1 | Progress test

Complete these conversations with phrases a–j.

Complete the missing words in these sentences. Write the letters in the spaces.

1 This area around the docks is certainly a I gathered from f The major advantage
u__________. A lot of new flats have been b I’m a bit reluctant to g I’m sure you’ll agree
built, and it seems like new restaurants are c I wouldn’t go so far as h not 100% convinced
opening every day! d We can’t go wrong i I’m not saying
2 John always says exactly what he thinks. That e outweigh the cons j it’s just that
isn’t normally a problem, but I think we need
someone less o__________ and more A How did the meeting go?
13
diplomatic for this negotiation. B ______ to say that they’re ready to sign, but
3 This candidate is certainly very s__________, it was positive. 14______ what they said that
which is good. We need someone who is they’re not happy with their current suppliers,
confident. so we’re in with a chance.
4 John is always so relaxed and never gets A We’re onto a winner here. 15______. We’ve
irritated with his colleagues. Having such an got a great product, at the right price. I’m sure
e__________ person in the department has they’ll make an order soon.
had a positive influence on the team. B Well, 16______ open the champagne yet.
5 This is so t__________! It’s taken me three C What do you think of the possible new site for
hours so far to enter all the information onto our offices?
17
the database. D ______ is that because it’s out of town, it’s
6 The site is too o__________. I don’t think we so much cheaper.
would get much passing trade. We need to C The rent may be cheaper, but I’m just
18
open the restaurant in the centre of town. ______. I’m worried about the commute for
staff.
Complete these sentences with phrases from the D But 19______ that the offices are bigger and
list. more modern.
C True. 20______ that there aren’t lots of
build relationships give you an insight form an opinion positive points, 21______ I think we should
keep your eyes open weigh up the pros and cons think it over carefully before we decide.
manage unknowns D OK. But I think the pros definitely 22______.

7 You can’t _____________________ about Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
someone if you hardly know them.
8 When you travel abroad, you should 23 I had planned / have planned to go to Spain on
always _____________________ and take holiday, but I broke my leg, so I couldn’t go.
notice of the way people in that culture 24 I’ll be finishing / ’ll have finished the report
interact with each other. by Friday.
9 You can’t foresee exactly what’s going to 25 I was talking / talked to Gaston when we were
happen, so part of the skill of being a good cut off.
leader is to be flexible and ready to 26 The negotiations could be / could have been
_____________________ with people, easier, to be honest – in fact they were pretty
10 To _____________________ you have to be intense.
open and trusting. 27 I shouldn’t have ordered / shouldn’t order so
11 A three-week trip to Japan will certainly much stock. There’s so much here – we’ll
_____________________ into their culture, never sell it.
but you would have to live there to be able to 28 I’ve been buying / ’ve bought the tickets. We
really understand it. just need to book the hotel now.
12 It’s important to _____________________ 29 I try / ’ve been trying to get in touch with Mr
before making a decision. Anderson, but his line’s always busy.
30 Can you phone the factory and find out what
will be happening / is happening?

Result ________ / 30 marks

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are a manager at an IT company and you 1 You are a manager at an IT company. Listen
think the company should expand to a second to another manager explain why he / she thinks the
site and rent offices in the up-and-coming docks company should expand to a second site and rent
area. Tell another manager about the idea. offices in the up-and-coming docks area.
• Introduce yourself. Express doubt about his / her idea.
• Report why you like the the docks area • it’s unreasonably expensive
(looks modern, would give the company a • it’s noisy (more suitable for restaurants
young image, would be good for and flats)
employee morale).
• Report the opinions of the estate agent 2 You prefer a new out-of-town business park.
(need to decide now – offices are being Tell Student A about your idea.
sold and rented quickly). • Introduce yourself.
• Try to persuade Student B that this move • Report why you like the new business
is a good idea. park (near the university so would be
easier to recruit young IT specialists for
2 Listen to Student B explain why he / she internships etc., nice setting – lots of
prefers a new out-of-town business park. trees).
Express doubt about his / her idea. • Report the opinions of the estate agent
• it’s depressing (lots of concrete) (rent is reasonable, with reductions for the
• it’s quite far out of town first year).
• Try to persuade Student A that this move
is a good idea.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

introduce him / introduce him /

herself? herself?

report a personal report a personal

observation? observation?

report report
information from information from
another source? another source?
express doubt? express doubt?

be persuasive? be persuasive?

Result ____________ / 10 marks Result ____________ / 10 marks

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2 | Progress test
Complete these sentences with words from the list.
B Yes, sure. Now, I know not all of you are
16
stay stick stand come cling keep move k___________ on this idea, but what’s clear
is that many of our line managers need further
1 You have to ___________ up for your beliefs. training.
2 He’s trying to ___________ on to his job, but C Sorry, can I just 17c___________ in here?
18
I think they’re going to fire him. W___________ this be the right time to talk
3 I’m ready to ___________ on to something about the management course we ran earlier
new in my life. this year?
4 We’ll need to improve our career development A Can I suggest we 19c___________ back to that
if we want to ___________ ahead of the when Philippa’s finished? Philippa, go
20
competition. a___________.
5 Have you ___________ up with any new B Thanks, David. The best course I’ve found
recruitment ideas? was a weekend course, and I was
21
6 If you want to be promoted, you have to w___________ if our line managers would
___________ in with the right people. be prepared to give up one Saturday some time
7 It’s difficult to ___________ up for somebody in the next three months. I’ll 22m___________
if you know they’re in the wrong. on to the details of the course in a moment, but
could you answer that question first?
Replace the words in bold with the correct word.
The first letter is given. Complete these sentences with the correct tense of
the verbs in brackets.
8 My brother works for the family business, but
I didn’t want to follow such a standard path. 23 If only I ___________ (be) there to see his
c___________ face when they told him about the crisis in
9 She decided to move laterally to get away Paris!
from a difficult boss. h___________ 24 What do you think ___________ (happen) if
10 It’s taken me about a year to progress into my we hadn’t made that decision?
role. g___________ 25 I’m so glad we ___________ (have) time to
11 He’s reached the point where he just has to discuss recruitment at yesterday’s meeting.
move on. s___________ 26 If they ___________ (think) about it earlier,
12 It’s time to look for another job to extend my we wouldn’t have had that problem.
horizons. b___________ 27 It ___________ (might / be) better if you
13 When he moved to the subsidiary he felt he’d hadn’t paid them in advance, but maybe it
taken a step behind. b___________ wouldn’t have made a difference to the quality
of the work anyway.
Complete this conversation with the missing words. 28 The directors ___________ (should / not /
react) like that.
A So, let’s get 14s___________. The purpose of 29 The training course went very well in the end.
today’s meeting is to discuss ways of It’s just as well we ___________ (not / cancel)
improving our performance evaluations. it.
Philippa, would you like to 15r___________ 30 Suppose you ___________ (go) ahead with
us through your findings? the plan, we’d probably have gone bankrupt.

