新世纪研究生公共英语教材英语听力部分听力材料-3

Lesson Eleven

Customs

Part A

1.M: Hello, this is Doctor Morita from the Emergency Department. I have a seventy-year old patient with a fractured ankle.

  W: OK, send him to Ward 3.

  Q: What are they talking about on the phone?

2. W: John told me he had bought a second-hand car. Do you know how much he paid for it?

   M: Well, he said he had paid $800 for it. I think he got a real bargain.

   Q: What does the man think of the price of the car?

3. M: I read in the newspaper that the novel you are reading is excellent.

   W: I've also read some negative reviews.

   Q: What can be learned from the conversation?

4. W: I just made a jar of jam this morning and now I can't find it anywhere. Do you know what happened to it?

   M: Did you bear a crash? That was it. I'm just as clumsy as ever.

   Q: What is the problem?

5. W:  I'm very impressed by all the work you've done on your house, Mr. Miller. How long have you been working on it?

   M: I first became interested in doing things myself several years ago. I have been doing something on it every now and then for almost a year now. You know, I couldn't afford to pay workmen to do it.

   Q: What do we learn about Mr. Miller? 

6. W: Professor Burns seems to think there's only one way to write a paper and that's her way.

   M: No kidding. She sure wasn't like that last semester.

   Q: What can be inferred about Professor Burns?

7. W: Would you like to see these pants in another color?

   M: Actually, the grey is fine. But I prefer something in wool.

   Q: What will the man probably do next?

8. M: Doctor, this cough medicine doesn't seem to be helping. Can you give me a different prescription?

   W: Let's give it another day or two and see how you are doing then.

   Q: What does the doctor imply?

9. M: I'm thinking about dropping my swimming class. I'm just not catching on.

    W: Stick with it. I did and I learned how to swim eventually.

    Q: What can be inferred about the woman?

10. M: I can't for the life of me (无论如何也) get that washing machine downstairs to work. Do you have any suggestion?

    W: Try washing just half of the normal load.

    Q: What does the woman suggest the man do?

11. W: Shall we run around the park or go for a bike ride?

   M: It makes no difference to me. They are both good exercises.

   Q: What does the man say about the activities?

12. M: The Variety Theater finally went out of business,

   W: Well, that's no surprise. It was the worst one in town.

   Q: What does the woman mean?  

13. W: It's a shame you didn't win your tennis match.

   M: I might have won if I'd listened to my coach.

   Q: Why didn't the man win the match?

14. M: I ran out of coins while doing my laundry.

   W: That's too had.

   Q: What is the man's problem?

15. M: Your apartment always looks so good, so spotless. Mine's such a mess.

    W: I've been at the lab all week. It's my roommate's doing.

    Q: What does the woman imply?

Part B

Passage I        Marriage Customs

     Despite the recent growth in the number of divorces, we in the West still tend to regard courtship and marriage as a romantic business. Boy meets girl, boy falls in love with girl, boy asks girl to marry him, girl accepts. Wedding, flowers, big celebration.

     But in other parts of the world things work differently. In India, for instance, arranged marriage is still very common. An intermediary, usually a married lady, learns that a young man wishes to get married and she undertakes to find him a suitable bride. The young couple meet for the first time on the day of the wedding.

     In Japan, too, arranged marriages still take place. But there things are organized in a different way. A girl wishes to find a husband, and the girl's mother, or aunt perhaps, approaches the mother of a suitable young man and the young couple are introduced. They get a chance to have a look at one another and if one of them says, "Oh, no, I could never marry him or her", they call the whole thing off. But if they like one another, then the wedding goes ahead.

      In parts of Africa, a man is allowed to have several wives. Now that sounds fine from the man's point of view, but in fact the man is taking on great responsibility. When he takes a new wife and buys her a nice present, he has to buy all his other wives presents of equal value and, although we are obviously speaking of a male-dominated society, the wives often become very close and so, if there is a disagreement in the family, the husband has three or four wives to argue with instead of just one.

      It is true that American women have sometimes found it exceedingly difficult to assume the role of the wife of an African living in Africa. However, various forms of arranged marriage have just as much chance of bringing happiness to the husband and wife as our Western system of choosing marriage partners.

1. What is implied in the passage?

2. Who would be the intermediary of a young couple in India?

3. In what way is the marriage custom of Japan similar to that of India?

4. Which of the following is true according to the passage?

5. What is not mentioned in the passage?

ii.

1.They regard courtship and marriage as a romantic business.

2.On the day of their wedding.

3.The whole thing would be called off.

4.It is probable that all the wives might argue with the husband.

5.He thinks that the various forms of arranged marriage can bring happiness to the husband and wife, too.

