Listening Practice Test 1 - Transcript

INTERNATIONAL ENGLISH LANGUAGE TESTING SYSTEM

You will hear four different recordings and you will have to answer questions on what you hear. You will
have time to read the instructions and questions, and you have time to check your work. All the recordings
will be played once only.

The test is in four parts. Write all your answers in the listening question booklet. At the end of the test,
you will be given 10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.

Now turn to Part 1 in your Question Booklet.

Part 1

You will hear a conversation between a woman and an employee of a library regarding weekly activities
at the library. First you have some time to look at questions 1 to 7.

[30-second gap]

You should answer the questions as you listen, because you will not hear the recording a second time.
Now, listen carefully and answer questions 1 to 7.

Woman: Good afternoon, Southside Library. How can I help you?

Man: Oh hi. I saw a poster advertising some weekly activities at the library and I was hoping
you could tell me about them?

Woman: Sure.

Man: Well my older children are keen to join the Art Workshop, …. are there any spots
available for next weekend?

Woman: Yes, there are a couple of spaces left and it costs $10 for each child.

Man: OK. And when and where is it?

Woman: It’s on Saturdays from 9am til 3, and because it’s quite a large event, it’s in the main hall.

Man: Oh, I see – that’s a full day then … Do they need to take anything with them?

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Woman: No, you don’t need to pack anything … we will provide lunch for them, and paper, pens
and pencils are all included in the price.

Man: That sounds great. And I also have a three year old, so I was wondering if the Super
Story Time would be a good activity for her?

Woman: Well I’m not sure, but I’ll explain and let you decide. It’s a free event and it’s held at 10am
every Friday morning but it’s not held in the Reading Room where we normally have
story time. This one’s in the Maitland Room.

Man: Sorry, how do you spell that?

Woman: Yes, I’ll spell it for you …. It’s M-A-I-T-L-A-N-D, the Maitland Room.

Man: Oh yes, That’s next to the library, isn’t it?

Woman: Yes, we hold it there because this room is easily accessible to everyone in the
community. Some of the participants are in wheelchairs and there are also lots of
parents with small children. It’s difficult for them to take public transport, and the
Maitland Room is easy to get to if arriving by car.

Man: Oh I see – that’s good!

Woman: Yes, and by the way, if you are going to drive to this event you can go to our website
beforehand and make a request for parking to make it easier for you on the day.

Man: Right, that makes it easy. And can I also ask about the Digital Support Session? My
father mentioned that he’s interested in that one.

Woman: Well, it’s a basic session aimed at adults who need help using technology such as apps
to do things like paying bills.

Man: Sounds perfect. How much is it?

Woman: Is he a library member?

Man: Yes.

Woman: Then it’s $5, but it’s free if he has a seniors card.

Man: And he said it’s on Tuesday evenings, from 5 to 7pm?

Woman: That’s right. But it’s not in the main part of the library. It’s in the meeting room which is
next to the information desk – both are on the left as you walk into the building.

Man: And will he need to bring anything like a computer?

Woman: No, everyone uses their phones for this class so that’s the only thing to bring. But I
should add that this is an evening event that ends after the library has closed. So, when
it’s time to leave, the main door at the front will be locked. He’ll need to use the side
door to get out of the library.

Before you hear the rest of the conversation you have some time to look at questions 8 to 10.

[30-second gap]

Now listen and answer questions 8 to 10

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Man: And I also saw that you have authors who read to the public.

Woman: Yes, they’re visiting authors. They come and read from their books and answer
questions afterwards.

Man: That’s a great idea. Which ones would you recommend for children, and which would
be better for adults?

Woman: What ages are your older children?

Man: Six and eight. What about Adventure Unlimited? It sounds interesting.

Woman: It’s a fantastic book and she’s a great speaker, but your kids are probably too young for
that one. She’ll be talking about her adventures but she’ll touch on mature themes, so
come along, but leave the kids at home for that one.

Man: Oh, thanks for the warning, and what about Sort of Maybe?

Woman: That’s a humorous story about a dog that gets lost, and it’s a great one for both young
and old. But unfortunately it’s been so popular that it’s booked out.