Result ___________ / 30 marks

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

Your company has lost many of its best employees to Your company has lost many of its best employees to
competitors. You are a senior manager. Meet another competitors. You are a senior manager. Meet another
senior manager to discuss the problem. senior manager to discuss the problem.
• Start the discussion. State a past mistake and • Student A will start. Interrupt and ask for
the consequences. (The company concentrated clarification.
on satisfying customers, and the needs of the • Listen to the clarification and respond with
staff were neglected.) reservations. Then state another past mistake
• Deal with the interruption and clarify your and the consequences. (IT training isn’t the
views. (Not enough IT training for staff to do answer. Problems are due to the lack of
their jobs properly, which led to stress and performance evaluations which led to a lack of
dissatisfaction.) career development opportunities.)
• Ask for clarification of Student B’s views. • Clarify your views. (New staff were employed
• Interrupt your partner. Respond with instead of promoting internally. Increasing
reservations. (Increasing salaries would be too salaries and benefts would boost morale and
expensive. A bonus would be better.) solve the problem.)
• Deal with the interruption. Give your opinion
and decide on future action.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

state past mistakes state past mistakes

and consequences? and consequences?

interrupt / ask for interrupt / ask for

clarification? clarification?

deal with deal with

interruptions? interruptions?

put forward an idea? put forward an

idea?

express express
reservations? reservations?

Result ___________ / 10 marks Result ___________ / 10 marks

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3 | Progress test
Complete these sentences with words from the list. Complete these sentences with phrases from the
Change the form if necessary. list.

option put in place enter carry out procedure Just to digress for a second
means transform implement Perhaps here I should explain what I mean by
Now, I don’t know if you’re familiar with
1 We’re ___________ a very busy period now, Just to fill you in on some of the background
so we need people to work overtime. I’d like to start by
2 ___________ extensive research is essential
before redesigning the workplace. 14 ______________________ saying how
3 What’s the exact __________ for the fire drill? excited we are to be collaborating with you on
4 They are ___________ a new expense this project.
accounts system and it should be much better. 15 ______________________. The idea for the
5 The ___________ to the office is spectacular! project came about after a chance visit to one
It looks so much better now. of our customers, whose office space has been
6 Our boss has a lot of new ideas, but as you can totally redesigned.
see from our current sales figures, we haven’t 16 ______________________ their design
got the ___________ to see them through. concept, but this slide outlines the key points.
7 I would like to work flexible hours, but they 17 ______________________ a ‘career
don’t give us the ___________ to do so. nomad’. It’s when employees move from one
8 Senior management have established new company to another, or even one career to
rules for getting promoted, and HR now have another.
to ___________ them. 18 ______________________, I’d like to
congratulate the divisional golf team, who won
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. the tournament at the weekend.

9 The sales team will get a big bonus this year. Correct the two mistakes in these sentences.
They achieved all their targets / progress. (2 points per sentence)
10 The idea of an inter-departmental sports
competition has certainly generated a lot of 19 I know what you are meaning, things aren’t
performance / enthusiasm. Fifty people have looking good – I think they are making people
signed up already! redundant sooner or later.
11 We anticipated that there would be a lot of 20 I know this is a tricking time for you, but
problems / growth during the project, but we everyon e is expected working overtime next
didn’t think it would be quite that bad! week because we’re really busy.
12 Regular team meetings have enabled staff to 21 You might best want to word this letter
exchange productivity / information about differently, so it’s a little more diplomacy.
their schedules and workloads. 22 This time tomorrow you are flying to New
13 We need the latest sales figures to help us Mexico – it might be worth to try to check in
measure the progress / special requirements of online today.
the company. 23 I can see where you’re going from, but
everyone’s exhausted. By the time we finish,
we will be working on this project for eight
hours.
24 They think that the reaction to the takeover
will have been quite aggressive. We’ll have to
wait until tomorrow to find out for certainty.

Result ___________ / 30 marks

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Speaking test
Role card
This Speaking test has only one role card because each student has to give an individual presentation. Copy this
page and cut out the role card for the student. Then use the Speaking test results forms to evaluate the student’s
performance. You can then cut out the results and give them to the student.

Prepare a five-minute presentation on one of the topics in the list.

• recent changes in my company and their impact
• how to boost morale in a company
• my predictions for the future world economy
• how to improve your work / life balance
• my hobby

When giving your presentation, you should

• outline your presentation and give background information
• signal the different sections of your presentation
• refer to something you’ll say later or that you said earlier
• ensure your audience understands
• finish appropriately

Speaking test results

Use this form to evaluate the student.

Didn’t do this Yes, but with some Yes, did this very well
Can the student … (0 points) mistakes (1 point) (2 points)

outline the presentation / give

background information?

signal the sections of the

presentation?

refer to something that will be

said later / was said earlier?

ensure the audience

understands?

finish appropriately?

Result ___________ / 10 marks

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4 | Progress test
Complete these sentences with words from the list. A So what do you think of the project?
B Well, personally, I still have serious
19
run weigh up minimize determine expose r______.
anticipate A I really think we have to invest now.
B With 20r______, Brian, I think you’re being
1 It’s important to _____ problems so you’re too hasty.
ready for them when they happen. A I think we need to come back to this another
2 We have to ______ all the pros and cons. time.
3 You ______ yourself to risk every time you B Yes, we’re not 21g______ anywhere. We’re
step out of your front door. just going round in circles.
4 If we don’t do something now, we ______ the A So, can we make a decision?
risk of going out of business. B Yes, I think we have some kind of 22c______
5 You’ll have to identify the causes. Then you here.
can ______ what action to take.
6 If we do safety checks, we’ll ______ the risk Two people are discussing a new project. Complete
of accidents. the conversation with this, that, or it and an
appropriate form of the verb to be, if necessary.
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
A We’ve spent an hour talking about the project.
7 I don’t like investing in new markets. People I think we need to move on.
say I’m over-cautious / bold. B Yes, I know you’ve never liked the idea and
8 Our profits have been low recently, so it you think 23______ a complete waste of
wasn’t very imprudent / sensible to employ money.
another member of staff. A No, 24______ not fair. Maybe 25______ my
9 I’m nervous whenever I’m in the car with him. opinion a year or so ago, but I’ve realized
He’s a really risk-averse / reckless driver. since then it’s not as risky as I thought.
10 I thought buying all those shares was a good B Well then, my next question is 26______: when
idea, but now they’ve fallen by 50% it seems are we going to give it a try?
rather bold / rash.
11 Insurance companies are by nature risk-averse Look at the conversation below. Match phrases 27-
/ rash, so they won’t insure you if they think 30 in italics with categories a–d.
you’ll cost them money.
a paying a compliment
Each sentence contains one mistake. Underline it b recalling past events in common
and write the correct word. c picking up on a word to extend the
conversation
12 I’d be interested to hearing what you think d being modest about achievements
about this.
13 I’m beginning to have serious thoughts about Jack Pete! How are you? After all this time! It must
this. be ten years since we last met.
14 If I could just digress the conversation back to Pete Yes, 27wasn’t it at the conference in Rio?
the agenda … ______
15 Sorry, Ariane. Could you leave Jason answer Jack That’s right. I remember it well! So, how are
that question? you doing?
16 I’d like to drag things to a close. Pete Fine, thanks.
17 Can I just ask everyone to resume up their Jack By the way, I saw your picture on the inside
views? page of the conference brochure – 28what
you’ve done for your company is really
Complete these dialogues with the missing words. fantastic. ______
29
Pete It wasn’t just me. I work with a great team.
A Am I 18r______ in saying that we all want to ______
30
go ahead with this? Jack Talking of teams. How did you manage to
B Yes, I think we all agree on that. get Pete Tomlin on board? ______

