大学英语听说第一册听力原文

大英听说教程第一册听力原文

Unit 1

Part A

Dialogue 1:

Bill: Hi, Mary!

Mary: Hi, Bill. How are you doing?

Bill: Fine, thanks. And you?

Mary: Just fine. Bill, I'd like you to meet my classmate, Bob Smith. Bob, this is my friend, Bill Jones.

Bill: Hello, nice to meet you.

Bob: Nice to meet you, too.

Dialogue 2:

Linda: Excuse me, are you Paul Johnson from London? I'm Linda Blake from Smith and Wells.

Paul: Yes, I am Paul Johnson. How do you do, Miss Blake?

Linda: How do you do, Mr. Johnson? May I introduce Charles Green to you? He's our sales manager.

Paul: Pleased to meet you, Mr. Green.

Mr. Green: It's a pleasure to meet you.

Dialogue 3:

Jack: Mum, I've brought one of my friends.

Mother: Ask him in, Jack.

Jack: Come and meet my family, Tom. Mum, this is Tom, my roommate.

Mother: Hello, Tom. It's good to know you.

Tom: How do you do, Mrs. Brown?

Jack: And this is my sister, Jane.

Part B

Talking about Studying English

At a gathering of students from China and some other countries, Yang Weiping and Virginia Wang, both first-year college students, are talking about their learning of English.

Hello, my name is Yang Weiping. I'm a freshman at Peking University and I'm majoring in chemistry.

At college we have to study a foreign language. I choose English because I like listening to English programs on the radio and TV. I also like British and American pop songs. Some day I hope to visit Britain and the United States.

I started learning English several years ago and I'm getting better at it. My favorite activity is listening, especially listening to songs and stories. My big problem is, however, speaking. I feel nervous whenever I speak. And I never seem to know what to say when people talk to me. But I've decided to overcome my shyness and learn to speak English by speaking as much as I can.

Hi, my name is Virginia Wang. I'm a library science major at the National University of Singapore. In our country, English is important. It is one of the official languages and you have to be fluent in English to get a good job.

I've been studying English since high school. I'm good at reading because I like learning about new things and new ideas. There are so many books and articles written in English. Our textbooks at the university are in English, too. I know writing is also very important, but I find it really difficult.

When I graduate from the university I would like a job in the city library where I can read all kinds of new books.

Part C

How to Improve Listening Comprehension

Among the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing, I find listening most difficult because I worry about the words I don't know. Now I'm trying to focus on the general idea, not worrying about the new words. This makes me feel good, because I know I've understood something. Then, I listen again carefully and if I have any problems I play the difficult parts again. In this way I come to understand better both the main idea and the details of the listening text.

Unit 2

Part A

Dialogue 1:

—It's a really wonderful evening. Thank you very much for inviting us.

—I'm glad you enjoyed it.

—Maybe we could get together sometime at my home.

—Sounds nice.

Dialogue 2:

—Great party, isn't it?

—Yeah, really.

—You look familiar to me. Have we met before?

—I'm afraid not.

Dialogue 3:

—I'm afraid I have to go now.

—So soon? Well, I enjoyed our talk together.

—Me too.

Dialogue 4:

—Excuse me, could you tell me the time?

—It's half past 5 by my watch.

—Thank you very much.

—You're welcome.

Dialogue 5:

—Is this seat taken?

—Oh, let me move my stuff.

—Aren't you Jack Brown? I'm Bill, Bill Stone.

—Oh, hello, Bill. Fancy meeting you here!

Dialogue 6:

—Hi, Jack. So good to see you.

—Oh, hi, Andy. It's been quite a while since we saw each other last. How're things with you?

—Just fine. What've you been doing these years?

—Well, I've been studying for my PhD degree here at the university.

—That's wonderful.

Statement 1:

May I introduce Miss Jones to you?

Statement 2:

John Davis was born in California in 1930.

Statement 3:

I can't agree with you more.

Statement 4:

My birthday is on June 20th.

Statement 5:

Paul, is your sister married?

Statement 6:

Look, here comes Mr. Black, our sales manager.

Statement 7:

Bob isn't in the library right now.

Statement 8:

Mr. Taylor is said to be leaving for South Africa soon.

Statement 9:

Pass me the beer, please.

Statement 10:

I was wondering if you could help Anna with her music lessons.

Part B

How to Improve Your Conversation Skills

To speak to people in a foreign language requires courage and a willingness to make errors. Some people are so afraid of making mistakes that they never open their mouths. And that's the biggest mistake of all. Now if you have courage and are ready to make a few errors, what do you say?

First of all, you have to open the conversation. Finding an appropriate topic is half the battle. Some topics, such as the weather and news, work well. But others, such as age, money or people's appearance do not. The following are some good ways to open a conversation.

Weather -- It sure is cold today, isn't it?

News -- Did you hear about that terrible forest fire?

A conversation in a foreign language doesn't always go smoothly. Sometimes your partner talks too fast and you find it difficult to follow. Not to worry, though. You can always ask your partner to repeat what he has said or to speak more slowly. For example, "Excuse me, but could you say that again? I didn't catch it." Or "Could you speak more slowly, please?"

At the end of a conversation you need to find a way to close it in a polite way. "Well, I really need to be going", or "It was nice talking to you" are frequently used by people to end a conversation.

Part C

How to Improve Your Conversation Skills

To speak to people in a foreign language requires courage and a willingness to make errors. Some people are so afraid of making mistakes that they never open their mouths. And that's the biggest mistake of all. Now if you have courage and are ready to make a few errors, what do you say?

First of all, you have to open the conversation. Finding an appropriate topic is half the battle. Some topics, such as the weather and news, work well. But others, such as age, money or people's appearance do not. The following are some good ways to open a conversation.

Weather -- It sure is cold today, isn't it?

News -- Did you hear about that terrible forest fire?

A conversation in a foreign language doesn't always go smoothly. Sometimes your partner talks too fast and you find it difficult to follow. Not to worry, though. You can always ask your partner to repeat what he has said or to speak more slowly. For example, "Excuse me, but could you say that again? I didn't catch it." Or "Could you speak more slowly, please?"

At the end of a conversation you need to find a way to close it in a polite way. "Well, I really need to be going", or "It was nice talking to you" are frequently used by people to end a conversation.

Unit 3

Part A

Maggie likes swimming but she doesn't care for skiing. She loves flying on planes and traveling by train but she hates getting on buses because they are too crowded and dirty. She is not interested in playing the piano and she prefers reading to playing computer games. She loves going to Chinese restaurants and her favorite food is spicy Sichuan bean curd. After work she is keen on listening to music. She prefers light music to rock, because light music makes her feel relaxed. She enjoys watching TV in the evening. She thinks a lot of news programs but sitcoms are the last kind of thing for her to watch.

Question 1:

I've never been abroad.

Question 2:

Mrs Johnson's children usually pray before they eat.

Question 3:

The city of Dalian impressed me because it's so clean.

Question 4:

The traffic in the city should be better.

Question 5:

Mother told Mary not to speak so quickly.

Question 6:

I think my listening has improved a lot.

Question 7:

What a pleasant idea!

Question 8:

The shoe shop is at the corner of the street.

Question 9:

After I graduated I got a job in the City Bank.

Question 10:

I'm not an English major but I like English a lot

Part B

Accommodation for College Students

R: Good morning. Can I help you?