Man: So how about Fly by Night? Are there any places left for that?

Woman: Yes there are.

Man: And what’s it about?

Woman: Well it’s a story about a pilot who flies all around Australia in a small plane, but it’s
actually aimed at five to ten year olds. The author used to work in the outback so he’s
got some great stories to tell.

Man: That sounds perfect.

Woman: And you can book those sessions online.

Man: OK, I will, and thanks for your help.

Woman: You’re welcome, goodbye.

Man: Bye

That is the end of Part 1. You now have half a minute to check your answers.

[30-second gap]

Now turn to Part 2.

PRACTICE TEST 1 - TRANSCRIPT 3

Part 2

You will hear a woman giving a presentation about recruitment in the logistics industry. First you have
some time to look at questions 11 to 14.

[30-second gap]

Now listen and answer questions 11 to 14.

Good afternoon. I’m Lilian Fang, an employment specialist at JobActive agency and I specialise in recruiting
within the logistics industry. Logistics involves the purchasing and storing of goods, and also
transportation, and the sector’s becoming an increasingly popular career choice.

So, university degrees in logistics are becoming more common, but this isn’t necessary for all positions. In
fact, a big advantage of logistics is that you can come into the industry via an entry level position, such
as working in a warehouse, and then move into management positions quite easily, because it’s such a
growth industry. For others I’d say it’s the buzz that attracts them.

Every day’s a race against time to get people what they need, so there’s never a dull moment. Despite the
constant pressure, it’s generally a fun area to work in, you know, very social, so you’re meeting new people
all the time. And because it’s international, some of them might be from overseas too.

Of course, the industry does have its challenges, but that depends on the job. For example, in some
transportation roles, such as delivery driving, the difficulties can depend on the season. You know, it
doesn’t matter if it’s raining or a baking hot summer’s day, you’ve got to get everything delivered.

But then for people who like to be their own boss, there’s no one looking over their shoulder all day. Some
start early in the morning while others prefer a later night shift, so it’s quite flexible like that. But one
constant complaint is other drivers and all the cars on the road, which is something none of us can control.

Oh and one thing I should mention is that many employers are currently paying staff to do the nationally
recognised certificate in driving operations because of the driver shortage, so that’s a great opportunity
to upskill.

Before you hear the rest of the presentation you have some time to look at questions 15 to 20.

[30-second gap]

Now listen and answer questions 15 to 20.

Now I’ll move on to talk about some of the jobs that we’ve got listed at the moment. This first one’s for a
Warehouse Operator, and the client’s a large furniture retailer and it’s in their largest warehouse in the
country. This kind of role usually calls for a forklift licence but you don’t need one for this position. They’re
more interested in finding someone who fits in with their crew, is happy to take directions, and is a team
player.

Next is a more senior position for a Purchasing Manager in the healthcare industry. This is a fast-paced
role that specialises in negotiating contracts and developing relationships with suppliers here and
overseas, and they’re looking for someone who’s fluent in both English and Chinese. As this is a senior
position, the successful candidate must’ve worked in the industry previously, both here and preferably
overseas too.

Next, a leading freight company is advertising for an Import Export Operator who will do the bookings and
documentation of cargo in and out of the organisation. This one’s based out at the airport, which I realise
isn’t convenient for everyone, so travel expenses to and from work will be covered by the company.

There’s also a Receiving Officer position in a large 5-star hotel in the city, which is a part-time role. And
PRACTICE TEST 1 - TRANSCRIPT 4
for that one the person will be in charge of checking and tracking all goods received, so an eye for detail
is extremely important. This chain of hotels is famous for its in-house education programme that all staff
attend, so this is a great chance if you want to learn new skills.

Another role is for a Cargo Reservations Consultant with a multinational freight forwarding company. They
want someone who’s flexible with their schedule, because the job requires the person to work overtime
during the busy times of year. They’re offering the chance to work from home two days a week, which
might save travel time and costs.

We’ve also been asked by a family-run transport business to find a Customer Service Officer. It’s an all-
rounder position in a small company, so the role will be a little bit of everything…dealing with customers,
administration, and helping out with whatever’s needed on the day, you know.