PassageII         Christmas in America

     Christmas in America is a time of spreading good cheer. People give cards and gifts to each other. Families enjoy special visits and meals together. The smell of candy and spices fills the air. Christmas laughter warms the hearts of young and old alike. Christmas trees, colorful decorations and brightly-wrapped gifts bring an old song to mind: "It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas."

      It all began about 2,000 years ago. An angel appeared to a Jewish girl named Mary and gave her good news: "You will have a son. His name will be Jesus, the Savior." When the baby was almost due, Mary and her fiance Joseph went to their hometown, Bethlehem, for a census. The only place they could find to stay at was an animal stable. There the special baby was born.

     Angels announced the joyful news to some shepherds. They left their sheep and hurried to see the baby. Some time later, wise men from the East saw an unusual star. They knew someone great had been born. The star led them to Bethlehem. When they found the child Jesus, they offered him gifts for a king.

      The celebration of this special birth came to be called Christmas. Through the ages, people developed many Christmas traditions. The custom of decorating Christmas trees began centuries ago. People in many ancient cultures decorated homes with trees in winter. In the Middle Ages, Christians in Europe added lights and religious symbols to evergreens to make Christmas trees, Santa Claus has become one of the most famous Christmas figures, particularly in America. His legend started with a kind bishop named St. Nicholas who lived around 300 AD and was known for his generosity. The practice of giving Christmas gifts comes from the gifts offered to the child Jesus by the wise men from the East. The star on the top of the Christmas tree symbolizes the star that led the wise men to Jesus.

      Most Americans feel that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. It's a time of excitement, a time of joy, a time to show love in special ways. Best of all, Christmas is not just for Americans. Christmas is for everybody in the world. Christmas is the celebration of the God's gift to the world   Jesus,

l. Who gave Jesus presents after his birth?

2. How did the wise men find the child Jesus?

3. Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the passage?

4. When did the legend of Santa Claus start?

5. Which is NOT true according to the passage?

ii. Listen to the passage again and write T (true) or F (false) for each statement you have heard.

1. ( T ) Christmas in America is a time of spreading good cheer.

2. ( F ) Jesus was born in Mary's home.

3. (T) In the wise men's opinion, the appearance of an unusual star symbolized the birth of someone great.

4. ( T ) Christmas traditions have developed gradually through the ages.

5. ( F ) The custom of decorating Christmas trees began in the Middle Ages.

passageIII      Western Table Manners

     People who go to a formal Western dinner party for the first time may be surprised by table manners in Western culture. Knowing them will tell you how to behave at table and help you make a good impression. Beside your napkin you will find a small plate for a bread roll and three glasses -- one for white wine, one for red one, and one for water. There are two knives and forks on the table, forks on the left and knives on the right of the plate. When you see two spoons, the big one is for the soup and the small one for the dessert. The knife and fork that are closest to your plate are a little bit bigger than the ones beside them. When you sit down at the table, you can take your napkin, unfold it, and put it on your lap. Dinner starts with a small dish, which is often called a starter. Some people pray before they start eating, and other people may keep silent for a moment. Then you can say "bon appetit" to each other and everybody starts eating. For the starter, you will get a bowl of soup -- but only one bowl of soup and never ask for a second serving.

     The next dish is the main course. Some people use their fingers when they are eating chicken or other birds, but never touch beef or other meat on bones. It is polite to finish eating everything on your plate, so don't take more food than you need.

     At the table, you should try to speak quietly and smile a lot, but do not laugh all the time.

     Table manners follow the fashion of the day and are only important at formal dinner parties. If you are not sure about what to do, you can always follow your hosts. You don't need to worry about all these rules while having dinner with your friends.    

Part  D

1) sunny 2) Jobs3)Health care 4) social security 5) from the bottom 6) possibility 7) grateful 8) faith and trust 9) all of you 10) our notion. 11) progress 12) Republicans. 13) beautiful 14) tallest skyscrapers 15) your schools, 16) shared with me 17) aging parents, 18) difference 19) support 20) gratitude.

LESSON 12

Sports

Part A

1. W: You look different today, but I can't quite put my finger on what it is.

  M:I finally got around to trying that new hair salon at the mall.

  Q: What can be inferred about the man?

2. M: I've just found out I can't renew my lease for the next school year.        

  W: Well, don't worry. There should be plenty of apartments free after graduation.

  Q: Why does the woman suggest the man should not worry?

         

3. M: What do you think of the assignment we just got in Doctor Bennett's class?

   W: A 25-page paper in two weeks. There goes my social life.

   Q: What does the woman imply?

4. W: I'm sure glad it's almost quitting time.

  M: Me too. I've been watching the clock all afternoon.

