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Practice Test 1 4. Track 4 00:51

M: Have you seen Phantom of the Opera, Melissa?

1. Track 1 01:22
W: No, but I’ve always wanted to. Why?
W: Hi, Josh. How are you? Are you shopping alone? M: I was planning on seeing it this weekend. Would
M: Actually, I’m here with my cousin Kimberly. Have you like to join me?
you met her? W: Sure, when is the performance?
W: No, where is she? M: Well, there’s one at 7 p.m. on Saturday and another
M: She’s standing over there next to the produce on Sunday at 2 p.m.
section. W: The Sunday performance would be best for me.
W: Is she the one with the long, red hair and the basket How much are the tickets?
of fruit and vegetables? M: Actually, I won tickets on the radio this morning.
M: No, she’s the one with the shopping cart. They are worth $20 each.
W: But there are two women with shopping carts. Is W: Wow, that’s cool. Would you like to meet at the
she the one with long, straight, black hair? theater?
M: No, she has short, brown hair. M: Sure. Let’s meet at half past one, and maybe we
W: Oh, OK. I think I see her. She’s wearing a white shirt can have dinner after?
and green jeans, right? W: Sounds great! I can’t thank you enough for inviting
M: Yeah, that’s her. Come on, I’ll introduce you to her. me.
M: It’s my pleasure.
2. Track 2 00:54

W: Hurry, Mark. The line is getting longer. 5. Track 5 01:02

M: Wow, that line is too long. I’m not standing in it. W: So, you’re remodeling your kitchen?
Let’s just go to the video arcade instead. M: Yeah, I met with the builder this past Thursday.
W: I know it’s always overcrowded here, but I really W: How exciting! You must be thrilled.
want to go again. Please? M: I am. The work should begin on Monday.
M: No, I’m already soaking wet. W: How long until the project is finished?
W: I know, isn’t it great? The log ride is my favorite! M: The builder thought he would be finished by
M: I think we should eat lunch. I’m hungry. Wednesday, but since some of the materials won’t
W: I guess we can eat lunch, but afterward, can we arrive until later and there are many problems with
ride again? the plumbing, the project won’t be finished until
M: No, I want to ride something different. I don’t care Friday.
for the log ride. W: I hope you don’t mind my asking, but how much is
W: OK, what? it going to cost?
M: Let’s ride the roller coaster! I heard it’s the fastest in M: I received a really great deal! It is only going to be
the world. Then after that, I want to ride on the $2,000 plus materials.
bumper cars. W: How much will the materials cost?
W: All right, that sounds like fun. M: Less than I expected! The materials are only going
to cost $500.
W: Hey, spill the beans! How did you get such a great
3. Track 3 00:45
price?
M: Hello, are you ready to order your dinner yet?
M: My brother-in-law is an architect. He asked his
W: Yes, but I am in such a hurry.
friend to give me a discount.
M: OK, what would you like?
W: A steak cooked medium rare. What does that come
with on the side? 6. Track 6 01:00

M: The meal comes with mashed potatoes and a salad. M: I’m glad that’s over.
Is that OK? W: I know. I’ve been stressed out about this test for
W: No, I don’t like potatoes. Can I have rice instead? two weeks.
M: Sure. Would you like something to drink with your M: So, how did you do? You’re always a diligent student.
meal? I’m sure you did fine.
W: Yes, I would like to have lemonade, please. W: I did all right, but I’m exhausted. I haven’t slept the
M: Anything else for you? past couple of nights because I was studying until
W: No, thank you. Do you know how long it will take? dawn. What about you?
M: Yes. Your meal will be served in about twenty M: I did well, actually, which was a surprise. I only studied
minutes. for a couple of hours yesterday.

Transcripts 1
 W: What? You mean you got a better grade than me,
10. Track 10 00:56
and you only started to study yesterday?
M: Every weekend is the same monotonous routine,
M: Like I said, I was pretty shocked. I guess I got lucky
where I wake up, get dressed, have breakfast, brush
and studied the right information.
my teeth, and do my homework. After that, I’m
W: Yeah, it was luck. You never have to work at
usually just a couch potato and watch a movie on
anything. It’s so annoying.
television. But this Saturday, everything is going to
M: I thought you’d be happy for me.
be different because I will be meeting the best band
W: Maybe I’m being selfish, but I’m tired of working so
in the world. When I got the call telling me that I
hard while you do whatever you want and get the
won dinner with my favorite band, I was so totally
same results.
thrilled that I couldn’t stop screaming and jumping
up and down. I’m on the edge of my seat, and I
7. Track 7 00:53
still haven’t really felt relaxed. I can’t wait for the
M: When I first arrived, the concert hall was empty, and I next three days to pass so I can see what the band
really enjoyed having time by myself in the auditorium. members are really like. I’m very optimistic that this
After the audience took their seats and I walked will be one of the best experiences of my life.
onto the stage, I got a little nervous. However, once
the performance was underway, I became quite
11. Track 11 00:50
calm and really began to play well.
W: ⓐ The most precipitation was in August.
W: I thought you played beautifully, and as I watched
ⓑ September had less precipitation than July.
the performance, I was in awe of the skill and
ⓒ Precipitation decreased from June to July.
passion exhibited. It was evident that the orchestra
ⓓ June had the least amount of precipitation.
practices and works very well together. The concert
ⓔ Precipitation in July was higher than in September.
hall was sold out this evening, so I’m happy the
newspaper provided my tickets. I can’t wait to
12. Track 12 00:54
write about the performance.
M: I heard you are planning to book a flight to South
America. When do you leave?
8. Track 8 00:49
W: I leave on the morning of Tuesday the nineteenth.
M: Good morning, New York. I’m Phil Fontaine with
M: Where are you going?
your weather forecast for the rest of the week.
W: I’ll be in Costa Rica on a guided tour for the first
Today should be a beautiful day with plenty of
three days.
sunshine, very little cloud cover, and highs in the
M: Then what? I’ve always wanted to go to Panama,
mid-seventies. But don’t get too excited. A cold
are you going there?
front will be moving in overnight, leaving us with
W: I leave for Belize on the twenty-second. I’m planning
cold temperatures and a chance of rain tomorrow.
on lying on the beach for a while.
I expect this front to stay around for quite a while,
M: How long are you staying there?
leaving us with a couple of days of rainy weather.
W: Four days. Then, I’m going to Guatemala on the
By Sunday, the rain should be gone, but it will
twenty-sixth and Mexico on the twenty-seventh.
remain cloudy, so get out there, and enjoy today’s
M: Wow, it sounds like you have a really exotic trip
sunshine! It may be the most we’ll have for a few
planned. When do you come home?
days.
W: The twenty-ninth. I can’t wait!
M: I strongly recommend you don’t forget your
9. Track 9 00:55
sunscreen.
W: This fruit originated in China and was first named the
Chinese gooseberry. In the mid-20th century, the
13. Track 13 01:00
fruit began to be widely marketed, which led it to be
W: Throughout history, humans have always needed
renamed the melonette. Now, most people know it
energy. Energy is essential to support life on Earth,
by the name of New Zealand’s national bird. This fruit
and over time, humans have discovered different
has steadily grown in popularity over the years.
ways to create and use it. The sun is the Earth’s
Although eating the fuzzy, brown skin on the outside
most powerful source of energy. Although this star
of the fruit is perfectly safe, most people throw it
is billions of miles away, humans can use its heat
away after scooping out and eating the tart, green
and light to power the things they need. This
flesh and rows of black seeds. Other people prefer to
source of energy is actually losing power every day,
simply peel off the brown skin and slice or chop the
but we don’t notice. In fact, it’s so powerful that in
green flesh into smaller pieces for a fruit salsa.
a single second it gives off more energy than

2 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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humans have ever been able to obtain from gas W: OK, let’s do that. But first, can I use your phone?
and coal. In conclusion, governments should be I want to call my mom and tell her I’m going to be
wise to spend more money on the development of late tonight.
solar energy. M: Certainly. Here you go.
W: Thank you!
14. Track 14 01:02

W: Once, a young boy found a guitar and began to play 17. Track 17 00:46

it all the time. He was very good at playing it, but the M: Hi, I’d like to order a sandwich and some chips,
instrument made a horrible noise because it was please.
worn and out of tune. One day, the boy’s family W: OK. What kind of sandwich would you like?
decided to buy him a new guitar and took the old M: Hmm…I think a ham sandwich sounds really good.
guitar from his room while he was at school. W: I’m sorry, we’re out of ham at the moment. But we
However, the boy became furious when he saw have a turkey sandwich that is delicious.
that his guitar was missing and assumed his older M: I guess I’ll have that. It has cheese on it, right?
brother took it because he didn’t like the sound it W: Yeah, and mayonnaise. What else would you like
made. Consequently, he broke one of his brother's on it?
CDs to get back at him. When the young boy M: I don’t like mayonnaise, but how about some olives?
learned the truth about the guitar, he felt ashamed W: All right. Do you want lettuce, too?
about what he had done, but it was too late. His M: Yes, please, and pickles, but can you put them on
parents decided that he should not have the new the side?
guitar and returned it to the store. W: OK, no problem. I’ll get that for you right away.

15. Track 15 00:56 18. Track 18 00:50

ⓐ M: Are you coming to the school prom on Friday? W: Hey, Jeremy, are you coming to my birthday party
W: Yep, I’ll be there at 8. But I haven’t decided yet next Saturday?
which dress I’m going to wear. M: Yeah, have you decided on a place to have it?
ⓑ M: Did you like the rock concert? W: It’s going to be at the park since the weather forecast
W: Honestly, I didn’t. The seats were terrible, and it says it’s going to be a sunny day.
was too loud. M: OK, what time does it start?
ⓒ M: Can you stir the pasta and heat it up in the W: It starts at 12 p.m., but can you come a little early?
microwave? M: Sure, do you need help decorating or cooking?
W: Sure, for how long? W: No, I need help unloading things from my car and
ⓓ M: I heard you and your family have plans to move taking them into the park.
to Alaska. M: OK, I’d be happy to help.
W: Yeah, I’ve been trying to move it all week. W: Great! Can you be there at 11:45?
ⓔ M: How much is the red turtleneck sweater you M: Of course. Do you need me to bring anything?
have on display in your store window? W: Only my birthday present!
W: It’s on sale this week for $20. M: Ha ha, ha, OK. See you at a quarter to twelve.

16. Track 16 00:50 19. Track 19 00:55

M: Hey, Beth. Do you want to go to the school play M: Are you still trying to decide on a college major?
later? W: Yeah, I’m getting really worried. It’s one of the
W: Sure, that sounds fun. I’d like to change my clothes, most difficult decisions I’ve had to make.
though. M: Don’t be. It’s a difficult decision for everyone.
M: OK. You’re just going to the girls' locker room, W: I guess so. I just can’t decide on a specific area to
right? I can wait for you. study.
W: That’s very nice of you. Yeah, it should only take me M: Oh, I understand. I was in the same situation.
a few minutes. W: Really? How did you choose?
M: When you get back, we should get something to M: I thought about what I liked doing the most. If you
eat before going to the theater. like what you are doing, then it won’t feel like
W: Sounds good. How long is the play? work.
M: About two hours, I think. Why don’t we just meet W: But I like so many things. How did you decide on
at the pizzeria in about thirty minutes? just one?

Transcripts 3
 M: Actually, I didn’t. I chose to have a double major. final destination where we expect to encounter some
You could do that. high winds above New York City. As a result of the
W: Hmm…maybe. I’ll think about that. weather, we will be arriving about forty minutes past
M: OK, just remember that you can always change our scheduled arrival time of 7:10. I will be back later
your mind. to give you more information on the progress of our
flight, but for now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the
20. Track 20 00:57 ride.
W: Jeremy, what book are you writing your report on?
M: I don’t know. I haven’t decided yet. 23. Track 23 01:18

W: Don’t you have any ideas? W: In today’s society, diamonds are often regarded
M: Nope. I’m planning on going to the library later this as symbols of true love to be treasured. But
week. throughout history, diamonds have meant many
W: The report is due really soon. Don’t you think you different things. An example of this is how the
should go to the library today? Romans used to believe diamonds were tools to
M: Maybe, but I really wanted to go to the miniature fight off evil spirits. Other cultures used them as
golf course this afternoon. charms that had magical powers to affect people’s
W: May I make a suggestion? If I were in your shoes, I feelings and actions. The beauty of the stone
would start on the project today. Otherwise, you combined with its strength and rarity has made
won’t have enough time to finish it. diamonds cherished through the ages. However,
M: That’s a good point. I’ll make sure I don’t choose a the first record of giving a diamond ring was not
long book. until the 15th century, when the Archduke of
W: The book isn’t the only thing. The paper isn’t going Austria presented one to Mary of Burgundy.
to be very easy to write, either. Then, diamonds became symbols of everlasting
M: You’re right. I got in trouble for not completing my love when two people get married. They are also
project on time last semester. I’ll go to the library popular gifts for wedding anniversaries. Nowadays,
after school. this custom still remains common, especially in
western cultures. So, the next time a case full of
21. Track 21 00:56 diamond rings, earrings, or bracelets comes into
M: Hello, my name is Jason Sanders, and I am calling on view, remember _____________________________.
behalf of the Urban Teachers Credit Union. I want to
inform you about a new rewards program we are 24. Track 24 01:03

using to give benefits to our most loyal customers. M: Hello, my name is Officer Brady, and I will be your
I think you’ll find that just by using your credit card driver’s education teacher today. The topic we will
when making purchases, you can earn points that discuss is the dangers of drunk driving. Each year,
will give you discounts at restaurants, hotels, and hundreds of people are arrested for driving while
entertainment venues such as bowling alleys, water being under the influence of alcohol. Sometimes
parks, and the aquarium. All you have to do is sign police officers are able to pull over a vehicle before
up for the program, and your membership benefits the drunk driver can hurt himself or others.
start immediately. If you could please call me at 432- However, over 50 percent of all car accidents we see
555-9456, I would greatly appreciate it. I can be annually are caused by a person who had gotten
reached Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 behind the wheel after drinking. I personally lost a
p.m. Have a great day, and I look forward to hearing friend who was hit by a drunk driver. It also breaks
from you. my heart to see that so many of those who die in
alcohol-related accidents are under the age of
22. Track 22 01:03 twenty-five. So, please don’t end up as another
W: Good afternoon, everyone. I’m Georgia, your pilot body in the cemetery, and help us decrease the
this afternoon, and I would like to welcome you number of car accident fatalities by not drinking and
aboard flight NW107. We have departed a cloudy Los driving.
Angeles and are well on our way to Las Vegas,
Nevada, where we will be making a short stop in 25. Track 25 01:01

order to pick up a few more passengers. Then, we’ll M: Excuse me, I don’t know my way around here. I’m
be continuing on our way to New York City. We are looking for the nearest bus station, and I can’t find
expecting a smooth flight until we get closer to our it. Can you tell me where it is?

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W: Yes, I can show you on that map you’re holding. M: Cake sounds really good right now, but why are
M: Oh, great! Thank you so much! I have the address, you making one?
but I just can’t figure out where the building is on W: Because it’s Catherine’s birthday tomorrow. I want
this map. to surprise her.
W: Let me show you. OK, so we are here. And see the M: Oh, but I thought Catherine didn’t like cake.
bus station? It is right here. W: Really? I didn’t know that. She never told me.
M: That seems close. Do you think I could walk there? M: Yeah, she always gives me her cake at lunch if it is
W: Sure. Follow this street for three blocks, then turn the dessert of the day in the cafeteria.
left. W: I see. What should I make for her then?
M: Really? Then I’ll be there? M: I know that the one kind of dessert she does like is
W: Almost. The bus station is about four blocks from cookies.
there, on the right. The whole trip should take you W: _______________________
about ten minutes by foot.
M: Great! I think I can find it now. Thank you for your 29. Track 29 00:52
help. M: Excuse me, ma’am. Can I please take your plates?
W: Don’t mention it. W: Yes, please. And would it be possible for you to bring
me a container to take the rest of my meal home?
26. Track 26 00:55 M: Sure, I’ll bring one right away. Did you enjoy
M: Museums around the world are often filled with art everything?
and artifacts spanning thousands of years. W: Yes, it was delicious. It’s better than I expected.
Unfortunately, these museums are sometimes M: You saved room for dessert, right?
regarded as boring or even uninteresting places to W: Maybe I’m pretty full, though. What do you have
visit. But some museums choose to take a different to offer?
approach to learning. There are many interesting M: Well, we have a fantastic triple chocolate cake.
museums like this throughout the world. In I could pack it so you could take it home.
Washington, DC there is a potato museum that W: Oh, I don’t really care for chocolate.
shows various books, toys, and foods related to M: We also have a great lemon cheesecake.
potatoes. In Wisconsin, there is an entire museum W: That does sound good. I don’t want to eat it now,
dedicated to bathroom tissue, and in Tennessee, an but I’ll take it home with me.
entire museum showcases beverage containers. In M: _______________________
brief, museums can be fun places to learn more
about the history of just about anything. 30. Track 30 00:56

M: Jenny was a girl who liked things to look nice. She

27. Track 27 01:01 spent a lot of her time making sure that everything
W: There once was a little boy named George, who liked was clean and organized. Jenny liked to do this so
to collect butterflies and place them in jars he kept on much that she would even do the dishes, sweep the
his dresser. When George caught a new butterfly, he floor, and take out the trash without being asked by
always put it in a small jar and then added it to the her mother. The only problem was that she and her
large jar full of other butterflies later. One day, the little brother David did not see eye to eye. Whenever
little boy had a great idea. He decided to take his she cleaned something, she would become very
large jar with him while he went on his search upset because he would dirty it up again. One
because he figured that he would be able to catch afternoon, Jenny was sweeping and mopping the
more if he had a bigger jar. While the boy was chasing floor in the kitchen while David played outside in
a new butterfly, a big gust of wind suddenly came the mud. Soon after she finished cleaning, David
and knocked over his jar. The jar shattered into pieces, decided to come inside without removing his
and all of the butterflies flew away. The boy was boots. When he was at the doorstep, about to
extremely disappointed and went home. enter the kitchen, Jenny tried to stop him from
coming inside.
28. Track 28 00:51

M: Hey, Sara, what’s going on? You look like you’re in

a hurry.
W: Oh, hi, Josh. I’m going home to bake a cake, but I
have to go to the grocery store to buy the
ingredients. Would you like to help me bake?

Transcripts 5
 28:2 7

Practice Test 2 M: She loves to read! That sounds perfect.

W: Well, there are many books right here. Just let me
know when you’ve decided, and I’ll be happy to
1. Track 31 00:52
ring you up at the cash register.
W: Oh, hi, Marcus. I’m going to get some lunch with
Maria. Want to come?
4. Track 34 00:56
M: Sure! Actually, I’ve never met Maria. She just
M: I would like two tickets for A Night of Jokes, please.
moved here from Spain, right?
How much are they?
W: Yeah, she’s really nice. She’s just over there, in the
W: The tickets are fifty dollars each. What night would
park.
you like to attend?
M: There are a lot of girls over there. Which one is
M: The Friday night performance, please.
she?
W: Would you like tickets for the 6:30 p.m. or the 9:00
W: She is the one sitting next to the tree.
p.m. show?
M: Oh, is she the one with the short, curly, brown hair?
M: The 6:30 show, please.
W: No, she has long hair in a ponytail.
W: Oh, I’m sorry sir, but it appears that I don’t have any
M: OK, I think I see her. Is she wearing the white shirt
more seats for Friday’s 6:30 show. Would you like
and talking on her cell phone?
tickets for the show at 9:00 p.m.?
W: No, actually, she’s wearing the black and white
M: No. How about the 6:30 show on Saturday? Is that
floral dress.
one sold out also?
M: Hmm…OK, now I see her.
W: I’m afraid so. The only tickets left for 6:30 are for
Sunday’s show. Would you like those?
2. Track 32 00:55
M: I can’t go on Sunday. My wife will be greatly
W: Thank you for fitting me in on such short notice. disappointed if we miss the show. I guess I’ll get
M: No problem at all. The receptionist told me that you tickets for the later show on Friday.
needed to get an appointment right away. W: Certainly, sir.
W: Yeah, I was pretty frantic when I called because
I know you have a busy schedule. It’s hard to find a
5. Track 35 00:52
good pet groomer in this town.
W: I have double checked, and I can handle adding
M: Anything for one of my best customers.
your house to my cleaning schedule.
W: When I looked at Benny this morning, I knew he
M: Good, I’m glad. What’s your fee?
needed help. I hope you can do something for him.
W: For a house this size, I usually charge $130.
M: Sure. First, though, I’m going to give him a bath.
M: Really? I thought it would be a little cheaper than
W: Good idea. I just really want Benny to look good
that.
since he’s going to be in a family picture the day
W: Well, since it seems like you are pretty neat most of
after tomorrow.
the time, I can do it for $100.
M: That’s nice. He really is a great dog, and it seems
M: That’s a little better, I guess. Thanks. What day will
like he’s an important family pet.
you be coming by?
W: He certainly is. And do you think you can give him
W: It would be best for me if I could come on Friday or
a haircut, too?
Saturday.
M: No problem.
M: Oh, those days I’m so busy with work. What about
Sunday?
3. Track 33 00:54
W: No, I don’t work on Sundays. Maybe Thursday?
M: Hi, it’s my mom’s birthday this weekend, and I need M: That would be fine. I’ll see you then.
to get her a present. Will you help me?
W: Of course. I’d be happy to help.
6. Track 36 00:57
M: Thank you! I have no idea what to get her.
M: What are your plans for lunch today, Martha?
W: Well, do you know her favorite color?
W: I was supposed to meet Linda for lunch today, but
M: Yeah. It’s red.
she’s working out of her house today because her
W: Well, there are lots of red candles on top of that
son is sick.
shelf over there. Do you think she’d like that?
M: Would you like to join me for lunch? Let’s go eat
M: Sure, but I think I need something else to go with it.
out.
W: How about a book? Currently, many of our titles
W: No thanks.
are on clearance, so they’re 25 percent off the
M: Why not? Did you bring a lunch from home today?
regular price. I think that would be nice.
W: No, I didn’t.

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M: Then, did you have a big breakfast this morning? used to be made out of animal hair. It wasn’t until
Not hungry? the 20th century that nylon bristles were introduced.
W: That’s not it, either. Today, there are many different types of these not so
M: Oh. Then, why don’t you want to go to lunch with expensive dental tools. They also come in many
me? colors, and every family member has one. With
W: Well, if you really want to know, it’s because every toothpaste, they help to maintain a clean and
time we go out to lunch, you never pay, and I healthy smile. Dentists say that it is best to use them
always get stuck with the bill. three times a day after meals.
M: Wow, I didn’t realize that was happening. You
should have said something. Let me buy you lunch 10. Track 40 00:52
today. I’ll even let you choose the restaurant. M: Today has not been a very good day for me. First,
W: OK, you’ve twisted my arm. Let’s go. I woke up late and missed the neighborhood bus, so
I had to ask my mom for a ride to school. She was
7. Track 37 01:00 already in a grumpy mood, so she gave me a long
M: Today was like any other day at my job. My morning lecture about responsibility and being considerate of
schedule was filled up with giving injections and others’ time. In my history class, I had a pop quiz that
administering medicine to patients who have the flu. I really wasn’t prepared for, and then I had an algebra
I also put a new cast on a patient’s broken arm. But test that I think I may have failed. And just now, I
in the afternoon, the day quickly became more found out that my friends are all going to see the
exciting because I was able to assist with a surgery. new fantasy movie I really want to see on the same
It was an amazing feeling, and the surgeon told me night as my little brother’s birthday party, so I won’t
that the procedure wouldn’t have been so successful be able to go. I’m exhausted and ready for this day
without my help. to be over. Hopefully, tomorrow will be better.
W: When I arrived at the hospital this morning, the
first thing I did was check my schedule. Then, when 11. Track 41 00:49

I realized that I didn’t have any patients until later M: ⓐ Visitors increased the most between June and July.
that morning, I caught up on some paperwork. ⓑ More people visited the museum in August than in
Once I finished with that, the paramedics brought in October.
a car accident victim, and I had to perform two minor ⓒ June had the least number of visitors to the museum.
surgeries. It was an unusually quiet day for me. ⓓ July had more visitors to the museum than October.
ⓔ The greatest number of visitors came in September.
8. Track 38 00:50

M: Good morning, Atlanta, on this cloudy and rainy 12. Track42 00:59

Monday morning. This is Martin Martinez with M: Sarah, how do you like your new job?
your five-day Outlook. According to the weather W: Oh, which one?
satellite, it looks like our days of gloomy weather M: What do you mean? I thought you only worked at
will be coming to an end. We will be seeing plenty the ticket booth at the amusement park.
of sunshine tomorrow and the next day with W: Actually, I just started working at the nail salon
temperatures rising into the mid-sixties. However, a across the street, painting nails two days a week.
small cold front will work its way into our area on I really want to make some money so that I can
Thursday, bringing heavy rain and a slight chance travel this summer.
of hail that will last through Friday and the rest M: Cool. You’re still working at the amusement park,
of the weekend. But don’t worry, because that though, right?
weather system will be gone by the start of next W: Yeah. This week, I’m scheduled to work there from
week, and the sunshine will return. the ninth through the twelfth.
M: Oh. Then, I guess you will work at the nail salon on
9. Track 39 01:03 Monday?
W: The history behind this everyday household item can W: No, my neighbor offered me $100 to clean his
be traced back to sticks used by primitive humans yard that day. I’ll work at the salon on the fifteenth
millions of years ago. However, the earliest version and sixteenth and then work the rest of the week
that resembles the ones we use today was created at the amusement park ticket booth.
in China during the 15th century. In fact, the only M: Wow, you’re going to have plenty of money to
major difference between modern designs and travel.
those invented by the Chinese is that the bristles W: That’s the plan.

Transcripts 7
 13. Track 43 01:05 16. Track 46 00:56

M: The Olympic Games are one of the most watched W: Hi, Roger. Are you and Amy going to the dance on
sporting events in the world. The fastest, strongest, Saturday?
and most skilled athletes from many different M: Yeah, we’ll be there. We’re both really excited.
countries gather to compete against one another in W: So am I, only Saturday is going to be a pretty busy
various events with the hopes of bringing home the day for me.
gold medal. However, not as many people are M: Really? Why?
familiar with the less acclaimed World Eskimo W: Well, I have a soccer game at the sports stadium
Indian Olympic Games. The WEI Olympics focus on across town in the morning. Then, I’ve got to get
demonstrating the different types of skills that are some homework done before I start getting ready
needed to survive in the Alaskan wilderness. Some for the dance.
of the most unique games played in the WEI M: Me, too. It looks like we are in the same situation.
Olympics are the knuckle hop, the ear pull, and the W: Yeah, but I have to do a lot more to get ready than you.
one-hand reach. The festival is also a chance for I have appointments in the afternoon to get my hair
Eskimo elders to pass on their ancestral knowledge and nails done. Then, I have to get my dress fitted.
to the youth in the tribe. It is an important way to M: What do you think about trying to do some
preserve their culture and traditions. homework during your appointments?
W: Hey, that’s not a bad idea.
14. Track 44 01:02 M: Good luck! See you Saturday night.
W: Once, a little girl desperately wanted a puppy, but
her parents were strongly opposed to the idea 17. Track 47 00:52

because they felt that she wasn’t responsible W: Welcome to Sal’s Ice Cream Shop. Can I help you?
enough to care for a puppy. But the little girl was M: Yes, can I please have an ice cream cone?
not discouraged, and one afternoon, she brought W: Would you like a plain cone or a waffle cone?
her friend’s dog home with her for the weekend. M: Plain cone. Do you have rocky road ice cream?
She told her parents that she was going to show W: Unfortunately, no. I do have old-fashioned chocolate,
them that she could take care of a puppy. For two though.
days, the little girl fed, played with, and walked the M: Hmm…well, it’s not as good as rocky road, but I
dog to prove to her parents that she was responsible guess that would work. And can you pour some
enough to care for a puppy of her very own. So, her caramel over the scoops?
parents decided to buy the girl a dog. But when they W: Certainly. Would you like anything else?
told her the good news, she said that she didn’t M: Can you sprinkle some chocolate chips on it?
want a puppy after all since they were just too much W: Sure. Would you like almonds or peanuts?
work; she wanted a kitten instead. M: Neither, thank you. And lastly, can you add some
whipped cream on top of it for me?
15. Track 45 00:56 W: Yeah, I’ll have that ready for you in a moment.
ⓐ M: Excuse me, sir. How much are the bubble gum
lollipops? 18. Track 48 00:57

W: They are a quarter each, or five for a dollar. W: Seth, are you working on Saturday?
ⓑ W: Sir, the plane is about to take off. Will you please M: Yeah, I’m scheduled to come in at 4:00 p.m.
take your seat? W: What are your plans for Saturday morning?
M: I’m trying, but it’s really heavy. M: Nothing special yet. Why do you ask?
ⓒ M: Can you give me a ride to the airport? W: Well, I really need to leave early that day. My family
W: Sure, no problem. What time do you need to be is taking a road trip, and I’m having a hard time
there? finding someone to cover my shift.
ⓓ M: Did you happen to get those business cards made M: I see. Did you ask Jim or Sarah?
like I asked? W: Yes. I already asked them, and they are too busy.
W: Yes, I did. I will pick them up from the print shop Would it be possible for you to come in at two
this afternoon. instead of four?
ⓔ W: Good afternoon, Mrs. Stevenson. Can I please M: Well, it would make my paycheck a little bigger.
speak to Jenny? Sure, I’ll do it.
M: May I ask who’s calling? W: You are a lifesaver, Seth! I really don’t know how to
thank you for helping me out. Next time you need
time off, please let me know.