So the person will need to be a self-starter, someone who can work independently and not need too much
direction. Be aware that unlike many administration positions, all staff are required to wear a uniform, and
safety vests must also be worn in certain areas of course - where heavy vehicle operate.

That is the end of Part 2. You now have half a minute to check your answers.

[30-second gap]

Now turn to Part 3.

PRACTICE TEST 1 - TRANSCRIPT 5

Part 3

You will hear a conversation between two students about student nursing placement. First you have some
time to look at questions 21 to 26.

[30-second gap]

Now listen and answer questions 21 to 26.

Laura: Hi Jordan. Could you spare a few minutes to talk about the student nursing placement
you just did?

Jordan: Sure, is yours coming up?

Laura: Yes, I'll be placed in a hospital next semester.

Jordan: Oh right, well first thing, you'll need to get your documentation organised. Before you
do anything, make sure your immunization record is up to date and check if you need
any further vaccinations. And apart from that, you'll need to provide a police certificate,
so go onto their website and apply for that now.

Laura: And do you get a choice about the hospital you’ll be placed in?

Jordan: No, you just receive the placement email telling you the name of the hospital, when and
where to be for orientation, and a little bit about your supervisor.

Laura: And did you have to make arrangements to live near the hospital?

Jordan: Yes, it was a bit far from my home so I stayed in the nurses’ quarters at the hospital.

Laura: How was that?

Jordan: Not great but it was affordable. If I'd stayed at home my travel costs would have been
huge.

Laura: Oh right, I’ll have to remember that, in case the same thing happens to me.

Jordan: Yes, my advice would be to act quickly if you need somewhere to stay. I was lucky to
get a spot because there are only so many available each semester for student nurses.

Laura: And will I need to buy any supplies before I start?

Jordan: You can buy most things on the university website . There’s a list of everything you
need and they process orders within 24 hours, so it’s quick and easy. I’d start with the
basics, you know, your pants and shirts, But make sure you go to a shop to get your
shoes, because you’ll need to try them on and make sure they fit properly. Oh, and don't
forget to order your first-year badge while you’re online. You have to wear it every day.

Laura: OK, that sounds simple. Any other tips? I'm actually quite nervous about working on the
wards.

Jordan: Yeah, I was too and I think that’s natural. But just remember that your placement’s all
about opportunities, I mean taking advantage of every chance you get to learn.
Sometimes you might feel uncomfortable or nervous if a doctor is around, but everyone
knows you’re training, so be active. Don’t sit back and observe others, have a go at
whatever you can.

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Laura: And what about the patients? Were they easy to deal with?

Jordan: No, easy is not the right word, in fact it was really hard at times. I found things worked
best when I took the time to try and connect with them. I realised that the one thing
patients really wanted was for me to spend time listening to them. When I did that well,
they were usually happy, but it’s not something the nurses have much time to do.

Before you hear the rest of the conversation you have some time to look at questions 26 to 30.

[30-second gap]

Now listen and answer questions 27 to 30.

Laura: I've heard people talk about the eMed pad assessment tool. Can you tell me about
that?

Jordan: Sure, the eMed pad is a big part of your placement, it's the record of your assessments
and your performance.

Laura: I've also heard a lot of student nurses complaining about it.

Jordan: Yeah, that's because other nurses and your supervisor need to sign off so many of your
competencies, but they’re always rushing around so you have to chase them. You'll be
filling it in every day regardless, even if it's just to confirm your attendance, but
remember that the whole thing has to be completed within 10 days of finishing your
placement. So don’t leave it to the last minute.

Laura: Did you think the eMed pad was useful?

Jordan: Some bits were tedious and it felt like I was ticking boxes, but the comments sections
were great. I can’t say I enjoyed it when they pointed out things I’d done wrong, but
because it was an ongoing process I could ask them questions to help me understand
their feedback. But what really surprised me was some of the lovely compliments they
wrote, it really motivated me to come in each day and try even harder.
Laura: So did you get to know many of the nurses you worked with?

Jordan: It was hard because there were so many nurses with different levels of experience, and
knowledge, but nobody had much time to chat. I thought I'd be picking up lots of
practical skills, but everyone was so busy.

