Oxford Exam Trainer B2 (Ukraine) Audio script

Track 1.02

Unit 1, page 11, exercise 2

Mr Price So, Emma. How’s your project about communal living coming along?

Emma It’s really interesting, Mr Price, and I’ve found out a lot already.

Mr Price Can you explain a bit about the background? Why did you want to do your project
on this in the first place?

Emma Well, I got the idea when I was talking to my grandma. She’s lived all her life in the same
place. She said that in the past this is what everyone did, so there was a strong sense of community.

Track 1.03

Unit 1, page 11, exercise 3

Mr Price So, Emma. How’s your project about communal living coming along?

Emma It’s really interesting, Mr Price, and I’ve found out a lot already.

Mr Price Can you explain a bit about the background? Why did you want to do your project
on this in the first place?

Emma Well, I got the idea when I was talking to my grandma. She’s lived all her life in the same
place. She said that in the past this is what everyone did, so there was a strong sense of community.
Unfortunately, a lot of her elderly neighbours have died recently and younger people have moved to
the area. My grandma hasn’t even met some of these new neighbours, so she says that life around
her has really changed. I felt that there must be some people who weren’t happy with the way
things were going and I wanted to see if I could find out what they are doing about it.

Mr Price I think you’re right. Many people used to know everyone in their local area, but
surely there must have been disadvantages to that, too …

Emma Oh, there definitely were. Growing up in a community where everyone knows you can be
really supportive, yet limiting. People may expect you to behave in a certain way and that might
mean you don’t develop into the person that you want to be. It’s likely that there was a lot of
gossiping about people, with everyone wanting to know everyone else’s business.

Mr Price But I suppose today’s society isn’t any better …

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Emma Well, many people may have hundreds of so-called friends on social networking sites. It’s
common knowledge that this isn’t really the case, because at the end of the day most people go
back to an empty house and look at their computer screen or watch TV on their own. It can be really
isolating and people need human contact – it’s a natural thing.

Mr Price So, is communal living becoming popular?

Emma It is, and it’s probably partly as a reaction to this modern way of living. Many groups of
people around the world are trying to create a similar kind of community to that which our
grandparents once lived in.

Mr Price Can you give an example?

Emma Well, there’s the type of commune where everyone lives together. I found one called
Synchronicity in Los Angeles. It’s mainly a group of writers and artists who live together and they find
it inspiring to share the space. This wouldn’t suit everyone, though, so the group includes other
people who come along to their meals to be part of the community, but stay in their own separate
accommodation.

Mr Price And is that quite common?

Emma Apparently, there are about two thousand of these types of shared communities in the US.

Mr Price Well, it sounds like you’re getting together some interesting information, Emma. I
look forward to seeing the final report.

Emma Thank you.

Track 1.04

Unit 2, page 19, exercise 3

Speaker 1

I know most people believe that men and women think very differently from each other. They
usually say that women are more emotional than men and care more about other people, but men
are better at keeping a clear head and making important decisions – and they quote examples of this
typical male and typical female behaviour. But as far as I’m concerned, this is too simple. I could give
lots of examples of men who are very caring and emotional and women who are efficient decision-
makers. I just don’t think you can generalize this much about what men and women are like.

Speaker 2

I read an article in a magazine the other day which questioned the idea that men and women’s
brains are different. Apparently, a university professor has done a study looking at the structure of
men’s and women’s brains, and she’s found that there is no biological evidence to support the idea
that the way they think is different. I must say I really find that impossible to accept – I mean it’s OK
studying brains in a laboratory, but you just have to look at how differently men and women behave
in everyday situations to know that they’re completely different.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Speaker 3

It’s an interesting question. If you watch how people behave, you can definitely see differences
between men and women. Take one example – driving. If a man and a woman are in a car together,
it’s almost always the man who’s driving. If you ask women why this is, they’ll tell you it doesn’t
matter to them whether they drive or not. The implication is that men are unhappy unless they’re in
control and women are happy to let men be in control. So – yes, I’d say they think differently, but
how does this come about? Is it a question of genes or upbringing?

Speaker 4

As I see it, it’s purely down to how people are brought up, and there’s no denying that girls and boys
are treated differently in the family. Different things are expected of them. Mothers often spoil their
sons – you know, doing everything for them – while they expect their daughters to help around the
house and babysit their younger brothers and sisters. This is why boys end up believing that they’re
the important ones, and why girls accept caring roles. In the end, the men and women they become
think differently because they see the world from different points of view.

Speaker 5

As a primary school teacher working with young children, I can honestly say that when they first
arrive at the school there’s very little difference between boys and girls – in the way they think or
the way they behave. But the differences start to develop quite soon – mainly, I think because the
younger children want to fit in with the older children in the school, who have already established a
pattern of behaviour. For some reason, boys feel the need to compete with each other and girls
prefer just to get on with each other. Are these innate differences that they were born with or are
they picked up because children need to fit into the school environment?

Track 1.05

Exam practice extra, page 22, exercise 2

Presenter Good afternoon and welcome to this special Valentine’s Day programme on love.
Today we’re talking to Sandra Holiman about her Valentine’s Day dating experiences. Sandra, good
afternoon and welcome to the programme.

Sandra Thank you.

Presenter I understand that you have had quite a few dating experiences, Sandra, some more
interesting than others! Can you tell us a bit about one of them?

Sandra Yes, certainly. Well, I work for a charity and three years ago, in order to raise more money,
the charity decided that all the employees had to go on a blind date on Valentine’s Day.

Presenter So how did the company set it up?

Sandra Well, everyone had to fill in a form. You know, er, details about your age, height, hobbies,
work, things like that. The forms were then put into a central computer system, which matches you
to your blind date.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Presenter And were there an equal number of women and men?

Sandra Well, that’s the interesting thing – the first time we did it, more women than men took part
and we had to ask more men to join in!

Presenter And did people tell the truth on the form?

Sandra I must confess I didn’t! I wrote that I was taller than I was because I wanted to be matched
to a tall man. I knew if I put down my real height, I’d end up with someone who wasn’t particularly
tall. I think if you want to take it seriously, then you probably should fill in the form truthfully, but I
think people who are just doing it for a bit of a laugh probably tell a few untruths here and there.

Presenter And once you’d been matched to your blind date, what happened next?

Sandra We agreed on a time and a place to meet each other.

Presenter And how did you recognise the other person?

Sandra Well, for example, I agreed to wear a red rose in my jacket on my first date and I asked the
man I was meeting to bring one, too.

Presenter And what was your first blind date like?

Sandra Well, we’d agreed to meet in a local pub, and when I got there, I couldn’t believe it. There
was this scruffy-looking guy there with a cigarette in his mouth, and I thought, ‘I hope that’s not
him,’ but it was! We ended up having a really good evening and we got on really well together. We
saw each other for a few weeks after that, but then we just drifted apart and stopped seeing each
other.

Presenter And have you gone on any more blind dates since then?

Sandra Yes, my company still sets up blind dates on Valentine’s Day, so I always go on one then. And
I’ve had a few blind dates in between, which friends have set up for me. But I’m not seeing anyone
at the moment ...