S: Yes, please. I'm a new student and I'd like to have some information about the ... em ... the accommodation for students.

R: Right. The university provides two types of accommodation, halls of residence and self-catering accommodation.

S: How much does it cost for the self-catering accommodation?

R: For a single room, thirty-seven pounds eighty-six per week, that's about five forty-one a day. For a double room, it's fifty-two seventy-eight per week. This will apply throughout this academic year.

S: I'd like to stay in the self-catering accommodation. How far is that from the residence to the university?

R: It all depends. The residences at 36 Elms Road and 110 Palm Road are about one and a half miles from the university main site and the Freemen's Common Houses at William Road are half a mile.

S: When do I need to apply?

R: Are you an undergraduate or a postgraduate?

S: Undergraduate.

R: Then you should apply for it as soon as possible, since places in university-owned accommodation are limited and if you don't apply before the end of the month, you are not likely to get a place.

S: Could you possibly tell me what to do, if no vacancy is available?

R: Yes, you may consider private accommodation. The university runs an Accommodation Information Office and its staff will help you. S: Where's the office?

R: In the Students' Union Building.

S: Whom can I contact?

R: Mr. Underwood. David Underwood, the manager of the accommodation information office.

S: Thank you very much.

R: You are welcome.

Questions:

1. What does the dialogue mainly tell us?

2. Which of the following is not included in the dialogue?

3. What would the student probably do right after the conversation?

Part C

What College Professors Do

College professors are often believed to lead easy lives of quiet thinking while teaching one or two classes every week. But college professors do much more than go to class. The average professor spends between six and fifteen hours in the classroom weekly. And that same college professor works from sixty to eighty hours a week.

Because they must remain current in their fields, professors spend part of that time reading, reading, reading. That leads to additional hours during which they revise and update their class lecture notes. It takes far longer to prepare notes than to deliver them in class. Professors may spend time conducting experiments, working on college projects, or advising students. They may be writing books, articles, or papers for delivery at conventions.

When not in the classroom or in the office, professors are still working, behind closed doors in committee sessions or at home grading papers and preparing for tomorrow's classes. To accept this sort of schedule willingly, they must feel strongly about the importance of the college experience.

Statements:

1. College professors actually lead a busy life, while teaching.

2. Usually professors spend about sixty to eighty hours a week in the classroom.

3. Professors spend part of their time in reading and studying, because they always feel their knowledge needs to be improved and updated.

4. College professors have to do all kinds of things besides their usual load of teaching.

5. In order to remain as professors, they may spend their time in writing books and articles.

6. Professors are always working when not in the classroom or in the office.

7. Professors have to accept their busy schedule willingly, if they want to be qualified for their jobs.

Unit 4

Part A

Dialogue 1:

(At a party)

A: Great party, isn't it?

B: Yeah, super. Everyone seems to be having a good time.

A: They do, don't they?By the way, do you know that girl talking to Jack?

B: Who? Oh, that's Mary. She lives in our dormitory.

A: She's very pretty. Don't you think so?

B: Yes, and clever, too. One of the best students in her class, I believe.

A: Do you know her well?

B: Quite well, shall I introduce you to her?

A: That'd be nice.

Dialogue 2:

M: When are you leaving for Australia, Diana?

W: In just two weeks. And I'm so excited. But there are still one or two things I need to do before I go.

M: Like what?

W: Like going to the travel agent and figuring out what to do with my apartment while I'm gone.

M: Your apartment? Perhaps you can sublet it.

W: Yeah, but who to?

M: Hmm, let me think. Oh, I know just the person. An old friend of mine, Peter Jones, is coming here to do some research this summer, from June through August.

W: That's exactly when I'll be away. Sounds ideal. When could you talk to him about it?

M: Well, I'll be calling him later this week, anyway. I'll mention it to him then.

W: Thanks a lot. Come to think of it, Michael, shall we have a get-together with Tom and Catherine this weekend?

M: Good idea! Let's do that.

Question 1:

Remember to put down the zip code when you address the envelope. Mine is 92381.

Question 2:

Sally's aunt has just come back from France. Now she's staying at the Park Hotel, Room 2608.

Question 3:

Mr. Davis lives at 1540, Water Street.

Question 4:

It usually takes about 75 minutes to get to the airport from here.

Question 5:

The new coat cost me 156 yuan.

Question 6:

The Tower of London is 900 years old.

Question 7:

Mr. Baker has been working in the City Bank of New York for two years. He now has an annual income of $84,200 / 84200.

Question 8:

New York is 1,735 / 1735 miles away from here.

Question 9:

Please get to the Shanghai Museum no later than 9:40 / twenty to ten /nine forty.

Question 10:

The clock in the reading room must be fast. It's 5:45 / five forty-five / a quarter to six by my watch

Part B

Small Talk Is Easy

A: Mike, guess what?

B: What?

A: Carol just invited me to a party at her house on Saturday.

B: Carol? You mean the pretty girl in your economics class?

A: Yeah.

B: Great! I'm sure you'll have a super time.

A: I'm not so sure.

B: What do you mean, John? I thought you really liked Carol.

A: I do. But I don't know her friends very well.

B: So get to know them.

A: But I'm no good at small talk.

B: Small talk is easy. You can learn.

A: By Friday?

B: Sure. I'll coach you. You just have to remember a few simple sentences.

A: I don't know. I have trouble remembering things. Especially when I meet people. I get nervous.

B: Don't worry. John. You can do it. You just need a few tips.

A: But what if I say something stupid?

B: Relax. You won't. But even if you do, it's all right. Everyone makes mistakes.

A: Yeah, especially me! What if I'm boring? No one wants to listen to a bore.

B: Hey, you're not giving a speech. You're just having a conversation. So just talk about something you know they are interested in.

A: That's the problem. I don't know what Carol's friends are interested in.

B: Let them tell you. If you let people talk about themselves, they'll think you are interesting.

A: You mean something like, "So, tell me what you are interested in."

B: Well, you don't have to be that direct. For example, you can talk about the weather.

A: You can't be serious. The weather is boring.

B: It's a good excuse to find out what they like to do. On a rainy day, you say, "What do you do in such terrible weather?"

A: What if they just stayed home and read a book?

B: Then ask them about the book. You can ask if it was good. Ask if they liked it and why. Then talk about a book you really liked.

A: So that's what small talk is about, is it? Well, I'll give it a try. Thanks for the tips, Mike.

B: You're welcome. Have a good time at the party.

Questions:

1. What are the two speakers talking about?

2. What do you learn about John from the dialogue?

3. What is Mike doing?

Part C

Are You Calling about the Party?

Laura: Hello. This is Laura Davis speaking.

Simon: Oh, hello, Laura. This is Simon here. Simon Williams.

Laura: Oh, Simon. How nice to hear you. Are you calling about the party? You did get the invitation, didn't you?

Simon: Yes, thanks, I did. That's just it, I'm afraid. You see, I'm already tied up that evening.

Laura: Oh, really? That is a pity.

Simon: Yes. I'm afraid it's been planned for ages. You see, some friends of mine are coming to see me. I haven't seen them for a long time, and you know... well... I managed to get some tickets for the opera, and I promised to take them out to dinner afterwards. I can't get out of it, unfortunately. I wish I could.

