbs and spices that the founder, Colonel Sanders, used as seasoning.
The recipe is still a trade secret to this day, even though many have tried to recreate it in the laboratory.
KFC actually use two different companies to make the seasoning, so that one company doesn’t have the whole recipe.
Only a few of the most important executives at KFC know the recipe for all the herbs and spices.
The iconic man on the KFC logo is the founder of the company, whose real name was Colonel Sanders.
Their fried chicken is now truly an international dish, indeed it is a tradition in Japan to eat KFC at Christmas.
The most famous KFC slogan is “it’s finger-licking good”, because you have to lick your fingers after eating it.
LISTENING 18 – SAVING FOR RETIREMENT (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about money. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about saving money for retirement, which people should do.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about saving for retirement. Are you ready?
- Saving for retirement is extremely important.
- You should start saving in your 20s.
- The later you start saving, the more difficult.
- Recent studies show that only 30% of Americans under 35 are saving towards a pension.
- It is difficult to save money in the current economic climate.
- The compound interest means you can earn a lot more money over long periods.
Saving for retirement is extremely important. People are living longer and leading more active lives in retirement.
As a result it is more important than ever for you to think about where your income will come from when you are no longer working.
Most financial experts say that you should start saving in your 20s.
The later you start saving, the more difficult it is to ensure a comfortable retirement.
However, recent studies show that only 30% of Americans under 35 are saving towards a pension.
They say it is difficult to save money in the current economic climate.
However, there are some serious advantages to starting a pension early. Firstly, the compound interest means you can earn a lot more money over long periods.
Secondly, most pensions pay less tax than other forms of saving.
Finally, many companies match employees’ pension contributions, thus increasing the savings effectively for free.
In conclusion, saving for retirement can be difficult, but economically speaking, it is always a good idea.
LISTENING 19 – PASSWORDS (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about the internet. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about this topic. Are you ready?
What is the most common form of hacking?
What percentage of people use the top 10 passwords?
How do experts recommend being safer with passwords?
How long would it take to hack a complex password?
What is a good trick to remember a strong password?
What is the biggest mistake you can make with your password?
The most common form of hacking is simply guessing someone’s password.
By over 20% of people
Experts recommend using more complex passwords – passwords containing numbers, letters, capital letters and even special characters.
It would take about 400 years to hack – or even longer.
To think of a sentence that is easy to remember, and then use the first letter of each word to make your password.
Writing down your password.
When we talk about hacking we imagine advanced technology and complicated methods, but the most common form of hacking is simply guessing someone’s password.
It may come as no surprise that the most used password is “password”, but did you know that the top 10 passwords (such as 123456, football, letmein) are used by over 20% of people?
These simple passwords can be hacked in a matter of seconds by anyone using the adequate computer programme.
To be safer, experts recommend using more complex passwords – passwords containing numbers, letters, capital letters and even special characters.
A password containing all of these characters would take about 400 years to hack – or even longer.
One good trick for a strong password is to think of a sentence that is easy to remember, and then use the first letter of each word to make your password.
It is a myth that passwords need to be very long. In fact, a short password is fine as long as it is not an obvious word.
The biggest mistake you can make is writing down your password. It should only be in your head.
LISTENING 20 – VITAMIN C (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a vitamin. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about Vitamin C and why it’s important.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about vitamin C. Are you ready?
- Vitamin C was discovered in 1920.
- It was the first vitamin to be made in a laboratory, in 1933.
- Vitamin C is an acid, made up of just carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.
- It is important for preventing the disease scurvy.
- The recommended daily allowance is 90 miligrams a day.
- Vitamin C is found of course in oranges and lemons, but kiwi and broccoli actually contain much more.
The human body needs a lot of different substances in small amounts to keep functioning. One of these is vitamin C.
Vitamin C was discovered in 1920, and it was the first vitamin to be made in a laboratory, in 1933.
Scientifcally speaking, Vitamin C is an acid, made up of just carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. It is important for preventing the disease scurvy, which affected sailors who spent a long time at sea without fresh fruit and vegetables.
However, it has never been demonstrated that Vitamin C is effective in fighting against the common cold.
The recommended daily allowance is 90 miligrams a day.
This is very easy to get if you eat a balanced diet, and dietary supplements are not necessary. Vitamin C is found of course in oranges and lemons, but kiwi and broccoli actually contain much more.
Interestingly, humans are one of only two species on Earth that cannot produce their own Vitamin C in the body. The other is the guinea pig.
LISTENING 21 – DANGERS OF SELFIES (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about taking photos. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about taking photos. Are you ready?’
- How many people have died taking selfies since 2014?
- Why is taking a selfie dangerous according to scientists?
- What have Indian police done to protect people?
- What is the biggest cause of selfie deaths in the USA?
- Who inspires people to take dangerous selfies?
- Which non-fatal accident is also common while taking selfies?
127 people.
The reason selfies are so dangerous is that we get easily distracted – we focus too much on getting the perfect picture and forget potential dangers in real life.
Indian police have even declared “noselfie” zones in some parts of the country.