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M: Don’t mention it. I know you would do the same this fall. If you have any questions, or if I may be of
for me. any further help, please do not hesitate to contact
me. Thank you for your time, and have a great
19. Track 49 00:58 afternoon.
W: David, have you seen my binder?
M: No, did you lose it? You really should pay more 22. Track 52 00:51

attention to where you leave things. M: Hello, ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain
W: You’re right. But can you help me find it? That speaking. We have just made our way over San
binder has all of my notes from class. I really need Diego and are about to begin our final descent
it! into the Los Angeles airport. However, the stormy
M: You know, one solution is to keep all of your books weather we encountered earlier seems to have
in a backpack. followed us and will be making the next few minutes
W: I don’t like wearing them because the straps always quite bumpy. In addition, there are several planes in
hurt my shoulders. Are you sure you haven’t seen it? front of us that are also waiting for final approval to
M: Yes, I’m sure. You know there are other types of land, so we may have to circle around the airport a
bags that you might like wearing better. Maybe few times until it is our turn to land. I expect our new
you should get one of those. arrival time to be about thirty minutes later than our
W: Maybe. Do you think it might be in the living scheduled landing time of 5:10 p.m.
room?
M: No, I was just in there. I didn’t see it. Maybe it’s in 23. Track 53 00:58
your bedroom. M: People often use the expression “It’s so hot outside
W: I already checked up there. I guess I can check again. you could fry an egg on the sidewalk.” But can
M: OK, I’ll let you know if I see it. someone actually fry an egg on a sidewalk? The
answer is complicated. While in theory it may be
20. Track 50 00:51 possible to fry an egg on the sidewalk, the
W: Hey, Bryan. Are you excited about performing in temperature of the sidewalk never gets hot enough
the play on Friday night? to actually cook the egg thoroughly. This is due to
M: Yeah, but I’m more nervous than excited, though. the fact that concrete and pavement do not hold
W: Really? I thought you really liked to perform in plays. heat very well. In addition, the egg slightly cools the
M: I do, but this is my first play in front of the whole sidewalk when it is cracked open. However, these
school. facts have not stopped people in Arizona from trying
W: I know. That means the auditorium will be full! Isn’t to cook eggs on the sidewalk during the annual
that a good thing? Solar Egg Frying Contest. So, in actuality, cooking on
M: Usually. But what if everyone thinks that the play is the sidewalk ________________________________.
bad, or they criticize my acting?
W: I’m sure no one will think you did a bad job. 24. Track 54 00:59
Besides, you’re a great actor. W: Many of the world’s most treasured children’s
M: Maybe you’re right. There’s nothing to be frightened books originated in the mind of one author,
of. Theodor Seuss Geisel. Mr. Geisel actually wrote
W: Well, just remember all that matters is that you are most of his books under the name Dr. Seuss,
happy with your performance. although he was not a medical doctor. Another
M: You’re right. Thanks for cheering me up. interesting fact that few people know is that one of
the most famous of all of Dr. Seuss’s works, Green
21. Track 51 00:57 Eggs and Ham, was actually written because of
W: Hello, my name is Shannon Gilbert, and I’m the a bet he made with a publisher. The publisher
new school nurse at High Ridge Elementary. I’m contended that no book could be written using
calling about your son, Jimmy. Our records show only fifty different words, but Dr. Seuss proved him
that he has not received the required shots that wrong and wrote Green Eggs and Ham. In the end,
all students must have before they enter the first Dr. Seuss won the bet, yet the publisher never paid
grade. If this is a mistake and Jimmy has in fact had him.
all of his shots, could you please send a copy of his
medical records to us as soon as possible? However, 25. Track 55 00:59
if he has not received all of his shots, we ask that M: Marcy, can you please hand me the bottle of vanilla?
you make an appointment with your family doctor W: Sure, Tom. I didn’t realize the recipe called for
to take care of this matter before he starts school vanilla.
Transcripts 9
 M: It doesn’t. I thought I’d change it a little. I think
28. Track 58 00:56
adding some vanilla will make the cookies taste
W: Hi, Chris, you look stressed. What seems to be the
even better.
problem?
W: Hmm…but what if they turn out not as tasty as you
M: Oh, hi, Donna. Nothing’s wrong. I just have a math
hope? Have you made changes to this recipe
test the week after next, and I think I’m going to
before?
do poorly on it.
M: No, but I’ve seen my mom do it all the time, so I
W: Really? Why is that?
should be fine.
M: Basically, I have a hard time understanding the
W: Well, I disagree. Your mom has a lot of practice
complex problems.
cooking. I think we should just make the cookies
W: Have you thought about getting a tutor?
the way the recipe says to.
M: I thought about that, but my family can’t afford to
M: I have an idea. What if you make one batch of
pay for one.
cookies the normal way, and I’ll make one my
W: Well, I’m pretty good at math. I can tutor you for
way.
free.
W: OK. Then we can compare the two and see which
M: Really? My test is in geometry. Do you know that
one tastes better.
very well?
M: Yeah, mine’s going to be better.
W: Yeah. I really like it, actually. I can help you study if
W: Don’t be so sure.
you’d like.
M: Wow, cool. I would really appreciate it!
26. Track 56 01:08
W: I usually go to the library after school to do my
W: Chocolate has a long history that dates back 2,000 homework. Would you like to meet me there?
years when it was discovered in the tropical M: ________________________
rainforests of Mexico. The Spanish Conquistadors first
learned about it from the Mayan and Aztec cultures
29. Track 59 00:55
they encountered when exploring the new world.
M: Ugh! I hate doing the laundry!
These ancient tribes used ground cacao seeds, water,
W: Please stop complaining and hand me the laundry
and varieties of spices to make a delightful drink.
detergent. Nobody likes to do laundry.
Sugar was also added to make it more delicious.
M: Yeah, well, I really hate it. If I pay you five dollars,
This is because raw chocolate is not as sweet as the
will you do mine for me?
processed chocolate bars and candies that are sold
W: No way! I hate doing laundry just as much as you
in stores. Upon returning to Europe, the Spanish
do. Besides, it will keep you from being lazy all day
Conquistadors brought cacao back with them.
watching TV.
New recipes were invented, and it quickly became a
M: Oh, come on. I said I’ll pay you.
favorite treat for the richest families. These days, it
W: Well, what if I pay you? Will you do my laundry?
is enjoyed by all. But always remember that eating
M: No. I just told you that I hate doing it!
too much can hurt one’s teeth and cause a
W: Well, then I guess we’ll both just have to do our
stomachache.
own.
M: I have an idea. What if I vacuum your living room
27. Track 57 00:59
for you and take out the trash? Would you like to
W: There once was a little girl named Carla, who loved switch with me and do my laundry then?
to jump rope, but she was never very good at doing W: _____________________________
tricks like other kids. Whenever someone would ask
her if she would like to do tricks with them, Carla
30. Track 60 00:53
would immediately say “no” in a shy voice and go
M: Once, two very good friends named Theresa and
home. Then, one afternoon, Carla was jumping
Elizabeth went shopping together. The two girls
rope behind her house and tried to do a trick. She
spent the entire day shopping and found many
didn’t do the trick perfectly, but at least she had
things they wanted to buy. They took advantage of
gotten it right. That was when Carla decided that
clearance specials and hunted for the best sale
no matter what, she would be brave and make
prices. After hours of walking, Theresa became
herself learn how to do a trick. So, for several
tired and decided that she wanted to go home. So,
weeks, Carla practiced her trick over and over until
she and Elizabeth made their way to the bus stop
finally she could do it without trying very hard at
with all of their bags and sat down while they
all.
waited for the bus to come. While sitting at the bus

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stop, Elizabeth saw another store she wanted to go M: No, actually, it was very good. Here’s your score.
into. She checked her watch and noticed that the W: An A? Wow, I can’t believe it!
bus was not scheduled to arrive for another twenty M: It’s a huge improvement over the last assignment.
minutes. I can tell you’ve been studying.
W: My tutor, Marcy, has been coming over every day to
work with me.
30:1 3
M: Well, I must say, she is very good at teaching
Practice Test 3 chemistry, then. You deserve the credit for your hard
work.
1. Track 61 00:58 W: I really appreciate it, Mr. Jenkins! I can’t wait to tell
W: Before we leave, make sure I introduce you to my my parents.
boss. M: Tell your tutor, too. In fact, I wonder if she’s available
M: OK. I’d love to meet her! Do you really think she’d to help other students.
hire me? W: I’ll ask her this afternoon.
W: I can’t say for sure, but I know that Melinda needed
to have some time off, so she quit. There’s a chance 4. Track 64 00:51

that the company may still have an opening. W: Hi, Max. Would you like to get together and study
M: And it never hurts to get to know someone new. tomorrow?
W: Right! Do you see her over there? M: Sure, but I have to be home to wait for the plumber.
M: Is she the older women with the short, gray hair? Can we meet at my house?
W: That’s not her. She is not as old as you would W: That’s fine. Where do you live?
expect for a boss. M: I live in Manhattan, across from the big Laundromat
M: Ah, is she the one wearing glasses with her hair in on Forty-fourth Street.
a bun sitting next to the man? W: OK. I’ll just take the train, then. What time should
W: She is wearing glasses, but that’s not her. She is I come over?
sitting next to the woman with long, blond hair. M: The afternoon works best. How about three or
M: Oh, I see! I can’t wait to meet her. four?
W: All right. I think there’s a 2:30 train I can take that
2. Track 62 00:57 should get me there around 3:00.
M: Hey, these are great seats! Thank you for inviting M: Perfect. I’ll be waiting for you.
me. W: Oh, by the way, do you know how much the train
W: I was actually shocked you wanted to come. I didn’t costs?
think you liked dramas. M: I think it’s $3. But tomorrow is Wednesday, so it’s
M: They are not as good as action and adventure films, half price.
but they can be entertaining.
W: Personally, I don’t like action and adventure movies. 5. Track 65 01:00

They are so unrealistic. W: Good afternoon, sir. Can I help you find anything?
M: What do you mean? M: Yes, I’m looking to buy a frame. But I don’t know
W: Well, the hero always does something impossible where to begin to look.
like jumping from the top of a skyscraper without W: Well, you’ve come to the right place. What would
a parachute. And when they get hurt, they never you like to frame?
have to go to the hospital. M: I want to frame this portrait of my wife and me.
M: Right, but that’s what makes them exciting. W: Oh, what a beautiful picture. It would look great in
W: Still, it’s not my cup of tea. this black frame with a cream-colored mat behind
M: Hey, by the way, are you still trying to sell your car? it. What do you think?
You should make a visit to my father’s car dealership. M: That does look nice. How much is it?
W: Not anymore. It’s a long story. Oh, the movie is W: OK. Let’s see. The frame is $100, but we are having
about to start. I’ll tell you later. a clearance sale right now, so it’s 25 percent off.
M: Great! OK. I can afford that.
3. Track 63 00:53 W: Wonderful. We’ll have it ready for you on Thursday.
M: Gina, could you stay after class, please? I’d like to M: Oh, I have to work all day Thursday. Can I pick it up
talk to you about your test. the following day?
W: Oh, no. Was it that bad? W: That’s no problem. We’ll see you then.

Transcripts 11
 clouds are expected to roll in again on Friday with
6. Track 66 01:00
the possibility of thunderstorms this weekend.
M: Hey, Tina! How are the birthday party preparations
coming?
W: Great! It’s going to be so much fun. Everything is in 9. Track 69 01:00

place. W: Among the many amazing creatures of the ocean,

M: Well, Katie is really excited. She can hardly wait for this fish is unique for two reasons. First, it is one of
Friday. only two animal species in which the male becomes
W: What do you mean? You talked to Katie? “pregnant,” holding the female’s eggs until they are
M: Yeah, I saw her at the dry cleaner’s the day before ready to hatch. Another interesting characteristic of
yesterday and asked if she was going to dress up this creature is that its head is shaped like a common
for the party. mammal. That’s where it gets its name. But, unlike
W: But she didn’t even know about the party! It was the large animals they resemble, you can’t ride these
supposed to be a surprise! sea creatures! In fact, these tiny animals range in
M: A surprise? Oh…no wonder she looked confused size from less than one centimeter to thirty-five
at first. centimeters from head to tail. Also, their tails curl
W: I can’t believe you told her. This ruins everything! up in front of them. These animals do not survive
M: Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize! But Katie seemed long in captivity. However, they are used as cures in
thrilled anyway. Chinese herbal medicine.
W: I guess. Well, maybe I can figure out a different
way to surprise her. 10. Track 70 01:04

M: Gosh, I really do feel terrible. Can I help you with W: I was babysitting my little brother, Tyler, one night
anything? while my parents went to an exhibition at an art
gallery. After I got him tucked into bed, I decided
7. Track 67 01:02
to sit down to watch television in the living room.
M: Well, I have covered a lot of basketball tournaments Suddenly, our dog, Trixie, started barking hysterically
in my career, and this was absolutely one of the and ran to the window. It appeared as though
most exciting games ever. The energy in the sports she sensed something outside. Initially, I paid no
stadium was exhilarating, and those girls certainly attention, but after a few minutes, I heard a
have the support of their fans! In fact, this may go scratching sound on the window, and Trixie began
down as one of the best women’s basketball games to bark again. I hesitated for a moment–what
in history. I’ll interview one of the star players later should I do in this situation? I probably needed to
to see what she has to say about that, but first, investigate, but I’m not that brave of a person! I
here’s the woman who led them to victory. checked on Tyler, and he was comfortably asleep.
W: I’m so proud of my team. They played great Then once again, I heard the scratching, and I
defense and made their shots beautifully. I know became so frightened that I felt a shiver run down
this week has been difficult on them with all the my spine.
extra practices, but they are tough cookies, and
their hard work definitely paid off. However, we 11. Track 71 00:49

can’t count our chickens before they hatch. We still W: ⓐ More sales were made in October than in January.
have to win tomorrow night’s game in order to go ⓑ Sales increased from November to December.
on to the championship. ⓒ The most sales were made in February.
ⓓ Sales went down from October to November.
8. Track 68 00:54
ⓔ September was the month with the least amount
M: Good morning, Tulsa! I’m Frankie Forester with your of sales.
local weather forecast. Well, it’s a little warmer today
than the past several days–the temperature might 12. Track 72 01:02

even hit 65. But if you look out your window, you’ll W: So, I heard that your band is going on tour. That’s
see that we’re experiencing more of the same so cool!
dreary weather we’ve been dealing with all week. M: Thanks. I’ve always dreamed of taking a road trip
That’s right! The forecast is heavy rain all day with with the band, but I’m not looking forward to riding
chances of lightning in the evening hours. But if in the cramped tour bus.
you’re going crazy from being stuck inside the past W: That’s understandable. So, where do you play first?
few days, don’t worry because when you wake up M: Well, we start the tour in Washington, DC on
tomorrow, expect a sunny morning. However, the Friday the eleventh.

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W: Wow. I’ve never been there! Will you be able to do W: Actually, I’m feeling like pizza tonight. Let’s eat out
any sightseeing? As you know, there are many instead.
famous landmarks there. ⓑ M: Hi, it’s John. I’m returning your phone call.
M: No, because we get in around midday and have to W: Thank you so much! I couldn’t find it anywhere.
set up for the concert. Then, we play in Baltimore ⓒ W: Now, Bradley, don’t forget to mow the lawn
on the twelfth and Philadelphia on the thirteenth. today.
W: Gosh, you will be busy! M: Oh, Mom! I’m watching TV right now. Can’t it wait
M: Yeah, and then the following week, we drive until tomorrow?
toward the Midwest. ⓓ M: Can I bring my friend with me to your Halloween
W: What cities will you go to? party?
M: We play in Louisville on the eighteenth, Cincinnati W: Sure, no problem. But make sure she dresses up in
the next day, and end the tour in Chicago. a costume.
ⓔ M: Hey, Sarah, what do you think about this paisley
13. Track 73 01:14 t-shirt?
W: Mariachi music is a lively type of music from northern W: I think it would look really good on you.
Mexico. The bands consist of a singer, violins, trumpets,
guitars, and a harp. The band members, called 16. Track 76 01:00

mariachis, play at wedding receptions and parties. W: Guess what, Tim? I’ve decided to move to Seattle
They are famous for performing songs outside a next month.
loved one’s window. Mariachi music is usually M: Sounds exciting! Why did you choose Seattle?
played by men, although sometimes there will be W: Well, Chris and I are planning to get married soon,
a woman singer. All-female mariachi groups, so I’m going to move into his apartment.
however, are becoming more common due to the M: Ah, I see. Are you nervous? Sounds like a big
fact that more women are mastering instruments like change.
the trumpet that used to be played mostly by men. W: A little bit, but I’m worried most of all because I
Still, female mariachi groups must overcome several have so much to do to get ready.
challenges. They often face discrimination from male M: Yeah, right. Moving is not easy.
bands. An example of this is how women often W: Exactly. I’ve got to start packing all my things. Then,
receive lower pay for their performances. In addition, I need to find a moving company, pay my last
it can be hard to keep a group together when women month’s bills, and clean my apartment.
get married and face family pressures. Nevertheless, M: Sounds like you will be busy.
mariachi women are making progress. W: Yeah, I certainly will be. And before I do anything
at all, I need to tell my boss I’m quitting. He has
14. Track 74 00:59 been so good to me, so I should give him as much
M: Tommy was the goal keeper of his neighborhood notice as possible.
soccer team. He was also the team captain, not M: That’s very thoughtful of you. I’m sure he will
because he was an amazing player but because he appreciate it.
had a friendly and optimistic attitude. Tommy always
knew how to cheer up the other players during a 17. Track 77 00:55

difficult match and helped them focus on the game. W: Hi, there. Can I help you find something?
One year, at the beginning of the season, the players M: Yeah. I need to get a nice suit for a job interview.
noticed that Tommy didn’t show up for the first day W: I can help you with that. What size are you?
of practice. He had told a friend that his parents M: I wear a medium shirt. But I’m very picky. I like my
didn’t have enough money to buy him a new cuffs to be tight and the neck to be a little loose.
uniform and shoes. The players started thinking W: No problem. I’ll find the right size and fit for you.
and decided that they would all give money and Can I help you find a tie to match?
buy Tommy the sports equipment he needed. Their M: Yes, I’m terrible at picking out ties. Oh, and a pair
soccer team just wasn’t the same without him! of dress pants, size 36. But cotton only, please. I’m
Tommy was excited to hear the news, and he was allergic to wool.
back on the team the next day. W: OK. And will you need anything else?
M: Well, I have a belt already, and I don’t think I can
15. Track 75 00:58 afford a new watch right now.
ⓐ M: What time do you think I should start to make W: That’s fine. And what about shoes?
dinner? M: Oh, yeah. I probably should go ahead and get a
new pair.
Transcripts 13
 M: That’s true, but…
18. Track 78 00:57
W: And, he’ll probably have to pay that money back
M: Hi, Lisa. I’m calling about my computer again. I
out of his own paycheck.
need to ask you a big favor.
M: I know you’re right, but still…$10!
W: Normally, you send me an email. Is everything all
W: Oh, come on. You’ll feel good about yourself.
right?
M: Well, the problem is with my computer. Can you
come over and help me fix it? 21. Track 81 00:57

W: Are you having problems with the Internet again? W: Hello, I’m calling about the Nexo wristwatch that I
M: No. When I turn it on, it makes a funny noise, and purchased approximately a week ago. And, I have
then the screen goes blank. to say, I am extremely frustrated and disappointed
W: That doesn’t sound good. But I can take a look at with your product. Immediately after I purchased it,
it. Is next week OK? the numbers started blinking, and I could only read
M: Actually, I was hoping you could fix it today or it if I tilted it in a particular direction. I thought the
tomorrow. I need to use it for school. problem was related to the batteries, so I replaced
W: I’m sorry, John. I’m so busy with work this week. them, but it didn’t make any difference. The watch
But maybe my brother Harry could help you. was still barely readable. Then, this morning, it
M: I’ll call him. I have to finish a report by Friday, and completely stopped working! I already returned it
I really need to type it on the computer. to the store and exchanged it for a different watch.
W: I’m sure Harry will help you. I’m calling because I just thought you might want
to know that it’s not a very good product. Perhaps
you should consider taking it off the market.
19. Track 79 00:58

W: Hi, Jim. You look sad. What’s going on?

M: I’m feeling a little down. My mom and I had a fight 22. Track 82 01:09

today. M: Attention, Shop Right shoppers, this is your favorite

W: Oh, what happened? manager, Fernando, speaking. We are offering
M: Well, I really want to get a pet snake, but my mom some fabulous specials this afternoon. Everything
won’t let me. in our seafood section is 25 percent off today. You
W: Well, some people are frightened of snakes. She heard correctly–our wonderful selection includes
might just need to learn more about them. mackerel, salmon, catfish, shrimp, and even lobster.
M: Yeah, that makes sense. In the produce section, melons are only 99 cents a
W: What do you think about getting some books out pound and mangoes are 89 cents each. Over in
of the library about owning a pet snake? dairy, three-ounce containers of yogurt are marked
M: Oh, yeah. I didn’t think of that. down with sale prices at two for a dollar. Make sure
W: And you could get the names of other snake owners to try our free mozzarella cheese samples. And
from the pet store. shoppers, don’t forget, we are also having a
M: Yeah, and those people could talk to my mom and clearance sale on all cleaning products! The biggest
tell her how great it is to have a snake! deal is 30 percent off Sunshine dishwasher soap at
W: It is a pretty big change, though, so you should give $1.25 a bottle. Lastly, remember to always come to
your mom some time to make up her mind. customer service if you need assistance with
M: You’re right, Nancy! Thank you for the advice and anything, and thank you for shopping at Shop
cheering me up. Right!

20. Track 80 00:51

23. Track 83 01:08

M: Look at this! That salesperson gave me back ten W: The California legal system addressed an interesting
dollars extra by mistake! situation last month. Judge Perkins listened to some
W: Really? What are you going to do? of the best environmental lawyers in the state argue
M: Spend it, of course! This must be my lucky day. a case that centered on cutting down several tall
W: Don’t you think we should go back and return it? redwood trees. The issue was that one family
Imagine if you were in his shoes. wanted to use solar panels on their roof to get
M: It’s not that much. Besides, if I were in his shoes, I electricity. Their neighbor’s trees, however, shaded
would have done a better job counting the money! the area, taking up some of the potential energy.
W: Well, he was probably distracted by all of the The other family wanted to keep the trees, especially
impatient people waiting in line. the biggest one of all, because they helped cool
their house, thereby saving them electricity. So the

14 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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question became, which is the more earth-friendly amazing traits of animals that use camouflage is that
choice–saving trees or using solar power? Both they can often change colors. Arctic rabbits are an
families had a good argument for either keeping example of this because their fur turns white in the
or removing the trees, based on environmental winter. This allows them to easily blend in with the
reasons. But eventually, the trees had to be cut snow. Cuttlefish are able to make dramatic transitions
down. This case just goes to show that _________ between environments by creating many colors and
__________________________________________. unique patterns on their skin. From mammals to fish,
camouflage is another of nature’s wonders.
24. Track 84 01:15

W: There are many ways of determining which countries 27. Track 87 01:09

are the best places to live. Most measures rate a W: Francesca had such a huge amount of homework
country’s wealth. But the United Nations Human that she hardly knew where to begin. One afternoon,
Development Index, or HDI, is better than other she was so preoccupied that she completely forgot to
methods because it compares other aspects of life as do her chores. She asked her brother George for help.
well. It rates categories such as the quality of a “George, would it be possible for you to help me do
country’s education system, the average life span of the dishes?” she pleaded. However, her brother
its citizens, and the average standard of living. refused and continued playing video games.
Standard of living refers to poverty levels and people’s Francesca completed her chores eventually but had
access to goods and services. In the most recent to stay up late to finish her school assignments. A
survey, Iceland was rated as the best country to live week later, George returned from school looking
in due to its combined scores in all categories. Seven worried. “Francesca, I really need your assistance,”
of the top ten countries are also in Europe. The other he begged his sister. “I totally forgot about a history
three countries in the top ten list are Australia, project that I have to turn in tomorrow. Can you
Canada, and Japan. In brief, governments must help me?” She replied that she had more important
work to improve health care and education if they things to do and turned on the television. Maybe in
want to score higher on the Human Development the future, her brother will be more considerate and
Index. think twice when she requests something from
him.
25. Track 85 00:55

W: Hello, Mr. Marshall? I’d like to hire you to give my 28. Track 88 00:57

son, Gary, piano lessons. W: Hey, Mark!

M: All right. I must tell you that I require a high level of M: Hi, Allison. I’m glad I ran into you. I was wondering
commitment. if I could borrow your car the day after tomorrow.
W: My son is very diligent. He is already good at playing W: I think that would be fine. What do you need it
and wants to improve. for?
M: OK. Well, I will need to work with him at least three M: Actually, my car’s in the shop, and I have to take
times a week. Mandy to the vet.
W: What do you think about Mondays, Wednesdays, W: Mandy? Your German shepherd?
and Fridays? M: Yeah. But don’t worry, she’s a good pet. She won’t
M: I don’t work on Fridays, but I could give a Saturday make a mess.
lesson. W: Well, the only thing is that I’m allergic to dogs.
W: Perfect! Gary will be so pleased. Their fur makes me cough and sneeze.
M: Oh, and I charge twenty dollars per hour. M: Oh, I see. That’s too bad because you were my last
W: Gosh, that’s kind of expensive. resort.
M: Well, when it comes to jazz piano, there is no one W: I’m really sorry, Mark. If there were some way that
better than me in town. I did play with the best jazz none of her hair would get in the car…
band in the country. M: Well, what if I get the car cleaned inside and out
afterward? I know a car wash that does a great
26. Track 86 00:56 job.
M: Animals have many ways to protect themselves. For W: ______________________________________
instance, they may be able to run fast, fight back, or
emit a stinky odor. Many animals also possess the 29. Track 89 01:01

ability to hide by blending in with their surroundings. W: Welcome to the Sugar Shack Ice Cream Shop. Can
This phenomenon is called camouflage. One of the I take your order, sir?

Transcripts 15
 M: Yes, ma’am! I’d like two scoops of ice cream. W: No. He’s sitting on the swing, wearing the blue
W: Right away! Would you like that in a cone or a cup? striped shirt.
M: In a cup, please. M: Oh, I think I see him! Does he have brown hair, and
W: OK. Which flavors would you like? is he wearing denim shorts?
M: Let’s see. I’ll have a scoop of chocolate and a scoop W: Yes, that’s Todd all right. Why don’t we go get him
of mint chocolate chip. so we can leave?
W: I’m so sorry, but we just ran out of chocolate. M: Sounds like a good idea to me.
M: Oh, no! There’s nothing better than chocolate. It’s
my favorite flavor. Well, I guess I should take a look 2. Track 92 00:57

at the menu. W: Hi, Max. Thank you for picking me up.

W: May I make a suggestion? I strongly recommend M: I’m happy to do it. So, did you have a good time?
chocolate fudge swirl. Here, try a sample. W: Yes. The wedding was beautiful, and I got to see a
M: Oh, that’s delicious. It’s not as tasty as the regular lot of old friends.
chocolate, but I’ll take it! M: Sounds like fun. I still can’t believe Joe and Sarah
W: I’m glad you like it. So, do you want that and the actually tied the knot. So, are you ready to go?
mint chocolate chip? W: Actually, I’m still waiting for my bags. Some of the
M: ______________________ luggage hasn’t arrived yet.
M: Uh-oh. I hope it didn’t get lost.
30. Track 90 01:09 W: I know. A woman next to me on the flight said her
W: Everyone in Duncan’s family was good at playing bags were stuck in Minneapolis once.
sports–everyone, that is, except for Duncan. M: That’s no fun. Well, do you want to go sit in the
Unfortunately, his parents didn’t seem to realize café while we wait?
that Duncan didn’t enjoy playing sports. Every year W: First, I think I’ll go ask the airline representative
for his birthday, he received a new piece of sporting how long it will be before the bags get here. You
equipment. One year, he got a soccer ball and go ahead to the café, and I’ll be right there.
running shoes, and last year, he received a tennis M: OK, I’ll see you in a minute.
racket and balls. He had attempted practically every
sport there was, but he just wasn’t any good. What 3. Track 93 01:04

Duncan really liked to do was paint and draw M: Hey, Misty, hurry up! You know money doesn’t
pictures. He preferred sitting outside sketching grow on trees. What’s taking you so long?
landscapes and still-life nature scenes than running W: OK, Clarence. My hair and makeup are finished, so
down the football field. This year on his birthday, I’m ready now.
Duncan noticed a small package. He figured that it M: You look great! OK, so remember that this is a high
was most likely a baseball glove. But when he fashion magazine, and we really want to show off
opened the gift, Duncan was shocked to find a set this new clothing line.
of paints and brushes. W: No problem. I’ve done some dramatic shoots
before, so I’ll try my best.
M: OK. Let’s get started.
31:2 1
W: Should I look directly at the camera or away from
Practice Test 4 it?
M: Let’s try several different types of poses. You just
1. Track 91 00:57 keep moving, and I’ll take the pictures.
W: Hey, Kevin! Thank you for coming with me to the W: OK, sounds good. How’s this pose?
playground. M: That looks great. Now, turn your head slightly to
M: No problem. I haven’t been to a playground in a the left, and bend your knees slightly. Beautiful!
long time! W: This is so much fun. I can’t believe this is my job!
W: Well, I just have to pick up my little brother, Todd, M: Well, you’re doing great. And I think the editor will
and then we can leave. be really pleased.
M: Which one is Todd? Is he the little boy over there
who is squatting and wearing the baseball cap? 4. Track 94 01:03

W: No, he’s with that group of kids near the jungle W: Hi. I’d like to register for the quilting workshop on
gym. April seventh.
M: OK. Then, is he the boy in the green shirt who is M: All right. Would you like to take the morning,
kneeling with the swing? afternoon, or evening session?