Result______/ 30 marks
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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.
Student B
Student A
1 Your company produces televisions. You are
1 Your company produces televisions. You are discussing the risks of moving all your
discussing the risks of moving all your production to China.
production to China. • When invited, talk about your recent trip – your
• Ask about B’s recent trip to Shanghai. Chinese partner has found two available factory
• Check you’ve understood: ‘factory sites’ are sites sites.
for building a new factory, not pre-existing • Confirm what A says. Point out that there is also a
factories? lot of skilled low-cost labour available.
• Express doubts about low labour costs in Shanghai • Listen, then suggest alternative option = cut costs
being long-term. in existing factories by increasing automation.
• Listen to B’s opinion, then get conversation back
onto the main topic. Ask B when a decision has to 2 You work for a pharmaceutical company. You
be taken on factory sites. are discussing the risks of launching a new
• End the meeting and summarize what’s been said. slimming tablet.
• Ask A to talk about results of recent clinical trials.
2 You work for a pharmaceutical company. You • Check you’ve understood: no long-term health
are discussing the risks of launching a new risk?
slimming tablet. • Express doubts about launching an over-the-
• When invited, talk about the recent clinical trials: counter drug that could be addictive.
positive results with minimal risk to health. • Listen to A’s opinion, then get conversation back
• Confirm what B says, but point out slight risk of onto the main topic. Ask A if marketing study has
addiction if tablet used for too long. been done based on prescription-only use of
• Listen, then suggest alternative = anti-ageing tablet slimming tablet.
developed a year ago, but never launched. • End the meeting and summarize what’s been said.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

invite someone to invite someone to

speak? speak?
check check
understanding? understanding?
express doubts? express doubts?

keep to the main keep to the main

topic? topic?
end the meeting and end the meeting and
summarize? summarize?

Result ______/ 10 marks Result ______/ 10 marks

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5 | Progress test
Complete these sentences with two words from the Complete the missing words in these sentences.
list. Change the form of the verb where necessary.
(2 points per sentence) A Can I just make sure I’ve 12u______ this
correctly? You sent the invoice for McLaren to
express do treat view work tread clearly Linux and the invoice for Linux to McLaren?
thoroughly unfairly closely positively carefully B Yes, but it was the temporary secretary’s fault.
A Look, you’re entitled to your opinion, but can
1 He is not a good manager. He ______ his we try and stay 13f______ on the facts? How
employees very ______, favouring one over do you propose we 14d______ with this issue
another. now? I don’t know if you’re 15a______, but
2 The presentation wasn’t very good – I really McLaren pay thirty percent more than Linux
didn’t understand what he was going on about. for the same services!
He seems incapable of ______ himself B Look, 16w______ it help if I called Linux and
______. McLaren and just asked them to send back the
3 This is an excellent report. I think you’ve invoices without opening them?
really ______ it ______, focusing in detail on A To be 17h______, I just don’t understand how
all the problems in the department. you could even 18c______ doing that – it
4 You need to ______ quite ______ with John would look so unprofessional!
this morning. He’s had some bad news from B Well, I’m often in contact with the
Head Office, so he’s not in a good mood. receptio nists from both companies. I’m
19
5 We’ve got subsidiaries all over the world. We p______ to call them, explain we’ve sent
have to make sure we offer the same style of them some confidential documents by mistake
service so it’s essential that we ______ very and offer to go and pick them up.
______ with all our counterparts.
6 He’s a hard worker, but he isn’t always Re-write these sentences using the words / phrases
______ very ______ by the team because he in brackets to add emphasis.
tends to be pushy when the senior managers
are around. Example: The people in the marketing department are
the ones that make the most noise. (it’s)
Complete these sentences with the missing It’s the people in the marketing department who make
preposition. the most noise.

7 Coping ______ a full-time job and a family 20 Why did they get rid of Tom? He was a very
can sometimes be stressful. valuable team member. (what I’d really like to
8 You should steer clear ______ any know) ____________________________
confrontation at this stage. It won’t help. 21 The new finance manager has stopped all new
9 If you had paid closer attention ______ what recruitment and there’s talk of redundancies.
he said, you’d understand how the new (not only …, but also …)
software works. ______________________________
10 The sales team fell short ______ their targets 22 We’re a successful team because we get on so
again this quarter. Perhaps the targets are just well together. (the reason)
too unrealistic. ______________________________
11 There are five presentations this afternoon, so 23 We have to finish this project before Friday, so
it’s important you keep ______ the schedule. we’re all working overtime at the moment.
(which is why)
______________________________
24 The financial data for this quarter is a real
worry. (what)
______________________________

Result ______ / 30 marks

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are overseeing a project and you’ve been 1 You’re the designer on a project and you’re having
having problems with your designer (Student problems with a team member (John). Your team
B) and have arranged a meeting to discuss this. leader (Student A) has arranged a meeting to
Your concerns are: discuss this. During the meeting
• One team member (John), has said that designs are • listen and disagree – John is disorganized. There
often late and are not of a good standard. have been a lot of last-minute changes to the
• John also says that Student B doesn’t seem designs
interested in the project at all and that he / she • listen to the second point and offer a compromise –
doesn’t always turn up for important update you’ve been away a lot, but you’ll arrange to meet
meetings. John for an update if he makes a decision about the
design.
During the meeting
• express your first concern diplomatically 2 You’re a team leader. Two people in your team
• express your second concern more directly (Student A and Brad) don’t get on. You have
• respond to B’s offer and finish the meeting arranged a meeting with Student A to discuss this.
appropriately. Your concerns are:
• Student A and Brad are always arguing – bad for
2 You’re having problems with a team member morale. Brad says Student A never takes his ideas
(Brad). Your team leader (Student B) has on board.
arranged a meeting to discuss this. During the • Students A has been in the company far longer than
meeting Brad so he / she has to resolve the problem.
• listen and disagree – Brad is always interrupting
you in meetings and he has too many impractical During the meeting
ideas • express your first concern diplomatically
• listen to the second point and offer a compromise – • express your second concern more directly
you’ll reconsider his ideas if he stops interrupting • respond to A’s offer and finish the meeting.
you.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B
Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

express concerns express concerns

diplomatically? diplomatically?

express concerns express concerns

directly? directly?

disagree? disagree?

offer a compromise? offer a compromise?

finish a meeting finish a meeting

appropriately? appropriately?

Result ______ / 10 marks Result ______ / 10 marks

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6 | Progress test
Complete these sentences with appropriate Match verbs from A to nouns in B to answer these
prepositions. questions.