Presenter Well, thank you, Sandra, for sharing your dating experiences with us, maybe we can
catch up with you again next year.

Track 1.06

Unit 3, page 29, exercise 3

Interviewer Hello and welcome to the programme. Today, I’m talking to interior designer,
Maddy Smith. Maddy has got some great tips for decorating your bedroom. Maddy, can you start by
talking about cost?

Maddy Hi, yeah, let’s talk about cost

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Track 1.07

Unit 3, page 29, exercises 4 and 5

Interviewer Hello and welcome to the programme. Today, I’m talking to interior designer,
Maddy Smith. Maddy has got some great tips for decorating your bedroom. Maddy, can you start by
talking about cost?

Maddy Hi, yeah, let’s talk about cost. Well, first you need to look at your budget. How much money
do you have to spend? Don’t worry if you haven’t got a lot, not everything you buy needs to be
expensive. You can invest in a couple of quality items and build the rest around those. These other
items can be second-hand or new, it really depends on what you find.

Interviewer What planning do people need to do?

Maddy Well, you can start by choosing the carpet and the curtains. Then, tape bits of the material
onto a large board along with photos of the furniture you want, for example, and then you can see
quickly and easily if your ideas are any good. You don’t want to spend hours working on your room
only to find you don’t like it and have to start again.

Interviewer And what about choosing paint?

Maddy Paint looks a lot darker when you put it on four walls than when you only see a tiny amount
of it. Professional designers usually advise choosing a colour that’s two or three shades lighter than
the one you like. Even then, buy a tester pot for several different colours and paint a largish area on
one wall with each of the colours. Then choose the one you like best.

Interviewer Would you advise doing all the work yourself?

Maddy If you have some difficult jobs, which involve some kind of building work, obviously you need
to call in the professionals. Otherwise avoid the extra cost. Have a decorating party. Invite your
friends to help and in return give them food and drink and lots of music to keep them going.

Interviewer So when you’ve finished the painting and chosen your furniture, what happens
next?

Maddy That’s the fun part! You can then go out and spend the rest of your money – hopefully you
have some left – on low-cost items like beanbags, lamps, cushions and bedding. Make sure it’s all
cheap so you won't mind replacing them when a new look comes along in a few years’ time.

Track 1.08

Unit 4, page 37, exercises 2 and 3

Dan I don’t know which of these short courses to enroll in.

Anna What do you like doing most out of the three?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Dan I love oil painting, but this college only offers watercolour. And anyway, a course in
accounting would be much more useful for me right now.

Anna I thought you wanted to check out the creative writing class?

Dan Well … I’m beginning to think I should do accounting this year, and creative writing the year
after.

Anna That sounds like a good plan!

Track 1.09

Unit 4, page 37, exercise 4

1

Jane I’ve joined a knitting class at the community college this term.

Tom Really? I didn’t know you were interested in knitting!

Jane Actually, I find it relaxing, though I’m not particularly good at it. Anyway, the people who
really know what they’re doing help the beginners like me – teaching us some basic techniques.

Tom What kind of things do you make?

Jane Lots of different stuff – for example, baby hats and socks for the local hospital.

Tom That’s great – you’re making a contribution to the community, then!

Jane Yes, that’s the idea. I’m not into wearing hand-knitted jumpers myself – but the things we
make are actually quite useful. We make big blankets and scarves for the homeless, too.

I’m doing an evening class in jewellery making. Originally, I wanted to do a print-making course that
I’d seen advertised last year. Unfortunately, the college isn’t running it this year. Although this
wasn’t my first choice, I’m learning a lot. I’ve made a beautiful necklace in silver and I want to make
a bracelet next. My teacher’s a professional jeweller, and she really knows her subject. She says it’s
the first time that she’s actually taught people, and you can tell! She gives us a lot of information,
but doesn’t always explain things clearly. I often have to ask her to repeat her instructions, which
can sometimes make things a bit difficult. That said, I’m pleased with the jewellery I’ve made so far.

Mum It isn’t good for you to do nothing all day, Jake. Why didn’t you sign up for one of the
college’s summer courses? I’ve heard there’s a course in computer science, which would really help
your Maths degree. I think Mia, our neighbour’s daughter, is doing that. And there are still places
available.

Jake Honestly, I’d rather chill out and see my friends. And I will be doing some work for my
chemistry project, too.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Mum Ha! Somehow I doubt it. Your holiday is going to consist of texting your friends and playing
computer games.

Jake That sounds good to me …

Thank you for calling Jamestown College. We offer a wide variety of interesting evening courses.
Why not try a sport you’ve never done before, learn a craft, or do a practical course in how to find
employment? Please stay on the line to speak to a course advisor about the options available to you.
If you’d like to put your name down for the course, you can download the application form from our
website. Then complete it and send it in with the initial payment. If you have already completed the
form and would like to make your payment over the phone, please press ‘1’.

I’ve joined a tennis club so that I can play a bit in the evenings. My mum and dad didn’t really want
me to until I told them about the kind of people who play there. It’s mainly people who work in
finance, so I’m hoping to make some contacts for when I finish university. They’re really good to play
against – quite competitive and very fit. That’s what the teacher says, anyway. Quite a few of my
friends are interested in joining, so I’ve told them how to. It’ll be nice if there are more people my
age to play against.

Now, if you’re feeling a bit bored in the evening and you enjoy being the centre of attention, how
about getting a starring role in a play called Climbing the Career Ladder with the local theatre group
The Young Vic? You may have heard that the group were trying to find actors through the local press
to do Romeo and Juliet. However, they’ve been working hard behind the scenes and they’ve
managed to write an exciting new play themselves, so the plans have changed a bit. The group meet
on Mondays at the village hall, so come along this week to find out more.

Track 1.10

Exam practice extra, page 40, exercise 2

James Hello. I’m James Morgan and you’re listening to Streetwise, the programme where we focus
on urban issues around the country. This morning I’m talking to you live from Liverpool. I’m standing
in a part of the city where many of the buildings, bridges and bus shelters have been covered from
top to bottom in graffiti. It’s certainly very colourful … I’m about to interview some young people to
find out how they feel about it. First of all, let’s talk to seventeen-year-old Brendan. Brendan, what
do you think when you see all of this graffiti – is it art or is it vandalism?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Brendan Well … it depends, some of it is ugly and boring, but a lot of it is very, very artistic.
Like that one over there … that looks like some kind of space-age city … and that one, the one that
looks like a kind of sci-fi monster. I think they show real artistic talent. You know, if you saw those in
an art gallery, you’d think they were pretty good.

James And what about this one over here? It’s not a picture. It’s just the graffiti artist’s name. It’s
his signature.

Brendan No, it’s not a picture, but the design of the signature is brilliant. I love those bright
colours, the blues with the green and the yellow and the silver. You know these buildings round here
are so grey. The graffiti really brightens the place up, really brings some life to the area.

James Thanks, Brendan … Hi. What’s your name?

Lauren My name’s Lauren.

James How old are you Lauren?

Lauren Sixteen.

James And do you live round here?

Lauren No, I don’t actually live in Liverpool. I’ve just come here for a few days to see my friend who
lives here.