The biggest cause of selfie deaths was accidents with guns.
People copying the Instagram and You tube celebrities.
People driving and taking selfies.
According to a study by an American University, 127 people have died taking selfies since 2014 and the number of deaths increased by 50% last year.
Psychologists say the reason selfies are so dangerous is that we get easily distracted – we focus too much on getting the perfect picture and forget potential dangers in real life.
The country most affected by selfie deaths is India, and Indian police have even declared “noselfie” zones in some parts of the country.
In the United States, the biggest cause of selfie deaths was accidents with guns – people pull the trigger on the gun instead of clicking the button on the camera.
A big problem is people copying the Instagram and Youtube celebrities who inspire people to take these dangerous selfies.
Another danger, while often not fatal, is people driving and taking selfies. Hundreds of accidents are recorded in the USA every year.
LISTENING 22 – FISH AND CHIPS (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a type of food. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about the history of fish and chips, a popular British food.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about fish and chips. Are you ready?
- The first fish and chop shop was opened in London in 1860.
- One of the most popular takeaway foods in the UK.
- There are more than 10,000 fish and chip shops in the UK.
- Fish is battered and served with fried potato chips.
- Traditionally, the fish was coated in flour and beer.
- The final meal was served and eaten in newspaper.
What is the most typical British dish? It’s a difficult question, but many would say fish and chips.
The first fish and chop shop was opened in London in 1860. It is now one of the most popular takeaway foods in the UK.
There are more than 10,000 fish and chip shops in the UK. In comparison, there are only 1,200 McDonald’s.
To make the dish, the fish is battered and served with fried potato chips. Traditionally, the fish was coated in flour and beer.
The final meal was served and eaten in newspaper, because it was the cheapest way to do it. However, this practice ended in the 1980s due to health and safety regulations.
The traditional condiments with fish and chips are salt and vinegar.
Interestingly, fish and chips is not as unhealthy as you think. An average portion contains only 7% fat.
LISTENING 23 – RIDERS (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about concerts. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about concerts. Are you ready?
What is a rider?
What must the theater do with the rider?
What are the two types of rider?
What’s an example of a technical rider?
What’s an example of a hospitality rider?
Why did Van Halen ask for brown M&Ms?
It is the list of demands made by an artist to the theater where they are playing.
The theater must meet the criteria of the rider if they want the artist to perform there.
Firstly hospitality, and then technical riders.
Technical riders include things such as the sound and lighting equipment.
Hospitality riders are more focused on the comfort of the artist.
They said the objective was to make sure the theater paid attention to the demands of the band.
A fairly modern phenomenon, the rider is the list of demands made by an artist to the theater where they are playing.
The theater must meet the criteria of the rider if they want the artist to perform there.
Riders can be divided into two categories, firstly hospitality, and then technical riders.
Technical riders include things such as the sound and lighting equipment – an artist could demand a certain type of piano be present for example.
Hospitality riders are more focused on the comfort of the artist. A good example would be when an artist demands a private bathroom in the theater.
Artists also often ask for specific types of food, fresh towels and free tickets to the show for friends and family as part of the rider.
The most famous example of a rider comes from the band Van Halen. They demanded a bowl of the chocolate sweet M&Ms, but without any of the brown M&Ms. They said the objective was to make sure the theater paid attention to the demands of the band.
LISTENING 24 – KISSING (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about love. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about kissing and what it means in different cultures.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about kissing. Are you ready?
A kiss can express sentiments of love, passion, romance, sexual attraction, peace, good luck, etc.
10% of the world do not kiss.
A long passionate kiss can involve 34 muscles.
In each kiss at least 10 million bacteria are exchanged between the participants.
Chimpanzees are particularly passionate kissers.
Ancient Roman tradition where a kiss was used to sign a contract.
A kiss can express sentiments of love, passion, romance, sexual attraction, peace, good luck, and much more.
Kissing may seem like a universal human action, but in fact about 10% of the world do not kiss, for various cultural or religious reasons.
For example, in Sudan, the mouth represents the portal to the soul, so they do not kiss as they think the spirit could escape through the mouth.
A long passionate kiss can involve 34 muscles, mostly facial muscles, and burn more calories than walking.
However, it’s not necessarily healthy. It is estimated that in each kiss at least 10 million bacteria are exchanged between the participants.
Kissing is also practised in the animal kingdom – chimpanzees are particularly passionate kissers.
Kissing at the conclusion of a wedding ceremony goes back to ancient Roman tradition where a kiss was used to sign a contract.
LISTENING 25 – THE DIRTIEST PLACE IN THE HOME (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about cleanliness. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about cleanliness. Are you ready?
Why is the kitchen normally the dirtiest room in the house?
What is the dirtiest place in the kitchen?
How often should we wash hand towels?
What can be found in the computer keyboard?
What problems can a dirty bed cause?
Why is the toilet seat the cleanest part of the house?
Because it offers an ideal environment for bacteria – water, food and heat are all available.
The dirtiest place is normally the sink.