Laura: Oh, what a shame! We were looking forward to seeing you. Still, if you can drop in later with your friends, we'd love to see you. Simon: Thanks. Well, I'll certainly try, but I don't think there's much chance. Actually I've sent you an e-mail to say I can't come. Laura: Oh, have you? That's very kind, thanks. Well, keep in touch, Simon.

Simon: I will. Regards to James. And I hope the party goes well. Bye!

Laura: Thanks. Bye.

Statements:

1. Simon is calling because he hasn't got the invitation.

2. Simon will take his friends out to dinner after going to the opera.

3. Laura has made a promise to her friends and will not break her promise.

4. Both Laura and Simon will be rather busy that evening.

5. Laura and Simon agree to meet daily.

Unit 5

Part A

Dialogue 1:

－Hello. 103-6215.

－Hello. Is Cindy there?

－No, she is out. Do you want me to take a message?

－Yes, please. Tell her to call back David this afternoon, David Johnson.

Dialogue 2:

－Hilton Hotel. Can I help you?

－Mr. John Thomas, Room 1230, please!

－I'll put you through. Sorry, Mr. Thomas isn't in at the moment. Can I take a message?

－Tell him to call Bill Green at 415-389-1074 this evening. It's important.

Dialogue 3:

－Hello, can I speak to Mary?

－No, I'm afraid she's out. Could I know who is calling?

－Well, this is Judy, her old classmate. Can I leave a message?

－Certainly.

－Please ask her to meet Judy outside the Art Museum at ten tomorrow morning.

Dialogue 4:

－Hello.

－Hi, Mrs. King. This is Tom here. Is John in?

－Hello, Tom. I'm sorry John's out right now. Would you like to leave a message?

－Yes. Tell him not to forget to come to my party this evening.

－All right. I'll let him know about it as soon as he gets in.

Dialogue 1:

W: Front Desk. May I help you?

M: Could I have the number for the box office of Eastern Airlines, please?

W: Just a moment.

M: That's all right.

W: The number is 6247-2255.

M: Thank you very much.

W: You're welcome.

Q: What's the phone number that is inquired?

Dialogue 2:

W: 6471-2817.

M: Hello. Can I speak to Susan?

W: I'm sorry Susan is not in at the moment. Would you like to leave a message?

M: Well. Please ask her to call me at 5404-9982.

W: OK. I'll give her the message.

M: Thanks a lot.

W: Don't mention it.

Q: At what number will Susan call back?

Dialogue 3:

W: Number, please.

M: Oh, I'd like to make a collect call.

W: Where to?

M: San Francisco.

W: What number?

M: 415-566-1268.

W: What's your name?

M: Wang Xing.

W: And where are you calling from?

M: 612-930-9608.

W: Hold the line, please.

Q: At what number is the man calling from?

Part B

A Business Call

A: Good afternoon. ABC Imports. May I help you?

B: Yes, may I speak to Mr. James Johnson, please?

A: I'm afraid Mr. Johnson isn't available right now. Would you like to leave a message?

B: This is Richard Alexander with Star Electronics. It's very important that he returns my call this afternoon.

A: Does he have your office number and your mobile phone number?

B: I think so, but let me give them to you again.

A: Okay.

B: My office number is 714-555-2000, my cell phone number is 909-555-2308. He can reach me at my office number before 6 p.m. or anytime today on my mobile.

A: Very well, I'll give him your message as soon as he returns to the office.

Questions:

1. What can be learned from the telephone conversation you've just heard?

2. Who might be the person that has answered the phone call?

Part C

Good Luck Company

Secretary: Good Luck Company.

Applicant: I'm calling in connection with your post of computer sales representative. Your advertisement said that I should ring up first for an interview.

Secretary: That's right. What are your qualifications?

Applicant: I have a degree in Computer Science.

Secretary: Do you have any relevant working experience?

Applicant: Yes, I have been a computer programmer in a trading company for three years.

Secretary: Can I have your name, please?

Applicant: Brian Tong.

Secretary: Okay, I've written down your information and I'll pass this on to our personnel department for further consideration before we decide whether there will be an interview with you.

Applicant: When would you let me know the result?

Secretary: In about 2 weeks' time, I think. How can I contact you, Mr. Tong?

Applicant: You can call me at my office at 38839673 during office hours.

Secretary: 3-8-8-3-9-6-7-3. Okay, I'll let you know the result when I hear from the personnel department.

Applicant: Thank you. Good-bye.

Secretary: Good-bye.

Unit 6

Part A

M: Uh, listen, Ann, I was wondering if you could help me.

W: Yes?

M: Do you happen to know where I might buy a good painting?

W: Let me think for a minute. Oh, yes, there's a new gallery, down on Green Street, that deals with art of all kinds.

M: Oh, I know where you mean.

Q: What information does the man want to get?

Dialogue 2:

M: Hi, Mary. You look great! That's a beautiful dress you're wearing.

W: Thank you, Michael.

M: Where did you buy it? I'd like to get one for my wife.

W: I bought it at the No.1 Department Store.

M: Could I ask the price?

W: Sure. It cost 168 yuan.

Q: What information did the man get from the woman?

Dialogue 3:

W: Can I help you?

M: I need to buy a birthday present for my cousin, but I really don't know what to get.

W: Well, we have a special on ties. That's always a good gift.

M: Sounds like a good idea.

Q: What does the woman suggest that the man should buy?

Dialogue 1:

－How much is this blue tablecloth?

－Twenty dollars and fifty cents.

Dialogue 2:

－Can I help you?

－Yes, I'd like this red vase. How much does it cost?

－Fifty nine-five.

Dialogue 3:

－How much does this mobile phone cost?

－One hundred and seventy five dollars and forty cents.

Dialogue 4:

－May I help you, sir?

－Yes, I'd like to buy a coat for my father.

－What do you think of this gray one? It's soft and comfortable.

－How much is it?

－Fifty dollars eighty cents.

－OK, I'll take it.

Dialogue 5:

－May I help you, Madam?

－I like this sofa very much, but I was wondering if you could give me some discount.

－If you really like it, I can give you 10% off. That will be 594 dollars.

－All right. I'll take it.

Part B

Where Can We Find Women's Wear?

Mark: Excuse me, where can we find women's wear?

Receptionist: On the second floor. You can take the escalator on your right.

Mark: Thank you.

Salesperson: Good morning. Can I help you?

Ann: No, thanks. We're just looking.

Mark: How about this red dress, Ann? It's very fashionable.

Ann: I don't know. I'm not crazy about red. I think it's a bit too bright for me.

Salesperson: How about this white dress? It's a new arrival for the season.

Ann: Is it? It looks pretty. But is it very expensive?

Mark: Let me see the price tag. It says $299.

Ann: That's too expensive for me. I'd like something below $200.

Salesperson: What about this blue dress? It's on sale. It's 10% off, so it's only $126.

Ann: Mmm. I like the color. Do you think it'll look good on me, Mark?

Mark: I think so. Why don't you try it on?

Salesperson: What size do you take?

Ann: Medium.

Salesperson: Here's a medium in blue. The fitting room is right behind you.

Ann: (wearing the dress) What do you think of it, Mark?

Mark: It's very nice. I think blue suits you. And it fits perfectly.

Ann: Great. I think I'll take it.

Mark: That's a good deal.

Salesperson: Will that be cash or charge?

Ann: Cash, please.

Questions:

1.When did Ann and Mark go to the department store?