James And what do you think of this graffiti?

Lauren I don’t like it at all.

James Really? None of it?

Lauren No, it just makes me feel … I don’t know … nervous. It’s like a sign that it’s not a safe area. I
think a lot of the graffiti is sprayed by gangs and that makes me feel kind of scared.

James Uh-huh. I see. Thanks, Lauren … Hello, what’s your name?

Shaun Shaun.

James How old are you?

Shaun Nineteen.

James And do you live here?

Shaun No, but I go to the art college just on the other side of the station.

James And what do you think about the graffiti? Is it art or vandalism?

Shaun Well, it’s both, isn’t it? It is art – you know, some of these images are brilliant. It must take a
long time and a lot of imagination to create them. I can’t disagree with that. But it is illegal. You can’t
just paint or spray on somebody else’s wall.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
James So you would call it vandalism, then?

Shaun Definitely … it costs a lot of money, you know, thousands and thousands of pounds every
year, to remove the graffiti. That’s money that the owners of the buildings, or the council if it’s a
public building, have to pay.

James Yes, good point. Thanks, Shaun … and finally, hello and what’s your name?

Miriam I’m Miriam. I’m eighteen and I live just over there.

James So, what’s your opinion, Miriam? Art or vandalism?

Miriam Well, I think a lot of it is just ugly and has no meaning, but some graffiti has a political
message, like anti-war or anti-capitalism. Some of it really makes you think. I think it’s really
important for young people to have the opportunity to express themselves in that way.

James But it is illegal, though, isn’t it?

Miriam Yes, I know and that’s a problem. In my opinion, the best solution would be to have walls in
different areas of the city that are specially for graffiti artists. That way they can take their time and
produce great art without worrying about breaking the law.

James Mm. Interesting idea.

Track 1.11

Unit 5, page 47, exercise 2

Presenter Turning a hobby into a successful business may seem like a dream for most of us.
But, today, I’m talking to two young people who did just that – and turned their passions into
money. Tom is a student, but he’s got a part-time job looking after animals.

Tom Yes, that’s right.

Track 1.12

Unit 5, page 47, exercise 3

Presenter Turning a hobby into a successful business may seem like a dream for most of us.
But, today, I’m talking to two young people who did just that – and turned their passions into
money. Tom is a student, but he’s got a part-time job looking after animals.

Tom Yes, that’s right.

Presenter Tell us how that happened.

Tom Well, I’ve always loved animals and I’ve had dogs all my life. When I was twelve, our
neighbours went on holiday. They couldn’t find anyone to look after their dogs, so they asked me to
go round every day and feed the dogs and take them for a walk.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Presenter Did you get paid for it?

Tom Yes, I did – it wasn’t much, but at the time, I thought it was a lot of money, which was
fantastic!

Presenter You didn’t mind giving up your free time to walk the dogs?

Tom No. I used to walk my own dog every day anyway, so it didn’t change my routine. When I
was out in the park, people discovered that I was walking dogs as a part-time job, and I started
getting loads of requests for dog-walking. And that’s how the business started really! Now I also run
a sort of pet hotel. I take in small animals, like rabbits and hamsters, when people go on holiday. The
trouble is, I find it hard to say ‘no’. Sometimes, I’ve got too many animals and my room is more like a
zoo than a bedroom!

Presenter How do your parents feel about it?

Tom Um, they don’t like some of the animals! My mum refused to let me take in a snake once.

Presenter A snake!

Tom Yeah. It’s a pity because I would’ve been really well paid for that!

Presenter Thanks, Tom. Well, on a different theme, we’re now going to talk to Melissa who’s
got her own very successful fashion recycling business. Melissa, how did it all start?

Melissa I’ve always been interested in fashion, and I’ve never been able to resist going into charity
shops to look for bargains. I used to drive my friends mad! But I always find such great clothes in
charity shops. I mean, look at this jacket I bought yesterday. I could improve it easily. All it needs is a
bit of shortening and maybe some new buttons and it’d be really stylish!

Presenter So you started doing this to make things for yourself to wear?

Melissa Yes, and I got so many compliments. People were always stopping me in the street and
asking me where I bought my clothes from. They were amazed that what I was wearing was just
recycled old clothing. So I decided to start a business.

Presenter And what did you do then?

Melissa Well, I realized I had the ability to see the potential in old clothes, so I started buying things
in second-hand shops and looking for vintage or designer items on internet auction sites. I’d then
turn the clothes into new, unusual creations! People even make donations – they give me bags full
of old clothes or fabric that they think I can use, so I’m never short of inspiration. I’ve got a huge
collection of material lying around.

Presenter How do you sell your clothes?

Melissa I used to sell them on internet auction sites, but, in the end, I set up my own website. So far,
it’s been a very good move.

Presenter Why do you think people are attracted to recycled clothing?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Melissa I think people like the idea of recycling stuff, and also, everything I make is unique – there
isn’t going to be another quite like it anywhere! And that really appeals to some people.

Presenter Thanks, both of you, for talking to us today.

Track 1.13

Unit 6, page 55, exercise 2

James Hey, Monica. That’s a nice top – is it new?

Monica It sure is! I got it online.

James Did you? I thought you liked going to the shops rather than shopping on the Internet?

Monica I used to, when I was a bit younger. I spent less time at the shopping centre when I
started work, even though my house was right next to it. Actually, I didn’t really discover online
shopping until I broke my leg. A friend sent me a link to her favourite website to cheer me up, and as
soon as I bought my first sweater I was hooked.

Track 1.14

Unit 6, page 55, exercise 3

James Hey, Monica. That’s a nice top – is it new?

Monica It sure is! I got it online.

James Did you? I thought you liked going to the shops rather than shopping on the internet?

Monica I used to, when I was a bit younger. I spent less time at the shopping centre when I
started work, even though my house was right next to it. Actually, I didn’t really discover online
shopping until I broke my leg. A friend sent me a link to her favourite website to cheer me up, and as
soon as I bought my first sweater I was hooked.

James So, why do you like it so much?

Monica There are lots of reasons, like being able to use search engines so you can find the
best deals across stores. And the fact that you don’t have to carry your shopping home – somebody
brings it to your doorstep for you.

James But don’t you miss not being able to pick things up off the shelf and see what they’re like?

Monica Of course that’s good, but actually it can also be one of the annoying things about
going shopping. Say you see some shoes you like and you want to try them on – what happens if
they don’t have your size? There haven’t really been any occasions when I couldn’t get something
online – I suppose that’s because there are so many companies out there, so there’s more selection.
That’s the thing I appreciate above all else.

James But aren’t you more likely to buy things for the sake of it on the internet?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Monica I don’t think so.

James I do, especially on those discount shopping sites. They send me an email about this amazing
bike gear at a great price. I see some cycling shorts. I’ve got perfectly good cycling shorts, but these
are really good quality ones, they’re a great price and there’s only one pair left, so I buy them. If I
change my mind, I usually can’t be bothered to send them back.

Monica It’s not that difficult!

James I know. I try not to go on the Internet because I think it’s too easy to part with my cash – and
you can do it any time of the day or night. Really, online shopping is a shopaholic’s worst nightmare.