  Q: What can be inferred about the man?

5. M: It's really cold outside. You should wear a scarf to keep your neck warm.

   W: That's a good idea. If only I had one with me.

   Q: Which of the following is true about the woman?

6. M: Sally says we should meet her in the park at noon.

  M: I thought we were meeting at the library.

  Q: What are the speakers talking about?

7. W: Dick, please don't tie up the phone. I need to make a call.

   M: I'll be off in a minute.

   Q: What will the man do?

8. W: Do you know if George is coming to the meeting?

   M: Oh, no. I was supposed to tell you that he is sick and can't come.

   Q: What does the man mean?

 9. M: Could I talk to you for a minute about the discrepancy I found in this graph?

   W: I'm kind of in the middle of things right now.

   Q: What do you know about the woman?

10. M: I'd like to try to sell some of my textbooks used last semester.

   W: You and a few hundred other people.

   Q: What is the proper interpretation of the woman’s  words?

11. W: I'm amazed that you still haven't gotten to know your neighbors.

   M: They tend to keep to themselves.

   Q: What do you learn about the man’s neighbors?

12. W: You don't believe in diets, do you?

   M: There is nothing wrong with them per se, but they have to be combined with exercise to do any good.

   Q: What does the man think of diets?

13. M: Pete had hoped to have his apartment painted by this time.

    W: But he hasn't even started, has he?

    Q: What does the woman imply about Pete?

14. W: I wonder what this new flavor of ice cream tastes like.

   M: I tried it last week. If I were you, I would stick to an old standby.

   Q: What can be inferred from the conversation?

15. W: I'm sort of upset with my brother. He hasn't answered  either of my letters.

   M: Well, just remember how hectic your freshman year was. Give him a chance to get settled.

   Q: What does the man imply?

PART B

Passage I: Sports in Britain

      The British have always been a nation of sport lovers and their interest in all types of sport is as great today as it has ever been. Many sports which nowadays are played all over the world grew up to their present-day form in Britain. Football is perhaps the best example, but among the others are horse-racing, golf, lawn tennis and rowing.

      Many people, both foreigners and the British, consider cricket to be the most typically English sports. It is true that cricket, unlike football, has until recently remained a specifically British game, played only in Britain, in some parts of the British Common-wealth and in Denmark. But it would be wrong to say that cricket is the most popular British sport which is, undoubtedly, football. Nevertheless, it remains true that for most Englishmen the sight of white-flannelled cricketers on the smooth green turf of a cricket pitch represents something that is traditionally English.

      Cricket and football, however, are merely the two most popular sports in Britain; there are many others. In the summer, lawn tennis probably comes next in importance to cricket. There are clubs in every town and in most parks there are public courts where tennis may be played for an hour for about one pound. Swimming is very popular and there are many public swimming pools. The annual Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge universities on the river Thames is, however, one of the most popular sporting events of the year. Golf is becoming increasingly popular and many clubs are having to turn prospective members away. Athletics is growing all the time.

     The most popular winter sport after football is rugby which remains a largely amateur game. Winter sports such as skiing are generally impossible in Britain due to the unsuitable climate, but more and more people spend winter holidays on the Continent in order to take part in winter sports.

     One reason for the great interest in sport in Britain is the Englishman's fondness for a little "gamble". Gambling has always been an essential part of such sports as horse-racing and dog-racing and, in recent times, doing the "football pools" has become a national pastime. But whether as gambler, spectator or player, most Englishmen have some interest in at least some sports.

1. Which sport is regarded as typically British?

2. Which of the following is the most popular sport in Britain?

3. What sport comes next in importance to cricket in the summer?

4. Considering the unsuitable climate, which of the following sports is impossible in Britain?

5. Which of the following statements is NOT true?

ii.

1. Britain; the British Common-wealth; Denmark

2. Oxford and Cambridge; Thames

3. horse-racing; dog-racing; doing the "football pools"; gambler, spectator or player

4. increasingly popular; turn prospective members away.

Passage II: The Olympic Spirit

The Olympic Flag

      The Olympic flag has a plain white background with no border. In the center are five rings forming two rows of three rings above and two below. The rings of the upper row are, from left to right, blue, black and red. The rings of the lower row are yellow and green.

      The rings are thought to symbolize the five continents: Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and America. It is widely believed that the colors of the rings were chosen because at least one of them can be found in the flag of every nation, though this has never been confirmed as the intention of the designer.

      The flag was presented by Games founder Baron de Coubertin at the 1914 Olympic Congress, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the founding of the IOC. It was first flown in Alexandria, Greece, but made its Olympic debut at the 1920 Antwerp Games. This well-worn flag was finally retired after the 1984 Games, and a new one flown at the 1988 Seoul Games.