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W: At what times are those classes? M: Actually, I’m on a diet, so I don’t eat breads or
M: The sessions are from 8 to 11 a.m., 12 to 3 p.m., other carbohydrates. So, I don’t want to pay for a
and 5 to 8 p.m. sandwich.
W: OK. I think that the evening class will fit best with W: I’m sorry. The problem is you paid by credit card,
my schedule. and it’s already been entered into the cash register.
M: Great! And the cost of the workshop is fifty dollars. M: Well, this is ridiculous. I’d like to speak to the
You also have to pay a materials fee of ten dollars manager.
or bring your own supplies.
W: What materials are needed? 7. Track 97 01:10
M: Several yards of different color cotton fabrics with M: I believe this was our most successful event yet. We
matching thread, sewing scissors, needles, and a served 150 plates of baked salmon with a light dill-
quilting hoop. mayonnaise sauce, accompanied by red potatoes
W: I don’t have any of those things, so I’ve got to pay and asparagus. For dessert, I made a three-level
the materials fee. wedding cake that featured sugar-coated flowers
M: OK. I’ve confirmed your spot in the class. We’ll see pressed into the sides, and it was just beautiful.
you on the seventh. Everything was delicious and as sweet as could be.
I believe the bride and groom were really pleased.
5. Track 95 01:07 W: Well, we survived our first big wedding ceremony.
W: Hello. My name is Marcy, and I’m calling from our My staff was up all night preparing the various
neighborhood Girls' Club. floral arrangements. The bride wanted everything
M: Hi, Marcy. What can I do for you? to match her custom-made dress. In addition to the
W: Our club is selling boxes of cookies to help raise bouquets for the bride and her bridesmaids, we
money for local children in need. Would you like to also had to make decorations for the seats in the
help out and buy some cookies? church. It was stressful because we had to specially
M: I guess I could buy a few. What kinds of cookies do order flowers from South America, and they didn’t
you have? arrive until last night. It was a little overwhelming,
W: We have shortbread, chocolate chunk, and coconut but it all turned out OK.
twist. They’re three dollars a box.
M: OK. Let me have two boxes of the shortbread 8. Track 98 00:56
cookies, and one box of the coconut twist. M: Good morning, Atlanta listeners! This is Lee Smith
W: All right. When would be a good day to deliver coming at you with your morning weather forecast.
them? Well, if you’ve looked out your window this morning,
M: Friday would be great. And actually, please add one you might have been a bit shocked. Yes, folks, even
more box of coconut twist. I think my brother though it’s April, spring has apparently decided to
really likes those. hold off a little longer. Those warm afternoons of
W: Got it. And unfortunately, I can’t drop them off on the last few days were just a tease, and that white
Friday, but would the next day work? stuff falling from the cloudy sky is indeed snow,
M: That should be fine. We’ll see you then! believe it or not. That’s not the kind of precipitation
that we’re accustomed to this time of year, but what
6. Track 96 00:58 can you do? Don’t let the chilly weather get you too
W: Here’s your bill, sir. Have a great day! depressed, though, because by tomorrow, things
M: Thank you, but excuse me, miss? The receipt says I should be getting warmer. We can even expect a
was charged for a steak sandwich, which I didn’t few clouds on Thursday but a clear sunny day on
order. Friday.
W: Oh, sorry about that. I’ll bring you the sandwich
right away. 9. Track 99 01:06
M: No, I don’t want the sandwich. Could you just take M: This color has almost as many meanings around
it off the bill, please? the world as it does different shades. In the West,
W: If you’re in a hurry, I could wrap it up to go. there sometimes is a connection with this color and
M: That’s not the problem. I don’t want the sandwich. jealousy or envy because it is associated with some
W: OK, would you like to have a gift card for a free types of money. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, this color
sandwich next time you visit? has a very bad reputation, and people believe you

Transcripts 17
 could die if you wear it. On the other hand, this W: Let’s see. We’ll arrive in London on the sixth. We’ll
color is considered good luck in the Middle East. spend four days there.
Furthermore, it is often associated with nature, M: That will be a good amount of time to see
new growth, and fertility. There are many shades of London.
this color, ranging from the lighter side with W: Yeah. And then we go to Paris on Tuesday and
Cheerful Kelly to the dark Elegant Emerald. Many of leave on Thursday.
this color’s hues are named for things in the plant M: It’s too bad that you only have a few days to visit
world, like mint, olive, moss, pine, lime, and forest. Paris.
This color is not a primary color, like red, but it is made W: Then, we get to Barcelona on the thirteenth and
up of two colors. Have you guessed the correct color head to Lisbon the next day.
yet? M: I think my brother will be there at the beginning of the
month. So, I guess you won’t see each other.
10. Track 100 01:11

W: I cannot believe what happened at school today! 13. Track 103 01:00

Mrs. McGrew approached me after class and M: Rosemary is an herb that thrives in arid climates
remarked that she was extremely ashamed of me. I and is native to the Mediterranean. This plant is a
looked at her with a shocked expression because I member of the evergreen family, and its needle-like
didn’t know what she was talking about. Then, she leaves are sharply fragrant. Most people are familiar
showed me the science examination I had taken with rosemary as a cooking herb that is used often
that morning compared with Melanie’s exam. with roasted meats or potatoes. But it has many
Surprisingly, the two tests were identical, even other uses as well. A rinse made from rosemary
sharing the same spelling mistakes. Mrs. McGrew can be added to shampoo to make hair shiny
was actually accusing us of cheating! I objected to and healthy. Smelling the herb is said to improve
her accusations and attempted to explain. I spent memory and increase alertness. Furthermore, it can
many hours studying last night, and I had no reason possibly help heal headaches and can be rubbed on
to cheat. Furthermore, I would never allow another sore muscles for relief. However, rosemary can also
student to copy off my work because I believe be dangerous in large doses, so it’s best to use only
that’s unethical. But Mrs. McGrew didn’t listen to the amount one would use for cooking or ask an
me and put me and Melanie both in detention. I herbalist to recommend a proper dosage.
am absolutely furious about her decision–she is so
unreasonable! As for Melanie, unfortunately, our 14. Track 104 01:08

friendship is over. M: When Janet started middle school, she wanted to

be friends with the popular girls. They all wore
11. Track 101 00:57 expensive designer clothes. Unfortunately, Janet’s
W: ⓐ According to the chart, Friday is the busiest day of parents’ couldn’t afford to buy fancy clothes. At first,
the week at the cinema. Janet was disappointed, but then one day, as she
ⓑ More people went to the movies on Sunday than on looked through a magazine, she had an inspiration.
Wednesday. She realized that she could make cool clothing with
ⓒ Not very many people went to the cinema on items she already had. First, she took an old pair of
Monday compared to other days. jeans, cut off the legs, added a few stitches, and
ⓓ Thursday is a more popular day at the movies than then she had a new jean skirt! Soon, Janet
Sunday or Monday. was transforming old clothing into unique and
ⓔ There were more movie patrons on Friday than on interesting pieces. She would sew on embroidered
Wednesday and Thursday combined. flowers or unusual buttons and make something
completely new. Soon, her friends were asking her
12. Track 102 01:00 to make clothes for them, too. It wasn’t long
W: Guess what? My class is taking a guided tour of before Janet had enough money to buy designer
Europe in June. We just got the itinerary from the clothes, but she had already decided that it was
travel agency. more fun and fashionable to make her own.
M: Cool! I’ve always wanted to visit Europe. What
countries are you going to? 15. Track 105 00:57

W: We’ll spend most of the trip in Western Europe. ⓐ M: Welcome! Make yourself at home.
M: Really? My brother’s going to be in Lisbon around W: Thank you for the offer, but I already have a house
that time, too. When will you be there? of my own.

18 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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ⓑ M: I really didn’t care for that movie at all.
18. Track 108 01:03
W: Me neither. I was so bored. I kept falling asleep!
W: Jerome, do you want to come to the mall with me
ⓒ M: Hey, Chris, do you know that your brother called?
today? I need to buy you some new jeans.
W: Yeah, I heard the message on the machine.
M: The mall? Ugh, I really don’t want to go. Besides,
ⓓ M: I’m so hungry. What would you like to eat for
I’m busy today.
dinner?
W: What do you have going on today that’s so
W: How about those delicious grilled steaks that are in
important?
the freezer?
M: Well, I have plans to hang out with my friends
ⓔ M: Excuse me. Can you tell me where the closest bank
today. And I’m meeting Bennie and Greg to play
is?
baseball this afternoon.
W: Go down two blocks, and take a left at the four-way
W: Well, that’s nice, dear, but you can meet your
intersection.
friends any day.
M: Not true! Bennie usually works on Saturdays. This
16. Track 106 00:58
is the first weekend he’s had off in months.
M: Hi, Jen! What are your plans for tonight? Today, I W: I see. Well, maybe there will be time for you to see
want to show you how to make pizza. him after we go shopping.
W: Awesome! That’s one of my favorite foods. Can we M: But you always take forever at the mall! Can’t it
put different types of toppings on it? wait until tomorrow?
M: Sure, we can add any toppings you like. W: No, because today is the one-day only sale. We can
W: Cool! So, what do we do first? save a lot of money.
M: First, we’ll make the dough by mixing together M: All right, fine. But I won’t stay for more than an
flour, water, and salt. hour!
W: Then, do we toss it in the air like the Italian chefs?
M: Yes, that’s the next step. Then, we put it on the
19. Track 109 00:57
cooking sheet and spread it with tomato sauce.
M: Hi, Jamie. You seem sad. Are you all right?
W: Then, we sprinkle it with cheese and toppings
W: Not really. My sister won’t speak to me. I accidentally
before we put it in the oven, right?
broke her phone.
M: That’s correct. Oh, but I forgot a step! Before we
M: Gosh, it sounds like she’s really mad. Maybe you
make the dough, we’ve got to heat the oven to
should buy her a new one.
400 degrees.
W: I offered, and she refused. She said they don’t
W: I’ll do that while you measure the flour. Mmm, this
make that kind any more. And it can’t be fixed.
is going to be good!
M: Well, what about giving her the money to pick out
any new phone she wants?
17. Track 107 00:57
W: I could try, but I’m not sure she’d accept it.
M: Thank you for coming with me to buy school M: Or you could offer to do all of her chores for a
supplies, Elena. month to make up for it.
W: Sure, Rob. Any type of shopping is fun for me! So, W: Maybe. But she’s so furious–it seems like she’ll
where should we start? never forgive me!
M: Let’s see. I’ve got to get some new notebooks, M: Sometimes, you just have to give people time to
pens, and pencils. cool off.
W: OK. Those are over there. What else? W: I guess. She can’t stay angry forever, right?
M: I need to get a calculator and a ruler for math
class.
20. Track 110 01:01
W: All right. Do you need anything extra for science
M: So, Hilda, are you going to Michelle’s huge party
class?
next weekend?
M: Well, my teacher said it will be helpful to have our
W: No, I think I already have plans that night.
own microscope, but I think they are too expensive.
M: But you don’t even know when it is! She just set
W: What about a backpack? It looks like they are having
the date. It’s in two weeks.
a clearance sale. All backpacks are discounted at 30
W: Oh, well these days, I’m so busy with work all the
percent off.
time, so…
M: Ooh, that’s a great deal. But my backpack from last
M: But it’s going to be so much fun. She’s having it at
year is still in decent shape.
that luxurious restaurant on the other side of town,
W: Sounds good. Let’s head over to the notebook
so we can wear fancy clothes.
section then.

Transcripts 19
 W: I don’t really have anything to wear to an event like thrilled when they sold it to another fisherman for
that. $2,500, feeling like they had hit the lottery jackpot.
M: But you have plenty of time to get something, and Although little did they know that this man would
you love to shop! go on to resell the fish to a seafood market for over
W: I didn’t want to talk about it, but the truth is that $74,000. If you think that’s incredible, wait until
Michelle and I don’t really get along. you here what happened next. The manager of the
M: Oh, I’m sorry. Were you not invited? I’d be glad to market resold the big fish for a whopping $126,000.
ask her for an invitation. So, just remember that the next time someone
W: No, James. We’re not friends anymore, but it’s not offers you money for a valuable item, __________.
a big deal.
24. Track 114 01:01

21. Track 111 01:09 W: Kangaroos are one of the many interesting
W: Good afternoon, this is Madeline Peterson speaking, creatures living on the Australian continent. They
and I’m calling to leave a message for Dr. McCormick. are marsupials, or animals that have a pouch. Their
Dr. McCormick installed some fillings in my teeth six babies, called joeys, are born extremely prematurely.
months ago, but I haven’t returned to him since. They crawl into their mother’s pouch and live there
Unfortunately, I’ve been experiencing recurring pain for about nine months until they are developed
and tenderness in one of my molars. At first, it was enough to venture outside of it. Although they are
just a little bothersome, but now the pain has big enough to move around on their own, the baby
gotten worse and is really terrible. I understand kangaroos continue to drink their mother’s milk for
that I probably needed to make an appointment about eighteen months. Kangaroos are famous for
ages ago for a regular check-up, but my schedule’s being able to jump on their large feet, and they can
been very busy. Anyway, I was hoping that I could move at surprisingly fast speeds. However, this ability
get in to see Dr. McCormick in the upcoming week is not to escape predators, but rather to move long
if she’s available. If not, I’d be satisfied to see one distances to look for food.
of your other dental specialists. Please return my
call at your earliest convenience. I can be reached 25. Track 115 01:03
on my cell phone at 415-555-5434. Thank you for M: Good afternoon. Marty’s Mechanics. This is Marty.
your time. W: Oh, I’m so glad you answered! You are the first
mechanic I’ve found open on Sunday.
22. Track 112 01:04 M: During the summer, we stay open extra days.
M: Welcome, soccer fans, to the First Annual All-City So, what can I do for you?
Children’s Soccer League Tournament. Because we W: My car won’t start. I just replaced the battery, so
wanted this to be fun for the whole family, there are I know it’s not that. And I drove around the day
concession stands as well as entertainment booths before yesterday with my sister, and it was fine.
that are open throughout the day. At the end of M: All right. Well, I’ll get a tow truck over to your
today’s matches, there is a potluck with delicious house, and we’ll take a look at it.
food and an awards ceremony. So, without further W: Great. I live at 321 Palmer. My car is the gray
ado, I will announce this afternoon’s lineup. On Field Volkswagen.
A at 1:30, the Lions will face off against the M: Oh, we don’t work on a lot of German cars, so it
Hurricanes, while at the same time on Field B, it is might take a while to get parts.
the Earthquakes versus the Lightning Bolts. At 3:30, W: But I really need my car for work this week.
the Grasshoppers will be battling the Hornets on M: Well, I can recommend a mechanic that works only
Field A, while the Piranhas challenge the Mighty on Volkswagens.
Magicians on Field B. Finally, the All-Star game will W: Thanks. I need to get it fixed as soon as possible.
be on Field C at 5:00 sharp, so don’t be late. Good
luck, players, and please play safe. 26. Track 116 01:13

W: With steadily rising gasoline prices and increasingly

23. Track 113 01:02 congested city streets, many people are turning to
M: Recently, several friends were fishing when they bicycles as their main form of transportation. This is
reeled in a huge catch. It was a yellow croaker, or not a new phenomenon. Bike messengers have
bahaba, that measured over five feet long and always been common in large cities, and famous
weighed nearly 200 pounds. The friends knew it bike races are drawing more riders each year. What
was an important fish, and they were absolutely is new, however, is a generation of cyclists called

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“fixies.” These riders disassemble regular bikes into W: I know. The elephants and giraffes are amazing,
ones that have no brakes or gears. They feel that it too. I love the African exhibit!
gets down to the essential part of the bicycle. M: Yeah, it’s definitely one of the most interesting
Riding with no brakes also brings a huge adrenaline parts of the zoo.
rush, but there’s no question that it’s dangerous. W: But I also love the monkeys and orangutans. Can
Officials in the bicycling world have mixed feelings we go see them next?
about fixies. On one hand, they are in favor of the M: Well, I do want to see the monkeys, but it looks
movement as it brings attention to making streets overcrowded at the moment. Why don’t we stop at
and highways safer for bikers. On the other hand, the reptile house first?
they dislike the fact that fixies are using dangerously W: To see snakes and lizards? Are you kidding? I’m
altered bikes. absolutely terrified of them!
M: I didn’t know that! That’s too bad because reptiles
27. Track 117 01:07 are my favorite animals.
M: Every Sunday, Toby and Marcus received an allowance W: Oh, I can’t even look at them in their tanks. I start
of five dollars from their parents to spend as they to panic and have trouble breathing.
pleased. And every Sunday, Marcus immediately went M: Gosh, I’m sorry. I was really hoping to check them
to the shopping center to buy baseball cards or candy. out. That’s why I came to the zoo!
However, Toby always deposited three dollars into W: _______________________________.
his piggy bank each week to save it. One day, Toby
and Marcus’s mother told the boys that the whole 30. Track 120 01:04

family would be going to the amusement park. W: Since she was born, Courtney had always lived a
When they arrived, the boys found a junk dealer metropolitan life in the big city. However, one day,
who sold interesting collectible items. Marcus saw her parents informed her that they would be moving
a baseball card that he absolutely loved. But it cost to the country. Courtney felt devastated because
twenty dollars, and of course, he didn’t have the everything would be different! That afternoon, they
money. Toby found an old camera that still worked drove as a family to see the new house. On the way,
and cost fifty dollars. His mother lent him the Courtney noticed how beautiful the countryside was
money, since he assured her that he could repay and saw lots of horses. When they reached the rural
her with the savings in his piggy bank. He spent all town, Courtney saw that the streets were wide and
day merrily photographing the amusement park. there was very little traffic. This meant that she could
ride her bicycle wherever she wanted, which she
28. Track 118 00:54 wasn’t allowed to do in the big city. Finally, at the
W: I’m in the mood to go to the movies. What do you new house, Courtney made the best discovery of all.
think about going to the theater tonight? She had her own bedroom and wouldn’t have to
M: Sure, I’d love to go! What’s playing? share with her little sister anymore.
W: Well, there’s a romance that my friend Mindy told
me is excellent. 29: 4 3
M: A romance? That sounds kind of boring to me.
W: OK. Then, what do you want to watch? Practice Test 5
M: What about the new horror movie?
W: No, that will probably give me nightmares. 1. Track 121 00:51

M: Well, there’s an action film about a guy who kidnaps W: Hey, haven’t you heard? There is a new girl in
a senator’s daughter. school.
W: You always pick action and adventure movies. I’m M: I didn’t know there was a new student. What’s her
tired of seeing those. name?
M: OK, then, how about the new comedy with Will W: Her name is Cheryl, and she just moved here with
Ferrell? her family last week.
W: We always enjoy movies with him–he’s so funny. M: Cool. Let’s invite her to sit with us. Where is she?
M: ____________________________________. W: She’s over there on the other side of the cafeteria.
M: Is she the girl sitting at the table with the male
29. Track 119 01:05 teacher?
W: I’m so glad you invited me to come to the zoo W: No, she’s standing at the head of the lunch line.
today. M: Is she the one with straight, blond hair?
M: My pleasure. Hey, look at those lions. They’re so W: No, she has long, brown hair.
majestic! M: Oh, is she the girl with her hair in pigtails?
Transcripts 21
 W: Yes, that’s her. Let’s go over and ask her to join us. M: Sure. What time is it playing?
W: Well, there are 1:00, 3:00, and 5:00 showings, and
2. Track 122 00:55 it costs seven dollars per ticket.
W: Hi. I was wondering if you could help me pick out M: Let’s go to the first one. Do you want to stay and
something for my father’s retirement party next visit the museum afterward?
week. W: Sure, why not? I think admission to the museum is
M: Of course. As you can see, we have quite a large ten dollars.
selection. M: OK, sounds good. I’ll come pick you up, and we
W: Yes. That one there looks nice. can go. See you soon!
M: It’s adorned with sugar-coated roses, a common
choice for wedding receptions. 5. Track 125 00:57
W: Oh. Do you have anything that would be more W: Welcome to Ed’s Electronics. Can I help you find
appropriate for a man? anything in particular?
M: Well, this one looks like a suit. It’s got white and M: Yes, I’d like to buy a new television.
dark chocolate. W: You’ve come to the right place. We have many
W: Oh, that’s cute. It even has a black tie. models to choose from. Let me show you where
M: We also have chocolate donut rings, an assortment they are.
of cookies, and other desserts. M: I like this widescreen. It would look really good in
W: Hmm. No, thank you. I think the suit cake will be my living room.
just fine. I’d like to order one, please. W: Great. That one is $500. Would you like to get
M: Perfect. What day will you need it? some custom speakers to go with that?
M: Maybe. How much are they?
3. Track 123 01:01 W: Let’s see. . . they cost $350. But since today is
M: Well, Jenny, we’ve reached our cruising altitude of Sunday, they’re on sale for $50 off.
30,000 feet. It will be smooth sailing from here. M: Awesome! Yeah, I’ll get those, too. And can you
W: OK. I’ll go ahead and serve drinks to the passengers. deliver this stuff to my house?
M: When you have a minute, I’d like a cup of coffee W: Absolutely. We deliver every day of the week.
please. M: Tomorrow would be great. I can’t wait!
W: Yes, sir. Can I help you with anything else?
M: Actually, I overheard there is an elderly woman in 6. Track 126 01:02
coach class who needs assistance. She can’t seem to M: Wow, Theresa, those cupcakes were delicious!
find her ticket and is causing a small disturbance. You’re the best baker around!
W: All right. I’ll check on her first. By the way, how W: Michael! You ate the cupcakes? Those weren’t for
long is this flight? you---they were for my book club!
M: It should be about four hours until we touch down M: Oops, I guess I forgot. Sorry.
in Philadelphia. W: That’s it? “Sorry?” Oh, I am so frustrated with
W: That’s not too bad. So, are you and the copilot you!
heading back to Phoenix tonight? M: Hey, I said I was sorry. I’ll buy you some new
M: No. We’ll spend the night in Philadelphia and then cupcakes at the store.
have a quick trip to New York in the morning. W: I don’t want new cupcakes. Besides, homemade
W: That’s nice. The rest of the crew and I have to turn ones taste so much better.
around and fly back tonight. M: Well, then, I’ll make you some myself. What about
that?
4. Track 124 01:01 W: There’s no time. My book club meeting starts in an
W: Hi, Wes. Do you want to go with me to see the hour. And besides, that’s not the point. I told you
new IMAX movie? this morning that those weren’t for you to eat, but
M: I’ve never heard of IMAX. What’s that? you never listen to me!
W: You know it’s the theater at the Science Museum. M: OK, I’m really sorry. I’ll try to do a better job of
It has a huge screen and surround-sound. listening next time.
M: Oh, wait a minute! I have heard of it. The screen is W: Thank you.
curved too, right? So it makes you feel like you’re
really there. 7. Track 127 01:03
W: Exactly. So, do you want to go? They have a new M: Wow, tonight was an amazing night at the restaurant.
war movie on about the history of fighter planes. I earned a ton of money in tips! Initially, I was worried

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that the customers would be annoyed listening to surroundings, I couldn’t believe I was really there in
music while they dined, but they seemed to enjoy it. this paradise. The green rain forest loomed behind
All of our practices really paid off, and I felt like my me, while the crystal blue Caribbean Sea stretched
voice really sounded great with the guitar. At the end out in the distance as far as the eye could see. I was
of the evening, we got a standing ovation! on an exotic island, and it was one of the most
W: My feet are absolutely killing me–tonight was beautiful sights I had ever seen in my life. I couldn’t
incredibly busy at the restaurant. I was responsible wait to start exploring the incredible plants and
for so many tables that I could hardly keep track of animals that I had always dreamed about. I ran to
what food went where. At one point, we were so the bungalow I was staying in, threw my bags
overcrowded that one of the bus boys knocked down on the hammock in the corner, and then
into me, and I spilled lemonade on a customer! It started on my adventure.
was horrible, and I was certain that she would
complain to the manager; however, she was very 11. Track 131 00:52
understanding and didn’t make a big deal out of W: ⓐ Coffee was the most preferred beverage of survey
it. respondents.
ⓑ Fruit juice was the least popular drink according to
8. Track 128 00:54 the survey.
W: Hello, Miami residents, this is Rachel Davidson with ⓒ Fewer people liked water than tea in the survey.
your afternoon weather forecast update. Well, ⓓ The same number of people liked soda pop as tea.
I hope you put on your sunscreen on today. As ⓔ More people liked coffee than water and juice
you’ve probably noticed, we have another hot, combined.
sunny day here in the Miami area. Once again, the
temperature has topped 90 degrees, and with no 12. Track 132 00:59
clouds in the sky, that’s a recipe for getting M: It really is too bad that we won’t be able to see the
sunburned if you’re not protected. This is the second Olympic torch this year.
day in a row that we’ve experienced this type of W: Haven’t you heard? It is going to pass by next
weather, and tomorrow should be more of the week!
same. But Thursday should finally bring relief with M: Here in London? No way! We will witness history in
some lightning and thunderstorms. The rain will the making! What day will it be here?
hopefully continue into Friday but clear up by the W: Let’s see. Today is the third, and the torch is in
weekend. Istanbul.
M: So, when will it get here? I can’t wait to cheer on
9. Track 129 01:01 the torch runner.
W: This is the biggest organ in the body, which means W: Well, it goes to St. Petersburg on Monday, and it
that it is a fairly independent body part that has a will be here on Tuesday.
special purpose. One might immediately think of M: Awesome. And where does the torch go after that?
organs like the heart, lungs, or kidneys. This organ W: It will go to Paris on the seventh and then over to
does not have a round compact shape like those, the States.
but rather is spread out over the entire body. M: Wow, that’s a long trip.
Nevertheless, its job is just as important because W: Yeah. It goes to San Francisco on the ninth and
this organ protects our insides, regulates our body Buenos Aires, Argentina on the eleventh.
temperature, and allows us to have the sense of M: Then, after that, I heard it travels to the Middle East
touch. The top layer of this organ is called the and Asia. What a trek!
epidermis, and it is actually composed of many
dead cells. Some people might be disgusted by the 13. Track 133 01:08
thought of that. However, humans lose over W: If you want a neat place to visit, why not try Istanbul,
40,000 of this organ’s cells per day without even Turkey? This city is one of the most populated in all
realizing it! of Europe and boasts many cultural and historical
landmarks. It was the capital of several kingdoms,
10. Track 130 01:00 such as the Roman, Latin, and Ottoman Empires.
W: As we stepped off the bus, the sound of chirping This history can be seen in the city’s architecture,
insects and twittering birds enveloped me. The especially in its churches and mosques. While in
heat was thick around us, and I actually felt my hair Istanbul, you can also check out art, culture, and
curling from the humidity. As I looked around at my history museums. Of course, no trip to Istanbul

Transcripts 23
 would be complete without a visit to one of the W: You have to go grocery shopping? That will take
great bazaars. These large outdoor shopping areas forever! Can’t you drop me off first?
have tons of items to choose from. If you enjoy M: Well, I guess I could leave you at the mall before I
nature, you can spend a day swimming in the go to the grocery store. But I need to do the other
Bosphorus River or visit the nearby Princes’ Islands. errands first!
Whether you prefer history, art, culture, or the W: Thanks, Patrick. I really appreciate it.
outdoors, you will surely enjoy a trip to Istanbul. M: No problem. Just don’t forget who your favorite
brother is!
14. Track 134 01:10

W: Cody loved all kinds of extreme sports. He was 17. Track 137 00:48

wonderful at mountain biking, skateboarding, rock W: Hey, Jordan. Do you want to go to the beach this
climbing, and snowboarding. When he visited afternoon?
friends in California, he attempted surfing and M: Maybe after I run some errands. I have to get party
became very good at it, too. But not everything supplies.
was easy for Cody. In fact, he found school to be W: Oh, that’s right! Brenda’s birthday is tomorrow.
very challenging, especially because it was hard for What are you going to get?
him to concentrate and sit still long enough to M: Well, I’ve got to go to Party World to get some
study. But at the end of his last year of high school, balloons and a few streamers.
Cody knew that he would have to pass his final W: They have really cute matching paper plates, plastic
examinations in order to graduate. He decided to cups, forks, and napkins, too.
apply the same level of dedication that he had for M: Yeah, but I think we already have enough of
sports to his schoolwork. Cody asked for help from those.
his friend, and the two studied almost every day for W: Oh, OK. What else do you need to get?
weeks. Finally, the day of his final exams arrived, M: Well, I have to go to the shopping mall to get a
but Cody was no longer nervous. He passed the polo shirt for Brenda’s gift.
tests and attended graduation with his classmates. W: That sounds fun!
M: And then, I have to stop at the bakery to pick up
15. Track 135 00:57 the cake.
ⓐ M: Hey, Jessica! What are your plans for tonight? Let’s
hang out. 18. Track 138 00:57

W: I would love to, but I’m so busy with homework. M: Hey! I heard you’re going on a trip to Hawaii. That’s
ⓑ M: Which outfit do you like the best? I can’t decide. so cool!
W: I think the blue suit and the black tie would look W: I guess. I have to go for my sister’s wedding, so
really good on you. I don’t have a choice.
ⓒ W: Hello, Mr. Sanders. Can I please speak to Stephanie? M: You don’t sound very excited. I would be thrilled to
M: She is not here at the moment. Who’s calling visit Hawaii.
please? W: Well, it will be my first time on a plane. I’m frightened
ⓓ M: Thank you for coming over. Have a seat and make of flying.
yourself comfortable. M: But flying is far safer than riding in a car, bus, or
W: That’s OK. I don’t really care for swimming. train.
ⓔ M: Excuse me, miss, are you in line? W: I know. But I saw a movie about an airplane crash
W: No. Actually, I’m waiting for someone. You go when I was little, and I’ve had nightmares about it
ahead. ever since.
M: That’s too bad. Well, I guess you could always take
16. Track 136 00:54 a boat to Hawaii.
W: Patrick, can you give me a ride to the department W: No, that would take too long. I’ll just have to face
store? I’m supposed to meet my friends. my fear.
M: I guess, but I have to do a few errands first. M: Who knows? Maybe you’ll actually enjoy the trip
W: What do you have to do? and see that flying isn’t so dangerous after all.
M: Well, first I have to pick up some files for Dad at the W: Let’s hope so!
copy center and drop them off at his office.
W: Well, that’s only two places. That won’t take long. 19. Track 139 00:53

M: I also promised Mom that I’d go to the dry cleaners M: My mom’s birthday is coming up, and I haven’t
for her and get some groceries at the store. decided yet what to get her.