2. Which of the following can you infer from the conversation?

3. What did Ann seem to give first priority to in buying her dress?

4. How many dresses did Ann try on?

5. What can we learn from the conversation?

Part C

Defective Goods

The other day, Mrs. White bought some bed linen at a small store near her home. The store had a good reputation, and Mrs. White had often shopped there before. But when she got home and examined the sheets, Mrs. White was shocked. One of them had a big hole in the middle, and another was badly stained. And two others were frayed at the edges.

As you can imagine, Mrs. White was very angry and she went back immediately to complain. When she arrived, the store was closed and two other angry ladies were waiting outside. One of them told Mrs. White that she had bought some towels that morning, and the other lady said that she had purchased a linen tablecloth. In both cases the goods were defective. A little later some other women joined them, and they all told the same story.

Finally the storekeeper appeared and let them in. The poor man looked very worried. He became very nervous when the ladies threatened to call the police, but he denied trying to cheat them. Then he explained what had happened. In his absence, the driver of a delivery truck had mistaken his shop for a secondhand goods store and had delivered a load of used material from a nearby hotel. The sales clerk had not bothered to check the delivery and had started selling the defective goods right away.

The storekeeper apologized for the mistake and promised to exchange the ladies' purchases and to refund half the price. Needless to say he fired the careless assistant.

Questions:

1. What happened to the customer?

2. Which of the following reasons that the shopkeeper gave for the mistake is not true?

3. How did the storekeeper handle the customer's complaints?

Unit 7

Part A

Statements:

1. I don't think there's any problem for me to work on computers.

2. If I were you, I'd find a part-time job to earn some pocket money.

3. The salary is 1,600 yuan to start with and raises will be given according to ability.

4. I've only done some part-time jobs in supermarkets.

5. I guess to be a stewardess is no easy job.

6. I've never done any nursing but I love children.

7. In my opinion market research is very important if we want to increase the sales volume of our company.

8. It seems to me that this position would be a very good start for you.

9. There're many young people these days who can't find the jobs they want.

10. As to me I want a job in which I can use my English.

11. I assume you haven't had any work experience.

12. To qualify for the job of a tour guide, experience is very important.

Statement 1:

Let me take a quick look at your application.

Statement 2:

I often take a nap in the afternoon and then take a walk in a nearby park.

Statement 3:

You may not be friends with your roommates by the end of the year but you may be friends with them the year after.

Statement 4:

Sometimes it's too difficult to try to live together and be good friends at the same time.

Statement 5:

Finding an appropriate topic is half the battle.

Statement 6:

To speak to people in a foreign language requires courage and a willingness to make errors.

Statement 7:

A word or a nod from the good has more might than the eloquent speeches of others.

Statement 8:

Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

Statement 9:

Better return home and make a net than long for fish by the waterside.

Statement 10:

A workman is known by his work.

Part B

We Have an Opening Now

(Steve is in the Personnel Department of the Atlas Raincoat Manufacturing Company.)

Ms. Campbell: Have a seat, Mr. Wells. Let me take a quick look at your application... I see that you want a part-time job.

Steve: That's right.

Ms. Campbell: We hire part-timers occasionally. How many hours a week do you want to work?

Steve: About fifteen or twenty.

Ms. Campbell: You're a junior at the university, I see. Also, you were a lifeguard for the past two summers.

Steve: Yes. But this year I have an apartment. So I need a job during the second year, too.

Ms. Campbell: Do you think you can handle both a job and school?

Steve: Well, I have a B average. Yes, I think I can do it.

Ms. Campbell: Your references are very good. They say you're a hard worker and are very reliable.

Steve: I seldom miss work, and I'm always on time.

Ms. Campbell: Well, Steve, we have one opening now.

Steve: That's wonderful!

Ms. Campbell: We need a clerk in the mailroom.

Steve: That's fine.

Ms. Campbell: The job pays the minimum wage.

Steve: That's okay.

Ms. Campbell: However, it's on the night shift.

Steve: That's all right.

Ms. Campbell: The hours are 2 to 6 a.m., Monday through Friday.

Steve: That's...not so good.

Ms. Campbell: I know. What do you think? Are you interested?

Steve: Well, ...I often take a nap in the afternoon, and then I stay up late. I guess the hours are okay. When do I start?

Ms. Campbell: On Monday.

Steve: All right. Thank you.

Questions:

1. What do you know about the man from the dialogue?

2. What can be inferred about the man?

3. What is the man's attitude toward his work and study?

Part C

Unusual Interviewees

A recent survey asked vice-presidents and personnel directors of America's 100 largest corporations for their most unusual experiences interviewing prospective employees. They included:

● A job applicant who challenged the interviewer to a fight.

● A job candidate who said he had never finished high school because he was kidnapped and kept in a closet in Mexico.

● A balding candidate who excused himself during the in terview and then returned wearing a full hairpiece.

● A candidate who wore headphones to the interview and, when asked to remove them, explained that she could listen to the int erviewer and the music at the same time.

● A candidate who said she didn't have time for lunch and then started to eat a hamburger and French fries in the interviewer's office. ● A clumsy candidate who fell and broke an arm during the interview.

● An applicant who interrupted the questioning to phone her doctor for advice.

● A candid ate who dozed off during the interview.

● A candidate who refused to sit down and insisted on being interviewed standing up.

● A candidate who asked, "Would it be a problem if I'm angry most of the time?"

It was reported that all of them were hired.

Satements:

1. A candidate who failed to finish high school had been kidnapped to Mexico.

2. The candidate who had no time for lunch was given a hamburger and French fries.

3. The lady listening to music refused to remove her headphones.

4. A candidate broke his arm fighting with the interviewer.

5. The candidate who had little hair cared much for his appearance.

6. None of the interviewees was hired because they failed to satisfy the interviewers.

Unit 8

Part A

Dialogue 1:

－Mr. Power's office.

－Could I speak to Steve?

－Steve? Nobody by that name works here. You've dialed the wrong number.

－I'm sorry.

－That's all right.

Q: Why did the man say sorry?

Di alogue 2:

－I'm sorry I was late for work, Mr. Smith, but I overslept.

－How come, Linda?

－My alarm clock didn't work this morning.

－Well, it's OK this time. But it's disturbing the rest of your colleagues, you know.

－Yes, I know. I won't let it happen again. I'm sorry.

－That's all right.

Q: Why did Linda say sorry?

Dialogue 3:

－I heard that John quit his job this morning.

－How do you know that?

－I overheard him talking to Ms. Jones when I passed by the office. She was very annoyed about it.

－What did John say to her?

－He apologized again and again for not notifying her earlier.

Q: Why did John apologize to Ms. Jones?

Dialogue 4:

－Mr. Baker, I can speak two foreign languages and I'm friendly on the phone. I'm the right person for the job as a secretary, I think.

－But you've only just finished school and don't have any office experience. I'm sorry.

Q: Why did Mr. Baker say sorry?

Statement 1:

Yang Zhenning, born in Hefei, Anhui in 1922 was awarded the Nobel Prize in physics in 1957.

Statement 2:

Michael Jordan, the NBA greatest player, was born in 1963. He graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1984. In 1998 he stepped down from the Chicago Bulls. But his contribution to the sport of basketball will forever be remembered by the people all over the world.

Statement 3:

Lin Zexu, national hero of China, was born in 1785 and died in 1850. He ordered the destruction of 1.18 million kilograms of opium at Humen in 1839, which marked the beginning of modern Chinese history.