Monica I ask myself these questions: ‘Do I really need it?’ and ‘Can I afford it?’ If the answer
is ‘yes’ to both of those, then I buy it. I’ve got some lovely stuff online.

James But do you know the impact that all this online shopping is having on the high street? A lot
of shops are closing down; some high streets have hardly any shops left open, because people like
you don’t go shopping any more.

Monica You can’t blame me for shops closing down, can you? I could try to do my shopping
in the places nearby, but will that really make a difference? More and more people work from home
and they’re busy. They still want to buy new things, though, and online shopping just fits in with life
these days.

James You say that now, but just see how you feel when there are no city centre shops left!

Track 1.15

Exam practice extra, page 58, exercise 1

Ben You’re never going to believe this –I won £10,000 in the lottery!

Matt Oh, wow, that’s amazing! So, have you got any plans for what to spend it on?

Ben Well, I know the sensible thing would be to put it in the bank, and save it for the future. It
would mean I wouldn’t need to borrow any money to pay university fees, for example. But I was
actually thinking of buying a car.

Matt Really? But you haven’t even passed your driving test yet!

Ben True. But I would also use the money to pay for driving lessons!

Matt So, you’re not going to take your friends on holiday, then?

Ben What – to a luxury Caribbean island or something?

Matt Something like that, yeah.

Ben Sorry, but no, I’m not going to do that!

Matt Well, that is a shame.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Track 1.16

Exam practice extra, page 58, exercise 2

1

Interviewer What do you spend your monthly allowance on, Lola?

Lola Well, I spend a bit on going out, I suppose.

Interviewer Things like going to the cinema?

Lola No. I prefer watching films on my laptop.

Interviewer How about clothes – or shoes – you know – the latest trainers? Do you spend a lot
on those?

Lola Well, fashion is important to some of my friends, but it’s not that important to me. Some of
my friends will spend all their pocket money on a pair of new jeans. But then they’ll have no money
to go out, or get food.

Interview So, you spend most of your money on food?

Lola I do, yes. I actually spend quite a bit on takeaways every month!

I had heard of credit card cloning. That’s when somebody makes a copy of your credit card that they
can then use wherever they like. Of course I didn’t think it would happen to me until I got a call from
the fraud department of my bank. The reason they knew that somebody had cloned my card was
that on a day when I’d used my card in London, somebody had also used the card to withdraw cash
in New York. The bank realized it was impossible for me to be in two places at once like that, and
they stopped my card. It hasn’t stopped me using my credit card, but I probably look at my
statement more often these days.

Jack Hey, Zoe. Can I ask for your advice? I bought this tablet yesterday – and it doesn’t work! And
I’ve lost the receipt! What should I do?

Zoe Sure, Jack. Well, you need to return it to the shop. You can show them your bank statement.
That provides all the details they need about the transaction.

Jack That’s a good idea – thanks. In fact, I remember my mum doing that to return a kitchen table
she’d bought. One leg was shorter than the others!

Zoe No way! Actually, my dad returned a bedside lamp last week which he’d bought online. He
sent it back, and they’ve already sent him a replacement.

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4

It doesn’t seem that long ago when everyone was living on credit. Nobody used cash to pay for
anything, and it just seemed normal to buy what you wanted on your card whether you had the
money or not. Then, the credit crunch happened, countries started going bankrupt and people
began to analyse their own attitude to money. I think quite a lot of people tried to pay off their
credit card debts at that point. I did anyway. It took a long time and made me realize how hard it
was to save that sort of money. I think I became a bit more responsible. These days I still have a
credit card for emergencies, but I like to pay for everything in cash if I can.

I didn’t use to be very good at saving money until somebody recommended a simple way of doing it.
You just open different savings accounts for different things that you want to save for. So you could
have a holiday account, a deposit for a house account and a car account. I don’t earn loads of
money, but every month I transfer a bit of cash into each of my different savings accounts. You
hardly notice it coming out of your current account and it’s amazing how quickly it mounts up!

Money and financial planning has recently been added to the UK curriculum. Children between the
ages of eleven and fourteen can now learn about things like budgeting and managing money in
maths and citizenship lessons. There has been a campaign to include this type of information in
lessons for several years and many people are delighted about the fact that children now have the
opportunity to learn about money from an early age. And hopefully, as these children grow older,
the country may become better equipped to deal with its finances.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Track 2.02

Unit 7, page 65, exercise 3

Interviewer Hello and welcome to the programme. Today, I’m talking to Maya Howard. Maya is a
successful businesswoman. She also has a medical condition which means she’s partially-sighted.
Maya, how did you cope with your eye condition when you were learning to read?

Maya Well, I used to have very large print books, but I had to hold the print very close to my eyes
even with my glasses on, which meant I often got headaches. So, I learned to read Braille and that
really made my life easier.

Interviewer Did you feel different as a child?

Maya Yes, I did. I was the only child in my class that had bad eyesight and I had to wear very thick,
heavy glasses. But, most of my friends treated me as their equal, and I was good at my work, so that
made life easier, too. The others had to try much harder than me and they were always asking me to
help them. I certainly don’t have unhappy memories of school and being at university was much the
same.

Interviewer What about the world of work?

Maya I was nervous when I first started looking for jobs and, I have to say, that I also found that I
had to be a little better than the next person in order to convince the employer to hire a partially-
sighted person. I had two main jobs in my career, but I stayed in those jobs for a long time. After
that, I decided to start my own business.

Interviewer What advice would you give young people with eyesight difficulties?

Maya You need to have confidence and self-belief and train yourself to use all the equipment and
technology that’s available to blind and partially-sighted people today, so that you can be
independent. I have screen-reading software, and electronic speech note-taking devices. But I also
use traditional aids, such as a white cane, which helps me get around, and Braille, which is
invaluable. I think young people should also make sure they meet other blind and partially-sighted
people by joining organizations. Then, they can find out how they cope with their lives.

Track 2.03

Unit 8, page 73, exercise 3

Dan Hey, Abby. Look at this advert for environmentally-friendly holidays. Doesn’t it sound like a
great idea?

Abby Environmentally-friendly holidays? What on earth are they?

Dan Well, hang on a minute and let me have a closer look at the advert. Let’s see what it says …
Well, it says that eco-tourism is all about visiting places of natural beauty and interest and helping to
protect and conserve them for the future. There are places all over the world where you can go.

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Track 2.04

Unit 8, page 73, exercise 4

Dan Hey, Abby. Look at this advert for environmentally-friendly holidays. Doesn’t it sound like a
great idea?

Abby Environmentally-friendly holidays? What on earth are they?

Dan Well, hang on a minute and let me have a closer look at the advert. Let’s see what it says …
Well, it says that eco-tourism is all about visiting places of natural beauty and interest and helping to
protect and conserve them for the future. There are places all over the world where you can go.

Abby That sounds really boring. Why would you want to go on holiday and do some work?

Dan Because it’s a good thing to do and it’s interesting to learn about how other people live.

Abby Well, I think it would cost a fortune and, anyway, air travel is one of the biggest factors in
increasing pollution.