The Olympic Flame

     The Olympic flame is a symbol carried over from the ancient Olympics, where a sacred flame burned at the altar of Zeus throughout competition. It was finally reintroduced at the 1924 Amsterdam Games, and again burned in 1982.

     Carl Diem, chairman of the organizing committee for the 1936 Berlin Games, proposed that the flame be lit in Greece and transported to Berlin by a torch relay. The idea was adopted, and continued at every Olympic Games since 1952.

     The flame is lit at the ancient site of Olympia by the natural rays of the sun reflected off a curved mirror. It is lit at a ceremony by women dressed in robes resembling those worn in ancient times, who then pass it to the first relay runner.

1. When did Baron de Coubertin present the first Olympic flag?

2. How are the rings of the lower row on the Olympic flag arranged?

3. Where was the Olympic flag flown for the first time?

4. When was the Olympic flame finally reintroduced to the Olympic Games?

5. Who suggested transporting the Olympic flame to the host country by a torch relay?

ii.

1.(T) The main color of the Olympic flag is white.

2. (T) The rings of the upper row from left to right on the Olympic flag are blue, black and red.

3. (F) The rings on the Olympic flag symbolize the colors of the people of the five continents

4. (F) The Olympic flame is lit at the altar of Zeus

5. (F) The Olympic flame is lit by women dressed like women of ancient Greece and is passed to the first relay runner by a famous champion of the last Olympic Games.

PART D

1)time of peace 2) the Olympic Games 3) athletic talent 4) better world 5) dreams 6) friendship 7) glorious 8) achievements 9) human performance 10) special moments 11) moment l2) peaceful 13)share in common14) the Olympic flame l5) what you feel 16) possibilities 17) achieve 18) possible 19) honor 20) warm welcome.

LESSON 13

             Environmental Protection

1. M: This machine has so many buttons. I can't figure out which one makes it run.

  W: You'd better read the instructions first. Pressing the buttons randomly may cause the machine to break down.

  Q: According to the woman, what should the man do first?

2. M: Has today's mail arrived? I'm anxious to know about the result of my application.

   W: I've checked the mail-box. There is nothing in it, but a postcard from our daughter.

   Q: What do we learn from this conversation?

3. W: Was Robert elected to the committee?

   M: Yes, in fact he was made chairman. But he only agreed to take the job if they let him have the final say.

   Q: What does Robert intend to do?

4. W: Could you help me, sir? My flight got in fifteen minutes ago. Everyone else has picked up their luggage, but mine hasn't come through.

  M: I'm sorry, Madam. But I'll go and find out if there is any more to come.

  Q: What's the woman's problem?

5. M: Could you give me your office phone number or fax number, so that we can contact each other more often?

   W: But I've been trying to find a new job in another company. You see, I've worked here for three years without a raise. That's really unfair .

   Q: Why does the woman complain?

6. M: These watches are outrageously expensive.

   W: You think so? You should see the ones in the jewelry store.

   Q: What can be inferred from the conversation?

7. W: What we need is a roommate who is neat and considerate.

  W: That's right. Let's write that in the ad: neatness and consideration a must.

  Q: What do the speakers hope to do?

8. W: I'm bored with the same food all the time. Let's try something different Saturday night.

  M: How about an Italian place?

  Q: What does the man suggest they do?

9. W: I found a perfect book bag but I'm about 20 dollars short.

  M: Don't look at me. I don't get paid for another week.

  Q: What does the man imply?

10. M: Here are two seats.

   W: Don't you think these are too close to the movie screen?

   Q: What does the woman imply they should do?

11. M: Is Louis going to join us for a short break?

    W: Yes, if she can tear herself away from her studies.

    Q: What does the woman imply about Louis?

12. M: Hi, Ann. Where are you rushing off to?

   W: I'm on my way to pick up the textbook for American history. I'm in shock. It's going to be 65 bucks.

Q: What is the woman’s problem?

13. W: I'm way behind in my letter writing. I've got to get started.

M: Who's got time to write letters? Exams are coming up, remember?

 Q: What does the man imply the woman should do?

14. W: John, I'm sorry. But I forgot to bring your tape player back.

 M: Well, as long as I get it by Friday.

 Q: What should the woman do?

15. W: I just saw an ad on television that said men's suits were on sale today and tomorrow at Conrad's men's ware.

 M: Great! That's just what I've been waiting for.

  Q: What will the man probably do?