Experts recommend washing hand towels every week.
Dirt and bacteria.
Can cause many skin problems.
Because it was so often cleaned with disinfectant.
Compared with the past, we are quite clean today. However, our homes sill contain some places that are a perfect habitat for bacteria and dirt.
The dirtiest room in the house is normally the kitchen. This is because it offers an ideal environment for bacteria – water, food and heat are all available.
Within the kitchen, the dirtiest place is normally the sink. This is quite worrying given that we wash our plates and dishes there every day.
In the bathroom, the hand towel is also particularly dirty. Experts recommend washing hand towels every week.
Another surprising habitat for bacteria is the computer keyboard. The constant contact with unwashed hands and warm conditions again make it susceptible to dirt and bacteria.
Finally, the bed can cause many skin problems if it is not kept very clean.
On a happier note, one famous study found the cleanest part of the house to be the toilet seat, because it was so often cleaned with disinfectant.
LISTENING 26 – SPACE INVADERS (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a videogame. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about Space Invaders, a popular old videogame.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about Space Invaders. Are you ready?
- Space Invaders was an arcade game released in Japan in 1978.
- It was one of the first shooting games.
- The design for the aliens was based on real creatures.
- Space Invaders was extremely popular.
- It was very popular in 1981.
- Nowadays an original game is a prized collector’s ítem.
Space Invaders was an arcade game released in Japan in 1978.
It was one of the first shooting games, and the objective was to shoot invading aliens as they descend to get points.
The design for the aliens was based on real creatures such as octopus, crabs and squid. Space Invaders was extremely popular and is credited with helping videogames become a global industry.
The Times Newspaper ranked it as the most influential videogame of all time.
It was so popular that in 1981, a billion dollars was spent on the game by players, making it the best-selling entertainment product of its time.
Part of the addictive sensation comes from the increasing difficulty as the player completes each level and moves on to the next level.
Nowadays the original game is a prized collector’s ítem.
LISTENING 27 – BOTTLED WATER (part 1)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a type of drink. You will hear the talk twice. As you listen, write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. After, I will ask you six questions on some facts about this drink. Are you ready?
When was bottled water first sold?
Why did demand for bottled water decrease at the beginning of the twentieth century?
What type of plastic is needed for bottled water?
What has happened to sales of bottled water since 1973?
Why do people drink bottled water?
What is the negative impact of bottled water?
Bottled water was first sold in 1622 in the United Kingdom.
The demand for bottled water decreased due to the introduction of safe, chlorinated tap water.
The a type of plastic suitable for water bottles – light and flexible.
Sales of bottled water have increased dramatically.
Because most people appreciate the convenience that bottled water offers – having bottled water in their gym bag for example.
The rise of bottled water has also had a negative impact on the environment. Even though most plastic is recyceld, a large proportion is not.
Bottled water was first sold in 1622 in the United Kingdom, where its minerals were believed to have curative properties.
Much later, at the beginning of the twentieth century, the demand for bottled water decreased due to the introduction of safe, chlorinated tap water.
It was only recently, in 1973, that a type of plastic suitable for water bottles – light and flexible – was invented.
Since that time, sales of bottled water have increased dramatically.
It is predicted that by 2020, we will drink more bottled water than coca-cola, lemonade and other soft drinks combined.
Most people appreciate the convenience that bottled water offers – having bottled water in their gym bag for example.
And some people say it tastes better and is healtheir than tap water.
However, the rise of bottled water has also had a negative impact on the environment. Even though most plastic is recyceld, a large proportion is not.
LISTENING 28 – APRIL FOOLS DAY (part 2)
You’re going to hear a short talk about a special day. You will hear the talk twice. The first time, just listen. Then I’ll ask you to tell me in a few words what the speaker is talking about. Are you ready?
It’s about April Fools’ Day and what people do on this day.
Now listen to the talk again. Write down some notes about what you hear, if you want to. Then I’ll ask you to tell me six pieces of information about April Fools’ Day. Are you ready?
April Fool’s Day is on the first of April.
It’s the custom in the UK to play a trick or a joke on someone.
Fool means a silly or stupid person.
The French call April the first Poisson d’Avril, or «April Fish.»
April Fool’s Day finishes at midday.
Most newspapers publish one false story on the morning of April Fools’ Day.
April Fool’s Day is on the first of April. It’s the custom in the UK to play a trick or a joke on someone on this day. If the person falls for the joke, then they are called an ‘April Fool’. Fool means a silly or stupid person.
The French call April the first Poisson d’Avril, or «April Fish.» A popular trick is to stick a picture of a fish onto someone’s back.
In fact, in the UK, it’s only half a day because April Fool’s Day finishes at midday. No more jokes after lunchtime, please!
The origins of April Fools’ Day are unknown, but it goes back hundreds of years. Although it is a special day, it is not a public holiday in any country.
One of the most famous examples comes from April Fools’ Day 1957, when a British television program convinced many people that spaghetti grew on trees in Italy.
Most newspapers publish one false story on the morning of April Fools’ Day.