Dan OK, OK. I see what you’re saying about flying, but you could choose a different form of
transport. You don’t have to fly to your destination.

Abby And how do you propose travelling to South America? Are you going to swim?

Dan Ha, ha. Very funny. No, I was thinking of looking into one of these holidays in Scotland, then
a group of us could go in one car or we could get the bus or the train there. It would be an amazing
experience.

Abby Wow! You’re really into this idea, aren’t you, Dan?

Dan Yes, I am. I think it would be great to be on holiday and to know that I’d be doing something
to help other people and the environment at the same time.

Abby OK. So tell me a bit more about this Scottish eco-holiday then!

Dan Well, there are three cottages in the grounds of a working farm near Inverness. The farm’s in
the highlands of Scotland, it says here. All the cottages have energy-efficient household appliances,
all the products in the house are environmentally-friendly and you eat organic meat and vegetables
that are delivered to your door from a local supplier.

Abby Mmm. And what about the ‘work’ part? What’s involved?

Dan Well, we work on the farm with the owners and we help deliver the organic meat and veg
boxes.

Abby Doesn’t sound like much of a holiday to me. I think I’d still prefer to lie on a beach for two
weeks!

Dan Aw, come on, Abby! I’m going to find out how much it’d cost and see if I can convince you to
come.

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Track 2.05

Exam practice extra, page 76, exercise 1

Beth Hi, everyone, welcome to Canyonlands National Park. My name is Beth. I’m one of the park
rangers here at Canyonlands. We want you all to have a great time on your visit, and we want you to
stay safe, so my colleague Cody will take you through some of the safety guidelines a little later.
Nothing to worry about. But first I want to start by …

Track 2.06

Exam practice extra, page 76, exercise 3

Beth Hi, everyone, welcome to Canyonlands National Park. My name is Beth. I’m one of the park
rangers here at Canyonlands. We want you all to have a great time on your visit, and we want you to
stay safe, so my colleague Cody will take you through some of the safety guidelines a little later.
Nothing to worry about. But first I want to start by telling you all something about the park in
general. OK? Great. So let’s start. How many visitors do you think the park gets each year?

Visitors A hundred thousand … Forty thousand ... Five hundred thousand …

Beth OK, some good guesses there. Over 400,000 people visit Canyonlands National Park every
year. That’s a lot of visitors for a park here in this little corner of Utah, but we have a lot to offer. You
can go hiking, of course. We’re going to take a short hike together today. We also have a lot of
visitors who bring mountain bikes or backpacking gear for longer expeditions into the park. We have
some awesome places to camp, but there’s no wild camping. It’s a great place for rock-climbing, too,
and horseback riding. I guess you all know that the canyons here are formed by rivers, which have
cut through the rock over millions of years. We have two rivers in the park. Anyone know what they
are?

Visitors Colorado River.

Beth Yes. That’s one ...

Visitors Snake River?

Beth Not the Snake River. We do have snakes, though.

Visitors Utah River?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Beth No … it’s the Colorado River and the Green River. And even with these two rivers, it’s
incredibly dry here! I mean really dry – Canyonlands only receives 10 inches of rainfall every year.
We’re in a desert here, but it’s a beautiful desert, right? And we’re not the first people to have
enjoyed this place. Cowboys used to bring their cows here in the 1880s. There are also Native
Americans who still live here, mainly Navajo. And this area was once the home of the Ancestral
Puebloan people around 800 years ago. You can see traces of them all over the park. There’s some
incredible Puebloan rock art on the canyon walls and you can still see the remains of original stone
houses and other buildings. I hope you can see some of those while you’re here. So … anybody seen
any wildlife?

Visitors Just birds.

Beth Just birds, OK. We have some amazing wildlife here. We have over 200 species of birds,
various reptiles – including snakes – and over 50 species of mammals. If you’re lucky, you might see
a kangaroo rat, which is Cody’s favourite. It got its name because it jumps around like a kangaroo,
obviously, but it’s much smaller. Kangaroo rats are uniquely adapted to living here in the desert.
They only eat plants, and what’s interesting about them is they don’t drink – they get all the water
they need from the food they eat. So that’s how they survive in this extremely dry climate. However,
I don’t recommend you try this. We’re going to be starting today’s hike in just a few minutes. Ideally,
everyone should be carrying at least two pints of water, so please make sure to fill your water
bottles before we go, OK?

Track 2.07

Unit 9, page 83, exercise 3

Presenter For many people with busy working lives, leisure means sitting in front of the
television or going out with friends. But is this really the best use of free time? I’d like to suggest that
there are more creative, rewarding things you can do without tiring yourself out mentally or
physically.

The first, and perhaps the most important, suggestion I’d make is that you should consider taking up
an activity which stretches the brain. It could be something long-term like learning a new language
or something as simple as reading a challenging book. In other words, it could be anything which
keeps your brain active and is distinct from your daily routine. And if your friends wonder why you’re
not watching the TV programmes you used to chat about together, don’t be defensive – just explain
why you’re doing what you’re doing – or even suggest that they join you.

Track 2.08

Unit 9, page 83, exercises 4 and 6

Presenter For many people with busy working lives, leisure means sitting in front of the
television or going out with friends. But is this really the best use of free time? I’d like to suggest that
there are more creative, rewarding things you can do without tiring yourself out mentally or
physically.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
The first, and perhaps the most, important suggestion I’d make is that you should consider taking up
an activity which stretches the brain. It could be something long-term like learning a new language
or something as simple as reading a challenging book. In other words, it could be anything which
keeps your brain active and is distinct from your daily routine. And if your friends wonder why you’re
not watching the TV programmes you used to chat about together, don’t be defensive – just explain
why you’re doing what you’re doing – or even suggest that they join you.

Equally important is regular physical activity. It could be a sport, going to the gym or something as
down-to-earth as walking or cycling. This will keep your body and your mind alert. A regular gym
session will not only boost your energy levels, it will actually help you to relax.

From everything I’ve said, you probably think I’m completely anti-television. I’m not, but what I am
against is the idea of sitting on the sofa, channel-hopping all evening. It’s such an incredible waste of
valuable time. Watch TV by all means, but plan ahead. Pick out a few favourite programmes and,
when they’re over, switch off the TV and do something more constructive.

Another idea is to take up a new hobby. We may think of hobbies as activities only children have
time for, but for adults they can be a way of meeting new people and acquiring new skills. Typical
hobbies might be playing a musical instrument in a local group, taking up photography, restoring
classic cars or developing original computer software. It’s usually a good idea to try to choose
something that is very different from your job. On the other hand, who knows? If you’re good at
your hobby, you might even make some money from doing it. I’ve spoken to several people whose
hobby has actually become their job.

You may be wondering how anyone has time for all these extra activities, but I think you’d be
surprised by how much of your time is currently wasted. In your mind, break your day down into
three periods of eight hours each. Allow eight hours for work, eight hours for sleep, and eight hours
for other activities, which may include being with your friends and family, and mealtimes. You could
also use this time for some of the new activities I’ve been suggesting. Just think about it: eight hours
a day is 56 hours a week or over 200 hours a month!