1 We’ve run __________ big difficulties in our A cause demand undergo control outperform
Far East market. B change precision costs the competition a stir
2 We should look __________ the same old
solutions and try and find a really novel way 17 What does a political scandal normally do?
of doing this. 18 What does a good quality manager do?
3 We thought the idea would really take off, but 19 If you are the best company in your field, what
in the end it just fell __________ the wayside. do you do?
4 One way companies try to stay __________ 20 What’s the key to good financial
__________ the competition is by spying on management?
them. 21 What don’t many employees like to do?
5 Let’s bounce __________ a few ideas and see
what we come up with. Complete these dialogues with an adverb from the
6 It’s a great product, but without adequate list.
marketing support it’ll never get __________
the ground. obviously surprisingly just totally actually
7 The project manager’s been ill, but now he’s
here I think we’ll get __________ ______ A You’ve never been there, have you?
track pretty quickly. B 22
__________, I have. I went last year.
8 It’s not easy to think __________ the box A So that was the situation at the end of the year.
when you’re surrounded by unimaginative B Sorry, could you 23__________ run through
people. the figures for the last quarter again?
9 They’re trying to figure __________ why the A So what do you think?
press conference went so badly. B Well, I can’t say I’m 24__________
enthusiastic about the idea.
Complete the conversation with the missing words. A They didn’t ask a single question after my
presentation.
A It’s not 10c__________ to me what you mean B No, they didn’t, 25__________. I wonder why.
by ‘further training’. A I thought he handled the negotiation very well.
B Well, I was thinking along the 11l__________ B Yes, it’s 26__________ not the first time he’s
of a course in creative thinking for all line done something like that.
managers.
A That’s not such a bad idea. But I can’t help Complete the conversation with phrases from the
12
w__________ if it’s really going to be list.
effective.
B So you’re suggesting that some of our It’s difficult for me to explain really
managers are hopeless cases? It just needs a bit more
A Well, not exactly, but I’m 13c__________ I’m trying to think how
about how some of our more senior managers you’re on the right track
will respond to that kind of course. You can’t
teach an old dog new tricks! About your proposal for how to make our company
B Well, 14s__________ we were to offer a half- more innovative, I’d say 27__________ and it’s
day seminar in the company to start off with? definitely what we’re looking for, but I disagree with
Then we could evaluate who is or isn’t some of the ideas you have. 28__________ I could help
responding well to the method. you – maybe you could talk to my partner, as he’s
A Yes, I quite like that idea. And there’d be spent a lot of time on this. 29__________, but I feel
nothing 15s__________ us from pulling out the you’ve focused too much on creative ideas.
30
plug after that first session, would there? __________ on technical training really.
B Well, no, I guess not. It’s certainly
16
w__________ thinking about. Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 6 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You want to improve morale in your company 1 Listen to A’s idea for your company.
and you think you could do this by improving • Ask A to clarify the idea.
employees’ health and fitness. • You like the idea.
• Put forward your idea to B. • Build on the idea – suggest that
• Clarify your idea – you’d like to employees could finish early on
introduce healthy menus in the Fridays and sports activities could be
canteen and put up posters with tips organized, e.g. football games or
for healthy living in the offices. running.
• Evaluate your partner’s idea and give
a positive or negative reaction. 2 You’d like to make the company more
innovative and bring out the creative side of
2 Listen to B’s idea for making the company people in the company by offering them time
more innovative. during work to develop this.
• Ask B to clarify the idea. • Put forward your idea to A.
• You like the idea. • Clarify your idea – you’d like to
• Build on the idea – suggest that you create a space or room that’s brightly
offer creativity development seminars, painted, with games, paper, pens, etc.
or bonuses to employees who come up Employees could go there and share
with interesting ideas for the creative ideas.
company. • Evaluate your partner’s idea and give
a positive or negative reaction.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

put forward an idea? put forward an idea?

ask for clarification? ask for clarification?

clarify an idea? clarify an idea?

build on an idea? build on an idea?

evaluate an idea? evaluate an idea?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 6 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

7 | Progress test
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. B That reminds me – 13_____ that Fran was
actually forced to retire early?
1 Can you bring your personal development
plan / performance management so that we Re-write these sentences using a word from the list
can review your targets and objectives for next
year? faced given knowing having
2 We have to ensure that we all have a structural
change / shared vision, otherwise we won’t all 14 As a result of seeing how our sister
be focused on achieving the company goals. organization works, I’d like to suggest a few
3 Due to the serious skills deficit / structural structural changes.
change, we’ll be introducing extensive in- 15 Because there is a shortage of people with
house training. these qualifcations, we need to consider other
4 Our employees are far more committed if attributes in potential staff.
they’re personally involved in their own 16 If we were up against similar circumstances
development, so we’re focusing on centrally- again, we wouldn’t accept the offer.
driven / self-directed training. 17 I realize you’ve worked really hard, and you
5 We take a bottom-up / top-down approach to deserve credit for it.
training, using information from appraisals
and focusing on individual needs. Re-write these sentences with a tense expressing
‘the future in the past’, using the information in
Complete this conversation with phrases a–h. Write brackets. (2 points per sentence)
the letters in the spaces. Re-write these sentences
using a word from the list. 18 I’m supposed to meet the visitors from
Germany at the airport this afternoon. (Harry
a have you heard e you’re saying went in my place)
b run it by me again f do you mean that ______________________________
c spell out g by the way 19 Elke has joined the team and I think she’ll be a
d it’s a bit off-topic h what was the name great addition. (Elke is very lazy and hasn’t
fitted into the team)
A I didn’t quite follow. Could you 6_____? ______________________________
B Well, I was thinking we could send two or 20 I’m going to finish the report before I leave the
three members of staff abroad. office today. (couldn’t finish it – had a long
A So 7____ that we send them to England to do a phone call)
language course? ______________________________
B Well, yes. Or Ireland. For a month or so. 21 The company intends to review the pay scale
8
A ____ we’ll just pay for the courses and let in June. (no review due to bad financial
them go? What about their projects? results)
B I don’t see why not – if we choose the right ______________________________
time.
A Could you 9_____ some of the details? Complete the missing words in these sentences.
B Well, they do three months training here, and
then go abroad. Then they come back and 22 This workshop is not the best u__________ of
continue as before. Academy International in my time.
Dublin has a great reputation. 23 The noise in this office is doing my
A Sorry, 10_____ again? h__________ in.
B Academy International. 24 She hasn’t lived up to e__________ so far.
A Didn’t Sue go on one of their courses? Oh, 25 I have to leave. I’ve just about reached my
11
_____, have you heard that she’s thinking of l__________.
applying for Fran’s job and … actually it 26 This leafet is not up to s__________. We
doesn’t matter – 12_____ right now. need a redesign.

Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 7 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards

Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are the training manager at the 1 You work in HR at Head Office in London. The
Montenegro branch of an international training manager from the Montenegro office calls
company. Call your colleague in London to to discuss a possible presentation skills course for
suggest a presentation skills course for your staff. his / her staff. During the conversation
• two-day course • check the facts
• in May or June (date to be finalized by Friday next • check that you’ve understood everything
week) • ask for clarification if necessary
• 12 participants (could push this to 15) • digress and ask A to recommend a hotel for your
• use hotel conference rooms in town – good rates next trip to Montenegro – then get back to the main
offered topic.
• When asked, recommend a wonderful hotel in
Kotor on the coast for their next trip and offer to 2 You organize team-building weekends for an
send details. international company in Zurich. Call your
colleague to suggest the Bernese Alps as the venue
2 You work for an international company in for the next event.
Zurich. Your colleague organizes team-building • weekends between November and March
weekends. They call to tell you about a new venue. • activities (e.g. Nordic walking) plus corporate
During the conversation training
• check the facts • accommodation in chalets – max 45 people
• check that you’ve understood everything • full board, instructor fees, and all activities
• ask for clarification if necessary included
• digress and ask for a recommendation for a good • When asked, recommend a traditional Swiss
Swiss restaurant in Zurich for friends visiting next restaurant in Zurich and offer to send a link to the
month – then get back to the main topic. website.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

check facts? check facts?

check check
understanding? understanding?

ask for clarification? ask for clarification?

digress? digress?

get back to the main get back to the main

topic? topic?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 7 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