Statement 4:

Marie Curie, one of the first women scientists to win worldwide fame, was born in Warsaw, Poland in 1867. She was winner of two Nobel Prizes, for physics in 1903 and chemistry in 1911. She died in 1934.

Part B

A Steady Job

Fred, a very conscientious worker, had one serious flaw: he was clumsy. The poor boy spoiled everything he did and for that reason could never keep a job. He'd had many jobs over the years but only for a few weeks at a time. For six months, Fred was out of employment. Finally, he got a job in a warehouse where many different types of home furnishings were stored. Fred's job was to unpack the merchandise newly arrived from the factory and put each item in its assigned place. The work was only temporary, but after so long with no employment at all it was better than nothing.

One morning Fred unpacked a large and quite fragile vase. He picked it up to carry across the warehouse. But he had only walked two steps and he tripped. There was a loud crash as the vase fell from Fred's hands and shattered into a thousand pieces.

Fred was called immediately to the manager's office, and he was sure he would be fired. The young man's spirits began to drop.

"I'll have to deduct something from your wages every week until the vase is paid for," the manager said sternly.

"How much is the vase worth?" Fred asked.

"$350."

A wide grin spread across the young man's face. "That's wonderful!" he shouted happily. "At last I have a steady job!" Questions:

1. What does the story mainly tell us?

2. What can be inferred from the story?

3. Which of the following is not appropriate to describe Fred?

Part C

Mark Hill

Mark Hill is a traffic police officer in Watford, near London. He works on some of the busiest motorways in Britain, the M1 and the M25.

There are traffic police on duty twenty-four hours a day. There are three shifts, and each shift is eight hours. On average they have to deal with three to four accidents each shift.

Here is Mark Hill talking about his job:

"We deal with anyone in the accident who is injured. That's the first thing. Then we have to clear the road and get the traffic moving again.

"Most accidents happen because people drive too fast -- especially when the roads are wet. Sometimes we get accidents that occur because drivers don't follow the rules. For example, I've seen a number of cases of drivers overtaking on the left. This is illegal in Britain. If you want to overtake, you have to go into the fast lane on the right.

"Not everyone can use a motorway in Britain. People that ride a bicycle or a small motorbike are not allowed to use it.

"I like my job. I have a varied working day -- I never know what I'm going to do from one day to the next. And I meet all kinds of people. I don't think there's any other job that can give you that experience.

Questions:

1. Why do accidents sometimes happen according to the passage?

2. Which of the following is not true?

3. What can be inferred from the passage?

4. What should the traffic police do first of all in the event of an accident?

5. Why does Mark Hill like his job?"

Unit 9

Part A

Dialogue 1:

Agent: York Hotel. Can I help you?

Woman: Yes. I'd like to book a room for three nights.

Agent: When will you be arriving?

Woman: We'll arrive the day after tomorrow. That's October 20th. Agent: Yes, madam. Single or double?

Woman: One double room.

Agent: All right. One double room until 23rd.

Woman: How much will that be?

Agent: $130 a night, including breakfast.

Woman: That'll be fine.

Agent: May I have your name, please?

Woman: Faber, F-a-b-e-r, Faber, Mrs. Faber.

Agent: Thank you, Mrs. Faber. Goodbye.

Woman: Bye.

Dialogue 2:

Woman: Hello, Qiangshen Taxi Company.

Man: Hello. I'd like to book a taxi to Pudong Airport for tomorrow morning. Woman: When exactly?

Man: I have to be there by 9:30.

Woman: I see. Your address, please?

Man: Room 804, Park Hotel.

Woman: So we'll have to pick you up at about 8:00.

Man: Yes, that would be fine.

Woman: Could you tell me your name, please?

Man: Green, Mr. Green.

Woman: OK, Mr. Green.

Man: Thank you very much.

Woman: You're welcome.

Dialogue 1:

M: You have just arrived, haven't you?

W: No. We arrived three days ago. That's March 6th.

M: How long will you be staying here?

W: We are leaving on 21st.

Q: When will the woman leave?

Dialogue 2:

M: Have you been here long, Judy?

W: Just 6 days. We arrived on 2nd of May.

M: And how long will you be here?

W: Until 23rd.

Q: When did the woman arrive?

Dialogue 3:

W: Are you planning to stay here long,

Mr. Ford?

M: Until 28th.

W: I see. And when did you get here?

M: We got here on the 3rd of this month.

Q: How long will the man be staying?

Dialogue 4:

M: Today is 5th of June.

W: So what?

M: In another 4 days Jane will have a birthday party.

W: Oh, yes. It's her 20th birthday, isn't it?

M: I think so.

Q: When is Jane's birthday?

Part B

A Visit to Bangkok

A: Hi, Ellen. How was your vacation?

B: Great! I went to Bangkok.

A: Really? Why did you decide to go there?

B: Well, I have a cousin who lives there. She's been trying to get me to take a vacation down there for a long time, and so, finally, she talked me into it.

A: I've seen some pictures of Bangkok -- the architecture there is really interesting, isn't it?

B: Yes, it's incredible, especially the Grand Palace. The Buddhist temples, too, are very impressive. And I love the spicy Thai food and tropical fruits there.

A: How was the weather when you were there?

B: That's about the only thing I didn't enjoy. It was really hot and sticky. In fact, April is its hottest month. The best time to go is during the cool season, which lasts from November to February.

A: Did you go to some other places beside Bangkok?

B: Sure. I went to Pattaya. It's a famous resort, only two hours' drive from Bangkok. There's plenty to enjoy: fine sand, blue sky, clear water, colorful night life...

A: Well, it sure sounds like you had a great time.

B: Oh, I sure did. And I plan to go back there next year. I'd like to visit Phuket, the biggest island of Thailand. It's world-famous as a seaside resort.

Questions:

1. What are the two speakers talking about?

2. Which of the following was talked about in the dialogue you've just heard?

Part C

Planning a Visit to Miami

(Charlie, Paul and Steve are discussing a trip to Miami.)

Charlie: Okay, guys. How are we going to get to Miami?

Paul: I'd like to fly. Then we'll have two leisurely weeks on the beach.

Steve: No, Paul, flying is too expensive.

Charlie: Well, we can take a train or a bus.

Paul: I can't fall asleep on a train. It's too uncomfortable.

Steve: I won't go by bus. The seats are too small for me, and there isn't enough room for my legs.

Charlie: All right. We can drive my car.

Steve: Charlie, your car is too old to take on a long trip.

Charlie: Maybe we can rent a car.

Steve: That'll be too expensive.

Paul: Don't worry, Steve. We're going to share the expenses, so it won't cost too much.

Steve: How long will the trip take?

Charlie: We'll probably be on the road for two or three days.

Steve: That's too much time to spend in a car.

Charlie: Oh, it won't be too bad. We'll take turns driving and sleeping.

Paul: Charlie, are you sure we'll have enough time for this trip? The new semester is going to start on January 15th.

Charlie: Look, I have an idea. I know a good place for a vacation. It's not Miami Beach, but it's very comfortable. We can wear casual clothes all the time there. It's inexpensive, but the food is good.

Steve: Where is this place? In Asia?

Charlie: No, it's right here. Let's stay home and forget about the trip. How does that sound?

Paul & Steve: Terrible!