Track 2.09

Unit 10, page 91, exercise 2

Ewan What’s up, Sam?

Sam Hey Ewan. I’m supposed to be the referee at my sister’s football game this afternoon.

Ewan That sounds fun. Though you don’t sound very enthusiastic!

Sam Well, the thing is that I’ve been training hard at college all week for this track race – and I’m
feeling really tired!

Ewan Why don’t you call your sister and see if anyone else can referee instead of you? Then you
could come round and watch TV with me. We can have pizza.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Sam That’s tempting, but I don’t think she’d forgive me if I did that! I’d better put my boots on
and get down to the pitch or I’ll be late!

Track 2.10

Unit 10, page 91, exercise 3

1

Ana We’ve got a new sports coach at school.

Maria Oh yeah? What’s he like?

Ana She’s a woman actually. Her name is Miss Keeping.

Maria Miss Keeping? Oh, I know her. We had a swimming lesson with her last week.

Ana Yes, but she also teaches basketball and volleyball.

Maria So, did you have a lesson today?

Ana Yes – we had basketball. We have volleyball on … let me see … on Friday.

Maria Tomorrow, you mean?

Ana That’s right!

I’m not very good at team sports. I prefer setting myself personal challenges. Like trying to beat my
best time when I’m swimming, or climbing higher than I’ve ever climbed before on the climbing wall.
I suppose it’s breaking my personal record that makes me feel good about myself. That’s why I do it.
And it’s so much better than being involved in activities where people are relying on me to perform
well – that makes me feel really under pressure.

Ben Hi Harry! You look like you’ve lost weight! Have you been on a diet?

Harry No. I joined our local running club.

Ben That sounds like an interesting idea. How often do you go?

Harry A couple of times a week, after school.

Ben And how far do you usually run?

Harry We do about 10 km, although you can stop at any time – or go on for longer if you feel like
it.

Ben Where do you usually go? Do you use the running track at the college?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Harry No, we aren’t training for a competition or anything. We always run off-road to enjoy the
countryside – and avoid the traffic!

At the end of the race, I came round the corner into Greenwich and the crowd were screaming. I
crossed the line and I can only describe it as like not being on planet earth at that moment. And
afterwards I celebrated for a bit and was really happy with how I’d done, and then about thirty
minutes later I started to cry and felt annoyed that I hadn’t won. Being competitive is what drives
me. I’m always trying to improve because I want to win. That’s not how everyone does it, but that’s
what keeps me going.

Lee Spalding has got the ball, he passes it to Fabio Capaldi, who takes a shot at goal. Oh, it was close,
but it’s hit the goal post … The ball is back in play. Ronnie Scott has got it, he’s halfway up the pitch.
Here comes Mark Lazenby, will he be able to do anything? Oh, it’s a foul … and it’s going to be a
penalty. Who’ll take it? It’s Martin Lamar. City are looking tense. The last thing they need as we’re
coming up to extra time is for Rovers to score. Martin is taking his time here, he looks nervous. It
would be such a result if he could get this one in the net right now. He takes it and it’s a GOALLLLLL!

I love sport, but I don’t do enough of it. It’s quite hard to fit it in when you’ve got a busy life. I watch
a lot of sport on TV though. During the Olympics I watched TV every day – I got really addicted to it.
And actually, I found the Paralympics even more exciting. The athletes who competed were
remarkable. They were so good that you forgot that they were sitting in a wheelchair, or that they
were an amputee. The obstacles that they have overcome must be immense.

Track 2.11

Exam practice extra, page 94, exercise 1

A Which is your favourite painting out of these three?

B Oh … definitely this one.

A The one with all the trees? Are you sure?

B Well ... Yes. I like all the different shades of green on the leaves.

A What about this painting, though? It’s more interesting. There’s a windmill and ducks on the
pond.

B Yes, I agree it’s nice. But I still prefer the other one … But actually, I’m looking at the third
one, here. I LOVE the way the cows in the field look so real.

A So is that your favourite, now?

B Yes, I think it is … Maybe. Though, on second thoughts, no – I’ll stick with my first choice.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Track 2.12

Exam practice extra, page 94, exercise 2

1

A So what’s going on here?

B Well this is an installation by Ernesto Neto.

A Oh yeah? Is he a famous artist?

B He is in Brazil. But he’s internationally known, too. He’s had his work exhibited in a lot of
countries.

A OK – So what do we do with this? … Do we go in?

B Yep – Neto’s installations are meant to be experienced from the outside and the inside! He
belongs to a movement where the spectator actively engages with the art.

A So what does that mean, exactly?

B Well, he creates environments. For example, this knitted walkway that we’re on now. He
learned how to crochet from his grandmother, apparently.

A And what are we supposed to do on this knitted walkway? … It’s pretty unstable!

B Hold onto the sides and relax a little! Enjoy the way it sways and moves.

A OK I’ll try. By the way, can you smell something … spicy?

B Mmm. Yes. That’s another thing Neto likes to do. He uses smells in his installations. Look –
there’s candy, too.

A Are you eating it?

B Yes, why not? It’s an interactive experience, remember!

A Who’s this painting by?

B Frida Kahlo – a famous Mexican painter.

A It’s quite a strange picture – I’m not sure what it’s all about.

B Well, Frida Kahlo is the woman in the centre of the picture. She’s very striking, isn’t she?

A Yes, she is – and I love her pink dress. On the left hand side of the painting there’s a temple –
an Aztec temple – right?

B Yep – the left side of the painting represents Mexico – and the other side is the US I think.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
A Do you think Kahlo wanted Mexico to be more like the US?

B I get the feeling she didn’t want that. Don’t you think she’s holding the Mexican flag as a sign
of loyalty to her country?

A Yes, I guess so.

B Why do you think she’s standing on a pedestal?

A I think it’s sort of symbolic – she’s standing – a bit like a statue – between these two
different worlds …

B OK – I see that. There’s capitalist, industrialized America – and then there’s Kahlo’s Mexico –
which still has its roots in the past – with the flowers, the ancient temple, the sun, the moon …

We went to see these outdoor sculptures at the weekend – at the seaside. There are about a 100
male figures, they’re all the same. Some are in the sea, and some are standing on the beach – it
depends on the tides. Anyway, they are all looking out across the water. They’re really rather
beautiful. The only problem was the weather – the weather forecast didn’t say it was going to be
sunny – they said cloudy, but warm. But it actually poured with rain the whole time!

A I just think this is an amazing painting. The first time I saw it, it took my breath away.

B You have to be kidding! I mean, it’s just a few blocks of red and orange paint with blurry
edges.

A This is Rothko’s signature style. No figures, no symbols, just blocks of colour.

B So what’s it supposed to mean, anyway?

A Well, this is just my opinion, but I don’t think it’s supposed to “mean” anything in particular.
It’s about the process of creating and experiencing art.

B According to the guidebook, Rothko wanted to break down barriers between the artist and
his audience. That’s why he didn’t frame his work. I don’t get that. Do you?

A Yes, I think so. He didn’t want frames getting in the way. He wanted people to get really
close to his pictures … to lose themselves in them.