8 | Progress test
Complete this job advertisement with the correct
prepositions. Complete this conversation with questions based on
the phrases in italics and the prompts in brackets.
Career opportunities in conservation
Want to make a difference 1__________ the world Potential investor 12____________________? should
you live in? Look no further! Caspar International I invest / your company (wh- question)
is looking for a dynamic and motivated graduate Entrepreneur Because we have a unique product and
to fill the post of trainee Marketing Assistant for we’ll offer you a great return on your money.
13
_________________________?
its busy operations in South East Europe. The
show you / product (modal auxiliary)
prospective candidate will be able to think
Potential investor That might be a good idea, yes.
2
___________ their feet in unpredictable situations
Entrepreneur Here it is. It’s an electric potato peeler.
and easily build 3___________ rapport with a Potential investor 14_________________________?
variety of clients. The successful applicant will you think / unique product (question tag to
gain recognition 4__________ any positive client challenge speaker)
feedback and will be rewarded with an Entrepreneur Well, yes our research showed that
incremental salary and discretionary bonuses. there isn’t anything else like it on the market.
Potential investor 15_________________________?
Correct the two mistakes in these sentences. (2 sure about that (question tag to challenge
points per sentence) speaker)
Entrepreneur Yes – this is 100% unique.
5 Working for Caspar International would Potential investor 16_________________________?
enable me to take my skills and experience to assume / already / speak / retailers / about
the test and I would give pride in the fact that I stocking your product (statement question)
would be working for a company with such a Entrepreneur Yes, actually we have. We’ve had a lot
great reputation. of interest.
6 I would like to have part of an organization Potential investor 17_________________________? I
that can really achieve something and I can / look / your business plan (modal auxiliary)
18
really see a forecast for myself in this sector. ____________________? much money / look
7 The budget? Yes, I was going to that - where for (Wh / how question)
we are in the moment is that we’re staying just
within budget. Complete these dialogues with phrases a–e. Write
8 Let me just touch over the question of the letters in the spaces.
resources - perhaps it will be a good idea if I
go over the resource plans now. a I’d love to tell you d I’m afraid I
9 I’d just like to sketch up my plans for the b Sorry, I’m not up e It’s hard
research project - I’d also like to be able to tell c I’m sorry, I’m really
you who’ll be helping me with the project, but
fortunately I can’t. A And what are the criteria for evaluation?
19
10 I don’t have the exactly figures, but I know B _____ can’t reveal the details on that.
that the sales potential exists - let me check the A Do you know how many other people applied?
20
data and I get back to you. B _____, but I don’t know any more than you.
11 Out the top of my head, I think last month’s A When do you expect the project to finish?
21
sales figures were £11,000, but I can check B _____ to say at the moment.
double if you like. A So when did Mike take over as project
manager?
22
B _____ to speed on all the developments.
A Do you know how Sally got on at the
interview?
23
B _____ not in a position to talk about that.

Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 8 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are in a monthly department update 1 Student A will tell you about the new
meeting. You are asked to talk about the new company parking facilities. As appropriate,
parking facilities. Give a short impromptu interrupt and ask your questions.
presentation to your colleagues. • When will the car park be finished?
• introduce the topic (new underground car parking – • When are permits available from HR?
still being built)
• signal intention (you want to talk about what will 2 You are in a monthly department update
happen when car park is finished) meeting. You are asked to talk about the new
• highlight the key points (150 permits available, employee exchange system. Give a short
although the staff totals 280 – only for those unable impromptu presentation to your colleagues.
to get here on public transport; for emergency • introduce the topic (new employee exchange
parking for deliveries / conferences apply to HR 48 system – still in planning stage – will allow staff to
hours in advance) work for short periods in company locations around
• answer questions (parking available soon - you the world)
don’t know exactly when; permits available from • signal intention (you want to talk about what staff
HR from next month) need to do to be involved)
• highlight the key points (will start from 1st
2 Student B will tell you about the new January; only one person per department can go
employee exchange system. As appropriate, every year)
interrupt and ask your questions. • answer questions (only for staff who have been at
• Is it for everyone? the company for more than two years; staff must
• Can staff choose where they go? state three preferences of where they would like to
go)

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

introduce the topic? introduce the topic?

signal intention? signal intention?

highlight key highlight key points?

points?

answer answer
challenging challenging questions?
questions?
ask challenging ask challenging
questions? questions?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 8 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

9 | Progress test
Complete these sentences with a phrase from the Complete these sentences with the correct form of
list. the words in brackets.

quantifiable data drain on resources knowledge base 17 If we’d thought about this before, we
track record return on investment ______________ (not / experience) so many
problems now.
1 We don’t know what that company’s 18 You’ll be able to finalize the plans by the
_______________ is for this kind of work. weekend if you _______________ (set up) a
2 I’m sorry, but I need more _______________ meeting for Thursday.
- your proposal doesn’t include any actual 19 If we could use the same contractors as last
figures. time, then it ________________ (be) easy to
3 We’ve hardly started this project, but already get started.
it’s proving very expensive – it’s a real 20 ________________ (provide / we / do) the
_______________. interviewing in pairs, it shouldn’t take more
4 I’m afraid I’m not prepared to put up the than two afternoons.
money for this unless there’s going to be a 21 Had I known the system would be out of date
decent _______________. within a year, I ________________ (not /
5 We don’t need to outsource this. The invest) so much in it.
_______________ we have within the 22 Unless he _________ (become) more
company is more than sufficient. professional since I last saw him, we won’t get
a reply.
Complete the missing verbs in these sentences. 23 If we __________________ (not / already /
spend) all the budget, we’d have the funds to
6 The project failed because we put an advert in the paper.
m_______________ our resources. 24 Well, if we targeted school leavers, we
7 Have you a_______________ sufficient __________________ (be able to) focus far
resources to the project? more on technical skills.
8 We’re so wasteful. We must stop
s_______________ our resources. Put the words below in italics in the correct order
9 How can we best u_______________ our to complete these sentences.
resources?
25 No, not three thousand. Three hundred! didn’t
Complete these sentences with words from the list. / sorry / clear / if / I / that / make.
____________________________________
consensus perspective picture points position 26 Actually, lines / of / was / I / more / the /
strategy viability thinking / along employing staff locally to do
the job.
10 So the general _____________ is that we ____________________________________
should go ahead? 27 meant / I / was / what that we should outsource
11 We need to look at this from a long-term IT.
_______________. ____________________________________
12 It’s all fine, but we need to look at the bigger 28 No, I’m / not / what / exactly / that’s / saying.
_______________. ____________________________________
13 Are there any other _______________ we 29 Send half a dozen staff members to Belgium?
need to consider? meant / what / that’s / really / not / I.
14 Yes, but we need to bear in mind the long- ____________________________________
term ______________ of all this. Will it still 30 actually / wanted / say / I / was / what / to that
be working ten years from now? we’ve already got the green light on this
15 Look, we can’t give up now. We’re in a really project.
strong _______________. I really think we ____________________________________
could win this tender.
16 We need a clear _______________ to move Result ________ / 30 marks
the business forward.