Passage I: A Talk in a National Park

    Welcome to Yellowstone National Park. Before we begin our nature walk today, I'd like to give you a short history of our National Park Service. The National Park Service began in the late 1800's. A small group of explorers had just completed a month long exploration of the region that is now Yellowstone. They gathered around the campfire and after hours of discussion, they decided that they should not claim this land for themselves. They felt it should be accessible to everyone. So they began a campaign to preserve this land for everyone's enjoyment. Two years later, in the late 19th century, an act of congress signed by President Ulysses S. Grant proclaimed the Yellowstone region a public park. It was the first national park in the world. After Yellowstone became a public park, many other areas of great scenic importance were set aside. And in 1916 the National Park Service was established to manage these parks, Today there are more than 360 parks in the US National Park System and more than 3,600 areas under similar protection around the globe. National parks and other public lands shelter well over half of the plant and animal species in North America. And today more than 80 countries have also established several hundred similar reserves specifically to protect biological diversity. As a park ranger, I am an employee of the National Park Service. In the national park, park rangers are on duty at all times to answer questions and help visitors in any difficulty. Nature walks, guided tours and campfire talks are offered by specially trained staff members. The Park Service also protects the animals and plants within the parks.

l. Who is the speaker?

2. According to the speaker, who originated the idea of the public park?

3. What does the speaker say about Yellowstone National Park?

4. How many parks are there in the US National Park System?

5. According to the speaker, which of the following is NOT a duty of a park service staff?

ii.

1. (F) The National Park Service began in the late 16^th century.

2.(T) The people who originated the idea of the public park wanted to preserve Yellowstone region for everyone's enjoyment

3.(T) National parks and other public lands shelter well over half of the plant and animal species in North America.

4(F) Park rangers in Yellowstone are not on duty on weekends.

5.(T) The National Park Service also protects the animals and plants within the parks.

Passage II: Plans to Clone Pandas to Save Them from Distinction

     Just over two years ago, China announced it was going to clone the giant panda, the country's national symbol. Pandas are extremely endangered; there are only 1,000 left in the wild and a hundred in captivity. The move to begin cloning the animal was prompted by unsuccessful attempts to increase its population by using artificial insemination.

     Pandas are widely known for their feeble efforts when it comes to mating. Even in the wild, where their sexual drive may be higher, the survival rate of the cubs is very low: more than half of them die shortly after birth. Unusually, this summer six panda cubs were born in Wolong Giant Panda Reserves in the southwest province of Sichuan in China. However, zoologists were reluctant to join in the celebrations: it is widely held that the panda will become extinct within 10 years.

     In 1999, Dr. Chen Dayuan, from China's Academy of Sciences, began a research program aimed at cloning a panda. He took the nucleus from the cell of an adult panda and inserted it into an egg from a rabbit which had had its nucleus removed, to produce a ball of cells that could become a panda embryo. So far this step has proved successful. The difficulty will be growing a panda out of a collection of cells. Dayuan is currently looking for suitable surrogate mothers and is considering black and sloth bears as candidates. He hopes to have a panda cloned within the next five years.

     Not everyone in China is in favor of trying to clone the panda. One of the country's leading panda experts, Dr. Pan Wenshi, has studied them in the wild for two decades. He believes that attempts to clone this rare animal will detract from efforts to preserve the species in the wild. He has also dismissed the widely accepted theory that the panda's threatened extinction is due to its decline in fertility. He argues that the main reason the panda is an endangered species is that humans have destroyed a larger part of their habitat.

1. Why were zoologists reluctant to join in the celebrations?

2. Which of the following are considered by Dr. Chen as surrogate mothers for pandas?

3. What do you know about Dr, Chen Dayuan?

4. What can you learn from the passage?

5. What is the main reason that pandas are endangered according to

 Dr. Pan wenshi?

ii.

1. 1,000 left in the wild; a hundred.

2. unsuccessful attempts to increase its population.

3. a research program; cloning a panda.

4. attempts to clone the panda; preserve the species in the wild.

5. the panda's threatened extinction; its decline.

PART D

1) professional, 2) shy,

3) in public,   4) old saying,

5)group,       6)middle,

7)successful,   8)overcome,

9)Reminding,  10)at a party,

11)unlimited,  12)weather,

13)safe subject,  14)that way,

15)school days,  16)very warm,

17)Obviously,   18)home,

19)a picture,    20)on the wall

LESSON 14

Entertainment

PART A

 1. M: My headaches are terrible. Maybe I need more sleep.

   W: Actually, you need less sun and some aspirin. It would help if you wore a hat.

   Q: What does the woman think is the cause of the man's headaches?

 2. M: Mrs. Winter, I need your advice. I want to buy a dress for my wife. Can you tell me where I can get one at a reasonable price?

