B1 Preliminary (PET) Listening Test 1 with answers (new format)

Instructions for Part One

The speaker provides instructions for Part One of the activity, which involves choosing the correct answers to questions.

Question 1: Travel to City Center

• The man suggests taking a taxi to the city center, especially with luggage.

• The woman recommends using the underground as it is faster than a taxi.

• They discuss alternative transportation options like buses.

Question 2: Dislikes at Hostel

• The girl mentions not having mosquito nets in beds at the hostel.

• She talks about getting bitten by mosquitoes every night and hearing monkeys on the roof in the morning.

Question 3: Lunch Order

• The man considers ordering salmon for lunch.

• The woman teases him for always choosing fish and opts for pizza instead.

• They briefly discuss other menu options like curry.

Question 4: New Sport Interest

• The woman plans to try badminton as a new sport.

• She mentions classes starting at the sports center near the golf course.

• Invites someone to join her in trying out new sports classes.

Question 5: Book Discussion

• The man is reading a novel by his favorite writer based on flying experiences around the world.

• Talks about an upcoming book by the same author involving an astronaut stranded on the moon.

Question 6: Weekend Plans

How Much is the Latest Smartphone?

The speaker discusses the pricing of the latest smartphone at ABC's phone store, highlighting various offers and prices for different models.

Pricing Details

• The latest smartphone at ABC's phone store is priced at 599 pounds this week, with features like a great camera and large memory.

• Last year's model is available for 499 pounds if the current prices are too high.

• Emphasizes that customers should act quickly as stock may run out soon.

Choosing a Gift for Cousin Lucy

A brother and sister discuss potential gift ideas for their cousin Lucy's birthday, considering practicality and preferences.

Gift Selection Discussion

• Brother suggests a microwave as a gift due to Lucy moving into a new apartment.

• Sister raises concerns about buying a microwave due to its weight and cost implications.

• Brother acknowledges the challenges but emphasizes ordering online promptly to secure the item.

Holiday Travel Plans

Two colleagues share their upcoming holiday travel plans, discussing destinations and modes of transportation.

Holiday Plans Discussion

• One colleague mentions going to Greece while the other plans a trip to the coast of Ireland by car and ferry.

• Discussion on travel preferences, with one colleague preferring driving for ease of movement at the destination.

• Consideration of flight options for quicker travel versus driving for flexibility during the vacation.

Health Update and Fitness Training

A man informs his friend about health issues affecting his participation in fitness training sessions.

Health Update Conversation

• Man explains missing fitness training due to recovering from a cold and preparing for foot surgery.

• Mention of upcoming foot operation but reassures quick return to fitness activities post-surgery.

• Friend expresses concern and well wishes regarding health issues before parting ways.

Discussion on Theater Experience

Two friends share contrasting opinions on a play they watched, focusing on acting performances and overall enjoyment.

Theater Play Review

• Friends reflect on different aspects of the play such as predictability in plot development and quality of acting performances.

• Differing views on actor performances versus costume design impact their theater experience.

A Walk in the Countryside

This section provides information about a guided walk in the countryside, detailing the route, points of interest, and practical considerations for participants.

Route Details and Cautions

• The walk offers two possible routes, with one taking four hours and the other five, chosen for its fewer hills.

• Participants are advised on the ease of the route with some steps to climb but no slipping risks due to dry weather.

• Caution is given regarding bikes on the path while cars pose no issue as public roads are avoided.

Points of Interest and Breaks

• Lunch arrangements are highlighted due to the closure of a cafe; a picturesque spot by a lake is selected for dining.

• Participants are informed about wildlife sightings including butterflies and hidden frogs along the forest trail.

Interview with Poet Laura Dixon

An interview with poet Laura Dixon discussing her journey into poetry, career choices, and thematic inspirations for her work.

Poetry Journey and Career Path

• Laura Dixon attributes her interest in poetry to her father's literary influence at home.

• Transitioning into a professional poet began with journalism classes leading to competition success.

Thematic Focus in Poetry

• Dixon's latest book shifts focus from architecture to personal connections, diverging from initial environmental themes.

Poetry and Teaching

In this section, Laura Dixon discusses her passion for poetry, the challenges of teaching it at a university, and her plans for the future.

Laura's Passion for Poetry

• Laura appreciates the intricacy of old poetry compared to modern works.

• She finds writing older poems required more skill.

Teaching Poetry at University

• Laura is enjoying teaching poetry at a university.

• Acknowledges uncertainty about students' learning progress.

Future Plans and Writing

Laura discusses her upcoming participation in a poetry festival, turning poems into songs, and her creative process.

Participation in Poetry Festival

• Invited to read her work at an upcoming poetry festival.

Turning Poems into Songs

• Considering transforming previous work into songs.

Creative Process

• Views hip hop and rap as forms of poetic expression with music.

Interest in Poetry and Career Path

Laura shares insights on her journey from childhood exposure to poetry to becoming a professional poet.

Childhood Exposure to Poetry

• Grew up surrounded by poetry books due to father's love for literature.

Transition to Professional Poet

• Started with journalism classes leading to entering a poetry competition.

Themes in Recent Work

Laura delves into the themes of her recent book of poems focusing on personal connections rather than environmental issues.

Themes in Recent Book

• Shifted focus from global warming to personal relationships in recent work.

Reflection on Teaching and Future Plans

Laura reflects on teaching old vs. modern poetry styles and shares future aspirations related to a poetry festival.

Comparison of Old vs. Modern Poetry Styles

• Appreciates the craftsmanship of old poems despite stylistic differences.

Future Aspirations

• Planning participation in a poetry festival and considering songwriting based on existing work.