B Well, I’m not losing myself in this one.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
5

I use my tablet for doing art. I’ve got a software programme that allows me to create pictures – so I
draw on the screen using this stylus. It’s a special pen for drawing or writing on electronic screens. It
takes a bit of getting used to, but it’s pretty easy, actually. I’m not really interested in creating
realistic pictures. My sister is great at that, though. Some of her paintings look like photos! Anyway, I
don’t do that. I prefer manga – you know, the Japanese comic strips. They’re so cool!

A How long have you been making sculptures?

B I started out making animal figures out of clay – when I was at school, I made a rhinoceros,
and it won a prize!

A That’s great! And what types of animal do you usually make now?

B Lots of different types. I’m working on a wolf, at the moment.

A What’s your favourite piece – out of all the ones you have made?

B Oh. I think it would be … the bull I made for an exhibition in Spain.

A Oh yes?

B No, actually. That’s one of my favourites – but the best thing … that I’m proudest of ... is the
life-size polar bear.

A And where’s that?

B It’s in a park in London. Kids love to climb on it! And people take loads of photos, too.

Track 2.13

Unit 11, page 101, exercise 3

Presenter Today, I’m in the studio with scientist Kevin Warwick. Now, Kevin, I believe that
some years ago you had a microchip implanted in your arm to find out what could happen when a
man is combined with a computer.

Kevin That’s right – that was Project Cyborg. So as part of that, I went to New York and there was a
robot hand back in England. I was able to control it using my neural signals, which were sent via the
microchip in my arm and across the Internet to the robot hand.

Presenter That is amazing! What kind of actions were you able to perform?

Kevin Well, for example, I was able to squeeze my hand and that signal was then sent to the robot
hand, which responded. I could also feel how much force the robot hand was applying even though I
was on another continent. That meant I was able to extend my nervous system over the Internet.

Presenter That’s incredible. And didn’t your wife also take part?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Kevin That’s right. She had an electrode implanted too and we did a basic communication
experiment – when my wife closed her hand, my brain received a pulse.

Presenter But I suppose not many people plug things into their body that can send signals to
their brain.

Kevin No, the only other time anyone has done this, it’s been about sending signals which are then
used to do things like operate a robot hand. I think so far it’s just me who’s actually been able to
receive signals into the brain.

Presenter So you used yourself to experiment on. Were you worried that things might go
wrong?

Kevin Actually, one worry was that we wouldn’t get approval to go ahead with the project. The
surgeons had a lot to learn in order to carry it out. OK, something could’ve gone wrong, but that was
part of the experiment … but I think it was tremendously exciting.

Presenter So is that why you did it? For the excitement?

Kevin Partly that. I really loved sci-fi as a kid so when I had the chance to take part in a kind of sci-fi
experiment myself, I couldn’t turn it down. But I also wanted to experience it myself so scientifically I
could feel and learn and adapt and see how long it took … and it was dangerous, so if something had
gone wrong, I’d have been responsible for destroying someone else’s brain, and I wouldn’t have
wanted that.

Presenter In your book – In the Mind of the Machine – you estimate that robots will take
control of the planet by 2050. Do you still believe that?

Kevin I decided on that date because many of us will be around to see it –rather than being
something that we don’t have to think about because it’s centuries away. At the time the book was
published, I was pretty much the only person with that view, but now there are many other people
who predict the same thing. In fact, a more likely date is sooner – 2025!

Presenter That’s quite soon!

Kevin Yes, but already we’re using artificial intelligence to do more and more things, particularly in
the military. There are some people who already say we should cut artificial intelligence out of
everything, but I can’t see that happening. I think we’ll be too dependent on it – we already are!

Track 2.14

Unit 12, page 109, exercise 2

Beth It’s amazing, when you look back at the last 30 years, just how much the world has changed.
I mean, can you imagine a world without the Internet, email, mobile phones even …?

Mark Mm, it’s funny to think that, one day, we’ll look back at this decade and think, ‘How different
things were then!’

Beth I think the biggest change we’ll see in the future is in the environment.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Mark You’re right.

Track 2.15

Unit 12, page 109, exercise 3

Beth It’s amazing, when you look back at the last 30 years, just how much the world has changed.
I mean, can you imagine a world without the internet, email, mobile phones even …?

Mark Mm, it’s funny to think that, one day, we’ll look back at this decade and think, ‘How different
things where then!’

Beth I think the biggest change we’ll see in the future is in the environment.

Mark You’re right. Experts predict that our population will have exceeded 9 billion by the year
2050. If that’s true, we’ll need to produce 50% more food than we are now. There’ll be huge
demands for food, water and energy.

Beth We’ll probably all be starving and fighting wars over resources.

Mark Well, hopefully there will be other solutions! We’ll certainly have to rethink food production
– we won’t be able to rely on imports any more.

Beth I agree. We’ll have to increase our production of genetically modified crops, no matter how
unappealing that might seem now. If we don’t, we won’t have enough food for everyone! As for
fishing, I think at the end of this century there simply won’t be enough fish for people to eat.

Mark I’m less pessimistic about the future than you are, Beth. I think the environment will be far
better than it is right now.

Beth Why do you say that?

Mark Well, I think we’ll all be using wind energy and solar energy. Perhaps we’ll even find a new,
harmless energy source. Frankly, we don’t have any choice – we must find a replacement for fossil
fuels. I think, sooner or later, everyone will accept that climate change is a fact and we have to do
something about it.

Beth I suppose you believe that we’ll all be using cars that run on water!

Mark We might! I’m sure that in the future we’ll have the technology to develop this. People are
already using less plastic and more biodegradable materials – so I think this trend will grow and
grow.

Beth Well, I worry about our wildlife, too. We’re losing more of our rare habitats because of
climate change and deforestation. I think it’s inevitable that more animals and plants will become
extinct.

Mark But climate change will also help the spread of different species around the world, won’t it?
Our climate will be better suited to birds and animals that are originally from other countries.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Beth Yes, that’s happening now. We’re already seeing insects and birds that don’t normally live in
the UK.

Mark Well, that might be a positive thing about the future, too! And I can think of others …

Beth Such as?

Mark Well, even now, scientists are researching ways of controlling the weather, so I’m sure
they’ll find a way to make more accurate predictions and, eventually, to control the weather.

Beth Really? Controlling the weather?

Mark Yes! I read a news story on the Internet recently – scientists created more than 50 artificial
rainstorms in areas where it hadn’t rained for months! Controlling the weather like this would have
a huge impact. We could use it to stop droughts and help farmers to grow crops.

Beth It sounds amazing.

Mark So, it’s not all bad news, is it?

Beth No, I suppose not.

Track 2.16

Exam practice extra, page 112, exercise 2

Amy … Another surfer was bitten by a shark at the weekend surfing off Swanbourne beach –
thankfully, she wasn't badly hurt. With me in the studio is oceanographer and conservationist Kyle
Williams, who is also a keen surfer. So Kyle, she was lucky, wasn't she?

Kyle She was, yes. It could have been a lot worse.

Amy Now Kyle, what I don’t understand is why you aren’t more worried about sharks out there. I
mean, so many surfers seem to get attacked by sharks. Don’t you get scared?