   W: Sure. Go to the Richard's. It has the latest styles and gives a 30% discount to husbands who shop alone.

   Q: What do we know about the Richard's store?

 3. W: The headache is killing me. I was hoping it would just go away, but it's getting worse by the minute. What did you say the name of your doctor was?

   M: I told you last week to make that appointment.

Q: What information does the woman want?        

4. W: I have a complaint to make, sir. I waited ten minutes at the table before the waiter showed up and when I finally got served I found it was not what I ordered.

   M: I'm terribly sorry, Ma'am. It's been unusually busy tonight. As a compensation, your meal will be free.

   Q: Where does the conversation most probably take place?

5. W: Have you heard the plane crashed yesterday? It caused 120 deaths. I am never at ease when taking a flight.

   M: Though we often hear about air crashes and serious casualties, flying is still one of the safest ways to travel.

   Q: What do we learn from this conversation?

6.  M: Can I get a ride to the office with you tomorrow?

   W: Another day will be fine. But I've got to be downtown for a meeting, first thing in the morning.

    Q: What does the woman arrange her time the next morning?

7. W: My brother is coming this weekend, and I thought the three of us could go out to dinner on Saturday night. Any suggestions?

   M: It's up to you. I don't know the restaurant around here that well.

Q: What are the man and the woman talking about?

8. M: Oh, man, something in this room is making my eyes burn. I must be allergic to something.

   W: Um. I wonder what it is.

   Q: What does the woman want to know?

9. W: Hey, Lorry, want to meet a few friends for coffee in a little while?

   M: Um, I would if I weren't so far behind with this reading I am doing for history.

   Q: What will the man probably do?

10. W: Jennifer is going to the shore again this weekend.

   M: Well, she's always been a beach person.

   Q: What can be inferred about Jennifer?

11. W: I'm always late for my morning classes. It's because of all the traffic out near where I live.

    M: Well. You wouldn't have that problem if you lived on campus.

    Q: What does the man suggest the woman do?

12. M: Did you see the diamond ring Bill gave to Linda?

W: I sure did. It must have cost him an arm and a leg.    

Q: What does the woman imply about the ring?

13. M: Can I borrow your calculus textbook? I left mine in the classroom, and it was gone when I went back.

   W: That happened to me once. I'd almost given up on finding it until I checked at Lost and Found at the information desk downstairs in the lobby.

    Q: What does the woman imply the man should do?

14. M: Excuse me, but could you tell me how to get to the Excel Hotel? I thought it was on this corner, but I seem to have made a mistake.

    W: Um, I am sorry. Maybe you should try calling them. There is a phone over there by the candy store.

    Q: What can the man find the hotel?

15. W: Why are you leaving so early? The movie won't start till seven.

    M: I want to beat the traffic. It's a nightmare on the express way during the rush hour.

    Q: What is the man leaving so early?

PART B

Passage I: Hollywood

Hollywood isn't really a city; it's part of Los Angeles. It's also a way of thinking and living. Hollywood was named for a plant that looked like holly and covered the ground in west Los Angeles where movies were first made.

The movie business started around 1911 and grew quickly. By 1920, it was a major industry in Los Angeles. The first movies were short. They had no sound, so someone in the theater played a piano or organ during the movie. The dialogue was printed on the movie screen.

Cecil B. DeMille made the first big epic movie, The Birth of a Nation. In 1928, Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse was first seen in the cartoon, Steamboat Willy. The first movie with sound, The Jazz Singer, was a success overnight. In 1932, the first full color cartoon was Disney's Flowers and Trees.  Soon many movies were made with sound and in color.

The film industry continued to grow. Previously unknown men and women became stars overnight. People followed famous actors and actresses everywhere. They bought newspapers to read about the lives of their favorite stars.

The 1930s were big years for Hollywood. People wanted to forget the economic problems of the Depression, so they went to see movies. Everyone in the movies was rich, happy, and dancing -- no one had any troubles. In the 1940s, during World War 1I, patriotic movies were popular. In the 1970s, "disaster" movies were popular. Technicians created huge fires, explosions, earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes for the movies.

America entered the space age in the 1950s. Hollywood entered it in the 1970s. Movies about space wars and alien planets became popular. The movie Star Wars became so popular that many other space movies were made.

Hollywood still attracts people with its magic, but not many movies are made in Hollywood today. Many of the old studios are used for television shows. People still remember the great days of Hollywood, however, and visit Mann's Chinese Theater, where they can step into the concrete footprints of famous stars and pretend for a while.

1. What does the passage mainly talk about?

2. Which of the following is NOT true about the first movies?

3. According to the passage, what happened with the continuous development of the movie industry?

4. What movies were popular in the 1940s?

5. What can people do when they visit Mann's Chinese Theater?

ii.

started and grew quickly; was a major industry in Los Angeles; was first seen in a cartoon; The first full-color cartoon; entered the space age; Hollywood.

