Conversations
Listen to each conversation, read along, and practise until it feels natural.
Conversation 1 of 6
Social Media & Communication
Alex
I think social media has completely changed the way we communicate with each other.
Beth
I agree to some extent, but I think it depends on how you use it. It can be very positive.
Alex
That's a fair point. But don't you think people spend too much time on their phones?
Beth
Absolutely. I read that the average person checks their phone over a hundred times a day.
Alex
That's incredible. I try to limit my screen time, but it's really difficult.
Beth
Same here. I've started leaving my phone in another room when I'm having dinner.
🎧 Listen:
Conversation 2 of 6
Working from Home
Mark
What's your opinion on working from home? Do you prefer it to the office?
Lisa
Honestly, I have mixed feelings. I love the flexibility, but I miss the social side of office life.
Mark
I feel the same way. Productivity is better at home, but collaboration is harder.
Lisa
Exactly. Some tasks are much easier when you can just turn to a colleague and ask a question.
Mark
On the other hand, the commute used to take me two hours a day. That's time I get back now.
Lisa
That's a huge benefit. I've used that time to exercise in the mornings.
🎧 Listen:
Conversation 3 of 6
Climate Change & Individual Action
Tom
I've been reading about climate change and I'm genuinely worried about the future.
Sarah
Me too. The news about extreme weather events is becoming more alarming every year.
Tom
Do you think individuals can make a real difference, or does it have to come from governments?
Sarah
Both, I think. Governments need to create policies, but individual choices matter too.
Tom
I've started cycling to work instead of driving. It feels like a small step, but it's something.
Sarah
That's great. I've reduced my meat consumption and switched to renewable energy at home.
🎧 Listen:
Conversation 4 of 6
Local Development Plans
Emma
Have you seen the news about the new housing development they're planning in the town centre?
James
Yes, I have. I'm not sure how I feel about it. We need more housing, but that area has character.
Emma
I agree. The old market building is a real landmark. I'd hate to see it demolished.
James
Apparently they're planning to keep the facade and build around it. That's a compromise, I suppose.
Emma
It's better than nothing. But I worry about the increased traffic it will bring.
James
That's a valid concern. The roads around there are already congested during rush hour.
🎧 Listen:
Conversation 5 of 6
Going Back to University
Raj
I've been thinking about going back to university to do a master's degree. What do you think?
Nina
That's a big decision. What subject are you considering?
Raj
Data science. The job market for it is excellent and I find it genuinely interesting.
Nina
It does sound like a smart career move. Have you looked into specific programmes?
Raj
Yes, I've shortlisted three universities. The challenge is balancing it with my current job.
Nina
Could you do it part-time? Many universities offer evening and weekend courses now.
🎧 Listen:
Conversation 6 of 6
The Future of Artificial Intelligence
Chris
I read an interesting article about the future of artificial intelligence. It's quite thought-provoking.
Amy
What did it say? I have very mixed feelings about AI to be honest.
Chris
It argued that AI will create more jobs than it destroys, which I found surprising.
Amy
Really? Most people I speak to are worried about automation replacing their jobs.
Chris
That's a natural concern. But the article pointed out that new industries always emerge with new technology.
Amy
Like how the internet created millions of jobs that didn't exist before.
🎧 Listen:
✍ Unit 1 Quiz
Test your understanding of all 6 conversations. Score 70% or above to pass.
1. Beth says she has started leaving her phone in another room when she is having ___.
2. Tom has started ___ to work instead of driving.
3. Raj is considering studying ___ science for his master's degree.
4. What does Lisa miss about office life?
5. What does Emma worry the new development will bring?
6. What does Chris say AI will do according to the article?
7. Match the speaker to their opinion:
Alex thinks social media has...
Mark says productivity is...
Sarah has reduced her...
Raj has shortlisted...