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W: What about some nice perfume or a pretty necklace? certain sections of the fitness center are under
M: Well, I’m pretty short on cash right now. construction, so some of the morning classes will
W: OK. What about cooking her dinner? Moms love not be in their usual spots. The yoga class that is
that kind of thing. held at 8:00 will be held in the dance studio instead
M: Oh, no one wants to eat my cooking–believe me! of the activities room, and the 9:30 weightlifting
W: Why don’t you take a picture of the family and put will be held in the large gymnasium. The Tai Chi
it in a nice frame? and kickboxing classes have also been moved
M: We did that last month for my parents' wedding from 8:30 to 10:00 and will be held outside in the
anniversary. I need a new idea. courtyard. The 10:00 indoor cross-country treadmill
W: All right. Here’s a thought. Why don’t you write class has been canceled for today, unfortunately.
your mom a poem! Aerobic workout class at 11:00 will be held in the
M: No way! But I could make her something in my dance studio. All of the swimming classes will be
pottery class. postponed until further notice while the pool is
W: There you go! I bet she’ll love that. being renovated. Thank you for understanding, and
we hope that you are not too inconvenienced.
20. Track 140 00:52

M: Hey, Michaela, what time do you have? 23. Track 143 00:54

W: Um…5:25. Why, what’s up? W: The rise of the Internet has meant changes for
M: My little sister has a softball game tonight. But it people and industries all over the world. One area
started at 5 o’clock. that has been really hard-hit is print media, especially
W: Well, why don’t we go? magazines and newspapers. Many consumers
M: By the time we get there, it will be more than don’t want to purchase these items from stores or
half-way over. newsstands when they can get the latest news for
W: But that won’t matter to your sister. I’m sure she’d free from a website. On the other hand, others feel
love to see you. that reading the news online is not the same as
M: I know. She keeps bugging me to go to one of her reading an actual newspaper or their favorite
games. But I’m always so bored watching them! magazine. And many people don’t have a laptop
W: That’s too bad! It will make her feel good to see her computer they can take with them while they ride
big brother in the stands behind her dugout. the public transportation to work. So even though
M: You’re right. But it’s still so hot out there. I really the Internet is changing our world dramatically
don’t feel like going. _______________.
W: Oh, come on. I’ll go with you. We can even take
her to the ice cream store afterward. 24. Track 144 01:03

M: Vinegar is a strong-tasting liquid made from a

21. Track 141 01:00 chemical called ethanol. The ethanol can be found
M: Hi, this is Coach Peterson calling, and this message in a variety of sources, including wine, beer, fruits,
is for Tony Rossini. Last year, our team, the Fighting and grains. Common types of vinegar include white,
Hurricanes, worked with Sports Warehouse, and you apple cider, balsamic, and rice vinegar. Vinegars are
all did a wonderful job providing our equipment. often used in cooking, especially for making pickled
None of our parents or players complained, and products, marinades, and salad dressings. The liquid
that’s why I’d like to give you our business this year, has numerous other uses as well. Vinegar can be
too. We’re going to need nine soccer jerseys in size used to clean glass, remove mineral deposits and
small, five in size medium, and six in size large. rust, disinfect surfaces, and neutralize odors. Vinegar
Please make them in the same shades of gray and can even be added when doing laundry to act as a
black you used last time with our team name fabric softener. Moreover, vinegar can be used as a
embroidered on the front. We also need to get new safe and effective weed killer. Who knew that such
goalie equipment and two regulation-issued soccer a simple liquid could have so many purposes?
balls. We usually pay by credit card once the order
has been filled, but let me know if we need to do 25. Track 145 01:03
it differently this year. Please contact me if you M: Come on in, Melissa. So, why do you want to join
need any further information. the school paper?
W: Well, I’ve always loved writing, and I just got a
22. Track 142 01:07 camera, so I could take pictures, too.
W: Hi, everyone, this is Trainer Jenny speaking, and I M: Very good. And do you have any experience with
have a brief announcement. As you are aware, this kind of work?
Transcripts 25
 W: Yes, I was a reporter at my last school before my M: Hi, I’d like to place an order for delivery.
family moved here. W: Sure, what can we get for you?
M: Great. What section are you interested in? We have M: We’d like a large pepperoni pizza and an order of
open positions in sports and student life. breadsticks.
W: Well, I’m not much of a sports fan, but I could do W: All right. And to what address will that be delivered?
that if I had to. I really enjoy interviewing students M: 133 Maple Avenue. It’s near the intersection of
and teachers, though. Shelbyville Road and Second Street.
M: So, it sounds like you’re a people person. W: OK. Your total is $17.50, and your pizza should be
W: Yes, I’m pretty outgoing and talkative. I think the there in about an hour and a half.
newspaper will help me meet new people, also. M: An hour and a half? But my family is starving! We
M: Well, Melissa, it sounds like you’re a perfect fit for don’t want to wait that long.
the job. We’ll see you Monday. W: I’m really sorry, sir, but we’re short a few drivers
W: Thanks, Mr. Graham. I can’t wait! tonight. I hate to say it, but you could always order
from somewhere else.
26. Track 146 01:03 M: But we love your pizza. It’s our favorite.
M: Many people enjoy going to a restaurant or café to W: Well, the other option would be for you to pick up
drink coffee and chat with friends. There are even the pizza. It would be ready in twenty minutes.
Internet cafés where customers can bring their M: ____________________________.
computers and work or go online in a nice
environment. But the newest coffee shop trend, at 29. Track 149 00:59

least in Japan, has a different specialization–cats. W: Good afternoon, Jeff. May I come in?
That’s right! For about $10 an hour, customers M: Sure, have a seat, Monica. I haven’t seen you in a
can drink coffee and play with real live cats. The while.
friendly felines have the run of the place and are W: I know. I’ve been so busy with school. But I’m
supposed to help bring on relaxation for stressed really in need of a new hairstyle, and you are still
clients. These coffee shops have become a hit in my favorite hairdresser.
Tokyo, where housing rules and long working M: You are too kind. What did you have in mind
hours stop many people from having their own today?
pets. So, don’t be shocked if the next time you hit W: I’d like to do something dramatic, like cut my hair
your local coffee shop, you’re asked, “Would you in a short bob and dye it blond.
like a cat with that cappuccino?” M: Well, I think a short haircut would look really good
on you, but as for the blond part…
27. Track 147 01:07 W: Oh, no! You don’t like the idea?
W: Caitlin and Jonathan were cousins that lived in the M: It’s just that I think blond doesn’t really match your
same neighborhood for years. They saw each other skin tone.
often, but despite being cousins, Caitlin never had W: That’s too bad. I wanted to make a change, but
much fun. She complained to her mother that I always trust your judgment.
Jonathan always teased her and played tricks on M: Well, here’s an idea. We could do some blond
her. Then one day, Caitlin’s mother informed her highlights. That would be a lot softer.
that Jonathan’s family was moving to another W: ___________________________.
state, and they wouldn’t get to see each other as
much. Caitlin practically jumped for joy! But after a 30. Track 150 00:57

few weeks, she discovered that she actually missed M: Thomas was a shy boy who didn’t feel comfortable
her cousin. She decided to write Jonathan a letter in front of large groups of people. However, he did
and was overjoyed when she received one from him. have a passion for singing, and when he was at
Soon, the two cousins became pen pals, writing to home, he liked to sing as loudly as possible. One
each other every month. When Caitlin learned that day, he decided to audition for the school talent
Jonathan would be visiting her family during summer show, and his act was accepted. On the evening of
vacation, she could hardly wait. Who would have the performance, Thomas looked around the huge
expected that the two would grow to be such close auditorium and was worried that he couldn’t go
friends living so far apart? through with it. His mother waved to him and gave
him an encouraging smile, which was enough to
28. Track 148 01:02 get Thomas to go on stage. Initially, his voice
W: Good evening, this is Peter’s Pizzeria. Can I take wavered; but gradually, it got louder, and he sang
your order? with all his heart. Although Thomas missed some

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of the notes and forgot a few of the lyrics, the W: Do you see yourself as a role model for kids?
audience clapped with approval. M: Yes. I take that very seriously. I want kids to look up
to me not only because I’m a good athlete, but also
because I’m a good person.
29:1 6
W: That’s great. Can we get a picture of you in front of
Practice Test 6 the school where you first played as part of our
story?
1. Track 151 00:58 M: Sure. It would be my pleasure.
W: I invited the new girl, Jennifer, to the skating party to
meet people. See if you can guess which one she is. 4. Track 154 00:56

She’s over there. M: I hope we can get there in time.

M: That’s not very fair. I’m still kind of new to this W: We will. It doesn’t start for another thirty minutes.
school. Is she the girl who has long, blond hair with M: It’s 5:00 now.
pigtails? W: I know. It only takes ten minutes to get to the theater.
W: No. Jennifer has darker hair. M: Did you pick up the $20 Dad left on top of the
M: So, she’s the red-haired girl wearing the blue hat? counter?
W: No. But she is standing very close to her. W: You worry too much. Yes. And I’ve got an extra
M: OK. So, she’s the one with her hair in braids. $20 so that we can get ice cream afterward.
W: No. Her hair is not black, and she doesn't have M: For everyone? I want to pay for Leah. It’s our first
braids. date.
M: How about the girl with the pigtails lying on her W: I’m your big sister. Haven’t I always taken care of
stomach? you? Of course.
W: Yes, that’s her. She must have fallen down. M: So, $20 is enough to cover the tickets? I want to
M: I’m excited to meet her. Let’s go help her up. make sure Dad gave us enough for the movie.
W: Will you stop being so nervous? I’ve got it covered.
2. Track 152 00:55 We’ll split the $20 four ways to pay for the tickets.
M: That’s Kimberly, from our study group.
W: I think you’re right. I don’t know much about her, 5. Track 155 00:59

but she seems really smart. W: We’re traveling to Missouri to help rebuild houses
M: I was on student council with her last year, and in a town that was hit by a tornado last year. Would
she’s very friendly and outgoing. you like to help us raise money?
W: I wonder if she’s invited to Matt’s party. M: I love to give to a good cause.
M: He said he invited lots of people from our class. W: Well, we’re selling potted flowers for $5 a pot or
What’re you going to get him? $18 for a 5-pack.
W: I found a greatest hits CD from a 70s band that he M: Even better! I can get something for my wife and
loves at that new music store here. give you a donation at the same time. I’ll take four
M: I’m going to get him a pair of roller blades. He 5-packs.
competes in roller races at the skating rink. W: OK. They’ll be delivered next Monday.
W: I didn’t know that. Why don’t we go watch him M: I’m going out of town and won’t be back until
sometime? Wednesday. Is that a problem?
M: That would be fun. Let’s go to the sporting goods W: No. If you’ll call my teacher when you get in, we
store over there so I can get his gift. can deliver them.
W: Then, we’re headed to the park for his party. I don’t M: That sounds good. Thank you for working with
want to be late! me.
W: No problem. Thank you for helping us out.
3. Track 153 00:57 M: My pleasure. Have a good trip!
W: As a kid, did you imagine you’d do this for a living?
M: Not at all. I was like every kid in that I always 6. Track 156 00:52

dreamed of competing, but never thought it would M: If you don’t mind, I’d like to carry that for you.
come true. W: It really isn’t that heavy. I only bought some fruit,
W: I bet. What does your family say? bread, and cheese.
M: They’re all really proud, my grandmother especially. M: I know, but I firmly believe in being a gentleman.
W: I’ve heard she comes to every game. W: Well, there aren't too many young men like you
M: Absolutely. She wouldn’t miss one. She raised me, these days. I guess you can carry the bags if you
so I feel I owe her big time. I wouldn’t be who I am want to.
today without her.
Transcripts 27
 M: My father taught me that a man should carry finalizing an agreement between two parties.
groceries and open the door for ladies. Rejecting this when it’s offered is usually considered
W: Well, what a treat! My apartment is across from the inappropriate. The pressure used when completing
grocery store. this act can send different types of messages. Too
M: That’s fine. much pressure may mean that you are trying to
W: So, are you in school? dominate the situation. Too weak a gesture is
M: I’m studying to be a doctor, ma’am. I’m in my first considered a sign of weakness. In some religions,
year. this act is prohibited between members of the
W: Well, you’ll make a fine doctor. You’re gentle and opposite sex because they are not allowed any sort
kind, which are both good qualities to have. of physical contact.

7. Track 157 01:00 10. Track 160 00:59

M: I really wasn’t sure that everything was going to M: I was in the best shape of my life after working out at
turn out as well as it did this year. During the the gym all summer. When I didn’t make the team
spring, when we were planting, we went without last year, I vowed that I would work my hardest so
rain for many weeks, and I thought the crops were that it didn’t happen again. A trainer at the gym gave
going to die for sure. But then the rain came not a me a workout routine that helped me to get stronger
moment too soon, and within a few days, we had and faster. I exercised four days a week, every week,
bean sprouts and potato plant sprouts all over the and I also grew three inches at that time, so I knew I
field. was in amazing shape to make the football team.
W: These beans and potatoes are some of the best I’ve Tryouts were held the week before we started school
seen on the market this year. I’d heard rumors in the fall, and as that week drew near, I became
about the hard year that farmers around here had more and more excited. At the tryouts, the coach was
trying to raise crops without much rainfall. But impressed with me because I outran everyone in the
from the looks of your supply, they did very well, 100-meter dash. I was thrilled to see my name on the
and I’m thrilled to buy as many as they can sell me team roster, and I even got a position in the starting
because I guarantee people in the city will buy lineup!
these off my store shelves in a matter of a few
days. 11. Track 161 00:59

W: ⓐ Teens value the fashion advice they get from peers

8. Track 158 00:54 above everything else.
M: Well, hello, New England! A good day to you, and ⓑ The Internet is the fourth most popular place to
this is Roger Sanchez with your weekly weather seek fashion advice for teens.
report. I don’t know about you, but I have been ⓒ Teens look to TV/movie stars more than to their
thoroughly enjoying the sunshine. Unfortunately, if parents for fashion advice.
you thought the warm days of summer were going ⓓ Teens would rather get their fashion advice from
to last forever, you’ll be quite disappointed when magazines than from anywhere else.
you look out your window this morning. It is ⓔ Teens trust their parents the least for fashion
cloudy, and a cold front has hit our region, sending advice.
the warm weather out the door. Expect to see rain
showers tomorrow and through the weekend. So, 12. Track 162 01:02
it looks like we all will be exchanging our shorts W: My parents asked for help to plan our vacation this
and flip-flops for trench coats and rain boots as the summer. We’re traveling all over the US.
weather forecast after today looks to be a wet one M: That sounds like fun.
for at least the next two days. W: I know! We’re going to start in San Francisco,
California on Monday the nineteenth, and we’ll
9. Track 159 00:57 spend three days there.
M: This interesting ritual is one that is recognized in M: That’s cool. Will you see the Golden Gate Bridge?
most cultures around the world. It is used most often W: Yes. Then, we’ll spend five days at the Grand
as a greeting, especially when meeting someone for Canyon in Arizona.
the first time and when saying goodbye. It is M: Awesome! I’ve always wanted to go there.
commonly used to congratulate someone on a job W: Then, we’ll spend two days in Chicago, and we’ll
well done. It can be seen in the business world when go to a professional baseball game.

28 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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M: I’m jealous! ⓓ M: I’m doing my report on the country of Scotland.

W: Then, we’ll spend the last four days in New York. I W: My grandmother grew up there. You should ask
can’t wait to see the Statue of Liberty. We’ll also get her for help.
to see a Broadway show on the weekend that we’re ⓔ M: I’ve been playing that new video game nonstop.
there. Then, we will end our trip in Miami for three W: Yeah, I noticed. So, that’s why you haven’t answered
days. your phone all day.
M: I bet you guys will have a great time.
16. Track 166 00:57

13. Track 163 01:11 M: Thank you for helping me make cinnamon rolls for
M: Some believe the spare change in the couch cushions my mom.
or in the floorboard of your car doesn’t really amount W: No problem. I’ll give you the instructions, but you
to much, but I would beg to differ. Did you know that have to do all the work.
if someone saved four quarters every day for one year, M: That’s fine with me.
he would have accumulated $365? A college student W: Since you’ve gathered all your ingredients already,
in Canada recently proved that nickels, dimes, and turn the oven on to 375 degrees.
quarters amount to quite a bit when he paid his M: OK. I did it. Now what?
tuition bill, a total of $1,037, in change. Some banks W: Now, take the dough that’s been rising for two
offer to open savings accounts for their customers hours, and knead it into a ball.
with their "spare change." An example of this is if M: I hope I made it right. I made the dough before you
someone pays $52.45 for something, the bank got here.
deducts $53.00 from their account and places the W: As long as you followed the directions, you’ll be
55 cents in a savings account. If this change is saved fine.
every day for a year, that person could have over M: I definitely did. I can’t wait to taste these!
$200 at the end of the year. This proves that all W: We have a few things to do before we get to that
those coins really can add up to big returns. step. Next, separate the dough into six smaller
balls. Then, after they are cooked, we should
14. Track 164 01:00 spread the icing on top of the cakes.
W: Brian was the type of guy who enjoyed helping
others out, regardless of what they needed. He 17. Track 167 00:53

could always be seen carrying someone else’s W: So, what’s on the list your mom sent?
books or sitting next to the person who usually M: I need to get a few things for the party tonight. Let
sat alone at lunch. He loved the chance to be able me look.
to help someone improve their situation. Brian even W: Do you need disposable plates and napkins? Here,
volunteered at the youth center’s Big Brother they have many different kinds.
program, and he met with an elementary school-aged M: Yes, forty of each. But it is OK if they do not match.
boy every week to work on homework and do fun We’ll also need plastic silverware and paper cups.
things together. It seems Brian was always giving W: What about some paper party hats? They’re very
his time, energy, and money to others. When Brian festive and only five dollars each.
got really sick, he was surprised at how many M: No, I better just stick to the list. She told me she
people came to see him at the hospital and offered only needed the things she’d written down.
to help him catch up on his homework. He never W: OK. What else?
dreamed he’d touched so many people just by M: We need candles for the cake and matches.
doing simple things for them. W: They are a few aisles over, I think.
M: Let’s go get them, and then we’re finished.
15. Track 165 01:00

ⓐ M: I have some bad news. My computer quit working 18. Track 168 00:50

this morning. W: Would you like to go to the theater with me?

W: No problem. I know someone who could look at it M: I don’t know. It’s so nice and warm outside, I was
for you. thinking of riding my bike.
ⓑ M: I had to stand in line all day, but I got two tickets to W: Surely you can do that later. The movie starts at
that new western movie. 1:30 and is only two hours long.
W: That’s good. Who will you take with you? M: What about going tonight? Can we see a late-night
ⓒ M: I didn’t think we were going to win that game. showing?
W: Yeah, I can’t wait to play this afternoon.

Transcripts 29
 W: No. This is the only showing of the first movie. It’s order I placed with your company was incorrect
special since the sequel starts on Friday. when it was delivered. But I really appreciated the
M: But we’ve already seen it. way your representative answered my questions.
W: Not on the big screen! We were too young to go She corrected the problem so that I didn’t need to
when it first came out. talk to you anymore. I have already told many of
M: It sounds like you’re really set on going. my friends and family members about the great
W: I am. It will be good fun, I promise. customer service you offer. I’ve recommended that
M: All right, but we’re riding bikes as soon as it’s they use your company for ordering the things they
over. need. You must certainly be very proud to work for
such a great company. I applaud you for the job
19. Track 169 00:56 your employees are doing.
M: I don’t know what I’m going to tell Mr. Morris
about my paper. 22. Track 172 01:07

W: What happened? M: If I could have everyone’s attention, I would like to

M: I wrote it last week but waited to print it out until share with you the updated departure times for our
this morning. And now I’m having a problem with trains today. We apologize for the delay, but we are
my parents’ computer. It won’t even turn on. pleased to announce that the large herd of cattle
W: Oh, no. Did you have one of your parents look at that had wandered onto the tracks outside of the
it? city has safely been moved to another area. Now,
M: Yes, but my dad couldn’t figure it out. here is the new schedule for the afternoon. The
W: What about taking it to a repair center? northbound train will depart from Platform A at
M: I would, but there’s not enough time to do that and 2:45, which is only 30 minutes away. The eastbound
turn the paper in. train leaving for Florida is scheduled for departure at
W: Could you ask Mr. Morris for an extension? 3:30 from Platform B. The southbound train will
M: I overheard him telling someone that he expected make its run for Texas from Platform E at 3:00. Then,
all the papers by noon today, no exceptions. at 5:30, the westbound train bound for the sunny
W: Maybe he’d understand. I’ll go with you to talk to coast of California will leave Platform D. And finally,
him if you’d like. our express train will depart from Platform C at 4:00
M: That is very kind of you. Thank you for being such for the short trip to Oklahoma City.
a good friend.
23. Track 173 00:51

20. Track 170 00:48 W: There are those who say that honesty is the best
W: Have you asked anyone to the spring dance yet? policy, and an example of this is a recent friendly act
M: There’s a girl I’ve wanted to ask, but I’m nervous. of kindness in Norway. In the small city of Leknes in
W: You should ask her! Who is she? Do I know her? Norway, some men had volunteered to help clean
M: Oh, you know her pretty well. She’s tall and has up the ditches along the highway. One of the men
brown hair. found a leather folder that had thousands of dollars
W: That describes half the girls in our class. in it. He didn’t think twice about keeping the money,
M: Well, she and I have biology, English, and history and instead, he decided to turn it over to the man
together. who’d lost it several months earlier. While it would’ve
W: I’m in all those classes. I’m just dying to know who been easy for the man to pocket the money, he
she is. knew that wasn’t the right thing to do. So, without
M: Like I said, you know her pretty well. You spend a second thought, he ______________.
quite a bit of time together.
W: Wait a minute. Is the girl, by any chance, talking to 24. Track 174 01:02
you right now? M: When visiting the ocean on your summer vacation,
M: As a matter of fact, she is. you might want to remember to stay away from
box jellyfish. These invertebrates can grow up to
21. Track 171 00:58 three meters long, which is longer than the average
W: I wanted to let you know that I was so impressed with man’s height, and can travel through the water
the help I received when I called customer service the very quickly. The most frightening thing about the
other day. The employee who handled my call was jellyfish is their toxic venom. It’s their protection
very friendly and professional. I’d originally called to against prey and their method of catching food.
speak to the manager to complain because the last Their venom attacks the heart and the nervous

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system of the body and can be fatal, even for the past. However, one day, a business person gave
humans. Jellyfish have many tiny tentacles that an inspiring speech at my school. I realized that I can
grow out from their body. Each tentacle contains do anything if I put my mind to it and that maybe
5,000 stinging cells. So, if you are playing in the I was being too pessimistic. So, when I started high
ocean and spot a jellyfish nearby, it would be best school, I decided to run for class president and won!
to get to shore as soon as possible. It was a great opportunity for me to help a lot of
people through the various groups and volunteer
25. Track 175 01:00 projects I led.
M: Excuse me, are you the head baker? I have a
question. 28. Track 178 00:57

W: I sure am. What can I do for you? W: With the weather getting warmer, I think it would
M: Well, your sign next to the window advertises that be fun if several of us went camping.
you grind all of the flour for the bread you bake. M: That does sound fun. Where would we go?
W: Yes, sir, we do. W: I don’t know. There are many cool spots at the
M: Then, why do you have bags of flour sitting state park.
around? M: Isn’t it expensive to camp out there?
W: Well, sir, the window display is too narrow to hold W: I’ve never gone there, so I don’t know.
bags of flour. But, but I can assure you the flour M: Let's go out to my grandparents’ property instead.
was milled here before we bagged them. They have a lot of land in the valley. There are some
M: I see. So, are individual bags of flour for sale or do perfect spots out there.
you just sell bread made from the flour? W: What is there to do on your grandparents’ property?
W: We sell both. Would you like to buy a bag of flour? M: Tons of things! We can explore the walking trails,
M: Thank you, but I think I’ll just take a loaf of honey ride in a canoe, and even sleep outside in a tent.
wheat bread for today. W: All right, that’s a great idea!
W: OK, I’ll go get a fresh loaf from the oven and meet M: I’m sure they’d be fine with it, but I’ll call them this
you at the cash register. week just in case.
W: If they say it’s OK, we should try to do it this
26. Track 176 01:04 weekend.
W: We are told to exercise our brains so that we will M: __________________________________
be able to use them when we are old. A unique
medical condition has caused a woman’s brain to 29. Track 179 00:56

work on overdrive. She literally remembers every W: Hey, Jeff, what’s the plan for tonight?
event, big or small, that has happened to her since M: Let’s go watch a movie at the drive-in theater.
she was fourteen. Now at the age of forty-two, you W: I don’t think that would be very much fun. The idea
can ask her any date in the past twenty-eight years, of being outside during a movie is weird to me.
and she’ll tell you exactly what happened to her on M: Not at all! In fact, it’s a lot more fun than being in
that day and what was even on TV at the time. the theater.
Doctors have tested her and found that she is able W: How do you hear what’s happening on screen?
to remember events farther back than the average M: You tune the car radio to a specific station where
person. They suggest it is due to some parts of her they broadcast the sound from the movie.
brain being three times bigger in size than other W: I didn’t know that.
women her age. Interestingly, even though she can M: We like to take lawn chairs and sit in the back of
remember events that happened to her, she is my pickup truck. We can still hear the movie, and
horrible at memorizing poems or phone numbers. it’s cool to watch it underneath the stars.
W: That sounds pretty good. But, what about popcorn
27. Track 177 00:59 and drinks?
M: In junior high, it seemed my friends were always M: There’s a concession stand at the drive-in that
nominating me for leadership positions, whether it serves everything you’d find at a regular theater.
was the president of the student council or the W: __________________________________
captain of the debate team. I never asked to be
nominated because I didn’t see myself as a leader 30. Track 180 01:05

and thought I wouldn’t do a very good job. I was M: Joshua knew that it was a stretch to expect such a big
especially worried since some teachers had gift for Christmas, but he wanted it so badly. He first
complained about how I handled leadership roles in played the games on his friend’s new video game

Transcripts 31
 console and had wanted one ever since. However, really quickly, and then we can get back on the
Joshua knew they were expensive, and his parents road.
struggled for money since his mother lost her job. On M: Sounds good to me. Just don’t forget to make it
Christmas morning, Joshua braced himself before quick.
going downstairs to open presents. He kept telling W: Thanks, I appreciate it! I promise I’ll be in and out.
himself not to expect too much, but as he came to
the bottom of the stairs, he couldn’t believe his eyes. 3. Track 183 00:56
There was the new video-game system he had M: Good afternoon, ma’am. Can you show me where
requested! He found out that his grandparents your laundry room is?
pitched in to make sure his parents could get him W: Sure. It’s over here next to the kitchen.
just what he wanted. Joshua couldn’t wait for his M: So, this is the machine that you want us to replace?
grandparents to arrive for their Christmas dinner W: Yes, please. We’ve been having a problem with it
later that day so he could thank them for being so leaking soapy water everywhere.
generous. M: That is common with these older models. I’ve
brought you a more modern one.
29:0 6 W: Great! But wait a minute. Will I be charged for the
new model?
Practice Test 7 M: No, ma’am. It is all a part of your five-year warranty.
W: Oh, that’s good. And do they use the same wiring
1. Track 181 01:12 and hosing?
M: Wow, look at their selection of bathtubs. We M: They sure do. All of our washing machines use the
shouldn’t have any trouble finding a new one. same wiring and hosing. And if there is a problem,
W: I know. Hey, look at this one. It's rectangular and we’ll get someone else down here to fix it right
covered with fancy tiles. away.
M: But it looks like it's too big. I also think it's too W: Thank you so much for your help.
fancy. We should get something simpler.
W: What about this one? I love the black color. 4. Track 184 01:03
M: Yeah, but it looks a little too small doesn't it? It also M: Hi, I need to buy a plane ticket from San Francisco
seems like we'd have to install the faucet in the to San Diego, please. I’d like to leave the day after
wall. tomorrow.
W: I like the ones that have the pipes at the head of W: OK, did you need a direct flight, or is one with
the tub. stops at other airports OK?
M: You’re right. What do you think about this plain, M: It really doesn’t make a difference to me. What
white, rectangular one? flights are available?
W: It’s OK. W: The earliest flight leaves at 6:30 a.m. That one has
M: You are never going to pick one! one stop in Los Angeles and arrives in San Diego at
W: No, wait a minute. I like this white one here. The 8:45.
shape is a little different than the rest. It looks like M: That’s a little too early for me. What other flights
it's more triangular than rectangular. I think I really are there?
like this one. W: The next flight leaves at 9:00 a.m. That’s a direct
M: That’s pretty nice. All right, let’s buy that one. flight, but it’s a little more expensive than our
flights with stops.
2. Track 182 00:50 M: What time does it arrive in San Diego?
M: Look at that! There’s a gas station at the next exit. W: That one arrives at 10:10 a.m.
W: That’s the first one I’ve seen in miles. Please tell me M: That sounds good. I’d like to buy a seat on that
you’re going to stop. flight, then.
M: I wasn’t really planning to stop just yet. W: No problem. I’ll reserve your ticket right now.
W: Come on, why don’t we? I’m starving over here.
M: I was hoping we could make it to Freer before making 5. Track 185 00:59

another stop, though. M: OK, Ms. Marsh. I took a look at Fluffy, and he
W: It won’t take too long. seems to be in perfect health. The only real issue is
M: I guess I could use the rest. Plus, I really need to that we have to update his shots.
stretch out my legs. W: Oh, I thought it might be about time for that.
W: Great, it’s settled then. Let’s just get something to eat Which one will he need?