Statements:

1. Paul likes to fly to Miami. Then they will have two leisurely days on the beach.

2. Steve thinks flying is too expensive and suggests taking a train or a bus.

3. Charlie and Paul think that renting a car may be too expensive, but if they share the expenses, it won't cost too much.

4. Paul is sure that they will have enough time for the trip because the new semester will not begin until late February.

5. In the end, Charlie recommends a place for the vacation, where they can eat inexpensive food and wear casual clothes.

6. All of them except Paul agree with Charlie's suggestion because his idea is excellent.

Unit 10

Part A

Dialogue 1:

M: Have you ever been to Japan, Cindy?

W: Yeah, I went there last summer.

M: What cities did you visit?

W: I went to Tokyo and Kyoto, just two cities.

M: What did you think of Tokyo?

W: It's big and exciting, but very crowded, too.

M: Yeah. I've seen pictures of the crowds!

W: And the restaurants are excellent... but they're pretty expensive.

M: And what about Kyoto?

W: Kyoto is lovely. It's full of old temples and beautiful gardens. It's a very historic city.

M: Sounds perfect! I can't wait!

Dialogue 2:

W: Hi, Jack. Welcome back. How was your vacation?

M: I had a great time. I went to Montreal and Ottawa.

W: How did you like them?

M: I think Ottawa is very pretty. It has lovely views.

W: And what's Montreal like?

M: It's a fascinating city. There are lots of large shopping malls and the stores there are not too expensive.

M: It sounds wonderful. I'll go there sometime.

Question 1:

Why did you decide to go to Bangkok finally?

Question 2:

I'll put you on the list.

Question 3:

The architecture in Bangkok is really fascinating, don't you think?

Question 4:

I'd like to visit Phuket, the biggest island of Thailand next year.

Question 5:

You'll want your phone number on the ads, right?

Question 6:

I'm glad you like your stay in Shanghai.

Question 7:

Without your help I couldn't have done the job so quickly.

Question 8:

Life is what you make it, so try to make it beautiful.

Part B

Camp David

Situated in Catcotin Mountain in Maryland, Camp David has been a holiday retreat for American presidents since the 1940s.

It has an office for the president and living areas for his family and guests. It includes a swimming pool and areas to play golf and other sports. No one is permitted to enter Camp David except people invited by the president. Armed guards from the U.S. Marine Corps provide security.

President Franklin Roosevelt established the camp in 1942. He wanted a place where he could go to escape the summer heat of Washington. He chose this area in the mountains because it was cool in the summers and the high location made it safe. He called it Shangri-la, the name of a perfect mountain kingdom in a popular book.

President Truman made the camp the official presidential holiday resort in 1945. Eight years later, President Eisenhower changed its name to Camp David for his grandson David Eisenhower.

Several presidents have used Camp David for important meetings. President Roosevelt met there with British Prime Minister Winston Churchill during World War Two.

President Eisenhower in 1959 and President Carter in 1978 also used the place for talks with leaders of other countries. In July 2000, Israeli and Palestinian leaders also met at Camp David for peace talks.

Questions:

1. Which of the following hasn't /haven't been mentioned?

2. Which of the following is/are not true about Camp David?

Part C

Switzerland

Switzerland is a land well-known for its beautiful landscape. When people think of Switzerland they often think of mountains and mountain scenery.

But Switzerland is more than just a land of mountains. It is a country of highly intelligent and hardworking people.

The Swiss are able to produce goods that do not need huge amounts of raw materials. Most of the raw materials used in their industries are imported from other countries. As Switzerland has no sea coast, it has to pay heavily for imported raw materials which have to be sent over long distances.

For this reason the Swiss are interested only in producing precision products like watches, cameras, and other types of goods which make use of their skill and craftsmanship. The well-known Swiss watch industry is a good example of this. Small amounts of raw materials are used but a great deal of skill and precision is needed to produce a little item with so many minute parts.

Statements:

1. Switzerland is well-known for its popular mountain resorts and beautiful landscape.

2. Switzerland is also a country rich in minerals and other natural resources.

3. The Swiss have hopes of developing the biggest air and water transportations.

4. The Swiss camera and watch industry calls for skill and precision.

5. The Swiss are by nature interested in sports, especially winter sports.

Unit 11

Part A

Dialogue:

A: Linda, I want to buy Bob a pet for his birthday. What shall I give him? Could you give me some suggestions?

B: Why don't you buy him a dog? Dogs are so friendly.

A: Yes, I know. But Bob has got a dog.

B: How about a rabbit? Rabbits are lovely.

A: But Bob doesn't like rabbits.

B: Have you thought about buying him a bird?

A: He hates birds.

B: Then you can buy him some tropical fish. They are pretty.

A: That's a good idea. Where can I get them?

B: The market. Shall we go right now?

A: All right.

Dialogue 1:

M: How often do you read China Daily?

W: I seldom read it. I read it only once a week.

Q: How often?

Dialogue 2:

W: Do you play tennis very often?

M: Not very. About twice a week.

Q: How often?

Dialogue 3:

M: Do you often visit your grandparents?

W: I usually see them once a month.

Q: How often?

Dialogue 4:

W: How often do you listen to English broadcasts?

M: Quite often. I listen every other day, I guess.

Q: How often?

Dialogue 5:

M: Does Jenny work in the lab very often?

W: Four nights a week.

Q: How often?

Dialogue 6:

W: Do you watch sports programs on Saturday nights?

M: No. I enjoy going dancing and meeting friends at weekends.

Q: How often?

Part B

Dog Ma

Washington D.C. is a city where people in politics, law and business work more than eight hours each day. Hundreds of thousands of dog owners hate to leave their dogs alone every work day. So they take their furry friends to dog day-care centers in the Washington area. There the dogs play with other dogs and the workers. They also play with toys and they can rest in soft places.

Rebecca was a successful high level official at a big company but she did not find her job very satisfying. Her working hours kept getting longer and longer. She felt very guilty about leaving her two dogs inside the house for long periods of time. She knew she was not the only dog owner in Washington in this situation. She felt other people would be interested in a day-care center for dogs. So in 1998 Rebecca left her company and opened Dog Ma. It is near the United States Capitol Building. Since then the business has grown to include one part-time and four full-time workers. One worker lives at the center.

On a normal day, about 30 dogs are at the center. About 25% of them are younger than one year old. An average day at Dog Ma costs a dog owner about 25 dollars.

Dog Ma also offers extra services. Dogs can stay overnight when their owners go out of town. Owners can pay to have their dogs washed and their fur and nails cut. The center also offers dog training and even transportation to and from the center. That is a big help for those dog owners who do not drive.

Questions:

1. What is Dog Ma?

2. What can you learn from the passage?

Part C

The Missing Cat and the Injured Dog

Animals, especially cats and dogs, are often kept as pets and they can be very good friends of humans. Here are two true stories about a cat and a dog.

At Jesus College, Cambridge University, concerns are growing for the safety of a pet cat which has gone missing.

Students and lecturers of the college have not seen college cat Benson for three weeks. The 600 students at the college have been asked to search their rooms and keep an eye open for him. The grey and white cat has become an institution at the college. He is officially a member of the college, an honour which includes dining rights. He is well known for wandering in and interrupting tutorials.

A spokesman for the college says appeals for help in tracing Benson have not produced any information. He urges anyone who might see the cat to contact the college.