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 9 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are a senior manager. Your business is going 1 Your manager (Student A) will tell you about
well, but because of staff increases, space in your options for solving current workspace problems.
city centre offices is limited. Parking is becoming • listen to the strategy and options
impossible. • discuss and evaluate the options (you live near the
• tell a staff member (Student B) about the problem town centre, you have friends in IT)
• explain why it’s important to act • reach an agreement
• present, discuss, and evaluate each option
• reach an agreement 2 You are the manager of Four Quarters of the
Options Moon, a vegetarian restaurant. Due to rising oil and
• Move to offices in the ‘Garden City’ area, 12 km food prices worldwide, the prices of many of your
from town – shopping and sports centre nearby, imported supplies have increased dramatically.
good transport connections, lots of green areas. • tell a staff member (Student A) about the problem
• Outsource IT to Malta – technical and English • explain why it’s important to act
language skills are high there, and staff are • present, discuss, and evaluate each option
cheaper. • reach an agreement
Options
2 You work in a restaurant. Your manager (Student • Reduce importing, and use much more fresh local
B) will tell you about the current situation. produce.
• listen to the explanation and options • Put up prices – focus on re-branding to attract
• discuss and evaluate the options (you see good clientele with more money.
food as essential for everyone and you love
gardening)
• reach an agreement

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

set the context of a set the context of a

problem? problem?

explain options? explain options?

discuss options? discuss options?

evaluate options? evaluate options?

reach agreement? reach agreement?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 9 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

10 | Progress test
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. 13 Is there any guarantee that there won’t be any
job losses? (us / assurance)
1 She promised to be heavily involved in the ____________________________________
project, but she doesn’t put in much effort. 14 What you say makes sense, but I don’t actually
She’s not empathetic / committed / people- believe it’ll cause any problems. (that / valid)
focused. ____________________________________
2 He can never make his mind up, and can’t ever 15 You’ve all got a key role to play in this project.
provide a definite answer. He’s not self-aware (each one)
/ adaptable / decisive. ____________________________________
3 She seems to prefer working independently –
she’s not very good at working with the rest of Re-write the phrases in italics using a passive form.
the team. She’s not adaptable / collaborative /
passionate. 16 We / just / inform by senior management that
4 One minute he’s shouting at someone, and the no-one can leave on Fridays before 5.00 p.m.
next he’s locked himself in his room! He just ____________________________________
has no idea of how this affects other people. 17 Have you heard? John finally / persuade to
He’s not self-aware / passionate / join the team as IT assistant!
collaborative. ____________________________________
18 Decision / take / last week to do a print run of
A company director is talking about his work. 5,000 brochures.
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. ____________________________________
19 It / going to / suggest to the Marketing
Well, first, I’d say it’s crucial to build a culture Department that we don’t advertise in tabloid
5
with / of trust, because without this no-one newspapers in the future.
will be fully committed to the project. ____________________________________
Basically, it’s up to me to gently exert 20 It / proposed at the meeting that Luc should
influence 6 through / over my staff and in so cover for Fabian while he’s on holiday.
doing, to encourage them to achieve their own ____________________________________
goals. I also have to avoid the temptation 7 to / 21 Now that Marianna has resigned, the project
of do the jobs myself – effective delegating is coordinate / by Suzy.
really important! In terms of feedback and ____________________________________
progress I always try to be consistent 8 for / in 22 It / decide on Tuesday that everyone should
my expectations. give five euros towards flowers for Sally.
____________________________________
Rewrite the phrases in italics using the words in
brackets. The meaning should stay the same. Correct the two mistakes in each sentence.
(2 points per sentence)
9 This means we’ll be able to reach a far wider
customer base – something we couldn’t do 23 When Emma’s away, I’ll be expect to cover
before. (what / allow) her work. I have to tell that I’m really not
____________________________________ happy about that. _________
10 As far as I’m aware, the work force is going 24 It was announced that a new project was been
be cut by 20%. (as / understand) indicated – personal speaking, I’d love to be
____________________________________ involved. _________
11 It’d be a good idea to get your staff involved 25 It’s been told that your report was sub-
from the beginning. (encourage / all / you) standard – to tell you truth, I think you need to
____________________________________ focus more on your writing skills. _________
12 What concerns me is whether we should 26 I’ve been suggested that we allow for two
include new staff. (reservations) part-time contracts, but to be honest to you, I
____________________________________ think we’d be better-off creating a job-share
position. _________

Result ___________ / 30 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 10 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A
Student B
1 You are the Training Manager at an international
company. Due to rising travel costs, Head Offce 1 Your Training Manager will tell you about a
have decided to replace face-to-face courses with new training system. Listen carefully, then
distance training courses. Brief your staff on the express your concerns, and ask for assurances
following management decisions. on the following:
• all training courses will now be distance courses • Will courses be run in our own time or in work
(except interviewing skills) time?
• training will be conducted online and via email
2 You work for a civil rights organization. In the
During the briefing, remember to summer you will have a stand at a youth
• maintain a personal distance festival to publicize what you do. Management
• focus on the benefits (assignments and feedback have suggested recruiting university graduates
can be uploaded easily; group forums for each to help. Brief your staff on the following
course) management decisions.
• make people feel involved • interviews will take place early June
• respond to any concerns (extra study time will be • students will work in staff teams
allocated to participants).
During the briefing, remember to
2 Your colleague will tell you about plans for a • maintain a personal distance
festival. Listen carefully, then express your • focus on the benefits (students, not staff, will put
concerns, and ask for assurances on the together and distribute information packs; it will
following: help us find potential future employees)
• Some staff here aren’t graduates; are any of our • make people feel involved
jobs in jeopardy? • respond to any concerns (students are being
recruited on one-off short-term contracts).

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

brief staff on brief staff on

decisions? decisions?

focus on positive focus on positive

benefits? benefits?

make people feel make people feel

involved? involved?

respond to concerns? respond to concerns?

ask for assurances? ask for assurances?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 10 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

11 | Progress test
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. 15 I know it’s not ideal, but there is nothing we
can do about it. We stuck / situation.
1 It’s out of the question to stop production in ____________________________________
South Korea – it would be significantly / 16 Look, we’ve already established that there are
irretrievably / potentially disastrous. too many problems. Let’s face it, it / not /
2 Now that the price of oil has settled, transport work.
costs are relatively / unexpectedly / ____________________________________
decreasingly stable.
3 I have no idea why I keep getting all these Rewrite these sentences using an inversion and the
unsolicited emails. It’s significantly / words in brackets.
potentially / profoundly worrying.
4 After last month’s PR scandal, it looks like we 17 You should not enter the building through the
have serious problems. The whole situation rear door in any situation.
has been profoundly / irretrievably / (under no circumstances)
unexpectedly damaging to the company. ____________________________________
18 The order was delayed and the goods were
Complete this extract from an appraisal document damaged! (not only)
with the correct form of the words in the list. ____________________________________
19 You can only activate the virus scan program
commit conduct pride strive when you have restarted your computer. (not
until)
Eamonn has had a good year, and has 5_________ ____________________________________
business with our clients extremely professionally. He 20 If you decided to take the job in Austria, you
always 6_________ to achieve the best possible results, would have the chance to improve your
and takes 7_________ in his achievements. He remains German. (were)
8 ____________________________________
_________ to our customers, and yet continues to
exceed sales targets. 21 If I had known you were going to be in town
today, I’d have changed my plans. (had)
Use the words in italics to complete these sentences. ____________________________________
22 We shouldn’t turn it down – it’s not often we
9 I’m sorry, but there’s nothing I can do – get an offer like this! (rarely)
beyond / control. ____________________________________
____________________________________
10 I was thinking about another alternative – Correct the two mistakes in each sentence. (2 points
getting in a consultant: per sentence)
that / something / you / consider?
____________________________________ 23 John, can I have a word? This is a bit
11 Sam’s going to be off for six months on a dedicate. I don’t mean sound rude, but that
secondment – you / make / do / part-time jacket just isn’t appropriate for this event.
employee as a replacement for the time being? 24 Please don’t put this the wrong way, but this
____________________________________ meeting is actually only for senior
12 Your point about speeding up deliveries is an management, so you’re not allowed to attend.
interesting one, and it’s certainly Please don’t give offence.
not / question. 25 With respectful, your idea is unfeasible. I’m
____________________________________ not quite sure where to put this, but from what
13 The answer’s no. That’s all there is to it. I’ve heard your ideas are often poorly thought
I / firm / this. through.
____________________________________ 26 I think it’s quite as simple as that. You need
14 Mmm, sound / feasible. In fact, it seems a understanding that there are far more people
better idea, and I really think we might be able involved in this.
to make it work.
____________________________________ Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Advanced Progress Test 11 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are an office manager. An intruder recently 1 You are a senior manager. An intruder recently
entered offices at your company, threatened a entered offices at your company, threatened a
member of staff, and stole some money. As a member of staff, and stole some money. Tighter
result, you want to introduce tighter security security measures are to be introduced. Your
measures. Your preferences are: preferences are:
• Everyone should have their bags checked • Visitors should have their bags checked.
(including staff) when they enter the building. • Introduce a signing-in system for two weeks.
• Introduce a signing-in system for staff for six
months. Meet an office manager to discuss the situation.
• listen and then present your own preferences
Meet a senior manager to discuss the situation. • be prepared to negotiate on some aspects, but not
• state the situation and initiate negotiation all
• be prepared to negotiate on some aspects, but not • reach an agreement
all
• reach an agreement 2 You are the HR manager. There are to be a series
of one-week transport strikes in your city. This will
2 You are a senior manager. There are to be a series make it difficult for staff to get to work. Your
of one-week transport strikes in your city. Your preferences are:
preferences are: • Let staff work from home.
• Staff should try to get to work (car-share system). • Ask staff to email a review of their work regularly.
• Conference calls every day for all senior staff.
Meet a senior manager to discuss the situation.
Meet the HR manager to discuss the situation. • state the situation and initiate negotiation
• listen and then present your own preferences • be prepared to negotiate on some aspects, but not
• be prepared to negotiate on some aspects, but not all
all • reach an agreement
• reach an agreement