32 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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M: We need to give him a rabies shot.
8. Track 188 00:52
W: How much does that cost?
M: Good morning, Glenview. This is Tim Brown from
M: It usually costs $50, but since you’re a regular
the Channel 5 weather team. Today, we expect all
customer, you get a discount of 50 percent off.
those rain showers from yesterday to clear up, so
W: That sounds good to me. When can we schedule
we’ll get to enjoy at least one day of warm, sunny
it?
weather. Our highs for today will be a pleasant eighty
M: Usually, I’d be able to do it during your visit, but I’m
degrees, which will probably change somewhat
running kind of late on my appointments. Would it
throughout the week. Make sure to enjoy the sun
be possible for you to come back on Thursday?
today because the weather forecast predicts that
there will be a mild disturbance coming in from the
W: I have to teach a class on Thursday, so that day’s
west that will probably give us partially cloudy skies.
out. How about the next day?
Then, by Friday, the week will end the same way it
M: I think that works. Just schedule it with Lucinda up
began, and expect the rainy weather to last for the
front.
rest of the weekend.
W: Will do. Thanks so much!

9. Track 189 01:08

6. Track 186 00:53
W: Doctors suggest that exercising regularly is one of
M: Janie, aren’t you ready for your trip yet?
the most important things a person can do to stay
W: I don’t really have that much to prepare.
healthy. It can especially help prevent many diseases
M: That’s not really the point. Aren’t you looking
and improve mental health as well. One way to get
forward to your trip?
exercise is by doing this activity, which has many
W: Yes, I’m so excited. I’ve never been to San Antonio
benefits like helping to strengthen leg muscles. It is
before.
also a full body workout, so it also tones the rest of
M: I just don’t understand why you haven’t gotten
the body. But before beginning this exercise, make
your stuff together by now.
sure to properly stretch your muscles. Most people
W: Well, like I said, I don’t have too much to pack. I
know how to warm up the leg muscles by doing
was just going to do it in the morning.
stretches for the calves and ankles. But this exercise
M: Didn’t I tell you to prepare for this trip ahead of
uses all the muscles in the legs, so you should make
time? That means having your things packed
sure to stretch your hamstrings and thighs as well.
before it’s time to leave.
Some people don’t enjoy this exercise because they
W: I don’t understand what the big deal is. It will only
think that it is boring. But whether it’s performed
take a few minutes.
on a treadmill or outdoors, this exercise can be a lot
M: You’ll forget something if you do it at the last
of fun.
minute. I want you to do it now.
W: OK, fine. Give me a minute, please.
10. Track 190 00:54

W: Every summer, my grandmother used to invite my

7. Track 187 01:02
brother and me to stay with her in the country. We
W: I’m downtown at Miller Park for the grand opening
would spend the days on her farm riding horses and
of the new flower garden. The garden has been
helping out around the house. But last summer, I
under construction for the past year and a half, so
decided to go to music camp instead because I
lots of curious people have come down to find out
wanted to be like my friend Bobby, who is very good
exactly what it is. To give our TV viewers an idea of
at playing guitar. I figured there would be many
the turnout, the police are here to guide traffic and
other times that I could visit the farm. Music camp
keep the peace. Now, let’s talk to the man in charge
was fun, but the entire time, I wished that I had
of this project to get some more information about
gone to my grandmother’s house instead. And then
the garden.
in October, my grandmother sold her farm and
M: Basically, we have been working hard here to get
moved to the city, so now I feel horrible because I
the garden ready. It will feature over 300 different
will never get the chance to visit there again.
types of flowers from all over the world. We
worked very hard here to try to get species
from various environments. We’re really thrilled 11. Track 191 00:48

about all of our exhibits, but I think that the red W: ⓐ The same number of people like pizza and fish.
rhododendrons from the Pacific Northwest will be ⓑ The most popular food is tacos.
one of the most popular. ⓒ Pasta is more popular than sandwiches.
ⓓ More people prefer pasta to pizza.
ⓔ Fewer people prefer fish to tacos.
Transcripts 33
 12. Track 192 01:01 15. Track 195 00:57

M: Hi, Marcy. I heard your band did really well at the ⓐ M: Would you like me to add some ice to your
contest in Scottsdale. beverage?
W: Yes, we got first place, which means we made it to W: No, thanks. I prefer to drink it without ice.
the next level of the competition. ⓑ M: Did you arrive to your dental appointment on time
M: That’s great! So, you’ll be playing at the competition last week?
in Tempe? W: Yeah, I’m having a bad hair day again.
W: Yep, we have a performance in Tempe on the ⓒ M: Excuse me. Can you tell me where the men’s locker
ninth. We also have a smaller performance paid for room is?
by organizers of the contest the night before the W: Sure can. It’s just across from the west entrance to
Tempe competition. the gym.
M: Where’s that going to be? ⓓ M: What do you think is the fastest way to get there?
W: Over in Avondale. W: Public transportation, of course. Traffic is terrible at
M: Really? That’s in the middle of nowhere. this hour of the day.
W: I know. But if we win the Tempe competition, we’ll ⓔ M: Are there any scratches on the table you’re
play for a bigger audience for sure. First place there selling?
is a trip to the state competition. W: No, I’ve completely refinished the surface.
M: That’s cool. When is the state competition?
W: It’s scheduled for the sixteenth at the Phoenix 16. Track 196 00:54

Sports Stadium. M: Are you on your way to the cafeteria?

M: I wish you the best of luck with that. W: No, not yet. I’m headed to English class. I have to
submit my paper by noon.
13. Track 193 01:03 M: Oh, I see. Do you want to meet me in the lunch
W: Ever wonder what surfers look for in a wave? room afterward?
Although they seem dangerous, most surfers prefer W: I would, but after that, I have to get back to the
tall waves that they can ride. The very best waves laundry room in the dorm to check my clothes.
for surfers are determined by three different factors. M: You sound like you have a pretty busy day. Are you
The first factor is wind speed in the ocean. Fast winds going to eat lunch later?
can make waves grow as tall as a building, and those W: Hopefully. I’ll probably head down there right after
surfers who are brave enough to ride these huge I check my email.
waves say that they have never experienced anything M: Well, if you see me around, you should join me.
more exciting in their lives. Another thing that surfers W: I also have to stop by the bookstore before I eat so I
look for are winds that blow for a long time because can go to class immediately after. It might take a
the longer the wind blows, the larger the wave can while. How about tomorrow? I’ll be much less busy.
swell up. Finally, surfers examine the fetch, which M: That sounds good. See you later.
describes the entire area that has been affected by W: Thank you for understanding. Bye.
the wind. Combined, these three factors create
waves that are perfect for surfing. 17. Track 197 00:57

W: Thank you for calling Dusty Dave’s Pizza. Can I take

14. Track 194 00:54 your order?
M: From the time he was a little boy, Mark believed he M: Yes, I’d like to place an order for carry-out. It will be
was special because he could run faster than any of under the name Jack.
the other kids in his class. Whenever they raced, he W: Great. Can I interest you in our current special? It’s
was always past the finish line before most of the kids a large, one-topping pizza for only ten dollars.
had even finished half the race. When he was in high M: Actually, I think I’d rather have a medium pizza
school, he competed at track meets and easily won with pepperoni and mushrooms.
them all. Mark was such a good athlete that he won W: OK, and do you want that with a thin crust or
a track scholarship to one of the most prestigious regular thick crust?
universities in the state. But when he went to track M: I’ll take the thick crust. I also wanted to see if you
meets in college, there were other competitors who could put a little extra sauce on the pizza.
were much faster than him, so the races weren’t as W: Certainly. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
easy as they had been before. In the end, he found How about some breadsticks?
out that he had to train a lot harder to achieve his M: Sounds delicious! But I don’t have enough money.
goals. W: OK, that’s going to be $9.50.

34 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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M: Thank you. And when will it be ready to be picked W: For one thing, I thought I’d be able to impress my
up? classmates. But they didn’t seem impressed at all.
W: It will be ready in about twenty minutes. I feel so embarrassed and humiliated.
M: What do you think went wrong?
18. Track 198 00:59 W: I don’t know. I mean, I guess I could have included
M: Ellie, are you still up for dinner tonight? I made more charts and numbers.
reservations at Volare’s. M: It is always more convincing if you have some facts
W: Oh, gosh. I completely forgot that was today. What to back up your claims.
time are the reservations? W: You’re right. And I really should have practiced my
M: At 7:00. Can you make it? speech more.
W: Yes, my last class ends at 6:10. M: So, now you have certain points to improve for the
M: Do you want me to just pick you up from school? I next time, right? It wasn’t a complete disaster, was
can come by when it’s done. it?
W: Well, it depends. I’ve never been to Volare’s. Do I W: You’re right. I did learn a lot about what not to
need to dress up? do.
M: It’s a nice restaurant, but I’m sure what you are
wearing is fine. 21. Track 201 01:05
W: No, I’d better put on something a little more W: If arriving by plane, take Interstate 25 North toward
appropriate. This outfit is too old and worn. Denver. Upon approaching Denver, exit the highway
M: OK, how about I pick you up in your parking garage and take the I-470 road, but be ready to pay the
at 6:45. We should still be able to get there in two-dollar toll fee. There are attendants available
time. to give you change if you need it. After passing
W: Thanks a lot, Tom. I’m really excited about it. the third pay booth, take the exit for Interstate 85.
M: It’s my pleasure. See you then. It costs 75 cents to exit, and drivers must have
exact change. Continue driving along 85 for
19. Track 199 01:02 approximately thirty-five miles until the junction
M: This is your last year in high school, right? with Farm Road 24. Turn left at the farm road, and
W: Yeah. And now I’m so busy with university continue until reaching the Central Avenue and
applications. Main Street intersection. Then, turn right onto
M: Well, don’t get too stressed. I wish somebody Central, and then take another right at the first
would have told me that I could do a much better light, which is Cascade Street. The lecture hall will
job by just relaxing and taking my time with each be visible on the left side of the street directly
application. across from the library.
W: It just seems so serious. I can’t even decide which
schools to apply to. 22. Track 202 00:59
M: Just don’t try to apply to too many. It’s a waste of W: I’d like to go on a fishing tour this week. Do you
time. have anything available?
W: I’m also having a hard time with my personal M: Well, most of our seats are booked up. But there is
statements. still a spot available on the morning boat that
M: I suggest you write about something that shows leaves on Friday at 6 a.m.
how unique you are so the university can see your W: Sounds good. I’d like to reserve a seat. My name is
amazing potential. Nikki Reyes.
W: Really? I was thinking of talking about my M: OK, great. Did you need to rent any supplies?
achievements in high school. W: No, that’s OK. I have my own fishing rod and
M: If you want to impress the admissions officer, you gear.
must be different from other students, and the M: Great. Did you want to sign up for our boat lunch
personal statement is your opportunity to stand out. as well?
W: That makes sense. Thank you for the advice. W: I think I’ll be bringing my own lunch, thank you.
M: All right, we are almost finished here. I just need
20. Track 200 00:53 you to fill out the rest of this form. Also, we require
M: Hey, Sal! What’s wrong? You seem upset. a 50 percent deposit to hold the reservation.
W: I’m so ashamed about how my presentation turned W: OK, can I pay by credit card?
out today. M: Sure can. I’ll go swipe your card and be back in a
M: What happened? minute with your receipt.

Transcripts 35
 23. Track 203 00:58 26. Track 206 01:03

W: Anyone who has ever taken a dip in the ocean W: Most fish can’t live outside of the water for long.
knows that seawater is salty. Scientists estimate But this is not true of the African lungfish. The
that if all the salt in the Earth’s oceans were taken lungfish lives in the rivers and creeks in Africa,
out and put on the land, it would be about 500 which often swell up and dry out in short periods
feet thick. But if the rivers that empty into the of time. Because of this, the lungfish has adapted
ocean are fresh, then why is the ocean itself salty? to be able to breathe outside of the water. They
One theory is that since the world’s oceans are even have special fins that look more like legs to
much older than river systems, they have had time help them walk along the muddy banks until they
to build up salt from various sources. On the other find their next suitable aquatic destination. Another
hand, experts support the idea that most of the salt defense mechanism is that the African lungfish
in the ocean actually comes from cooled rocks that creates a burrow in the mud, and excretes a slime
escaped from deep beneath the Earth’s surface. that acts like a protective cocoon until the drought
Now I hope all of you understand _____________. is over. As a result, their eyes have also adapted to
living in the mud so they are only able to see large
24. Track 204 00:59 shapes rather than detailed images.
M: Many people consider their pets a part of the family.
That’s why a lot of pet owners decide to bring their 27. Track 207 00:51

pets along when they go on vacation. However, in M: Carrie woke up feeling pretty grumpy. Her mood
order to bring a pet with you on an airplane, it must was not improved when she realized that she had
travel in a certain type of carrier that is able to fit locked her keys in her house and just missed her
under the seat in front of you. Some veterinarians bus to work. By the time she got on the next bus, she
recommend helping your pet relax by giving them knew she would be extremely late, and her boss
medicine to make them sleepy. That way, they would be disappointed. She grouchily stared out the
won’t get too scared by the ride or bother the other window when she noticed an old man sitting next to
passengers. For larger animals, it is not possible to her. He tried to start up a conversation by asking her
bring them in the cabin of the airplane. But they if she was having a bad day, and although she wasn’t
can be put in the cargo area and flown to your in the mood to talk, Carrie responded politely. They
destination. Most airlines require owners to provide a chatted for a few minutes, and by the time Carrie
secure cage that is large enough for the animal to got off the bus, she felt much better thanks to the
stand up and move around a bit. kindness that the old man showed her.

25. Track 205 01:01 28. Track 208 00:54

W: Good day, sir! How can I help you? W: Welcome back from your business trip, Mr. Russel.
M: Hi, I want to ship this package, but I’m not sure M: Thank you, Gloria. How have things been at the
what my options are. Can you tell me about your office while I was gone?
services? W: Busy as usual. Oh, and Mr. Russell, I think you
W: Sure. The price depends on how big your package should look over these documents.
is and how much it weighs. M: Meta Health Insurance? Could you tell me what
M: And how long will it take to arrive? this is about?
W: It depends on where you are sending it. The price W: Apparently, your health insurance policy has expired.
will also increase depending on how fast you want M: Oh, no! I’ve been so busy in the past few weeks. I
it to get to the destination. totally forgot to renew it.
M: Does it matter what I’m sending? I’m sending a box W: Well, it looks like they’ve extended your policy for
full of books, which is going to be heavy. three months since you’re a long-term policy holder.
W: Actually, it does. For items like books, CDs, or M: What a relief. But I really need to buy a new policy.
documents, you can use media mail, which gives How do I do that?
you a discounted rate. W: I think you have to call the company directly to
M: That’s good. Is there a maximum weight for that? speak with an agent.
W: Yes. Each media-mail box cannot weigh more than M: OK. Can you get them on the phone for me right
fifty pounds. away?
M: OK, thank you for the information. W: __________________________________

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W: I think those are too casual. I like these heels with

29. Track 209 00:57
the straps, but I’m not sure this color would match
W: Hi, is Karen available?
the type of suits I have to wear to work.
M: I’m sorry. She’s not in at the moment. May I ask
M: We also have something similar in black. They
who’s calling please?
might be a little bit better.
W: Yes, my name is Holly, and I’m calling about her
W: Those are perfect. I’ll take them!
advertisement in the paper. She’s selling a recliner
that I’m interested in buying.
M: Oh, I can actually help you with that. Do you have 2. Track 212 00:55

any questions? M: Karen, I noticed that we’re almost out of ink for the
W: Yes, um, are there any scratches or tears in the fabric? copier.
M: No, not at all. We haven’t had it for very long. It’s W: Oh, really? I thought we still had another box in the
just that we’re moving, so we need to get rid of back next to the paper shredder.
it. M: No, I just checked.
W: And have you had a problem with the recliner W: I’ll have to put it on my list of supplies.
itself? M: Why don’t we go buy office supplies this afternoon?
M: Nope, not at all. You just press the lever on the I don’t want to run out of anything.
side, and it extends. It’s very comfortable. W: That sounds fine with me. Is there anything else we
W: Well, that sounds good. What color is it, by the need?
way? M: We should probably buy some more thumbtacks
M: It’s cream-colored. for the board in the break room. And I could use a
W: That would look great in my living room. Could new hole puncher.
I drop by and see it this afternoon? W: Good idea. I’ll add those to the list. And we can
M: __________________________________ never have enough file folders.
M: Very true. Let’s not forget to pick up some.
30. Track 210 00:49
W: OK, I think that’s it. I’ll go grab the company credit
W: This year, Heidi decided to visit her hometown during card before we go so we can use it to pay.
summer vacation before she started school in the fall.
For the few weeks she was there, she stayed at home 3. Track 213 00:59

with her parents most of the time because all of M: Hi, we’re here to get my dog vaccinated.
her friends had moved out of town, and she had W: OK, that won’t take long at all. When’s the last
lost touch with them while she had been away. On time it was done?
her last evening there, she decided to eat out at her M: Actually, it’s been a while. Here’s his shot record.
favorite Italian restaurant. Suddenly, Heidi felt a I didn’t know if you’d need it.
finger tap on her shoulder, and when she turned W: It is helpful you brought it along. Let me just see
around, she saw a man who looked vaguely familiar. here. Yes, it’s good you brought little Sparky in
After a minute, she recognized him as her former today. It looks like he is not up to date with his
neighbor and childhood friend, Greg. shots.
M: Is that a problem?
W: Generally, we strongly recommend that you keep
29:2 7 all of their shots updated. Then you don’t have to
Practice Test 8 worry about them catching something.
M: I understand. About how much will that cost?
W: It will be about $50.
1. Track 211 00:59
M: That’s better than I expected. Can you administer
M: Hi, can I help you find anything?
them today?
W: Yes, I’m looking for a new pair of shoes.
W: Sure can. Why don’t you bring Sparky into the
M: What about these boots? They’re very popular this
examination room, and I’ll be right there with the
year.
injections.
W: They’re nice, but it’s not exactly what I’m looking for.
M: How about these flip-flops? They’re very comfortable.
W: No, thanks. I just need some shoes to wear at the 4. Track 214 01:09

office. M: Hi, I’d like to register for classes please.

M: We have this new line of sneakers. Is that something W: OK, I see here you want to take the 4:00 p.m.
you’d be interested in? section of Chemistry. Unfortunately, that class is
actually filled up. Is there another class you were
interested in taking?
Transcripts 37
 M: Um, what about Ancient Literature?
7. Track 217 01:07
W: That class still has an opening. It only meets on
W: This is Rebecca Swanson with a special report.
Wednesdays from 3:00 to 5:20 since it’s a seminar.
There has been a serious car accident at the
M: How about History of Mathematics?
intersection of Miller Street and Pacific Street that
W: That’s a seminar, too. It meets on Monday
happened around 1:30, and I am told that both
afternoons from 1:00 to 3:20.
roads are closed. The only information offered so
M: Wow. They both sound interesting. But I think I have
far by the police officers and rescuers at the scene
another class I’m taking on Wednesday afternoons.
is that no one was seriously injured. Here’s our
That one ends at 3:30.
correspondent, James Aftan, with an update.
W: That’s a problem. So, I guess I’ll put you down for
M: Thank you Rebecca. I’m reporting live from the
the History of Mathematics class, then?
scene of the car accident. It seems that the driver
M: Yes, I guess that’s the only one that will work. Thanks!
leaned over to answer his mobile phone and lost
W: Don’t mention it. That’s what I’m here for.
control of his vehicle, which caused him to hit a car in
the next lane. Paramedics arrived shortly afterward
5. Track 215 00:57
and treated both drivers for some minor scrapes and
M: Ms. Alaniz? I think I found the cause of your bruises, but luckily, nobody was seriously hurt. A road
plumbing problem. crew is working right now to clear up the site so that
W: Uh oh. What is it? traffic can start moving again.
M: It looks like there’s a clog under your kitchen sink.
W: That must have happened last Friday when my son
8. Track 218 00:52
was doing the dishes. Is that easy to fix?
M: Good evening, Brownsville. This is Marshall Brenner
M: Unfortunately, since the pipes are much older than
bringing you your nightly weather forecast. Unlike
I expected, I’m going to have to replace all of
the scorching sunshine we had yesterday, we didn’t
them.
break any temperature records today. However,
W: How much is that going to cost me?
what really made big news were the strong winds
M: Well, this appointment costs $20. Then the cost of
that blew all over Northern Texas. Winds reached
the materials and labor for the replacement is
up to 45 miles per hour in some areas, which
going to add another $120 dollars.
caused meteorologists to issue tornado and forest
W: Oh. And how long do you think it will take to fix?
fire warnings. You won’t need to be worried for too
M: We’ll start working on it Monday and get it done
much longer, though, because the windy weather is
by the next day.
only predicted to continue through tomorrow. But by
W: OK, I guess that works. Thanks.
the weekend, expect scattered storms and partially
cloudy skies with the sun poking through just before
6. Track 216 00:57
Monday.
M: Harriet, I’m kind of surprised to see you here.
W: Why is that? I always work on Wednesdays.
9. Track 219 00:58
M: I know, but I thought you were going to have some
W: This is a popular pastime with people of all ages.
time off to study for your exam.
Some people begin doing it when they are very
W: Oh, that test was postponed, so I figured I might as
young, but some people do not start until they are
well come in to work.
older. Often people take lessons to help them increase
M: That’s fine. I just wish you had let me know
their skill because the best way to get better is by
before.
simply taking the time to practice. It can be done
W: I did! Didn’t you get the email I sent this morning?
alone or with others, so sometimes people get
M: Email? I haven’t even checked it.
together and create new songs by playing this as well
W: I sent it to you this morning after I found out.
as singing along. Many people who have gotten
I thought you checked it often.
good at this have made popular records and become
M: I do, usually. I’ve just been so busy with organizing
very famous as a result of their skills at playing. Other
the receipts from last week’s sales that I haven’t
than the instrument itself, it doesn’t require a lot of
had time to check.
equipment, except for maybe a pick to use on the
W: If my schedule changes next time, I’ll just give you
strings.
a call instead. That way there is no confusion.
M: Sounds good to me.

38 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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reusable bags with them to the store. If a customer

10. Track 220 00:51
chooses not to use the reusable bags, they often
M: It’s not often that I get caught off guard by anything,
pay the price. That’s because stores are starting to
but yesterday was an exception. That is because it
charge a fee for every plastic bag that the customer
was my birthday, but all day long, no one seemed to
requests.
remember. My family didn’t say a word about it when
I came downstairs in the morning to have breakfast.
Then while at school, not even my best friend said 14. Track 224 00:54

happy birthday to me. Honestly, I started becoming M: When Clara moved to Sunnywood, she had a hard
pretty depressed about it by the time school was out, time making friends right away. The kids at her
and I felt like crying on my walk home. But when new school seemed so different than her friends at
I opened my front door, the lights switched on, and her old school. They dressed differently, they acted
everybody I knew screamed, “Happy Birthday!” All of differently, and they even spoke differently. For the
my friends and family were there, and I was so happy first month, she sat completely alone in the cafeteria
to celebrate my birthday with them. and didn’t even try to talk to anybody in her class.
But one day, a girl named Sally invited Clara to sit
with her and her friends. Clara was nervous, but she
11. Track 221 00:49
agreed. After lunch was over, she realized that the
W: ⓐ More people like rabbits than fish.
people in her new school were very nice and
ⓑ Over fifty percent of the voters like dogs best.
wished she hadn’t wasted so much time thinking
ⓒ Hamsters got the least number of votes.
about the differences between them as opposed to
ⓓ More people like hamsters than cats.
focusing on the things they had in common.
ⓔ Rabbits are the second most popular pet.