Passage II The 72nd Annual Academy Awards Ceremony

The Academy Awards are annual awards of merit given since 1927 to film actors, actresses, directors and technicians by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science. The award is in the form of 13 and 1/2-inch-high gold-plated statuette nicknamed "Oscar" since 1931, when an academy member noted its resemblance to her uncle Oscar. Members of 13 art and craft branches select up to five nominees for awards in their particular area of specialty. Membership into the academy is by invitation only. The entire membership of more than 6,000 then votes in a secret ballot on the final winners in all categories.

The Academy Awards ceremony is a splendid popular affair which is broadcast to one billion viewers in about 100 countries each spring. The 72nd Academy Awards Ceremony opened on Sunday, March 27th, 2000. Kevin Spacey won the Oscar for the best actor at the Academy Awards on Sunday for portraying the out-of-work father of a dysfunctional suburban family in American Beauty. Hilary Swank, 25, won the best actress Oscar for her powerful portrayal of a young woman who yearns to be a man in the independent true-life movie Boys Don't Cry. It was the first Academy Award for Swank, who leapt from virtual obscurity a year ago to hot Oscar favorite after winning a string of other trophies, including a Golden Globe. Swank cut off her waist-length hair, put a sock down her pants and lived as a boy for four weeks to prepare for her role. Sam Mends won the Oscar for the best director on Sunday for his work American Beauty. American Beauty was Mends' directional debut. He was previously best known as a theatrical director in his native England.

    1. When did the Academy Awards start?

    2. Who gave the nickname "Oscar" to the gold-plated statuette?

    3. In which season is the Academy Award ceremony held annually?

    4. Which of the following statements is true?

    5. What do you know about Sam Mends?

ii.

1.    the out-of-work father

2. American Beauty

3. independent true-life

4. Boys Don't Cry

5.director

6. American Beauty

PART D

1) relationship  2) denials  3) wrong  4) responsible  5) jury

6) forgiveness  7) admission  8) cameras  9) the White House  10) testimony  11) four hours  12) inappropriate  13) privacy  14) my wife and our daughter  15) failure  16) his family  17) lied  18) politically  19) denounced  20) impeachment

LESSON 15

Transportation

PART A

1. M: You want to go to a lecture tonight in the science auditorium. It's someone who spent a year living in the Antarctica.

  W: No kidding. I'm doing a report on the Antarctica for my geography class. Maybe I could get some good information to add to it.

  Q: What does the woman mean?

2. M: Do you think you could lend me that novel when you have finished with it? I've been looking all over for a copy, but apparently it's sold out at all the bookstores.

  W: Oh, it's not mine. It belongs to Mary, but I'll see what she says.

  Q: What will the woman probably do?

3. W: Um, are you going to try some of this chocolate pudding? It's incredible.

M: Well, to be honest with you, I've never been a big fan of chocolate.

  Q: What can be inferred from the man?

4. W: Why don't we go catch the new American film at the Market Street Cinema?

   M: That's a little out of the way, don't you think?

   Q: What does the man suggest they do?

5. M: The stew is delicious. I'd like to be able to make it myself.

  W: Why not? You can get all the ingredients at any supermarket. Here, let me get a pen and a slip of paper.

  Q: What will the woman probably do next?

6. W: I am getting hungry. I think we should go to dinner soon.

   M: Me, too. All I had for lunch was a chocolate bar.

   Q: What does the man mean?

7. M: Helen and I are thinking of renting a house at the beach in June. Are you interested?

   W: June? I guess it's cheaper then. But do you really think it will be warm enough?

   Q: What does the woman think of the man’s idea?

8. M: Those airplanes are certainly loud.

   W: Aren't they, though.

   Q: What does the woman think about the airplanes?

9. W: I'd really like to go to the concert tonight. But I don't know if I can spare the time.

  M: Music always relaxes me. It might be worth it in the long run.

   Q: What does the man suggest the woman do?

10. M: I have a collect call from Mike Peterson.

   W: I'll accept the charges.

   Q: What will the woman do?

11. M: Joe just went down to the engineering meeting.

   W: Where is it?

   Q: What does the woman wants to know?

12. M: I'd like to make an appointment with the doctor for tomorrow.

   W: Unfortunately, he's completely booked.

   Q: What information can you get about the doctor?

13. M: I don't know if I’ll be able to turn in my economics paper on time.

   W: Haven't you heard that the professor gave us a week's extension on it?

   Q: What do you interpret what the woman says?