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)
state the position? state the position?

initiate negotiation? initiate negotiation?

show he / she is happy to show he / she is happy to

negotiate? negotiate?
show he / she is unhappy show he / she is unhappy
to negotiate? to negotiate?
reach an agreement? reach an agreement?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

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12 | Progress test
Each sentence contains one mistake. Underline it Complete these extracts from an internal
and write the correct word. presentation to a sales department with a phrase
from the list. Use the information in brackets to
1 She was completely taken up by her boss help you.
when he told her the offices were moving to
Australia – she didn’t realize it was a joke. obviously as I was saying of course anyway
_________ admittedly to tell you the truth after all so to speak
2 I just don’t buy the idea into of opening a new
department. It simply doesn’t seem viable at ‘Our department has faced a lot of criticism recently.
17
this stage. _________ _________ (I’m giving you some very frank
3 Sally didn’t accept the other job, but held out information) it’s the worst we’ve had for a long time.
18
of the one she wanted – and eventually got it! _________ (I know this point weakens my position)
_________ – we should have recognized our sales had been
4 What you’re asking for is difficult. I’m not consistently low, but we didn’t and we’ve got to face
sure we’ll be able to live on to your the consequences. 19_________ (this point is
expectations. _________ expected), management want to know what we’re
5 When Emma was going through the contracts, going to do about things. 20_________ (this is clear),
she picked on up a number of typing errors. I’m not going to blame anyone, 21_________ (I’m
_________ adding some additional, true information), it’s no one’s
6 We can play to the fact that although we’re a fault. … So, moving on, we’re suggesting that we
new company, we have employees with a lot regroup. This will refresh the team and, 22 _________
of expertise. _________ (I’ve already mentioned this), the low sales are no
7 The talk was just dreadful. The speaker didn’t one’s fault, so there’s no one person who should feel
know how to put through what he was trying unhappy about moving teams. 23_________ (I’m
to say. _________ changing subject), on Monday it’s going to be a clean
8 We need to tap up the expertise that Alec has – slate 24_________ (not literally, but figuratively) and I
he’s highly qualifed and really knows what can’t wait to begin!’
he’s doing. _________
Correct the phrases in italics in these dialogues.
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
25
A That was a very worth meeting.
9 I’d like you to give serious concern / _________ Thanks for your contributions.
consideration / ideas to this expansion plan, B You’re welcome. They seem happy with our
even though it’s fairly ambitious. plan!
10 Frankly, we can’t accept / achieve / afford to A I liked the email you wrote, Mike. It was very
miss this opportunity. succinct.
26
11 Looking at the sales figures, it’s become B Glad you thought it so _________.
recognized / apparent / achievable that we A Congratulations on the presentation – it was
need to rethink some of our products. great!
12 And in addition / in consideration / in kind to B Oh, thanks! 27 I think it went quite good after
that, this will create opportunities for all! _________
developing new skills. A By the way, well done on your talk.
13 I understand your reservations about B Thanks – 28 I was hope it’d be well received.
diversification, but we have to appear / know / _________
29
acknowledge that our competitors are doing A You looking well – really tanned!
much better than us. B It must be all the cycling to work in the
14 I’m certain that this is achievable / apparent / sunshine.
in addition. A Fabulous photos. 30 You did a great work!
15 As you know, with figures like this, we are in _________
an extremely strong benefit / consideration / B Thanks. It was fun using the new camera!
position.
16 What comes apparent / across / along from Result ___________ / 30 marks
talking to you is that you’re all committed to
the company.

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are the IT manager of a large property agency. 1 Your company needs to improve the way they store
You work with a number of key corporate clients client records. Your manager will tell you about a
on a regular basis and need an improved system of new idea.
keeping records. You have recently found new • Listen to the idea and rationale.
software to do this. Meet a staff member (Student • Discuss the idea, give your opinion, and raise any
B) and tell them about your idea. concerns that you have.
Rationale
• The software tracks all communications between 2 You are a senior manager. Your company has
staff and clients. recently been taken over by a company based in
• The software is not difficult to use, and training is Munich. You would like communication with Head
short. Office to be in German from January onwards.
During the meeting Meet a staff member (Student A) and tell them
• give reasons for the change about your idea.
• build your argument / reinforce the message Rationale
• ask for their commitment • Using German will improve communication with
• conclude and deal with any concerns. the parent company.
• Staff without good German will be given training.
2 Your company has been taken over by a During the meeting
company based in Munich. Your manager will • give reasons for the change
tell you about a new idea. • build your argument / reinforce the message
• Listen to the idea and rationale. • ask for their commitment
• Discuss the idea, give your opinion, and raise any • conclude and deal with any concerns.
concerns that you have.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

establish the need establish the need

for change? for change?

build the build the

argument? argument?

ask for ask for

commitment? commitment?

conclude? conclude?