15. Track 225 00:58

12. Track 222 00:58
ⓐ M: It’s not that long until the next train comes, is it?
M: What are your plans this week, Kelly?
W: I know. It’s so overcrowded and extremely
W: I’m a little busy. Why do you ask?
uncomfortable.
M: I was hoping to come by and take a look at that
ⓑ M: Do you have a stapler I could borrow for a
camera you’re going to sell.
minute?
W: Sure. When were you thinking of dropping by?
W: I don’t, actually. But I’m sure Frank has one you can
M: Let me look at my calendar. What about the
use.
twelfth?
ⓒ M: Did you hear the last thing the professor said during
W: I’m actually meeting with my group at the library
the lecture?
that afternoon. But I’ll be at home a good part of
W: No, I didn’t. He was speaking too softly.
the evening the next day finishing my history essay.
ⓓ M: Excuse me. Can you please tell me where the
Does that work for you?
bathroom is?
M: No, I’ve got a baseball game then. How about this
W: Sure can. It’s just around the corner to your left.
weekend? Maybe I can swing by on Saturday?
ⓔ M: Have you visited the Grand Canyon before?
W: I can’t. I have piano lessons on the sixteenth of
W: No, But my family and I are planning on going next
every month.
summer.
M: Can I come by your house Friday afternoon?
W: OK, that works for me. But don’t be late. I’m going
to the movie theater with some friends that night. 16. Track 226 01:02

M: Harriet, haven’t you heard? Professor Cooper

cancelled class today.
13. Track 223 01:01
W: Oh, that’s great. Maybe I can actually get my
W: Customers are used to being asked whether they
homework done this week.
want their items put into paper or plastic bags at
M: Sounds like you’re pretty busy. What do you have
most grocery stores. But in some places, customers
going on?
are no longer given a choice. Instead of offering free
W: I never finished writing my essay for Professor
bags, many stores sell reusable bags. This is part of
Newall. So, I have to do that.
the effort to encourage people to do their part to
M: That shouldn’t take you too long, though.
save the planet by reducing any unnecessary waste.
W: I know, but before I do that, I have to go to
The reusable bags are large enough to carry many
volleyball practice.
items and are made of cloth or some other sturdy
M: What time does that finish?
material. Customers are expected to bring their

Transcripts 39
 W: Usually around 6 p.m. But I promised I’d have dinner W: Yeah, I’ve taken several trips down there. Why?
with the team afterward. Then, I have to work in the M: I was thinking about taking a vacation to Peru. Do
ice cream shop until 10. you have any advice for me?
M: That really is a busy schedule. Good thing we have W: Sure. Before you buy your tickets, I suggest figuring
tomorrow off. out exactly what places you want to visit.
W: Oh, and I just remembered I need to borrow a book M: That’s a good idea. Do you know of a good travel
from the library, too, for my essay. agency?
M: You better get that now. You know it closes before W: Honestly, you don’t really need one. If you visit
10. travel websites, you can find airfares that are much
W: You’re right. I’ll do that first. See you later, Tom! cheaper than anything a travel agent will quote
you.
17. Track 227 00:58 M: OK, and what about my passport and stuff?
W: Welcome to Jared’s Electronics. How can I help W: That’s easy. Just visit the consulate downtown. They
you? can give you the information you need.
M: I’m looking to buy a new personal computer. M: Any other tips you can give me?
W: No problem. Are you looking for just the tower or W: Oh, yeah. Make sure you buy travel insurance.
the whole desktop computer? Then, if you’re trip is cancelled, you can get a
M: Actually, I’ll need more than just the tower. Do you refund.
sell monitors as well?
W: We sure do. Can I interest you in a flat screen? 20. Track 230 00:54
M: I’ve seen those on TV. They look great. I’ll take one W: Hey, Harry, what do you think about this dress?
of those. Is it too fancy for the college fair?
W: Now, how about a mouse or a keyboard? We have M: It looks good on you, but I don’t know if it’s really
new or old models in all different price ranges. appropriate. Who else is going to be there?
M: Actually, I can use my old keyboard, but I’ll need a W: My classmates and teachers. But most of all, I want
new mouse. to impress the college admissions counselors.
W: And how about a digital web camera? They are M: How do they usually dress at these types of events?
great for keeping in touch with family and hanging W: I guess it’s pretty casual. People often just wear
out with friends online. slacks and nice shirts.
M: I’ve never tried one before. Yeah, let’s add that to M: See? They’re going to be more interested in your
my shopping cart as well. grades than how your dress looks.
W: I guess you’re right. I’ve worked really hard to get
18. Track 228 00:52 ready for college.
M: Jessica, guess what! I just won two tickets to the M: I know, and what you wear doesn’t really matter
basketball game from the radio station. Would you that much.
like to come with me? W: No, I guess it doesn’t. Thanks, Harry.
W: Really? That would be awesome. What time does M: Don’t mention it. Always glad to offer you fashion
the game start? advice.
M: 6:30 p.m.
W: That’s perfect. How about I treat you to dinner 21. Track 231 00:57
before we go in return for the tickets? W: I’ve been a member of the student council for two
M: That’s very nice of you. I’ll pick you up at 5:30. We years, and I’ve always tried to do the best I could
can go to Joe’s Burgers. to represent the opinions of our student body. I
W: You know, they have dollar burgers from 3 to 5. figured that if the students are unhappy, then we
If you pick me up a little earlier, we can do that. the leaders must do everything in our power to
M: Great idea. Save some money, right? make the situation right. That’s why I’m so honored
W: That’s right. Money doesn’t grow on trees, you to have been voted Student Body President in the
know. last election. I value what my teachers and principal
M: Well, I guess I’ll see you later. think of me, but above all, I value the people I
W: Yeah, see you later. serve. Because I am also a student, I know what
kinds of problems my peers deal with on a daily
19. Track 229 01:00 basis, and that helps us to find solutions that are
M: Mary, you’ve traveled to South America before, fast and effective. Ultimately, the school’s success
right? rests completely on the students.

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22. Track 232 01:11 25. Track 235 01:05

M: All right, ma’am, your total will be $20. Would M: Good morning. I’m here for the orientation session.
you like to enroll in our frequent buyer program? W: I’m assuming you’re here for the graduate student
You can receive an additional 10 percent off your orientation?
purchase today. Plus, enrollment is free. M: Actually, I am a freshman. This is my first semester
W: I don’t see why not. What information do you need? here.
M: Let’s start out with the date. W: Oh. Well, you’re a little early for the new student
W: OK. What day is it today? I’m on vacation, so I’ve orientation. Yours doesn’t start until 8:30.
been having a hard time keeping track. Every day M: Oh, no! I must have misunderstood the notice.
feels the same. I didn’t even have breakfast this morning because
M: It’s Monday, April fifteenth. Now, I’ll need your first I was worried about being late.
and last name. W: Well, there’s a coffee and bagel shop right next door.
W: OK, it’s Rosie Murphy. You definitely have time to pick something up.
M: And what about a home phone number where you M: So, the orientation is going to be held here?
can be contacted? W: Actually, it’s going to be across the street in the music
W: Sure. It’s 956-555-0912. building in Practice Room A. Just enter through the
M: Got it. And, how about an email address? double doors on the side of the building, not through
W: Rosie23@underworks.com. the front entrance. You’ll see it right away.
M: OK, and did you want us to send you some M: Thanks a lot. I guess I’ll be back at 8:30 then.
pamphlets about our store credit card? W: No problem. See you then.
W: No, I just want the frequent buyer membership.
Thanks. 26. Track 236 01:03

W: The Himalayan mountain range is famous for its

23. Track 233 01:04 high peaks and old age. But few people know that
W: Though spaghetti is most often associated with Italy, there is another huge mountain range that rivals
the origin of the dish is actually in countries far from the Himalayas in many ways. The Andes Mountains
Europe. First, the noodles used in spaghetti were not in South America are the longest mountain range
invented by the Italians. Historians think that they in the world, spanning from the southern point of
were first created by Arabs who lived in southern Italy. Chile all the way up the continent to Venezuela.
The noodles were made from little dumplings that The highest peak in the Andes is in Argentina and is
were stretched out and cut into thin strips. Before over 24,000 feet above sea level. More impressive
long, people all over Italy were making their own still is that the range is relatively young compared to
noodles. And what about the history of spaghetti the Himalayas. Scientists estimate that the Andes are
sauce? The main ingredient, tomatoes, didn’t even still growing, while the ancient Himalayas have
exist in Europe before Spanish explorers traveled to already grown as high as they’ll ever be. This means
the Americas and brought back this strange fruit. It that in several hundred years, the Andean peaks will
wasn’t until the 1540s that they became very popular surpass the Himalayan peaks in height.
in Europe. Now I hope all of you understand
_____________________. 27. Track 237 00:57

M: All Anthony wanted in the world was his own

24. Track 234 00:58 skateboard. It was all he thought about, and he
W: People usually assume that most of the music played spent most of his energy trying to convince his
in movies is created by an orchestra. But in fact, many parents to support the idea of buying him one. But
of the songs in movies are written for an ancient they always said no because they said they wouldn’t
instrument called the duduk. The duduk originally buy him anything until he improved his grades.
comes from Armenia, where it is celebrated as a However, he was not discouraged, and he continued
symbol of Armenian music. It is carved out of wood to find new ways of asking for the skateboard. One
from the apricot tree. That is also the origin of the day, he wrote a note to his father and put it in his
instrument's name because duduk actually means lunchbox. Nonetheless, his father said no, so
“apricot horn.” Like the flute, the duduk is a Anthony finally got tired of trying to convince them
woodwind instrument that has a more unusual and began focusing on his school work. He started
sound than most people are used to. In addition to to receive better grades, and his teacher even sent
being used in movies, it is often used in computer home a letter saying how proud she was of his
game soundtracks as well. improvement. The very next day, his parents bought
him a skateboard.
Transcripts 41
 they had made plans together, but this time, she
28. Track 238 00:53
had gone too far. Jerry had never had to wait for so
W: Alex, have you figured out who is going to pick up
long for her before, so he finally decided he
Mr. Ybarra from the airport?
wouldn’t wait any longer. However, when he
M: I was thinking of paying a taxi driver to go get
began to walk toward the bus station, he saw Liana
him.
jump off the bus.
W: That’s not very considerate.
M: You’re right. What about having one of the students
go get him? 29: 3 3
W: That’s a better idea. Either way, you should try to
get it worked out soon.
Practice Test 9
M: I know. I wouldn’t let our guest speaker wait at the
airport for too long. 1. Track 241 01:06

W: How are you going to choose a student to go? I’m M: That was a tasty dinner. Do you feel like eating
sure they’ll all want to do it. dessert? The raspberry tart looks good to me.
M: I don’t know. I guess I’ll ask whoever did best on W: I’ve never been a big fan of raspberries. What else
the final test. do they have?
W: I think that’s fair. Just please get it worked out M: They have chocolate cupcakes with sprinkles on
soon. top.
M: I will. I’ll take care of it today. I’m trying to figure W: You know. I’m not really in the mood for chocolate
out if there’s anything else I have to do. tonight.
W: __________________________________ M: So, I guess the cookie is out. It has chocolate chips
in it.
W: Yeah, I’d rather not have a cookie. I’m not sure
29. Track 239 00:57
what I feel like eating. I think something sweet and
W: Good morning. I’m calling from Kelly’s Burgers.
creamy would really hit the spot.
May I please speak to Nestor Turney?
M: What about a slice of cheesecake? You don’t get
M: This is he. How can I help you?
any food creamier than or as sweet as that.
W: Nestor, I’m calling to inform you that we received
W: Actually, I don’t know if that’s the best way to go.
your application for employment, but we never got
It’s pretty hot outside, so I could use something
your references.
refreshing.
M: I didn’t realize you required professional references.
M: Then, I know just the thing. I’ll get you an ice cream
Can I still send them in?
cone.
W: You certainly can.
W: Good suggestion! That’s just what I want.
M: OK, so should I just send them to the address that
I sent the application to?
W: Actually, why don’t you fax them to us? It will be 2. Track 242 00:49

the fastest way. M: Christie, how long should I set this timer for?
M: That would be great. What’s the fax number? W: I’ll check the instructions again. Let’s see . . . it says
W: It’s 415-892-1231. thirty-five minutes.
M: And who should they be addressed to? M: No problem. All right, it’s all set now. Can I help
W: To me, Marcia Nary. And make sure to put your you with something else?
name on there as well, please. W: Actually, can you take the onions out of the fridge,
M: __________________________________ please?
M: OK. Should I chop them up or something?
30. Track 240 00:56
W: No, they actually need to be sliced into thin rings.
W: Jerry was very frustrated because he agreed to M: You got it. Yum, that cake smells great.
meet his friend Liana at the cinema at 7 p.m., but W: It does, doesn’t it? I’m so excited for our dinner
she never showed up. It was forty-five minutes party tonight.
after they agreed to meet, and she was nowhere to M: Here are the sliced up onions for you. Anything else
be found. The movie he was there to watch had I can do?
already started, and every time he tried calling W: Nope, that’s it. We just have to wait for the cake to
Liana’s house, nobody answered the phone. Liana bake now.
was always late for everything, especially when

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W: $10? I don’t have any money with me right now,

3. Track 243 00:56
and I’m late to meet with my math tutor.
M: Hi, Yasmine. Thank you for coming.
M: Actually, since you’re about to graduate, you qualify
W: I wouldn’t miss it. Where’s your mom?
for a 25 percent discount. Do you want to sign up
M: She’s in the kitchen preparing some food. Can I get
for tomorrow’s test? It’ll be before school.
you anything?
W: I can’t. I have swim practice on Wednesdays. What
W: I’m all right. Should I take my boots off?
about the next day?
M: Yes, please do. You can place them in that box next
M: There is one that day in the afternoon. Does that
to the door.
work for you?
W: It seems like many people have arrived already. Are
W: It does. Thanks, Mr. Garza.
they friends of yours?
M: Yeah, a lot of them are friends from work. But I
6. Track 246 00:56
have some family here, too. Do you see that man
M: Audrey, I saw that you didn’t turn in your homework
over there by the television? That’s my brother.
in class the day before yesterday.
W: I should have known. You two look exactly alike.
W: I know. I’m sorry I didn’t get to finish it.
M: That’s what everyone says. Well, listen, I’ve got to
M: That isn’t like you at all. What happened?
check on the barbeque. I’ll introduce you to some
W: When I got to the third question, I couldn’t find the
of the other guests.
solution to the problem. I tried using the book, but
W: OK, it already looks like a lot of fun.
I still couldn’t figure it out.
M: I hope you have a good time. I’ll catch up with you
M: So, you just gave up? I thought you’d at least skip
later.
the one you were having problems with and try the
others.
4. Track 244 00:59
W: I just got so frustrated. I thought it would be best
M: Good morning. Do you have any routes to San
to wait until class so I could ask you about it.
Antonio from here?
M: But you didn’t say a word in class. I expected more
W: Yes, we have several, actually.
from you.
M: Which one leaves the soonest?
W: I’m really sorry, Mr. O’Brien. I promise to try harder
W: There’s one that leaves at 10:45 a.m. But it stops
next time.
quite a bit and doesn’t actually get to San Antonio
M: From now on, please ask me for help if you can’t
until 5:00 p.m.
do the homework.
M: That’s a long ride. Do you have anything shorter?
W: OK, I promise I will.
W: The next bus leaves at noon. That one has fewer
stops and gets there at 4:30 p.m.
7. Track 247 01:03
M: That’s still a long time. I just can’t sit in a bus for that
W: So, let me get this straight for my report, sir. I want
many hours. Aren’t there any routes that are
to confirm that the children began to play with
direct?
fireworks at about 7:30 this evening, and then at
W: The one that leaves at 2:00 is direct. It arrives in San
around 8:00 p.m., you noticed the house fire. You
Antonio at 3:30.
called the fire department immediately, and we
M: I think that’s the one for me. Can I have one ticket,
arrived shortly. Is there anything else you’d like to
please?
add?
W: Certainly. I’ll have your ticket ready in one second.
M: Actually, I think I first saw the children playing out
in the yard with the fireworks at around 7:00. I
5. Track 245 01:05
remember because I was watching the late evening
M: Mandy, I noticed that you haven’t taken your AAS
news, and I was just starting to watch my favorite
test.
television show at 7:30 when I smelled the smoke.
W: What is that, exactly?
Then, I looked outside and saw flames coming
M: It stands for the Assessment of Academic Skills.
out from behind the house, so I called the fire
Universities use it to compare the levels of the
department, and then I called the neighbors.
knowledge of the students' that are applying for
Apparently, the children had gone inside about ten
college.
minutes earlier, and they had no idea that the fire
W: How do I go about taking that?
had started.
M: You have to sign up for it. We’re actually hosting
several different sessions this week. We still have
some openings this afternoon if you want. It costs
$10.

Transcripts 43
 ⓑ More people want to visit the Statue of Liberty than
8. Track 248 00:47
Iguazu Falls.
M: Good evening, this is Tom Markely with the Weather
ⓒ Iguazu Falls is more popular than the other
Warning team here at Channel 5 News. The warm
destinations.
spell we saw today and yesterday could have fooled
ⓓ The Eiffel Tower is more popular than the Leaning
anyone into thinking that we’re in the middle of
Tower of Pisa.
summer here in Colorado Springs, but tomorrow it’s
ⓔ Fewer people want to visit the Eiffel Tower than the
back to winter with temperatures in the low 30s.
Statue of Liberty.
We’re currently keeping an eye on a cold front that
is moving across the northwest. We expect it to
reach Colorado Springs early tomorrow morning, 12. Track 252 01:04

and it will probably bring in a couple of inches of M: Carrie, I heard you won the essay contest at school.
snow to the state. The rest of the week will be cold What’s your prize?
and snowy with little chance of sunshine at all. W: I’m so lucky! They’re going to pay for me to travel
around Europe for two weeks with the other
prize winners.
9. Track 249 00:57
M: You must be thrilled! So, when does your trip start?
W: Before people were able to ride in these, it took a
W: I fly into London on July seventeenth and stay there
long time to get from one place to another.
for three days. Then, I’m going to Paris.
Sometimes, people are frightened of getting on
M: Oh, I love Paris. How long are you staying there?
one because they think that they might have an
W: Three days there as well. Then, on the twenty-third,
accident. And though the ride may get bumpy at
I’m off to Amsterdam for the weekend.
times, it is generally a safe way to travel. Many
M: That’ll be interesting. I heard it’s a great city.
people often enjoy riding in them because they are
W: Me, too. I wish we could stay longer, but we’ll only
fast and convenient. One can travel over hundreds
be there for two nights.
of miles in just a few hours. It is possible to cross
M: Are you visiting Munich at all?
oceans in one, and the newest models have many
W: Yes, that’s next after Amsterdam. We’re staying
features that make the ride more enjoyable for the
there for three days, and then we’re off to Prague.
passengers. They have screens that play movies
M: I heard it is beautiful there.
during longer rides. They also have attendants that
W: So did I! I’m really excited about seeing it.
bring passengers drinks and snacks.

13. Track 253 00:57

10. Track 250 01:07
W: It is often said that one man’s junk is another man’s
W: Benny had a large family with two brothers and
treasure. But did you know that plants can also
two sisters. All of his friends at school thought he
benefit from some of your trash? By collecting all
must have so much fun because he had so many
your organic waste, which is any trash that was once
brothers and sisters to play with. However, the
alive, you can make a compost heap. This can
truth was that sometimes Benny wished he were
include leftover foods such as lettuce or apples. A
an only child and imagined what it would be like to
compost heap gets taken over by good bacteria that
have his own room. One day, his family visited their
break down the trash into nutritious plant food. All a
grandparents, but Benny needed some peace and
person has to do is add the waste to the bin, stir it
quiet, so he decided not to go. Instead, he read in
every few weeks or so, and then wait for the bacteria
his room, made dinner, and then watched television
to do their work. But one should be careful to never
for a while, but after a few hours, he became lonely.
put plastic in the compost heap because the bacteria
Usually, his brothers or sisters would keep him
can’t break down those items.
company. It seemed like forever until they returned.
When his family came back home, Benny realized
that having brothers and sisters wasn’t so bad after 14. Track 254 00:56

all. He was very happy to see them and grateful to M: Manny was a diligent student, but he never seemed
have them around. to turn in his assignments on time. His professors
didn’t know what to do with him anymore. He
missed the deadline for his art contest because he
11. Track 251 00:56
confused it with the due date for his science project.
W: ⓐ The Sydney Opera House is the least popular of the
He’d shuffle through his schoolwork looking for
destinations.
important dates, but could never find them because

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his file folders were too messy. What’s worse is that M: Yes, I’d like to make a reservation for two nights,
he also never wrote anything down because he please. My name is Edgar Franks.
thought that he could remember his assignments on W: OK, what dates would you like to reserve?
his own. Finally, Manny’s English teacher convinced M: June fifteenth and sixteenth. And can I please have
him to start using a binder to hold his assignments a room with a balcony?
and a planner to remember his deadlines. After W: Certainly, sir. And do you want a single or a double
that, he no longer forgot what the homework was bed?
and any assignment deadlines ever again. M: A double bed. Do you have rooms with air
conditioning?
15. Track 255 01:00 W: Yes, but they’re an extra $10 a night.
ⓐ M: Would you rather live in a big city or the M: That’s fine. I’d like an air-conditioned room.
suburbs? W: Would you like us to put a fruit basket in your
W: The suburbs, for sure. It’s much cleaner and safer. room? It’s complimentary.
ⓑ M: Have you been having problems with your M: No fruit for me, thanks. But I’ll need a room with a
computer recently? computer.
W: Not at all. It works as well as it did when I bought W: No problem. All of our rooms come with a TV and a
it. computer. OK, Mr. Franks, your room has been
ⓒ M: Johnny really is a night owl. reserved. You can pay by cash or credit card when you
W: He sure is! I’ve never seen him go to bed before arrive.
sunrise.
ⓓ M: Have you heard that Betty and Scott are going to 18. Track 258 00:56

have a baby? M: Hi, Nelly. This is Harold. Are you about ready for me
W: That’s great! She has always wanted to get to pick you up?
married and raise a family since she was a little W: It’s only 4:30. What time does the movie start?
girl. M: At 6:00. But I wanted to make sure to get there
ⓔ M: What time are you going to leave for work? early since we have to go by the ticket office first. I
W: I know! I can’t wait until the party tonight, either. didn’t buy the tickets yet.
W: I’m for getting there early, too. I think we’ll be fine,
16. Track 256 01:00 then, if we leave at 5:00.
W: Are you going by the post office today? M: You don’t think they’ll be sold out by then?
M: I am, but not until later. W: No. Besides, I just got back from weightlifting at
W: I’d really appreciate it if you could mail a package the gym. I’d like to take a shower before I leave.
for me. M: Sounds good. I’ll be driving, so where should I meet
M: I could, but I have my biology course at 11:00. But you?
before that, I’ve got to meet my French tutor. I am W: Just pull into my parking garage, and wait by the
going to introduce him to my friend Sarah. elevator. Give me a call when you arrive.
W: What time are you meeting him? M: OK, I’ll be at your place by 5:00. See you then.
M: At 10:00 a.m. The meeting is only half an hour, but W: Thanks, Harold. See you soon.
I also wanted to eat before biology.
W: What about afterward? 19. Track 259 00:57

M: I’m going to study with my friend in the library. We M: What are you reading, Caroline?
have a chemistry test coming up soon. W: A review of different types of laptop computers.
W: Is that going to take very long? I need to buy a new one before I go to college.
M: We usually study for about two hours, but he M: Don’t make the same mistake I did. I bought one
might want to study longer since the test is on with a large screen so I could watch movies, but it
Friday. was heavy to carry around.
W: Oh, it seems like you’ve got your hands pretty full. W: Great advice. I’ll be taking it to the library a lot, so
I’ll go by the post office myself. I should get a light one.
M: Sorry I couldn’t help. M: You can also buy them with programs already
installed. I wish I had done that. It cost me a lot of
17. Track 257 01:01 money to buy them separately.
W: Thank you for calling Comfortable Inn. This is W: I think I’ll do that. Do you think I should get one
Angie. How may I assist you? with a lot of memory?

Transcripts 45
 M: Yes, that’s a good idea. M: So, did you want private lessons or group lessons?
W: I also saw one with a web camera built in. Private lessons are $100 per hour. Group lessons
M: I don’t think it’s worth it. You could always buy the are $50 per hour.
web camera separately for less money. W: Is the cost of surf equipment included?
W: Oh, thank you for letting me know. M: No, you have to rent that separately. It costs $15 to
rent the equipment for half a day.
20. Track 260 00:54 W: All right. I’d like to sign up for the group lessons.
W: Hi, Matthew. I heard you went on a cruise to And please put me down for the equipment rental
Hawaii last week. How was your trip? as well.
M: It was a total waste. I ended up having a terrible
time. 23. Track 263 01:05

W: I’m sorry to hear that. What happened? W: To an outsider, a ralli quilt may appear to be just a
M: It was foggy the whole boat ride over, so I couldn’t blanket, but in all actuality, each ralli quilt has much
see anything. more significance than that. Ralli quilts have been
W: That’s very unfortunate. handmade by women in India for thousands of
M: What’s worse is that once we landed, it rained the years, and each quilt takes months to make because
entire time, so I didn’t get to do any of the things I they are so incredibly detailed. Women use scraps of
planned. brightly colored fabric to stitch together beautiful
W: Well, it sounds like you went during the rainy and unique designs. Some common designs in
season. ralli quilts are floral patterns and animals prints.
M: Yes, but how was I supposed to know that? Women learn how to make the quilts from their
W: They have a lot of travel books about Hawaii. mothers and grandmothers. Moreover, the quilts
Didn’t you read any of them? are highly valued by people in India. In fact, people
M: No. Who has time to go through all of those? who have many quilts are thought to be very
W: If you had taken a few minutes to read one, wealthy because they are so expensive. Now I hope
you would have been able to make better plans. all of you understand ________________________.

21. Track 261 00:52 24. Track 264 01:07

W: Good afternoon, students. It’s my pleasure to M: People form a connection with others based on
introduce to you a professional drummer, Thomas many different factors. Some sociologists think that
Andrews. He graduated from State University with one of these factors is how much one likes someone
a degree in music with a specialization in West else’s name. According to some studies, it appears
African music. His parents say that from the time that people are drawn to others who have names
he was born in Accra, Ghana, he was always inter- that are similar, or even the same, as their own.
ested in African music. These days, he is currently This is because people are naturally attracted to
on tour with the Charles Manly Band, but today, those that remind them of themselves. This is called
he’s going to help us conclude our course on self-similarity. Self-similarity is apparent in other
African drumming by showing you some typical human behaviors as well. A case of this phenomenon
West African rhythms and how they are used in is how many people perform Internet searches on
modern music. Now, please give a warm welcome their own name in order to find others with the
to Thomas Andrews. same name. Sociologists suggest this behavior is
driven by the desire to find others like oneself. An
22. Track 262 01:06 additional example of self-similarity was found
W: Hi, I’m calling about the surf lessons you offer. when surveying people's voting habits. The study
I’d like to sign up for a beginner class. concluded that people were more likely to vote for
M: OK, can I have your name and phone number? candidates whose initials were the same as their
W: Sure, my name is Kasey Rogers. And my phone own.
number is 619-231-3432.
M: All right, Kasey. What about an email address? 25. Track 265 01:01

W: Yes, it’s kasey101@globe.net. W: Good afternoon. Welcome to TechWorld. Can I

M: That’s “Kasey” with a “k”? help you find anything?
W: That’s right. M: Hi, I’m thinking about getting a new mobile phone
plan. But I’m having a hard time choosing one.

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W: You’ve come to the right place. We have the largest M: You are referring to the one-bedroom apartment
service coverage area in the state, so you can talk with a large backyard.
anywhere, at anytime, without being worried about W: Yes, sir. That’s the one.
losing reception. M: You are in luck. It is still for rent.
M: That’s great. So, what kind of plans do you offer? W: That’s great! What is your policy on pets?
W: We have plans starting out at $20 per month. That M: I’ve allowed tenants to keep one cat or one small
comes with 400 anytime minutes. Plus, you get to dog. I don’t allow large dogs because they cause too
talk after 7 p.m. for free. much damage.
M: That sounds perfect for me. How much are your W: That’s OK. I have a chihuahua, which is pretty small.
phones? When would I be able to move in?
W: I can actually get you a phone for free if you agree M: I’m currently fixing the bathroom, so it won’t be
to sign up for a one-year contract. ready until the first of the month.
M: OK, I’ll think about it. Thank you for your help. W: That sounds fine to me.
W: No problem. Have a good day. M: But you should drop by to take a look at the inside
before then.
26. Track 266 01:05 W: __________________________________
W: Humans seem to have very little in common with
octopuses, but one relation between us and these 29. Track 269 00:53

eight-legged sea creatures is that we have similar M: Do I have any afternoon appointments today, Mrs.
eyes. Scientists have found that an octopus’s eyes Smith?
contain many of the same parts as the human eye. W: Actually, you had one with Mr. Baker, but he just
For example, they are able to see in many of the called to cancel his 3 o’clock appointment.
same colors as humans do. And their sight is far M: I’m sorry to hear that. Did he say why?
more advanced when compared with other animals. W: Yes, he said that he had a sore throat, but he is feeling
However, there are some differences between better, and he had an unexpected meeting at work.
human and octopuses’ eyes. One is that octopuses M: Did you tell him we’d have to charge him the
have an extra layer of protective skin to shield them no-show fee since he didn’t cancel 24 hours in
from particles passing through the water. In the end, advance?
scientists aren’t sure at what point in their evolution W: Yes, I did. He paid by credit card over the phone.
octopuses formed complex eyes. But they do know M: Very well, then. Is anybody else coming later?
that they evolved at a separate rate than human W: Nope. It looks like you’re done for the day.
eyes. M: I thought I saw that Mrs. Hathaway was scheduled
for this afternoon.
27. Track 267 00:53 W: No, she’s coming in tomorrow afternoon.
M: Corey was a boy who always did the right thing. M: __________________________________
But no matter how generous or friendly he was to
others, it seemed like bad things happened to him 30. Track 270 00:58

often. One day, Corey went to work, and his boss W: Betty had always met her tutor each week at her
said he was fired because the restaurant door had house to study. However, this week was different
been left unlocked. He tried to explain to his boss because her tutor had to work late, and it was more
that it was not his fault and that another waiter convenient for them to meet at the public library. So,
was in charge of locking the door, but it was no they both agreed to meet in the computer room at
use. Although he was disappointed, he didn’t stay 4 o’clock. The problem was that when Betty arrived,
sad and started to look for a new job right away. A she realized she wasn’t very familiar with the public
week later, he found a job he was interested in while library. She assumed that it was like the library at her
reading the newspaper, and after the interview, he high school, but in fact, it was far bigger than she
got the job. In the end, he didn’t even miss his old expected. At first, she tried to look around for her
job because he liked the new one even better. tutor on her own but failed to find her. After
wandering through the building for a few minutes,
28. Track 268 00:54 she saw a librarian restocking books on the shelves
W: Hi, I’m calling about the listing in the paper about and decided to go talk to her.
the apartment on Twelfth Street. Is it still available?

