Listening Exercises B1 – Opinions

1.

I think it’s a great way for people to develop pride in their country. It can make people feel good about themselves and their team, and I think that’s a very positive thing.

2.

Well, the problem with it is that it doesn’t help develop a country. It brings in a lot of money, sure, but the money stays in the hands of a very small group of people.

3.

I don’t mind them, because many of them are really very entertaining. Also, you get to know what new things are available.

4.

I can’t see anything useful in it. It’s just a huge waste of money. I mean, can you see any point in trying to find out if there’s life out there?

5.

Well, if anyone is crazy enough to try it, let them. Who in their right mind would want to jump off a high bridge with just a rope tied around their legs?

6.

Well, they are great company, especially for people who live alone. Having one helps you relax, and I read somewhere that it can even lower your blood pressure.

1.

A:   Well, space exploration is pretty expensive, but I think it’s worth it.

B:   Why is that?

A:   Well, that’s how we learn more about the universe we live in. That’s pretty important, isn’t it?

2.

A:   There are way too many commercials on TV these days. They really make me mad.

B:   Oh yeah? Why’s that?

A:   Because they always interrupt my favorite TV programs. Some of those commercials are really long!

3.

A:   I think the Olympic Games are great. I can’t wait for the next ones.

B:   Really? Why?

A:   Well, they encourage an interest in sports. They also help bring about better international understanding. We need more of that.

4.

A:   Every city needs lotteries, I think.

B:   Why do you think that?

A:   Well, because they can raise money for the city. They’re a much better way of raising money than taxes.

5.

A:   Well, action movies might be fun, but I don’t think they are really good for young people.

B:   Really? Why do you say that?

A:   Because they are way too violent. I never let my kids watch them.

6.

A:   If you ask me, people in this city shouldn’t be allowed to have those big dogs.

B:   How come?

A:   Because most apartments are too small for a big dos. They don’t have anywhere to play.

1.

A:   I think more attention should be given to studying foreign languages at school. Don’t you?

B:   Sure. Absolutely. I think students should be required to learn Spanish. It’s easy to learn, and it will help them get better jobs.

2.

A:   I think lawyers have the best jobs in the world. What do you think?

B:   I’m not sure I agree. It’s true that lawyers make a lot of money, but they also have to work really hard.

3.

A:   The programs on TV these days are the worst. Even with 100 channels to choose from, everything is terrible.

B:   You’re right about that. I think it’s because most TV programs are written for teenagers. There’s nothing for older people to enjoy.

4.

A:   Have you used the bus lately? It’s awful!

B:   I know. The last time I took the bus, I had to wait for an hour for it to come. And the driver was really rude!

5.

A:   Do you ever use the Internet to buy things? I’ve started using it lately, and I love it. How about you?

B:   Well, I don’t know. I’d rather shop at stores. Shopping on the Internet is fast, but I like to try things on before I buy them.

6.

A:   I’m telling you, this rainy weather is driving me crazy. I hate it!

B:   I understand how you feel, but I’m actually glad it’s finally been raining recently. You see, it’s really good for my garden.

1 d   2 c   3 e   4 b   5 a

Transcript

1.

A:   I think kids have too much homework. In fact, I think students shouldn’t have any homework at all.

B:   None at all?

A:   Yes, then they can do more interesting things after school.

2.

A:   Did you hear about the garden that the junior high students are working on?

B:   No, what are they growing?

A:   They’re planting vegetables. I think it’s important for all kids to plant vegetable gardens at school.

B:   Why is that?

A:   Because they should learn where their food comes from.

3.

A:   Kids have so many tests these days. There are entrance examinations for college, high school, even junior high school! It’s too much.

B:   Yeah. And those tests can be really unfair, too.

A:   I agree. Some people are naturally good at taking tests, and others aren’t.

4.

A:   So many high school kids have part-time jobs after school. I think that’s a real problem.

B:   Oh, I don’t know. I think part-time jobs are good. They teach students about the real world.

5.

A:   So many public schools don’t have enough money.

B:   It’s true. The government needs to give money to our public schools. All children should get a good education.

Don’t agree: 1, 3, 4

Agree: 2, 5

Transcript

1.

A:   I just heard that Brittany Barr will make 22 million dollars on her next movie. That’s ridiculous. Don’t you think movie stars should make less money?

B:   Well, that is a lot of money, but I think she deserves it. Movie stars work really hard, you know.

2.

A:   I think kids watch way too much television these days. What do you think?

B:   I totally agree. Parents should make their children read more books and watch less TV.

3.

A:   Being a teacher is hard work, isn’t it? Sometimes they have to stay up all night checking their students’ homework.

B:   Yeah, but then they have those long holiday vacations. That sounds pretty easy to me!

4.

A:   How do you feel about violence on TV?

B:   I think it’s okay if it’s only in movies that are shown late at night. Right?

A:   Well, I don’t know. I think violent movies should never be on TV.

5.

A:   Did you hear about this fantastic new TV-computer system that automatically deletes all the commercials?

B:   Yeah, it sounds terrific.

A:   I know. Now you don’t have to waste your time watching all those ads.