14. W: Nobody told me that Bill was in the hospital.

   M: Sorry. I meant to give you a call when I found out, but it slipped my mind.

  Q: What does the man apologize to the woman?

15. M: I don't think you'll have time to send out invitations to all the new students.

   W: Oh, yes, I will.

   Q: What do we learn about the woman from the conversation?

PART B

Passage I Means of Transpiortation

The automobile is the most popular means of transportation. More than 167 million passenger cars, buses and trucks are in operation, using approximately 429,191 million liters of gasoline every year. Over 9 million passenger cars, trucks and buses come off American assembly lines every year, and the manufacture of motor vehicles and allied production is a $595,000 million industry.

      The automobile has brought many changes to American life -- for example, the remarkable growth of the suburbs in the past 25 years. Many people who work in the cities now enjoy country living because of good roads and the ease of commuting by automobile.

     Heavy use of the nation's highways has created a demand for roadside businesses of various kinds, including outdoor movie theaters, where audiences watch films from their automobiles, and convenient roadside hotels known as "motels". Usually located on main roads near cities and at seaside and other resort areas, motels are made up of a series of bedroom-and-bath units and nearby parking spaces. Many of the units are equipped with television and air-conditioning. Restaurants and swimming pools are available at most of the large motels. The number of motels has grown so rapidly in recent years that their total annual income has surpassed that of American hotels.

     Buses have replaced streetcars for public transportation in most cities and towns. Suburban areas usually have railroad or bus transportation to neighboring towns, and travelers often use buses for long trips since bus fares are less costly than railroads or airlines. Many of the large, modern buses provide restrooms on board.

     The airplane is another popular means of long-distance travel, carrying more than 293 million passengers a year. The 98 scheduled airlines provide service at 15,831 civil airports. Twenty regional control centers direct air traffic between cities.

1. How much gasoline is consumed in transportation by America every year?

2. According to the passage, why do many people working in the city enjoy living in the countryside?

3. What is NOT included in the roadside businesses?

4. What is implied in the passage?

5. How many scheduled airlines are there in the USA?

ii.

1.(T) The automobile manufacturing industry is a very profitable one.

2. (F) Motels are usually located on main roads near the suburbs.

3. (F) According to the passage, you could find movie theatres in the motels.

4. (T) It is less expensive for a person to travel by bus than by train.

5. (T) According to the passage, the automobile is the most popular means of transportation.

Passage II Parking Meters

     City traffic is a great problem. Many cars are produced every year and the streets are getting more and more crowded. That's why during rush hours, when people are going to or from their work, it is common to see a traffic jam. It has been suggested that the drivers should share their cars and give each other lifts. As a result, each car would carry four or five people instead of only one. It is an excellent idea. However, so far, nobody has been able to think of a way to force people to do so.

     To discourage motorists from leaving their cars in the streets all day, parking meters are used. When you park at a meter, you must put a coin in the slot. This pays for a certain amount of time. The meter records this and it shows when the time that you have paid for is finished. If the car is still there then, you have to pay a fine.

     Traffic wardens look after the meters. They walk around the streets and check that every meter shows that money has been paid for the car parked there. If a meter registers "TIME EXPIRED", the motorist who has left his car there will be fined. Of course, the traffic warden cannot wait for the owner of the car to return. He carries a block of printed forms, and on one of these he writes down all the details, such as the registration number of the car, where it is parked, how much the driver must pay and where he must send the money. He leaves this form on the car where the driver will be able to see it easily; he usually pushes it under one of the windscreen wipers so that it will not blow away. In case it rains before the motorist returns, the form is put in a little plastic envelope to protect it. When the driver comes back, he gets an unpleasant surprise, but it is his own fault for leaving his car too long at a parking meter.

Exercises with Key

1. According to the passage, what was once suggested to solve the problem of traffic jam?

2. What's the real function of parking meters?

3. Who are in charge of the parking meters?

4. What will happen to the driver if the time he has paid for is finished?

5. According to the passage, what may be the driver's reaction at the sight of a printed form on his car?

ii.

1.Because many cars are produced every year, and many people commute by car to and from work.

2. It records a certain amount of time the driver has paid for when the time that he has paid for is finished.

3. All the details such as the registration number of the car, where it is parked, how much the driver must pay and where he must send the fine.

4. It is put in a little plastic envelope to protect it

5. His own fault.

Part D

1) good friends 2) most 3) in peace. 4) feeling 5) somewhere 6) corresponding 7) forget me 8)going 9) death10) Your bride 11) will have 12) nothing 13) poor 14) heartless 15) wealth and beauty 16) leave you 17) let me go 18)  flesh 19) marry you 20) quickly

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