Laura: Oh right.

Jordan: But I realised that I’d need some of these people to write references for me for jobs in
the future, so I made sure I got to know some people well.

Laura: Thanks for that Jordan. It sounds like you had a really interesting placement. Are you
hoping to work in that hospital after you graduate?

Jordan: Good question. During my placement, I loved it so much that I thought I'd apply for a
job there. But since then I've done a couple of psychology subjects that I enjoyed and
did really well on in the exams too, so now I'm wondering if I'd like to work in mental
health instead.

Laura: Well I hope it works out.

Jordan: Thanks, and good luck in your placement.

PRACTICE TEST 1 - TRANSCRIPT 7

That is the end of Part 3. You now have half a minute to check your answers.

[30-second gap]

Now turn to Part 4.

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Part 4
You will hear a university lecture about dogs and how they can be trained to use their sense of smell to
help in the protection of wildlife.

First you have some time to look at questions 31 to 40.

[30-second gap]

Now listen and answer questions 31 to 40.

Ok, let's move on to the next part of the lecture on nature conservation. I want to focus on dogs and how
dogs are being trained to protect the environment. We all know that a dog's nose is highly sensitive, and
you've probably seen dogs used in public places such as airports searching for illegal items. But these
detection dogs are also increasingly being used to locate things that threaten the environment.

One way they do this is by sniffing out whatever an animal or perhaps a bird has left in its wake, for
example feathers, and they have also been trained to detect diseases that animals may have. Similarly, if
an area has been invaded by a non-native species that needs to be eradicated, detection dogs can be
used to locate these species.

There are many examples of this, such as in Florida in the US where snakes had taken over and were
endangering the fragile ecosystem, and in New Zealand where the problem was cats, but mainly feral
ones.

In Australia, dogs have also been used to locate invasive plants that have taken over certain regions,
reducing the food and shelter for native animals. There are many other examples around the world. In fact,
detection dogs haven't just worked on land, they also have the ability to work on oceans and rivers and
also underground, where they've been used to locate not just wildlife but noxious gases and sources of
pollution.

So let's now focus on a dog’s powerful sense of smell. Although it's difficult to quantify, it's been estimated
that a dog's nose might be up to 100 million times more sensitive than the human nose. And although it
depends on the breed of dog, the section of a dog’s brain that controls smell is approximately forty times
larger than ours. This gives dogs the ability to discriminate between similar odours that are indetectable
to us. Part of this comes down to the way that dogs breathe.

Dogs can analyse odours continuously, regardless of whether they are inhaling or exhaling. This is
because when they breathe out, the air doesn’t go out the same way it comes in, but exits through the
sides of their noses. This gives them the ability to breathe without contaminating odours with their own
breath.

But there are other factors that make particular dogs suitable candidates for work as a detection dog. It
isn’t necessary for the dog to be a specific breed, in fact abandoned rescue dogs can make great detection
dogs. These animals may have been hard work for their owners because they required non-stop
entertainment and the owners didn’t have the time or patience for them.

These dogs respond well to being told what to do because they're never bored and their work is rewarded.
Trainers don't need to use food as a reward, but instead give them toys because that's what these
energetic dogs love. They’re trained to associate this reward with the target scent, and quite often they’re
very quick to learn. Learning through association is generally easy for these dogs, but what’s more time-
consuming is training them to work effectively in the natural environment.

Trainers sometimes have to wait quite a while before a dog has the confidence to work outdoors. But
quite often, it simply comes down to having the right dog. In fact it doesn't matter if it's male or female, or
even the dog’s age, it comes down to whether the dog has a suitably obsessive personality or not. But
because they work outdoors, strength and agility are useful, and size has an impact too.

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It helps if a dog is able to crawl under certain obstacles but large enough to jump over them too, and they
also have to be small enough for their handler to carry them as well. So for these reasons, medium sized
dogs have been found to be very effective.

That is the end of Part 4. You now have half a minute to check your answers.

[30-second gap]

You now have 10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.

[10-minute gap]

That is the end of the Listening Test.

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