Transcripts 47
 29:1 6

Practice Test 10 M: Well, you don’t have to be worried about that

today. Did you do your homework for school?
W: I sure did. I stayed up all night finishing my math
1. Track 271 01:04
assignment.
M: Can I help you find something? M: Yeah, I thought you looked a little tired.
W: Yes, I’m looking to buy some luggage. The bag I have W: It’s OK, though, because I will take a nap after
right now is too big. I need something smaller. school.
M: I’m guessing that this large rolling suitcase wouldn’t M: There you go, Sarah. That’s the way to stay optimistic
really fit your needs. about the situation. As they say, there’s no use crying
W: No, I need something I can carry on the plane with over spilt milk.
me. Do you have any gym bags? W: Yeah, right. No pain, no gain.
M: There’s this one. It’s smaller, and you’d have to carry M: OK, kids, we’re here. Everybody off. Have a good
it by the handles. day.
W: I’d rather have something that is easier to carry.
M: What about this one? It has a hard case with brown
4. Track 274 01:02
leather trim.
M: Did you see the free workshops they’re giving at
W: It just looks too boxy to me.
the museum?
M: Maybe you’d prefer this smaller black one.
W: Yeah. I signed up for the photography class on
W: No, that looks too much like a briefcase. I just want
Wednesday.
something that I could carry around and still be
M: What? Isn’t that at the same time as your biology
able to use my hands.
class?
M: Then, I think you should go with this one. You
W: Yes. My biology class ends at 3:00.
could carry it over your shoulder.
M: But the photography workshop starts at 2:30. Why
don’t you just sign up for a different workshop
2. Track 272 00:53
time? There’s one on Mondays from 5:00 to 7:30.
M: Karen, didn’t you say you wanted to make dinner W: I can’t. I work at the cafeteria at that time.
tonight? M: Well, there are many other classes, too. Maybe
W: That’s right. I’m going to cook up some pasta, I you’d like a drawing class. That’s held on Tuesdays
think. from 4:00 to 6:30.
M: That’ll be good. You should get some lettuce for a W: No. I’ve actually already talked to the photography
salad and stir-fry some other vegetables, too. instructor. He said it would be fine if I come in half
W: Oh, and I can’t forget the milk and parmesan an hour late on Wednesday. I’ll get out by 5:30.
cheese. M: I guess you have it all taken care of then.
M: Do you want anything from the canned food aisle?
I’m going to get some canned corn.
5. Track 275 01:01
W: Yes, can you get some tomato sauce, please?
W: Good afternoon, Samson Electronics. How can I
M: And what about some garlic bread from the bakery
help you today?
section?
M: Yes, hi. I want a new phone line installed in my home.
W: You’re right! We can’t have pasta without garlic
W: OK, we can have our technician go to your home
bread.
either on Wednesday or Friday between 1 and 3 to
M: OK, do we need anything else?
install the line.
W: No, I think that should cover it.
M: Nobody will be at home then. Can’t we do it during
M: Why don’t you get in line while I go pick that up?
the weekend sometime?
W: Good idea. I’ll be in the express line since we have
W: Yes, but it will be a little more expensive. It costs
less than ten items to buy, so hurry up.
twenty dollars extra during the weekend.
M: That’s all right. I don’t mind paying a little bit
3. Track 273 00:55
more.
W: Good morning, Mr. Matthews. Thank you for W: OK, what about Sunday afternoon?
stopping. M: That is also hard for me. Saturday is better.
M: Good morning, Sarah. You are lucky I saw you. You W: Very well. You can expect someone in the morning,
almost missed your ride. Please sit down. then. The installation charge is sixty-five dollars.
W: Yeah, my mom would have been very disappointed Just remember that you will also have to pay the
if she had to drive me. weekend fee.
M: I understand. Thanks for your help.

48 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

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6. Track 276 01:00 9. Track 279 00:53

W: Can I help you find anything, sir? W: Health experts say that eating this type of food in
M: Actually, I’d like to exchange this toaster for a moderation can be good for one’s health. This is
different one, please. Here’s my receipt. because it contains many substances that help
W: I’m sorry, sir. It’s been more than thirty days since you keep the heart working strong. Another way it
made this purchase. You can’t exchange it now. benefits the body is that it increases the amount of
M: Really? What difference does that make? It’s chemicals in the brain that make people feel happy.
broken. If that isn’t enough of a reason to get people to
W: I understand that, but our policy doesn’t allow returns consume this ingredient, it is usually mixed with
or exchanges after thirty days. See, it’s written on the milk and sugar to create a tasty snack. In candies,
receipt. it is also combined with nuts or marshmallows.
M: I can’t believe it. What am I supposed to do with a Although it is not the healthiest way of eating it,
broken toaster? often sugar is also added to it to make it even more
W: Well, more than likely, it’s still under the manufacturer’s delicious.
warranty. Have you checked the paperwork that
came with the toaster? 10. Track 280 00:54
M: I threw it all away. How was I supposed to know W: Cathy woke up late today and didn’t have a chance
this cheap thing would break? to eat breakfast before she left her house this
W: I’m sorry, sir. I don’t really know what else to tell morning. By 10:00 a.m., she was so extremely
you. hungry that she started to feel weak and a little
M: Just forget about it. I’ll take care of it myself. dizzy. She continuously looked at her watch and
wondered if she would make it through to her next
7. Track 277 00:59 class, let alone all the way until lunch time at
W: Good afternoon, I will be guiding you on this 12:30. After her class, Cathy was on her way to the
gondola boat tour of Venice today. As we turn lecture hall when she passed by some vending
around the corner here, in front of us you will see machines and couldn’t help herself any longer. She
a stone structure on the right. This is a prime grabbed a few coins from her change purse, put
example of a sculpture in early Italian Renaissance them into the machine and bought a granola bar
style, and as you can see, the sculpture is very to munch on. She felt calmer at once and knew
different from the Roman sculptures we can see that she could make it until lunch now.
from earlier in history. Then, next to it is a more
modern statue by an unknown artist. 11. Track 281 00:49
M: What a great vacation so far! I have always W: ⓐ More people prefer to draw than collect stamps.
dreamed of seeing the city with my own eyes. I ⓑ The most popular hobby is swimming.
can't believe how friendly the local people are, ⓒ Playing musical instruments is the least popular.
especially the old man who helped me find my way ⓓ More people like to swim than play musical
on the map when I was lost. Tonight, I will go see instruments.
more museums, and I can’t wait. ⓔ Fewer people like to draw than write.

8. Track 278 00:52 12. Track 282 01:05

M: Good morning, Helena viewers. This is Steward M: Genevieve, you’ve been absent often lately. Where
Baker with your daily weather forecast from have you been?
Channel 23 News. I regret to say that we won’t be W: I’ve been traveling around the country visiting
seeing any of that beautiful sunshine that we colleges.
enjoyed yesterday. Instead, the blue skies are going M: That’s cool! So, where have you gone so far?
to be replaced with gray storm clouds and rain W: I left Wednesday the seventeenth and visited Texas
showers. Make sure to take your umbrellas with State first.
you today because it looks like it will be rainy all M: What did you think?
day long. Tomorrow, expect the temperature to W: It was nice. Then, the next day, I went to Score’s
drop heavily and to see some snow in the morning, College in Oklahoma, and that was really cool,
and it will probably be cloudy through Friday. too.
However, the moisture should dry up by then, and M: Did you stop at Oklahoma University while you
we’ll see some strong winds reaching up to a rough were there?
30 miles per hour.

Transcripts 49
 W: Yeah, but I went on the weekend, so I didn’t get to ⓒ M: Do you have a dollar I can borrow until the day
sit in any classrooms. When I left on Sunday, I felt after tomorrow?
like I didn’t get a sense of it at all. W: Sorry. I forgot my wallet at home and don’t have
M: That’s too bad. Where did you go next? any extra money on me.
W: On Monday, I went to Hall’s College in Arkansas. ⓓ M: Hey, you didn’t see my sister around here, did
That was great. But I think I liked Georgia State you?
University best. I went there on Tuesday. W: It’s very nice to finally meet you.
M: Sounds like it was a great trip. Good luck with your ⓔ M: Have you finished the math homework that is due
applications. Wednesday?
W: I still have a few questions to go.
13. Track 283 01:09

W: Mangoes are often associated with tropical regions 16. Track 286 00:56

like Mexico or Puerto Rico. But it wasn’t until the M: Nancy, Dr. Brewer called to remind you of your
19th century that mangoes were grown in those appointment this afternoon at half past one.
areas. Originally, mangoes were grown throughout W: Oh, no. I forgot about that. I’ve got to go talk to
Southeast Asia and India. In fact, four different my professor about missing class then.
Asian countries consider the mango their national M: You should do that now, or you might not be able
fruit. It is also a custom in some Southeast Asian to find him.
countries to give mango leaves as gifts at weddings W: I know, but I have to pick up some books from the
to ensure the couple has a happy marriage because library first. Otherwise, someone else might check
the fruit is seen as a symbol of love. Moreover, them out. But I’ll go right afterward.
mangoes have a long history in many of these M: Are you going to have time to go to lunch with us
countries and are even part of their folklore. In one after all?
Indian myth, the daughter of the sun was captured W: What time was that at?
and burned by a witch. But then a tree grew from M: I was thinking noon in the cafeteria.
her ashes, and from it sprang the first mango. When W: I’m going to have to cancel, Mike. I’m sorry.
the ripe mango fell from the tree, the princess M: It’s OK, it seems like you’re pretty busy today.
jumped out of it. W: I know. It’s just that this doctor’s appointment
threw my whole schedule off. At least I can still go
14. Track 284 00:57 to my yoga class this afternoon.
M: Horace enjoyed cooking, but he hated cleaning up M: That will help you relax.
because it always seemed that even the simplest
meal created a huge mess. The problem was made 17. Track 287 00:56

worse because Horace never cleaned up immediately M: Excuse me, miss. Are you having a problem with
after using the kitchen. The dishes and pots would sit your car?
in the sink for hours until his mother forced him to do W: Actually, I am. My car has broken down. It won’t
the dishes. However, by then, the food would dry start, and the right rear tire is flat. Can you take a
and become stuck on them, which made them look at it?
extremely difficult to clean. One day, Horace’s friend M: Sure. Maybe I can fix it. Would you like a soda
Emily came over and helped him make cookies. As while you wait?
soon as they were done, Emily began washing the W: No, but thanks, though. And I really appreciate
dishes. Horace noticed that they were easier to your help.
wash, and it only took her a few minutes to clean M: Ah, here’s the first problem. You have run out of
them since they hadn’t been sitting in the sink for gas.
long. From then on, Horace decided to follow Emily’s W: Oh, that’s good news. I thought it was something
example. worse. Can you give me a ride to the gas station?
M: Even better. I have some spare gas you can have.
15. Track 285 00:57 W: Really? Are you sure you don’t mind? I can pay you
ⓐ M: Did you ask the realtor if the house was still for sale? for it.
W: She said that a couple ended up buying it last M: No, it’s really OK.
week. W: And can I use your cell phone to call a mechanic to
ⓑ M: Do you think the polka dot shirt or the plaid sweater fix the tire?
looks better? M: Certainly. Here you go.
W: Actually, I think that checkered shirt is best.

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M: But don’t you think that she has a reason to be

18. Track 288 00:54
angry? As far as she’s concerned, you’re just being
M: Mary, would you like to come over to watch the
late to be rude, especially if she doesn’t understand
basketball game at my house tonight?
your situation.
W: That would be fun! And we can make nachos with
W: I guess that’s true. I’ll try to talk to her again during
cheese and salsa to eat during the game.
her office hours.
M: That sounds delicious. What time can you come
over? The game starts at 6:00.
21. Track 291 01:00
W: Oh, no. I can’t tonight. I just remembered my sister
W: If you’re looking for some fun and great food, visit
has a class, so I don’t have a ride.
Jason’s Video Arcade today! Jason’s has been
M: Well, I could always pick you up.
ranked as the number one arcade in the city by the
W: Really? You wouldn’t mind?
readers of Austin Monthly for three years in a row.
M: It’s no problem at all.
That is because Jason’s Arcade offers the best food
W: That’s so nice of you. Could you pick me up from
and video games for the best prices. It is also the
the library? I’ll be there anyway, and it’s closer to
home of the Monster Burger, so you'd better come
your house.
with a huge appetite to eat the biggest of all the
M: Sure, I’ll see you in front of the library at 5:15.
burgers in town. Now, save even more on Tuesdays,
W: Could you just come at 5? That’s when it closes.
when you can get unlimited tokens and dinner for
only ten dollars. Come on down to the Southtown
19. Track 289 01:01
Mall, and find out why people are talking about
M: Hey, Corrine! I heard you were having a hard time
Jason’s Arcade. Also, visit our new location on Vista
during English class.
Valley Drive, located next to the bank.
W: I was! I couldn’t stop being nervous during the
group discussion.
22. Track 292 00:58
M: What I would do was pretend I was in the room
W: I’d like to exchange this book, please. It wasn’t
alone with the teacher. Then, I didn’t worry about
really what I was looking for, after all.
the other students. Also, make sure to do all of
M: You wouldn’t happen to have your receipt, would
your reading so you are prepared.
you?
W: Another problem is that I never feel confident
W: Yes, I have it right here.
talking in class.
M: Thank you. OK, are you exchanging the first one or
M: Why is that, do you think?
the second one?
W: Well, once I get nervous in the middle of talking,
W: The second one, by Robin Van Persie.
I start stuttering and forget what I want to say.
M: And may I ask why you are returning this book?
M: If that happens, just pause and start again.
W: Actually, I found the concepts too abstract, and
W: I’ve never tried that before. I guess it couldn’t
it wasn’t what I was looking for.
hurt.
M: Understandable. OK, I’m going to give you credit
M: Another thing I used to do was listen to what
for $5.50.
everyone else was saying and respond directly to
W: Thanks.
them so I wouldn’t get as lost.
M: You paid by credit card before. Do you want me to
W: That makes sense. I think that might actually help.
add the credit to your card?
W: Yes, please.
20. Track 290 00:57
M: OK, your credit card will be credited the money
M: Hey, Sarah! How was your day?
within three days. Thank you for visiting the University
W: It was awful. I was so embarrassed because my teacher
Bookstore.
got angry with me in front of the whole class!
M: What happened?
W: I was five minutes late to class. I mean, what’s the 23. Track 293 01:02

big deal with that? W: In many eastern cultures, the lotus flower is seen as
M: Is this the first time you’ve been late? a symbol of purity. This is because the plant, which
W: No. I’m always late to that one because my class grows best in muddy water, stays clean no matter
before it is on the other side of campus. what. Not too long ago, a scientist named Wilhelm
M: Did you ever explain that to your teacher? Barthlott found out why this was so and called the
W: No, she never lets me. She’s arrogant and thinks phenomenon “The Lotus Effect.” He discovered
her class is the best in the school and deserves the that the lotus plant was able to cleanse itself in a
utmost respect. unique way because the structure of the leaves help

Transcripts 51
 them resist getting wet. In other words, the smooth have already become too serious for the ancient
surface of the leaves causes liquid to easily roll off temples that remain in Greece. He says that the
and take along with it any dirt or other substances ancient Parthenon is breaking down. This is because
that might have fallen on the lotus plant. Think chemicals in the air from pollution break down the
about that the next time you water the plants in stone used to build the temple. He also thinks that
your house. Now I hope all of you understand the stone statues that are inside of the temple
____________________. should be removed and taken to a museum so that
they will be preserved for many more years to
24. Track 294 01:01 come.
M: Chinchillas are creatures that look a little like cuter
versions of rats. These days, many people are 27. Track 297 00:54

beginning to keep chinchillas as pets, but they do M: Maggie walked into the kitchen one afternoon and
not realize the work it takes to take care of them. smelled the delicious aroma of freshly baked cookies.
Experts advise that people should adopt chinchillas Then, she saw a pan of cookies cooling on the
from a rescue shelter rather than buying them from counter by the refrigerator. She looked around, and
a pet store. Since chinchillas are social creatures no one was in sight, so she reached out and ate as
and need to interact with other chinchillas, it is also many as she could in a hurry. At dinner that night,
helpful to take home more than one. By getting Maggie started to have a stomachache, and she
two chinchillas, you might be able to avoid some of immediately knew it must have been the cookies
the problem behaviors, such as chewing and biting. she ate before. Her family continued to eat, not
But the problem of chewing will never be completely realizing Maggie’s discomfort. But Maggie thought
avoided. That’s because a chinchilla’s teeth grow that they were punishing her for eating the cookies
throughout the course of their entire lifetime, and without asking. Finally, it began to hurt so much
they chew on objects in order to wear their teeth that Maggie cried, “It was me that ate the cookies!
down. Can someone please help me?”

25. Track 295 01:06 28. Track 298 00:57

M: Hi, is this where I apply for the lifeguard position? W: Jared, what do you think about using colored
W: Yes, it is. I’m actually all out of applications. How paper for the poster?
about if I get some information about you to pass M: I’m for that, but make sure it is a light color so our
on to the manager instead? photos will be visible.
M: That’s fine with me. My name is Gabriel Marquez, W: Wait a minute. But what about all these drawings we
and my phone number is 892-1242. made? We should use some of them, don’t you
W: Is that a 512 area code? think?
M: No, it’s 660. I just moved here from Houston. M: Oh, you’re right. I totally forgot.
W: I see. Are you looking for a full-time or a part-time W: Plus, I think Ms. Henderson would like to see our
job? sketches.
M: I was hoping to get a part-time position. It would M: OK, let’s make sure to choose paper that is not the
be too hard for me to work a regular 9 to 5 job same color as the paper we sketched on.
while I’m going to school. W: Good idea. That way, it will also stand out when we
W: Well, you’re in luck because we currently have two present it to the class.
part-time positions to fill. OK, Gabriel, I’ll pass this M: Do you think we can include the photos as well?
along, and you should be hearing from us soon. W: Sure, why not? But let’s try to make them the same
M: Can you tell me when I should be expecting the size as the sketches.
call? M: Actually, I’ve already done that. Here you go.
W: It will probably be later this week. W: __________________________________

26. Track 296 00:55 29. Track 299 00:57

W: Concerns about the environment have led to a W: Good afternoon. Is Mr. Jilner there?
number of changes in the modern world. People M: Speaking. How can I help you?
around the world are trying to do their part to help W: My name is Margaret, and I’m the manager down
the Earth, especially to stop the causes of pollution. at Cline’s Video Store. I’m calling about your rental
But according to one scientist, the changes may account.

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M: Oh, I see. Is there a problem? W: No, I’ve never seen one of those before. What is it
W: Well, Mr. Jilner, our records show that the movie called?
you rented last week still hasn’t been returned. M: The sign over here says “Blue Sea Whale.”
M: I did return that, along with two other movies I had W: Does it say who did it?
rented. M: It’s by Marcus Gallagher. He’s the one who did the
W: Are you sure? We never received it. “Great Volcano Eruption” painting, isn’t he?
M: Just a moment. Oh, I’m sorry. It looks like I left it in W: No, that was Oscar Perez. Gallagher did “Love is
the VCR by mistake. Blind.”
W: No problem. But we’ll have to charge you some M: I really like this one. I wonder how much it sells
late fees. for.
M: I understand. W: That woman over there looks like she works here.
W: And if you could please return it to our store as Maybe she can tell us how much it costs.
soon as possible, that would be great. M: Let’s look around a little more first. I don’t want to
M: __________________________________ buy in a hurry.
W: All right. It looks like there is more this way.
30. Track 300 00:58

W: Naomi went to a baseball game on Friday night 3. Track 303 00:56

because her best friend, Freddy, played on the M: Hi, Betty. This is Horace calling.
school team. She had never seen him play before, W: Oh, hello, Horace. Thank you for returning my call
and was very impressed by his skills as she watched so quickly.
the game. She also had no idea he could run so M: Sure thing. What seems to be the problem?
fast. In all the time she had known her best friend, W: Well, when I woke up this morning, I noticed my
she didn’t know he was a star player on the team. toilet is clogged, and the bathroom floor is covered
With Freddy’s help, their team won by a with water.
narrow margin in the ninth inning. Immediately M: That’s not good. Is the water still running?
after the game, Naomi rushed down the aisle in the W: No, I found the way to shut it off outside.
stands toward the dugout to congratulate Freddy. M: OK. I’ll jump in my truck and come over right away
At first, it was difficult to find him because there to fix it. I’m guessing one of your pipes burst.
were many people around, but finally she saw W: Great. Oh, and the power is out in the bathroom as
Freddy’s head sticking out from the crowd. well. Can you help fix that, too?
M: Actually, you may need to call an electrician for that
job. I only specialize in plumbing.
29:4 8
W: OK, I will. See you soon.
Practice Test 11
4. Track 304 01:05

1. Track 301 00:55 M: Hi, I’d like to sign up for tutoring sessions for my
W: Hi, Bill. Oh, I’m sorry. I thought you were somebody chemistry class.
else. W: You are in luck. Most of our tutors are booked up,
M: It’s OK. Maybe I can help you find him. but we have openings for two chemistry tutors at
W: Thank you. I would really appreciate it. the moment. Amy and Walter.
M: Let’s see. Is that him with the sunglasses? M: That’s good. When are they available?
W: No, he wasn’t wearing any today. W: Amy offers a private session on Wednesday from
M: OK. Is he the one wearing a scarf and a hat? 3:00 to 4:30. She has another session on Friday
W: I don’t think so. I do remember he was wearing a from 5:00 to 6:45, but that’s a group session.
light-colored shirt. M: What about the other tutor’s schedule?
M: So, he couldn’t be the one with the jacket. W: Walter gives private lessons from 3:30 to 5:00 on
W: Right. No jacket. Although I noticed he was wearing Tuesday. His group session is on Thursday from
a black tie before as well. 3:15 to 5:30.
M: Oh, I think I see him. He has one hand in his pocket. M: I want to sign up for Amy’s private session please.
W: That’s him. Thank you for your help. W: OK, I’ll write that down. Just make sure to show up
about five minutes in advance so you can sign in.
2. Track 302 00:51 M: Thank you very much.
M: Jillian, look at that exhibit! Have you ever seen W: No problem. Have a good day.
anything so beautiful?

Transcripts 53
 M: Thank you for the introduction, Ms. Ochoa. So,
5. Track 305 01:00
imagine that Ms. Ochoa here asked you to write an
M: Good morning. I wanted to find out about leasing
English paper. In brief, what you would do is open a
a table for the team bake sale.
new document in your word-processing program.
W: I can help you with that. When were you thinking
Then, after you finish typing your paper, you go to
of having it?
the “Tools” menu at the top of the screen and run
M: So far, we’d planned for the twelfth, but I guess it
a spell check. That way, you can make sure you don’t
depends on whether there’s anything available
have any spelling mistakes.
then.
W: Let’s see . . . the twelfth is next Wednesday. I’m
sorry; it’s already rented out for that day. 8. Track 308 00:51

M: What about the day before that? M: Good morning, Kansas City. This is Nick Cuomo
W: Nope, the eleventh is also full. But the fourteenth from the Weather Station. We haven’t seen any
isn’t. Would you like to reserve that day? sunshine since early this week, and it looks like we
M: Yeah, I think that works. How much does it cost to won’t be getting any relief from the storms that
rent? we’re experiencing here in Kansas City. To make
W: It’s $10 per hour. How long will it be set up? things worse, there’s a storm system developing
M: It’s going to be three hours for all of the lunch over the west that is going to cause even more
periods, and then another hour and a half after rain. The system moved in yesterday and will stay at
school. least through the day after tomorrow. We expect
W: OK, I’ll make the reservation. Good luck with the anywhere from one to three inches of rain today,
bake sale! which doesn’t sound like much except that all of the
rivers in this area have already risen slightly. There’s a
large chance of flooding on Friday, especially if the
6. Track 306 00:56
rainy weather continues.
M: Lily, I was in the garage today, and I noticed the
trash is still in there. Why is the trash still in the
garage? 9. Track 309 00:56

W: I was working on my project for class out there last W: This doesn’t happen very often, but when it does,
night. it is a very powerful experience. This happens when
M: Yes, I know. But the trash . . . it shouldn’t be in the moon moves between the Earth and the sun.
there anymore. Sometimes the moon completely blocks the sun,
W: Why not? Was I supposed to do something with it? making it dark on Earth for a short period. Scientists
M: You were supposed to put it out on the sidewalk. have come to understand them more in modern
The garbage truck came by this morning. times with the help of improvements in the study
W: Oh, it completely slipped my mind last night. I was of stars, and now they can predict the precise time
just so busy with my project. But it’s almost done. that they will happen. The fact that they are so rare
M: Now we’re going to have a garage full of trash for causes many people to travel to destinations that
the next week. give them a better view of this event. But be
W: I promise I’ll do it next time. warned because looking directly at it can cause
M: I hope so. Otherwise, it’s going to get pretty smelly damage to your vision. So, make sure to wear
in there. specially designed glasses to view it.
W: And we don’t want that for sure. You can count on
me to take the trash out next week. 10. Track 310 00:58

W: Justine had a strange dream last night. In the

7. Track 307 01:04
dream, she ran into her friend, Denise, at the park
W: Most of you probably have a computer at your and asked her if she would like to have coffee
house. A computer can be used for entertainment, together. She bought Denise a cup of coffee, but
but it is also a great tool for school. You can use it to Denise hated it and said it tasted awful. Justine
research topics and make graphs for your projects, became worried, and suddenly, she jumped up and
or you can use a word-processing program to type started running away from Denise. But the harder
out your essays. So today, I’ve invited Mr. Brown she tried to run, the slower her pace became. She
from the Computer Science department to talk to could hear Denise catching up behind her, and
our English class a little more about using your then it occurred to her that she didn’t know why
computer to write essays. she was running. When she stopped, Denise

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touched her on the back and screamed, “Tag, climb. Ice climbers, however, use boots called fruit
you’re it!” Then, Justine woke up all confused and boots that already have spikes attached to them and
did not understand why she had that weird weigh less.
dream.
14. Track 314 00:49

11. Track 311 00:54 M: Since he was a little boy, Kelly had always been teased
W: ⓐ More money is spent on equipment than on about his name. Other students made fun of him by
uniforms and food combined. saying that he had a girl’s name. So, at the age of ten,
ⓑ The same amount of money is spent on signs as is Kelly decided he would only go by his middle name,
spent on food. which is Sean. When he was fifteen years old, his
ⓒ The amount of travel and equipment combined is grandfather invited him to visit his ancestors’ home in
exactly half of the budget. Ireland. While he was in Ireland, he met many boys
ⓓ The amount of money spent on uniforms is the named Kelly, which helped him to realize that his first
same as food and signs combined. name was part of his culture, and he didn’t have
ⓔ The booster club spends the most money on anything to be embarrassed about. When he returned
equipment. from his trip in Ireland, he proudly introduced himself
as Kelly wherever he went.
12. Track 312 01:04

M: Hi, Fiona. I heard you joined the photography club. 15. Track 315 00:59

How’s that going? ⓐ M: So, would you like to have lunch with me the day
W: Great! I get to travel around with the soccer team after tomorrow?
and take pictures. But we have a rough schedule W: Yes, it was absolutely delicious. Thank you for the
coming up. It’s going to get very busy. meal.
M: Oh, really? When’s the next game? ⓑ M: How much farther is it to the next city do you
W: The next game is this Wednesday the sixth. It’s a think?
home game, so I won’t have to leave Redmond. W: I’m guessing it is about two and half hours away.
M: That’s good. Isn’t there a tournament on ⓒ M: When is your birthday, Mary Sue?
Thursday? W: It is next month actually. My birthday is April
W: No, we’re off Thursday, but the tournament starts fifteenth.
on the eighth in Coupeville. And the second day of ⓓ M: I heard you are having a garage sale soon. What
the tournament is moved to Oak Harbor. I think will you have for sale?
they are cutting the grass on Barnes field that W: Mostly old clothes that don’t fit me anymore and
Saturday. some books.
M: Are there any games next week? ⓔ M: I think this is the cleanest I’ve ever seen your house.
W: Yes, they’re playing in Bellingham on the thirteenth. W: Yeah, I hired a housekeeper last week. She did a
M: Cool, isn’t that a playoff game? great job.
W: No, the playoffs start on the fifteenth. We’re playing
Bremerton. You should go to that one. 16. Track 316 01:01
M: I’m certainly going to try. M: Daphne, have you chosen your major yet?
W: Yes. You should turn in the paperwork on yours
13. Track 313 01:05 soon. It’s sort of a complicated process.
W: Many people get a taste of adventure by rock M: OK. Why don’t we do it together? How do I get
climbing. A sport that is similar to rock climbing is started?
ice climbing. In ice climbing, one still maneuvers up W: Well, before you fill out your application, you have
solid rock walls, except that they are covered with to go to the registration office and request a copy
ice. Though the sports are similar, each activity uses of your grades.
different types of equipment. First, ice climbers must M: Why is that?
wear heavier clothing to protect them from the W: Because the application asks you to list every class
cold, while in regular rock climbing, clothing is you’ve taken for that department.
usually lighter, so it’s easier to move in. Additionally, M: That makes sense. I’ve got to go see the registrar,
another difference between the two sports is the then.
kind of footwear used. Rock climbers usually wear W: So, after you do that, you have to visit the head of
regular climbing shoes and attach large spikes that the department and get their signature.
fit over the bottoms of the shoes to help them M: Does that take long?