In Lexington, Kentucky, a dog, named Jo Jo, was hit by a car. His master Steve Ford searched frantically for him but Jo Jo was nowhere to be found. Ford called the local animal hospital to tell them that Jo Jo had been injured and that he was going to bring him in if he could find him. That's when he found out Jo Jo was already there.

"He just checked himself in, I guess," Ford said.

After the accident, Jo Jo apparently ran about a mile from Ford's home to the animal hospital. He suffered bruises but no broken bones. Questions:

1. Why is the cat missed by a host of people?

2. How long has the cat been missing?

3. Where was the dog when his master contacted the animal hospital?

4. How seriously was the dog injured?

5. What is the main idea of the two stories?

Unit 12

Part A

Dialogue

A: Good afternoon. May I help you?

B: Can you change some money for me, please?

A: Certainly. What currency do you want to change?

B: Here it is: some Hong Kong dollars, American dollars and Japanese yen. How much wilthey be in English pounds?

A: Just a moment. Let me find out the exchange rates.

B: Thank you.

A: Here we are. That'll be 456 pounds all together. How would you like the money?

B: I'd like to open an account. I want to deposit the money in it.

A: A deposit or current account?

B: current account, please.

A: If you could just complete this form, we'll be happy to arrange that for you.

B: Thank you.

Questions:

1. Which of the following things did the man not do in the bank?

2. Which of the following currencies is not mentioned in the dialogue?

Statement 1:

Nowadays there are more and more ways of going on holiday.

Statement 2:

Some people would be interested in a dog care centre.

Statement 3:

An average day at Dog Ma costs a dog owner about 25 dollars.

Statement 4:

Fred had had many jobs over the years but only for a few weeks at a time.

Statement 5:

Small talk is easy, isn't it?

Statement 6:

You need to fill in a form so we can get you a new card.

Statement 7:

When I put my card in, the machine ate it.

Part B

At the Bank

Customer 1: Boy, it's busy today.

Customer 2: I wish that guy up there would hurry up. He sure is taking a long time.

A: Huh? That's strange. Why did that happen?

Bank clerk: Excuse me, sir, is there a problem?

A: Well, yes, I don't really understand it. When I put my card in, the machine ate it.

Bank clerk: Ate it? You mean it didn't give it back?

A: Yes, that's right. It kept it.

Bank clerk: Did you press the withdrawal button and the amount you want?

A: Yes.

Bank clerk: How about your secret code? Did you enter your number?

A: Well... come to think of it, it did ask me three times to enter my code.

Bank clerk: Are you sure you entered your correct number?

A: Hmm, I think so, but maybe I made a mistake.

Bank clerk: I see. Well, you probably entered the wrong number. When a machine receives a wrong number three times it automatically keeps the card.

A: Oh, I didn't know that. So how do I get another card?

Bank clerk: That's no problem... first you need to fill in a form so we can get you a new one. Could you come over to the counter?

A: Very sorry about that. (To the other customers) Sorry to keep you waiting.

Bank clerk: OK, please fill this in with your account number and today's date. Then we can issue you a new card. You'll get it in about a week.

A: OK, thanks very much, and I'm sorry for the trouble.

Bank clerk: Not at all, sir. And when you receive your new card, it's a good idea to memorize the number or make a note of it somewhere. A: Right, I'll do that.

Questions:

1. Who were heard speaking?

2. Which of the following is true?

3. What is the main idea of the conversation?

Part C

Opening a Checking Account

Liu is a new student at the university. He is now at the university branch of First National City Bank of Statesville.

Teller: May I help you?

Liu: I'd like to open an account.

Teller: Checking or savings?

Liu: I want to write checks.

Teller: Then you need a checking account. How much do you want to deposit?

Liu: Will $500 be enough?

Teller: You can deposit any amount you wish.

Liu: All right. I'll deposit $500.

Teller: Fine. Now if you wouldn't mind filling out this signature card and application form.

Liu: I also need some checks.

Teller: We'll send them to you in about two weeks. They'll have your name and account number on them.

Liu: OK. Here is the signature card, the form and the $500. Do I get any interest on my money?

Teller: No. You have to open a savings account for that.

Liu: How much do I have to deposit for a savings account?

Tellers: $50 at least.

Liu: I see. Thank you very much.

Teller: You're welcome.

Questions:

1. The new student has got a savings account with the bank.

2. He has to deposit $500 if he wants to open a checking account.

3. To open a savings account, he needs to make a minimum deposit of $50.

4. The student will receive his checks in about a couple of weeks.

5. He is told to put his name and account number on the signature card.

Unit 13

Part A

Dialogue

W: Hi, Phil. How did your weekend go?

M: Fine. I went back to visit my hometown.

W: Lucky you. What did you do there?

M: I went for an autumn walk in the hills with some of my cousins.

W: Was it good?

M: Yes, the trees were amazing. The whole hillside was fiery red.

W: How wonderful! Do anything else?

M: We went on a river trip practically the whole day Sunday.

W: Did you like it?

M: Very enjoyable. By the way, Laura, what about your weekend?

W: Don't ask me, Phil.

M: What happened?

W: I came down with the flu. I could do nothing but lie in bed.

M: Oh, dear.

Describing Time

Hello, my name is Barbara Smith. I'm the personnel manager of the Garden Hotel and I'm going to tell you what I did yesterday. I got up at 7:15 and left home for work at 7:55. After a 35 minutes' drive I arrived at my office at about 8:30. The first thing I did was to turn on my computer and check my mail. At 9 sharp work began. I interviewed two candidates in the morning, one at 9:30 and the other at 10:30. At 12:20, I went down to the cafeteria for some lunch. In the afternoon I interviewed two more candidates, one at 2 o'clock and the other at 3:15. At 4 o'clock I attended a staff meeting, which lasted for about three quarters of an hour. By then it was time to go home. The traffic was so bad that it took me more than an hour to get home. It was already 7:30 when I finally sat down to my dinner, completely tired out.

Part B

Larry's Dream

Larry had always wanted to become a movie star. His hopes for success were dashed again and again, however. Hollywood just did not seem interested. But Larry refused to admit that his chances of getting into movies were practically nil. Someday, he told himself, his big opportunity would come.

To keep body and soul together, Larry found a job parking cars for one of Hollywood's big restaurants. The pay was basic but since the guests were quite generous with their tips, he managed to make a living.

One day he recognized an important film director driving into the parking lot and getting out of his car. Larry had recently heard that the man was making a new picture.

Larry got into the car and prepared to drive it on into the lot and park it. Then he stopped, jumped out and ran over to the director. "Excuse me, sir, but I think it's fair to tell you that it's now or never if you want me in your new picture. A lot of big companies are after me."

Fascinated by Larry's abrupt statement, the director stopped. "Yes? Which companies?"

"Well," replied the would-be star, "there's the telephone company, the gas company, and the electric company, to mention only a few." The director laughed, then scribbled something on a card and handed it to the young man. "Come and see me tomorrow."

Larry got a small part in the director's next film. He was on his way!

Questions:

1. What kind of job did Larry do for a big restaurant?

2. Why did the film director laughed at Larry's answers?

3. What does the story mainly tell us?

4. Which of the following statements about Larry can be inferred?

Part C

Jeffrey Zaslow

Jeffrey Zaslow, the advice columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, grew up in suburban Philadelphia. His biggest ambition in life was to be a writer. "I never wanted to be anything else," he says. "I was ten or eleven when I saw Gone with the Wind and I wrote my own Civil War story."