deal with concerns? deal with

concerns?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

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Progress test answer key
Unit 1 20 ahead 2 weigh up
21 wondering 3 expose
1 up-and-coming 22 move 4 run
2 outspoken 23 had (’d) been 5 determine
3 self-assured 24 would have (would’ve) 6 minimize
4 easy-going happened 7 over-cautious
5 time-consuming 25 had 8 sensible
6 out-of-the-way 26 had (’d) thought 9 reckless
7 form an opinion 27 might have (might’ve) 10 rash
8 keep your eyes open been 11 risk-averse
9 manage unknowns 28 shouldn’t have reacted 12 … interested to hear / in
10 build relationships 29 didn’t cancel hearing what you …
11 gives you an insight 30 had (’d) gone 13 … to have second
12 weigh up the pros and thoughts / serious doubts
cons Unit 3 / reservations
13 c 14 … could just bring the
14 a 1 entering conversation …
15 d 2 Carrying out 15 Could you let Jason …
16 b 3 procedure 16 I’d like to draw things …
17 f 4 putting in place 17 to sum up their …
18 h 5 transformation 18 right
19 g 6 means 19 reservations
20 i 7 option 20 respect
21 j 8 implement 21 getting
22 e 9 targets 22 consensus
23 had planned 10 enthusiasm 23 it’s
24 ’ll have finished 11 problems 24 that’s
25 was talking 12 information 25 that was / it was
26 could have been 13 progress 26 this
27 shouldn’t have ordered 14 I’d like to start by 27 b
28 ’ve bought 15 Just to fill you in on some 28 a
29 ’ve been trying of the background 29 d
30 is happening 16 Now, I don’t know if 30 c
you’re familiar with
Unit 2 17 Perhaps here I should Unit 5
explain what I mean by
1 stand 18 Just to digress for a 1 treats, unfairly
2 cling second 2 expressing, clearly
3 move 19 I know what you mean, 3 done, thoroughly
4 stay they are going to make / 4 tread, carefully
5 come will make people … 5 work, closely
6 keep 20 a tricky time, expected to 6 viewed, positively
7 stick work overtime … 7 with
8 conventional 21 you might well / might 8 of
9 horizontally want, little more 9 to
10 grow diplomatic 10 of
11 stage 22 you’ll be flying, worth 11 to
12 broaden trying 12 understood
13 backward / backwards 23 coming from, we will 13 focused
14 started have been working … 14 deal
15 run 24 will be, for certain 15 aware
16 keen 16 would
17 come Unit 4 17 honest
18 Would(n’t) 18 consider
19 come 1 anticipate 19 prepared

Business Result Advanced Progress Test Answer Key Photocopiable © Oxford University Press
20 What I’d really like to Unit 7 7 was coming to that, at
know is why they got rid the moment
of Tom. 1 personal development 8 touch on, would be a
21 Not only has the new plan good idea
finance manager stopped 2 shared vision 9 sketch out,
all new recruitment, but 3 skills deficit unfortunately I can’t
there’s also talk of 4 self-directed 10 the exact figures, I’ll get
redundancies. 5 bottom-up back to you
22 The reason (why) we’re a 6 b 11 Off the top, double
successful team is 7 e check if you like
because we get on so 8 f 12 Why should I invest in
well together. 9 c your company?
23 We have to finish this 10 h 13 Would you like me to
project by Friday which 11 g show you the product?
is why we’re all working 12 d Can I / Should I / May I /
overtime at the moment. 13 a Could I show you …?
24 What really worries me is 14 Having seen how … 14 You think this is a unique
the financial data for this 15 Given the shortage … product, do you?
quarter. / What’s a real 16 Faced with similar … 15 You’re sure about that,
worry is the financial 17 Knowing how hard are you?
data for this quarter. you’ve worked, I think 16 I assume that you’ve
… already spoken to
Unit 6 18 I was supposed to meet retailers about stocking
the visitors from your product?
1 into Germany at the airport, 17 Would you mind if I
2 beyond but Harry went in my looked / Can I look /
3 by place. Could I look … at your
4 ahead of 19 I thought Elke would be a business plan?
5 around great addition to the 18 How much money are
6 off team, but she’s very lazy you looking for?
7 back on and hasn’t fitted into the 19 d
8 outside team. 20 a
9 out 20 I was going to finish the 21 e
10 clear report before I left the 22 b
11 lines office, but I couldn’t 23 c
12 wondering because I had a long
13 concerned phone call. Unit 9
14 supposing 21 The company intended to
15 stopping / had intended to review 1 track record
16 worth the pay scale in June, but 2 quantifiable data
17 cause a stir there wasn’t a review due 3 drain on resources
18 demand precision to bad financial results. 4 return on investment
19 outperform the 22 use 5 knowledge base
competition 23 head 6 mismanaged
20 control costs 24 expectations 7 allocated
21 undergo change 25 limit 8 squandering
22 Actually 26 scratch 9 utilize
23 just 10 consensus
24 totally Unit 8 11 perspective
25 surprisingly 12 picture
26 obviously 1 to 13 points
27 you’re on the right track 2 on 14 viability
28 I’m trying to think how 3 up 15 position
29 It’s difficult for me to 4 for 16 strategy
explain really 5 put my skills to the test, 17 wouldn’t be experiencing
30 It just needs a bit more take pride in 18 set up
6 feel / be / become part 19 ’d be / would be
of, see a future for 20 Provided we do / did
21 wouldn’t have invested
Business Result Advanced Progress Test Answer Key Photocopiable © Oxford University Press
22 has become personally speaking 22 Rarely do we get an offer
23 hadn’t already spent 25 I’ve been told / It’s been like this. We shouldn’t
24 would / might be able to said, tell you the truth turn it down.
25 Sorry if I didn’t make 26 It’s been suggested, to be 23 a bit delicate, mean to
that clear honest with you sound rude
26 I was thinking more 24 don’t take this, don’t
along the lines of Unit 11 take offence
27 What I meant was 25 With respect, not quite
28 that’s not exactly what 1 potentially sure how to
I’m saying 2 relatively 26 I don’t think, You need
29 That’s not really what I 3 profoundly to understand
meant 4 irretrievably
30 What I actually wanted to 5 conducted Unit 12
say was 6 strives
7 pride 1 taken in by
Unit 10 8 committed 2 buy into the idea of
9 it’s beyond my / our 3 held out for the one
1 committed control 4 live up to your
2 decisive 10 is that something you 5 picked up on a number
3 collaborative would / could / might 6 play on the fact
4 self-aware consider? 7 how to put across what
5 of 11 could you make do with a 8 to tap into the expertise
6 over part-time employee 9 consideration
7 to 12 not out of the question 10 afford
8 in 13 I have to stay / stand firm 11 apparent
9 What this will allow us to on this 12 in addition
do is … 14 that / it sounds feasible 13 acknowledge
10 As I understand it, … 15 are stuck with the 14 achievable
11 I would / I’d encourage situation 15 position
all of you … 16 it (just) won’t work / it’s 16 across
12 I have some / serious not working 17 To tell you the truth
reservations about … 17 Under no circumstances 18 Admittedly
13 Can you give us an should you enter the 19 Obviously,
assurance that … building through the rear 20 Of course
14 That’s a valid point, … door. 21 after all
15 Each one of you has (got) 18 Not only was the order 22 as I was saying
… delayed, but the goods 23 Anyway
16 We’ve just been were also damaged. 24 so to speak
informed 19 Not until you have 25 That was a very
17 has finally been restarted your computer worthwhile meeting.
persuaded can you activate the virus 26 Glad you thought so.
18 A decision was taken scan program. 27 I think it went quite well
19 It’s going to be suggested 20 Were you to take the job after all!
20 It was proposed in Austria, you would 28 I was hoping it would be
21 will be / is going to be have the chance to well received.
coordinated improve your German. 29 You’re looking well. /
22 It was decided 21 Had I known you were You look well.
23 I’ll be expected to, have going to be in town 30 You did a great job.
to say today, I would have
24 new project has been, changed my plans.

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