Transcripts 55
 W: No, they just take a look at it and sign. W: You should visit the study abroad office and speak
M: Is that it? to the counselor.
W: No, when you get the signature, turn it in to the M: I did already, and she was helpful. Can you tell me
registrar. They will file your application and call you where else I can find more information?
within two weeks for the interview. W: Try visiting the websites of the universities you’re
interested in. And do a search about the cities you
17. Track 317 01:01 may live in. That helped me out a lot.
W: Hi. I want to order some products from your winter M: What kinds of classes did you take?
catalog. W: I focused mostly on foreign language classes since
M: OK, I can take your order over the phone. Do you I was living in a different culture setting.
have the item numbers? M: That makes sense. What would you do differently?
W: I don’t. But I can tell you the product name. The W: I would choose to live with a family instead of living
first is a large Miller jacket. I also want to order the in an apartment with other students. I think that
medium Phillips gloves. would have helped me get a better sense of what
M: What color did you want the jacket in? home life is like in India.
W: Green, please.
M: I’m sorry, ma’am. We’re sold out of green jackets in 20. Track 320 01:00

that style. How about blue? W: I went to the movies last night with Lisa. She invited
W: I’d rather have it in green. Do you have any of the some of her other friends from school. It was weird,
Leslie jackets in green? though, because she acted completely different
M: Yes, we do. I’ll add that to your order. Would you when they arrived.
like to be added to our email list? You’ll get 50 M: Really? Like how?
percent off your shipping just for signing up. W: Well, at one point, she started making fun of me
W: Yes, that sounds great. for no reason at all. But she’s always been pretty
M: And would you like to pay by credit card now or friendly toward me.
cash on delivery? M: So, you’ve never seen her act that way before?
W: I’d like to pay by credit card now, please. W: No, it seemed like she was just trying to impress
them.
18. Track 318 00:59 M: How did you react to her teasing?
M: Thank you for inviting me to your party. Do you W: Like I normally do. I told her it was mean. Honestly,
need help setting up? it just doesn’t make sense to me.
W: Yes! I have so much to do that day. I need to pick M: I think you’re right. Plus, it’s so hard to act like
up the cake from Mom’s Bakery, and I also have to someone you’re not.
set up the decorations. W: You’re right. They invited me out again tonight.
M: I can pick up the cake on my way over to your M: Are you going to meet them?
house. Then, I can help with the decorations. W: Yes, but I still want to talk to Lisa about the way she
W: That’s very nice of you. I’d really appreciate it. acted.
M: So, I’ll leave my house by 10 o’clock.
W: Actually, the cake won’t be ready until noon. And 21. Track 321 01:01

I wouldn’t want you to make more than one trip. W: Good afternoon, students. This is Principal Rowley
M: What if I leave to get the cake and come to your speaking. Our student council officers spent this
house at 12:30 then? That should still leave enough afternoon counting ballots, and I’m happy to
time to put up the decorations before the party. announce that we have a winner in the third
W: Most certainly. The first guests won’t get here until annual Benton Junior High Drawing Contest. With
3. more than 50 percent of the student votes, the
M: OK, sounds good. See you on Saturday. winner is Tabby Hamilton from Ms. Norwood’s
W: Thanks again. See you then. sixth-grade class. Tabby will receive a party at the
pizzeria for her class, as well as drawing lessons
19. Track 319 01:00 with Mr. Gonzalez of the Benton Art Institute. To
M: Hannah, did you study abroad? see her picture, “The First Thanksgiving Dinner,” and
W: Yes, I went to India. What about you? those of all the contest participants, please visit the
M: I want to, but I have no idea where to go. exhibit located in the third-floor lecture hall. I want

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to thank everybody who participated in the contest, family. Later, an English scientist created the rubber
and I look forward to seeing even more entries next balloon. Plastic balloons are better than other types
year! of balloons because they are able to hold the air for
longer. In modern times, balloons have many
22. Track 322 01:10 different uses other than party decorations. An
W: Jim, would you like to sign my petition? I’m trying example of this is how artists use them as molds to
to convince the school to stop using plastic foam in sculpt shapes. The most surprising use is in medicine
the cafeteria. where doctors can place a tiny balloon into clogged
M: Can you tell me more about it? blood vessels near the heart. Once it is inserted and
W: It started when I read that Avonton High produces inflated, the balloon clears out the artery and helps
half a ton of trash a month. I looked into it more decrease the chance of a heart attack in patients.
and found out that most of that was from plastic
foam trays. 25. Track 325 01:05

M: Really? What’s so bad about plastic foam? M: Hi, I need to send this letter. Can you help me,
W: The main problem is that it takes up a lot of room in please?
garbage cans. According to my research, of all the W: Certainly. It says here, you’re sending this to the
plastic recycled last year, zero percent was plastic Brown University Admissions Office in Providence,
foam. Rhode Island. Do you know the zip code?
M: That’s terrible. M: Oh, I forgot to put it on there. It’s 02912. How
much is the postage for that?
W: My petition also includes information about how W: It’s going to be a dollar. Are you applying to college
we can save money by using paper instead. My there?
figures show we can save about 30 percent. M: Yes. This is a very important letter.
M: That’s convincing. How many signatures do you W: If that’s the case, I strongly suggest you send it by
need? certified mail. Then, the post office will keep a
W: I need fifty, and I still have a lot to go. I only have record of when the letter was delivered.
four so far. M: Does it cost any extra?
M: All right. Sure, I’ll sign your petition. W: Yes, it’s an extra two dollars. But I think it’s worth it
for the peace of mind.
23. Track 323 01:01 M: Yes, I think so, too. I’ll do that then.
W: Early adventurers had many obstacles. One thing W: OK, so your total is three dollars. Can I help you
that kept people from making long treks into the with anything else?
mountains was the shortage of food and supplies. M: Nope, that’s everything. Thanks.
These necessary materials were also very heavy,
making it impossible for adventurers to travel long 26. Track 326 01:04
distances before running out of food. A 20th W: The Gobi Desert is located in Asia. Unlike typical
century explorer named Hiram Bingham, famous deserts, the Gobi is cold and rocky. So as one
for discovering the ancient city of Machu Picchu, would imagine, very few animals can survive in this
solved this problem by using llamas to carry their environment. But with the help of several
belongings and supplies. That way, the people on adaptations, Bactrian camels have lived in the Gobi
the trip wouldn’t be tired out from carrying the Desert for thousands of years because they can
load themselves. Additionally, Bingham also packed survive in both hot and cold weather due to the
a box for each day of the trip. Each box contained two different coats of fur they have. To illustrate, in
just the right amount of food for everyone traveling hot summer weather, they shed their coats in order
with him. Now I hope all of you understand to stay cool. Furthermore, it is not easy to find food
______________________. in the Gobi Desert because most of the plants that
are able to grow there are prickly with hard thorns
24. Track 324 01:08 on them. As a result, the Bactrian camel’s mouth is
M: No party is complete without balloons. But it wasn’t especially adapted to be able to eat all types of
until 1847 that the plastic balloons used for plants without getting hurt.
decorations were produced. Before then, balloons
were made from animal bladders. The first balloon 27. Track 327 00:52
ever recorded was invented by a Portuguese priest, M: Marty was having breakfast one morning when he
who presented the balloon to the Portuguese royal read an advertisement on his cereal box. If he

Transcripts 57
 mailed in the top of the box, he could get a free
30. Track 330 00:53
shirt, so he immediately cut off the top of the box
W: Earlier this week, Lorena started feeling sick. It
and carried it with him all day so he could mail it in.
began as a small headache, but by the evening, she
At school, he couldn’t stop thinking about his free
had a sore throat and a fever. She had a hard time
shirt so he pulled the box top out of his pocket so
sleeping that night because she kept having to get
often. After school, he went to the post office and
up to vomit in the bathroom. Although she hated
sent off the box top. The next day, he thought about
missing school, she was not able to go to classes on
his shirt a few times, but not as much as the first day.
Tuesday and Wednesday. Her doctor prescribed her
When the mail carrier delivered the shirt the following
some medicine, and she knew that if she just got
week, he had completely forgotten that he had even
some rest, she would be fine soon. On Wednesday
sent off the box top.
night, her friend Nathan came over to her house to
give her copies of homework the teacher had
28. Track 328 00:52
passed out and explained what the teacher had
W: Adrian, thank you for inviting me to lunch. It was gone over in class.
delicious.
M: No problem. You’re always great company. And the
food here is the best in town. 30: 0 0
W: I agree. I’m sorry to do this, but I have to cut it Practice Test 12
short.
M: Really? Do you have another appointment?
1. Track 331 00:56
W: Yes, I have a dentist appointment at 2:30.
M: Hey, Sally. Can you help me find a hat for my
M: I didn’t realize you had somewhere else to be. You
costume?
should have said something.
W: Certainly. What kind of hat are you looking for?
W: It’s not a big deal. Let me ask for the check.
M: I need something with a big, round brim.
M: The waitress brought it by already. It’s $20.
W: So, this graduation hat won’t work then?
W: OK, here is $10 for my half.
M: No. Neither will that witch’s hat.
M: Please, Pamela. I invited you to lunch. Please let me
W: Is it a Halloween party? What are you going as?
take care of the check. I insist.
M: Yeah, it’s for Halloween. I’m going as a player in a
W: __________________________________
mariachi band, you know, a band that plays music
from Mexico.
29. Track 329 01:02
W: So, the polka-dot birthday party hat is out?
W: Hi, Oliver. It’s Pam. How are you doing? M: Right. The hat with the stars and stripes won’t
M: I’m sorry, this isn’t Oliver. I’m Larry, Oliver’s cousin. work either.
W: Oh, I’m sorry. You two sound exactly the same. W: See the sombrero with the wide brim? I think it’s
M: I know, many people say that. perfect!
W: So you’re the one visiting from Chicago, right? M: Yeah, that is the hat I’m looking for.
Oliver told me you were coming to see him.
M: Yeah, I’ve never visited him here before. I just
2. Track 332 00:52
arrived around noon today.
M: I heard that the city’s professional baseball team is
W: I think you’ll like it. It’s really quiet, but there are a lot of
supposed to make an appearance this year.
friendly people here. How long will you be in town?
W: That’s cool!
M: Just until next week. I wish I could stay longer, but
M: I think it’s great that so many people have come to
I’ve got to go back to school.
enjoy the carnival.
W: I understand. Well, listen, when you see Oliver,
W: Well, the money raised here today is going toward
would you mind giving him a message?
a good cause.
M: Not at all. What should I tell him?
M: Tell me who’s sponsoring this again?
W: Tell him that I can’t study with him tonight, but he
W: The Read for Life group has this fun day every six
can return my math notes tomorrow in class.
months. The money they earn buys books for children
M: __________________________________
who can’t afford them.

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M: That is a good cause. What ride are you going to

5. Track 335 01:02
go on first?
M: I appreciate your business for sure, ma’am, and you
W: I think I’m going on the Ferris wheel. What do you
won’t be disappointed.
want to go on?
W: You’re offering a good deal. You are only asking for
M: I want to ride the roller coaster. But we can do that
$20 to mow my lawn.
after your ride.
M: I just need to make a little extra spending money,
W: OK. The line looks long, so we should hurry up.
and I believe $20 is a fair price.
W: Can you tell me when to expect you each week?
3. Track 333 00:59
M: I need to look at my schedule, but I believe I have
M: You look like you could use some lemonade. Thursday afternoons available.
W: That does sound good. W: That won’t work. I host a bridge club game at my
M: You won’t be disappointed. I buy the lemons at the house on Thursday afternoons. I was hoping you’d
market every week and hand-squeeze them fresh be able to do it on Wednesday mornings.
every morning. M: Well, we don’t schedule any lawns before 11 a.m.
W: If I’d known that, I would’ve stopped by here W: I’m willing to throw in a $10 tip every time.
before now. M: You make it hard for me to resist. I can’t do
M: Maybe you can help me spread the word. Wednesdays, though. What about Tuesdays?
W: If it tastes as good as you say, then I will for sure. W: That works for me. I’ll expect you every week then,
How long have you had a drink stand for? at 9:00 a.m.
M: Only five months or so. My parents own a restaurant, M: OK. It’s a deal.
so it has given me food service experience. My dream
is to own a café some day. 6. Track 336 00:59
W: That’s a good goal to have. You are still young, so W: My daughter purchased a sports jacket here yesterday
you can do it. and was overcharged.
M: Thanks. And working down here is also great for M: That can be easily fixed. Do you have the sports
meeting new people. It is so much fun. jacket and the receipt?
W: Well, I’m glad it worked out for you like that. W: I do, but I want to speak to the manager about
M: Thank you. Enjoy your lemonade, and please come this.
again! M: Well, ma’am, this is something that I can take care
of for you.
4. Track 334 01:02 W: I’d rather just discuss this with the manager, thank
W: The manager at the gym asked me to teach a you.
kickboxing class on Tuesday nights. M: But I can just refund the money your daughter
M: That’s great. Maybe I’ll come. overpaid.
W: I hope so. It would be nice to have a familiar face in W: You’re not hearing me. Let me speak to the
the audience. It’s from 4:45 to 6:15 on Tuesdays. manager.
M: The only problem is I have band practice on M: I understand that you’re frustrated, ma’am, but I can
Tuesdays from 3:45 to 4:45. take care of this in just a matter of a few minutes.
W: The gym isn’t too far from the school. Surely the W: It’s not the time I’m worried about. I want you to
band director doesn’t keep you the entire time do what I requested right now.
every day. M: Well, ma’am, the manager leaves it up to each
M: Actually, he does. He believes in using every available cashier as to whether or not he should be involved
minute of practice time. in a customer issue.
W: Well, why don’t you just come as soon as band W: This is ridiculous. I demand to speak to the
practice is done? manager!
M: That would work, I guess. I bet I could be there
fifteen minutes after band practice ends. 7. Track 337 01:02
W: Perfect! Thank you for wanting to come. W: I really don’t know why you are having a problem
M: I wouldn’t miss it. Besides, I could use the exercise! with the plans for the building. We had several
meetings over the past few months to finalize

Transcripts 59
 how we wanted things to look. It was upon the since I’d been good at those things at a much bigger
suggestions from those meetings that I developed school. However, it didn’t take me long to realize
the plans. Before the ground was ever broken, the that I was sorely mistaken. The kids at my new
plans had been approved by everyone in the school were ambitious and smart and had read a lot
process. Honestly, I’m a little frustrated to have to of books I hadn’t. After a few basketball practices, I
redesign something that has already been partially realized I would have to work really hard to make
built. the team. Though it wasn’t going to be easy, I was
M: What an exciting thing to watch--the progress the excited to be challenged by my new classmates, and
construction workers are making. My family and I I looked forward to doing my best to succeed.
are so thrilled to see our dream house take shape
in the unique work they are doing. Everyone in the 11. Track 341 00:58
family played a part in making the decisions about W: ⓐ A large number of students would rather volunteer
how to build what we wanted. I myself am happy than go on a vacation.
to be one of the first in my family to have my own ⓑ Working at a summer job came in fourth place for
garage to park my car in. favorite summertime activities.
ⓒ Roughly a fifth of the teenagers surveyed enjoy
8. Track 338 00:57 sleeping late in the summer.
W: Hello, Montana! This is Jane Santana with your ⓓ Teenagers would rather go on a family vacation
weekly weather forecast. Those of us who have than to summer camp.
lived here for even a few years have been exposed ⓔ The most popular answer was that teenagers like
to the crazy springtime weather in this area. It isn’t to hang out with their friends in the summer.
uncommon to have a week of 65-degree temperature
days followed by a blizzard, and this week looks to 12. Track 342 00:59
be no different. The snow that greeted us earlier in W: So, where are you going on your family trip?
the week was ushered out of the area with clouds M: We fly to New York on Saturday the seventh, where
yesterday. And coming behind the clouds, we have we’ll spend five nights.
two days of solid, spring sunshine to warm us after W: How fun! Will you get to see the Statue of Liberty
the chilly winter weather. So, enjoy today and and other landmarks?
tomorrow because we know nice days are few and M: For sure! Then, we’ll move on and spend the next
far between this time of year. two days in Boston.
W: That sounds great. Please tell me you will see a Red
9. Track 339 00:52 Sox game while you’re there.
M: This food grows in bunches and can be eaten right M: Of course. Then, on the fourteenth we will go to
off the vine. It’s extremely important because it can Philadelphia and spend two nights there.
be found in everything from wine to salads and is W: Cool. You’ll have to eat a Philly cheese steak for
even a popular flavoring for things like bubble gum me.
and candy. This fruit is grown in areas all over the M: I’ll certainly do that. Then, we’ll spend the next
world and is green, reddish-purple, or a dark purple three nights in Washington, DC before ending the
color. Though small in size, the health benefits of trip in Florida.
this fruit are many, such as the healthy vitamins, W: That’s awesome. I’ve always wanted to visit the
minerals, and other substances that help the body Capitol. Where are you going in Florida?
to build cells, resist disease, and keep your brain in M: We’ll spend the last three days in Miami before
good shape. So, the next time you need a snack, coming home.
pop a few of these flavorful and healthy berry-type
fruits into your mouth and enjoy. 13. Track 343 01:05

M: We humans consider ourselves the most evolved

10. Track 340 01:02 creatures on the planet, and we do possess many
W: Moving to another city for my senior year was not traits that aren’t duplicated in the animal world. It’s
what I had planned. I’d gone to big schools all my important to remember that although we are highly
life until I found myself enrolled at a high school developed, there are some traits found in animals
with only 200 people in it. I figured I would be far and fish that we will never attain. For instance, the
ahead of them in my studies and in my athletic ability mantis shrimp can see eleven or twelve different

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primary colors, while humans can only see three. W: That’s great.
Additionally, chameleon lizards can change the color M: Not for me. I’m not sure how I’m going to juggle
of their skin to communicate with other lizards. everything today.
Humans keep the skin color they have when they W: What do you mean?
are born. Ants also routinely lift and carry items that M: I’ve got to work the cash register during the lunch
are three times their own body weight. Most shift at the restaurant today, and I told my sister I’d
humans can’t even lift their own body weight, help her write her essay. Then, I’m supposed to pick
much less carry it back to their residence. So, we up books from the school library before 5:00.
need to remember that although we are at the top W: Would your boss allow you to miss work?
of the food chain, the world is occupied by many M: I don’t think so.
spectacular creatures besides us. W: Why don’t we go by the gym and ask the coach if
you can come late?
14. Track 344 01:04 M: That’s a good idea. I’ll call my sister after that and
W: Amanda had to grow up very quickly after her postpone study time until tonight. If you’d go by
mom died when she was only nine. She also had the library for me while I do that, I think I can make
two younger siblings to take care of because her the practice on time.
dad had to work to provide for the family. Amanda W: Sure, no problem. But you'd better go!
started doing the laundry for her family, and her
aunt taught her how to cook a few simple dishes 17. Track 347 00:55

so she could make dinner at night. She also helped W: All right, sir. I’ve got your table for the dinner
her younger brothers and sisters get ready for reserved.
school every morning and even made all their M: Thank you. Were we able to reserve one of the
lunches every day. When she was fifteen, her father tables close to the band like we requested?
remarried. His new wife insisted on doing the W: Yes, sir. You’re only a few feet from the stage.
housework so that Amanda could have time to M: Perfect. And I’ll need one less chair at the table.
hang out with her friends. However, she didn’t One of our guests in my party is in a wheelchair.
know many of the other children at school because W: That’s no problem, sir.
she was always so busy before taking care of her M: And I’m sorry to trouble you more, but can I see a
family that she never had time to make close menu? I want to order some wine before my guests
friends. arrive.
W: Here you go, sir.
15. Track 345 00:58 M: Thank you. One more question: can you tell me if
ⓐ W: Do you think that the price of gas will go down there will be a podium for my speech? I prefer to
next month? speak from one, if possible.
M: I’m not sure. I don’t really understand how W: That is also not a problem, sir. I can have one
economics works. brought in from the lecture hall.
ⓑ M: Excuse me, Mrs. Sanders. What is the date today? M: Thank you again for all of your help.
W: Today is February the fourteenth.
ⓒ W: Hey, Steven, would you mind working for me in the 18. Track 348 00:54

nursery tonight? M: What time does your flight land tomorrow?

M: I’m sorry. I already have plans, and I’m not very W: Around noon. That reminds me, can you pick me up at
good with little children. the airport? I could rent a car, but my sister’s planning
ⓓ M: It’s almost Mother’s Day. Have you thought about to let me borrow hers once I get to her house.
what gift you are going to give to your mom? M: I’ve got an hour for lunch, so that would be fine.
W: I was thinking of buying her flowers and W: Thank you. My sister was going to, but she has to
making a card. work.
ⓔ W: Are you having a good time? M: I understand.
M: Yeah, I can’t wait for the party next Saturday! W: I would call a cab, but I’d prefer to save the money
since the airport’s several miles from the city.
16. Track 346 00:56 M: Yeah, and cabs are getting more expensive. Don’t
M: They just announced that basketball tryouts are in worry about it.
two hours, at 3:30. W: I just remembered: I could take the airport shuttle.

Transcripts 61
 M: I'm already planning to meet you there. Besides, it’s something like this for our community for many
an excuse to have lunch with you. years, so I applaud your efforts to bring this about.
W: Oh, all right. It will be good to see you. I’m sure you’re as thrilled as I am about seeing this
museum become a first-class facility. Before you go,
19. Track 349 00:57 please help yourself to something from the dessert
W: You’ve been studying for many hours now. Do you table. Also, be sure to be careful on those icy roads,
feel prepared for the test? and we’ll plan to see you at next month’s social
M: I’m so frustrated! I feel even less prepared than event!
when I started.
W: Have you organized your study notes? 22. Track 352 01:08

M: I didn’t want to take the time. W: Thank you for calling Outdoor Hideaway customer
W: Since the test has six sections, maybe you could service. How can I help you today?
study better if you divided up the material into M: I’m calling about the order I just received. It was
each section. shipped on the twenty-first of February.
M: That’s not a bad idea. W: OK. Can you please give me the order number
W: Then, you could spend a certain amount of time located at the top right corner?
studying each topic. That way, you’re pushing M: It’s PR-8674.
yourself to get more done. W: Thank you. Did we leave out a part of your order?
M: I’m also afraid I won’t sleep tonight because I’m so M: No, ma’am. I received all eight items.
nervous about this test. W: Did the order arrive late?
W: I felt that way, too. Maybe you could reward yourself M: No. I ordered it on the twenty-first and received it
after studying with a movie to take your mind off on the twenty-sixth, as promised.
things. W: OK. What seems to be the problem?
M: That’s a great idea. Would you like to watch it with M: I wanted to check the money I owe. The subtotal is
me? correct—$186.60—but the tax was more than I
expected.
20. Track 350 00:52 W: Let’s see. It should’ve been $9.30. I see you were
M: Do you think it would be OK for me to skip basketball charged twice the amount of tax that you should’ve
practice tomorrow? been. I’ll refund that to your credit card right
W: Why? Is there something you’ve got to do? away.
M: Several of the guys are going to go see the new M: Thank you. I appreciate your help.
superhero movie.
W: Why can’t you go after practice tomorrow night? 23. Track 353 00:52

M: The rest of my friends are going right after school to M: Interestingly, it is perfectly legal to not have a
beat the crowd because tomorrow’s the release name. That’s right; if someone chooses to remain
day. nameless for the rest of their lives, they have the
W: What about your coach? What will he say? right to do so. While this seems bizarre, there are
M: I doubt he’d like it very much. no laws that require a person to have a name.
W: That’s not a very good example for your teammates. However, not having a name means that there are
By trying out for the team, you’ve said through your many things a person cannot do, such as obtaining
actions that you’ll be dedicated to basketball. a driver’s license, getting married, opening a bank
M: I know, but I really want to hang out with my account, or even applying to college. It’s obvious
friends. that life would be somewhat difficult without a
W: It might be a better idea to talk them into going to name. How would your teachers call on you in
a different show time. class, or how would your employer recommend
you for a raise? Still, for those who so choose, they
21. Track 351 00:54 can experience life __________________________.
W: I can’t tell you how pleased we are with tonight’s
turnout, in spite of the wintry weather going on 24. Track 354 01:09

outside. We appreciate all of you for coming out to W: Every year, a contest takes place in which high-
help us launch this city’s newest fine-art attraction, school students develop ideas and programs to
the Memorial Museum. Several of you have wanted make the world a better place. It’s called “The Better

62 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3

 Tr
a nsc
ripts

Hour” contest. Its participants are some of the most again. They were thrilled that the time they’d spent
forward-thinking high-school students in the nation. teaching the parrot hadn’t gone to waste.
This year’s first prize of ten thousand dollars goes
to a high-school senior in Tennessee. She planned 27. Track 357 01:02
several events to raise money to buy supplies for W: I knew it was going to be a challenging day when
orphans in poor neighborhoods. She also got her my alarm didn’t go off, and I woke up an hour late.
entire community involved and was able to help I barely made it to my first period on time, only to
educate many who didn’t know how desperate the find out we had a pop quiz on material that I
lives of these orphans are. The other finalists were hadn’t taken the time to read the night before. To
no less noble or creative in their ideas to help others. make things worse, my locker was jammed, and
These high schoolers raised a record amount of the janitor had to pry it open, making me late for
money for cancer research, as well as collected shoes Ms. Goodman’s class. Then, as I headed for physical
for the homeless. One finalist sent children’s books education, I thought I would finally have time to
to underdeveloped countries. recover from the frustrations, but Coach Peterson
announced it was track and field day, which I dread
25. Track 355 00:59 most of all. As I practiced the high jump, I landed
M: Would it be possible for you to help me with my on my foot wrong and hurt my ankle so badly that
algebra this afternoon? I had to use crutches to walk home. It seemed that
W: Well, I’ve got soccer practice until 5:30. everything that could go wrong today went horribly.
M: Oh. I don’t want to add another thing to your busy
day. 28. Track 358 01:01
W: I think we could do it after dinner. That shouldn’t W: Hey, Jim. How’s your day going?
be a problem. M: Not bad. So, would you like to go to the library
M: Would you like to eat supper together and then before we go to lunch? We could find some
study? It would be my treat. resources for our English papers.
W: Thanks, but I'd better not. We eat together as a W: I really don’t feel very motivated right now. What
family every night. It’s a fun tradition we have. about next week?
M: That’s really cool. My parents both work the M: You told me at the beginning of the semester that
afternoon shift and don’t get home until after 9. you wanted to do a better job of starting your
So, my brothers and I are on our own for dinner. assignments early.
W: Has that made you learn to make dinner? W: I know, but . . .
M: I wish I could say yes, but sadly, just the opposite. M: It won’t take us very long. This way, you won’t have
I’m the king of fast food. to do it later.
W: I could show you some basic cooking this weekend W: I just wish I had good study habits like you do.
if you’d like. M: It’s just a matter of self-discipline.
W: That’s my problem. I don’t have any self-discipline.
26. Track 356 01:00 I don’t work out like I should, I eat things that
M: Most parents teach their children to memorize their aren’t healthy, and I put off doing my homework.
full name and address in case of emergency. A M: Then, today’s the day to get optimistic and start
family in Tokyo decided maybe the practice would making a positive change. What do you say? Let’s
be a good one to teach their pet parrot. The family stop by the library.
worked with the parrot for two years, having him W: __________________________________
repeat over and over again his first and last name
and the address where the family lived. Meaning it 29. Track 359 00:59

as a joke, the family never thought their bird would M: Hey, Sue. Long time, no see.
need to know this information. When the parrot W: Hi, Jason. It has been a long time. What are your
flew out the window and got lost, the family plans for tonight?
worried they would never see their beloved bird M: Nothing, really. I’ve got a little bit of homework,
again. After several days, they received a call from and I thought about starting on my research project.
a veterinarian who’d recovered the bird. The parrot W: That project’s not due for two months. A group of
had been silent for a few days until he began us are going to check out a new coffee shop on
repeating his name and address over and over eighth Street. Would you like to come with us?

Transcripts 63
 M: That sounds fun. I didn’t know there was a new
coffee shop in town.
W: I heard about it from my cousin. Her boyfriend’s
brother is actually the owner.
M: That’s cool. If I get my homework done, maybe I’ll
come.
W: You’re always so serious about your studies. It
would do you good to chill with us there.
M: I know I need to loosen up some, but I don’t want
to fall behind.
W: You won’t fall behind. You’ve got the highest
grades in class.
M: __________________________________

30. Track 360 01:25

M: Keith was really excited when his friend Jeremy told

him that he had a spare bed frame for Keith to use,
which was perfect because Keith didn’t want to
spend too much money on buying a new one.
Jeremy told Keith it was in good shape, and he sold
it to him for thirty-five dollars. As Keith went to
sleep that night, he flopped down on the bed and
heard a cracking sound and then a super loud
“BANG!” The frame broke into several pieces, and
his mattress hit the floor. He turned on the light to
inspect the bed and found that it had been broken
before and glued back together. The next day,
Keith spotted Jeremy in the cafeteria and quickly
made his way over to Jeremy’s table.

64 Target Listening Practice Tests Book 3