After earning a degree in creative writing at Carnegie Mellon University, he got a job at a newspaper in Orlando, Florida. He made his mark with his article on the rough working conditions endured by the people inside the Mickey and Minnie costumes at Walt Disney World. Later he became a staff writer for the Wall Street Journal.

In 1988, when the famous advice columnist, Ann Landers, quit her job at the Chicago Sun-Times, the paper launched a nationwide contest to find her replacement. Jeffrey Zaslow applied. Among the 12,000 contestants, women outnumbered men nine to one, and most of them had seen a lot more of life than Zaslow, who was 28 and not married. When he reached the semifinals, his editors at the Journal ran a headline: "Why He'll Never Make It." But Jeffrey did make it in the finals.

Today, thirteen years later, his column, "All That Zazz," is read by thousands of readers in the Chicago area. His years in the advice business left him with a deep appreciation for people and their problems. He is also greatly moved by the generosity, sincerity and good nature of his readers. "Wonderful people," he says, "do outnumber terrible people in this world. I have much more faith in my fellowmen than I had before. And I've read plenty of letters to back that up."

Questions:

1. When did Zaslow start writing stories?

2. What can be inferred from the passage?

3. Which is not true according to the passage?

4. How old was Zaslow when his column became popular with readers in Chicago?

5. What is the major benefit Zaslow has got from his years in the advice business?

Unit 14

Part A

Dialogue

Rose: Hi, James. I hear that your birthday is coming soon.

James: Yes. It's next Tuesday.

Rose: I've bought a present for you.

James: What is it? Can you tell me?

Rose: No, it's a surprise. You'll see next Tuesday.

James: Let me guess. What colour is it?

Rose: Um...it's orange.

James: And what about the shape?

Rose: Rectangular.

James: How big is it?

Rose: Oh, about 30 centimetres wide and 2 metres long.

James: Really? Is it heavy?

Rose: Not really.

James: What's it made of?

Rose: It's made of wool.

James: What's it used for?

Rose: To keep warm.

James: Oh, I know! It's a woolen scarf.

Rose: That's it. See you next Tuesday, James. Bye.

1. Betty Li graduated from No. 3 Girls School in Shanghai in the summer of 2000. She enrolled in the Department of Chinese at Northwest University on August 31st, 2000. Betty lives on campus. She lives in Room 420 of No. 1 Residence Hall for students. Her phone number is 52167739. Betty was born on August 19th, 1981. She is interested in writing, painting, and music. She hopes to become

a writer when she finishes college.

2. Mr. Henry David Ross has booked a single room at the Hilton Hotel in Shanghai. He will stay in the hotel for three nights from October 17th to 20th. The room rate is 600 yuan per night. Mr. Ross is going to pay by MasterCard.

Part B

Radio and TV

The most obvious difference between radio and television is that you listen and look at the television, but just listen to the radio. In this way, radio is more imaginative because it forces you to form pictures in your own mind rather than providing you with visual information, which is what television does.

In addition, radio is more flexible than television, since you don't have to be in the same room as the radio set in order to listen to the programmes, but you do have to be in the same room as a television in order to watch it.

A radio is also far more portable than a television. You can listen to the radio while driving in the car, jogging or even just walking around. Although portable televisions do exist, you can't really watch one while you are jogging, for example.

One of the main advantages of radio, however, is that it offers the listener more immediate access to information. Most radio stations broadcast news reports at regular half-hour or hourly intervals, but television news is only broadcast a few times each day. Also, the variety of topics you get on the radio is much greater than that on television.

Radio is more personal than television. Many radio programmes are interactive in a way that television can never be. Listeners can call the radio station they are listening to and express their thoughts and opinions live on air. You can't ring up a television station and express your opinions, can you?

Questions:

1. What is the most obvious difference between radio and television?

2. Why is radio more interactive than television according to the passage?

3. What is the passage mainly about?

4. Which of the following reflects the speaker's attitude?

Part C

The Benson Family's Decision

Have you ever spent a year without a television? A year ago the Benson family decided that they were spending too much time in front of the box. So they got rid of it. And they have been living without a television for almost a year now. How have they been spending their free time then?

"We found it very hard for the first few weeks," says Mrs. Benson. "We didn't know what to do with our free time. But since then it's been fine. We've done so many things that we hadn't done for such a long time. Last year, for example, we didn't go out to the cinema or the theater once, but this year we've seen at least a dozen films and plays. And I've even joined the local drama society."

Mr. Benson has taken up tennis. Daughter Emily has been learning to play the piano and son Mark has been going to judo classes. And they've all read more books. Mark said, "This year I've read about ten novels and five or six other books, too."

So, haven't they missed the box at all? Emily says she has had a few problems: "I don't like it when I go to school and all the kids are talking about a programme that they've seen. Actually, I've just been watching a program at my friend's house."

Nevertheless, according to Mr. Benson, "We've all started doing so many interesting things that we wouldn't have time to watch TV now."

Statements:

1. The Benson family has got more free time since they got rid of their television set.

2. Emily still doesn't want to miss seeing an interesting program on television.

3. After Rob sold the television set, his children adapted quickly to the change of life.

4. According to the passage, watching television is how most kids spend their free time.

5. Mrs. Benson thinks she can find pleasure in playing the piano and going to the drama society.

6. Mr. Benson now finds pleasure in playing tennis and reading.

Unit 15

Part A

Dialogues

1.

－Do you think we should put an ad in the newspaper to sell our apartment?

－Sure, why not?

2.

－Campus Daily isn't very interesting this week.

－You can say that again.

3.

－I hear putting an ad in a newspaper costs a lot of money.

－It depends.

4.

－In my opinion watching so many TV ads is a waste of time.

－I couldn't agree with you less.

5.

－You don't care for commercials on TV, do you?

－I'll say I don't.

6.

－Didn't you think the movie we saw last night was fascinating?

－I wouldn't say that.

7.

－There'll be a football match between England and France on Channel 10 tonight.

－Are you absolutely sure?

8.

－The design of the movie ads appeals to me very much.

－You said it.

Part B

Placing an Ad

(Ring... Ring... Sound of phone being picked up)

John: Hello, Campus Daily, advertising department. This is John speaking.

Maggie: Hi, I'm calling to place a couple of ads.

John: Sure. Under what classification?

Maggie: Well, I'd like one in the "Roommates Wanted" section.

John: All right. And how would you like your ad to read?

Maggie: It should read "Female roommate wanted for pleasant, sunny two-bedroom apartment on Fifth Avenue, three blocks from campus. Share rent and utilities. Available September first. Call between 5 and 9 p.m. and ask for Maggie."

John: Fine. And what about your other ad?

Maggie: That one I'd like under "Merchandise for Sale", and I'd like it to read "Matching blue sofa and easy chair for sale, excellent condition, $350 or best offer. Call between 5 and 9 p.m. and ask for Maggie." Did you get all that?

John: Uh Huh. You'll want your phone number on these, right?

Maggie: Oh sure. Thanks for reminding me. It's 555-6792.

John: And how long do you want these ads to run?

Maggie: For a week, I guess. How much would that be?

John: Let's see -- it's $8 a week per line. Your two ads will both take up three lines, so that's $24 per ad.

Maggie: All right.

Questions:

1. Who are the two speakers in the telephone conversation?

2. What is Maggie doing in the conversation?

3. What can you infer about Maggie?