Kyle Not scared, no. I watch what’s happening in the water, obviously. I do look out for sharks.

Amy But isn’t there more we can do to keep sharks away from our beaches? Could we put up
nets, or something? I mean, there are a lot of sharks here in Australia – and in the US – in places like
California and Florida – and people do get bitten. Shouldn't we be more worried?

Kyle Look, sharks can be found in all the major oceans around the world. And remember that
when we go swimming or surfing in the ocean, we’re entering the shark’s environment. It’s where
they live, not us – and we should respect that. There are basic precautions anyone can take. Keep
away from areas where you know there are sharks, and avoid swimming at night.

Amy But surfers still get attacked. How do you explain that?

Kyle OK, first, there are over four hundred species of sharks and only a handful of species are
likely to attack humans. We aren’t typical shark food – they mostly eat small fish, though larger

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sharks may attack seals and other marine mammals. Most shark attacks on people are either
accidents or the result of curiosity.

Amy What do you mean?

Kyle If you look at a surfer lying on his board from underneath the water, you’ll see something
that looks a lot like a seal. If a shark’s passing underneath, he might easily think, ‘OK, here’s dinner!’
and take a bite – and by the time the shark realizes its mistake, it’s too late. Also, don’t forget, sharks
can only use their mouths to explore things. They’re naturally curious, so when they bite something
it may not be an attack, they could just be checking it out. In fact, we don’t need protecting from
sharks so much as they need protecting from us.

Amy Come on, why would you want to protect a killer?

Kyle Well, here’s the thing. In 2016, four people were killed by sharks worldwide – two less than
the previous year. That’s fewer than the number of people killed by dogs or lightning strikes. In
contrast over 100 million sharks are killed each year by humans. This means that some species of
shark are critically endangered.

Amy I didn’t know that – why do we kill so many?

Kyle Sharks often get caught in fishing nets designed to catch other kinds of fish. So they are what
is known as ‘by-catch’. But the main problem is finning. Shark fins are used to make shark-fin soup,
which is very popular in some Asian countries. The problem is that to take the fin, you have to kill
the shark. Often, it's common practice to just cut off the fins and throw the sharks back into the
ocean, alive. It’s big business and fishermen can make a lot of money. It’s hard to see how we can
stop it happening.

Amy I can see that. But does it really matter if there are fewer sharks?

Kyle Yes, it really does. Sharks are apex predators – which means they’re top of the ocean food
chain. And they have an important role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem. If you kill too
many apex predators, then the populations of other species increase, and they start to compete for
resources. That may affect other species in turn – not just fish, but plants as well. Basically, you
change the balance of the whole ecosystem. Also, sharks don’t breed quickly, so even if we stop
killing them in large quantities, it could take years for their numbers to recover.

Track 2.17

Practice test, page 171, task 1

1

Monica What are you taking with you?

Tara Good question. I’ve got a new rucksack. It’s not that big and quite lightweight, but the guide
told us not to bring too much, didn’t he?

Monica Yeah. I’ve got some new walking boots, too.

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Tara Well, you’d better wear them in a bit before we go. You don’t want to get blisters up on the
mountain.

Monica True, but they’re pretty comfortable. I think they’ll be all right.

Paul Did you bring a camera?

Bill Of course I did. You can’t come on a trip like this without a camera.

Paul Have you taken any pictures yet?

Bill Yeah. I got those dolphins earlier. What I really want is a shot of a whale.

Paul Well, I think we’ll probably see one eventually.

Bill Fingers crossed!

Eva Have you booked the course?

Adam Yeah. Everything’s sorted out, including the flights and the hotel.

Eva Can we hire equipment at the centre?

Adam Yes, of course. But I’m going to take my own wetsuit. I’m sure I can squeeze it into my
suitcase.

Mary It’s too hot. Shall we go inside?

David I’d rather not. I want to make the most of this.

Mary Well, let’s at least move into the shade.

David All right, but have you put any sun cream on?

Mary Yeah, but it might have come off in the sea. I’ll put some more on.

Debbie These places are fascinating, aren’t they? The streets are so narrow and they’re so
busy.

Richard Yeah. Look at that stall over there.

Debbie Oh yeah, I like the look of those animal figures. Look at the elephant. What’s it made
of?

Richard It looks like ebony to me, but I’ll ask the stallholder.

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Debbie Check the price, too.

Lucy Look at that building over there.

Steven Oh, yeah. It’s made completely of glass. I wonder what it is.

Lucy Maybe it’s in the guidebook?

Steven Yeah, but I left it back at the hotel. Will you take a photo?

Lucy Not from here, the sun’s in my eyes.

Steven Let’s get a bit closer and find out what it is.

Track 2.18

Practice test, page 172, task 2

Presenter Hello and welcome to Review of the Week, the programme where we look back and
comment on the main news of the week. Earlier this week, the city of Middlesbrough, in the north of
England, introduced a new system of controlling crime – ’talking’ security cameras in the streets.
With me today to talk about it is Police Superintendent Kevin Smith. Mr Smith is head of the street
crime unit for the north of England. Mr Smith, welcome to the programme.

Mr Smith Good morning.

Presenter Could you tell us something about the new ’talking’ security cameras?

Mr Smith Yes, certainly. The city of Middlesbrough has 158 security video cameras, or CCTV
cameras, in its streets. On some of these cameras we have fitted loudspeakers so that people in the
control room who are watching what is happening on the streets, can give out verbal warnings.

Presenter Can you give us an example?

Mr Smith Well, for instance, there was one occasion when two men started fighting outside a
nightclub. One of the control room operators spoke to them over the loudspeakers and asked them
to stop. They looked up, stopped fighting, and ran in opposite directions.

Presenter Is that right? So, it was very effective in that case, then.

Mr Smith Yes, indeed. Most people are so embarrassed that they quickly go away without
causing any more trouble.

Presenter Uh-huh ... I see.

Mr Smith Yesterday, I was walking down the street myself and I saw a young man riding his
bike through a pedestrian area. He was seen on the camera and the voice on the loudspeaker said,
’Would the young man on the bike please get off and walk? This is a pedestrian area.’ The young

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man stopped and looked around. He looked very embarrassed when he realized the voice was
talking to him. Then he got off and pushed his bike through the streets, as he was told.

Presenter Right, I see. But don’t you think this new system is a little bit like Big Brother. You
know, ’Big Brother’s watching you’. But in fact Big Brother is not only watching you, he’s shouting at
you, too ...

Mr Smith No, the point of these cameras is not to monitor innocent people, but to reduce
street crime. There is a very high street crime rate in Middlesbrough. Most people are very happy
about the new system. Nobody has asked us to take the cameras down.

Presenter So, how do they speak, the voices on the cameras, are they aggressive?

Mr Smith Oh no, not at all. The instructions are always very polite. The control room operators
have strict rules about what they can say. For example, ’Oi you! Get off your bike!’ is not allowed.
Usually they say something like: ’Warning – you are being monitored by CCTV – you are in an
alcohol-free zone – please do not consume alcohol.’ Then when the person follows the instruction,
the camera always says, ’Thank you.’

Presenter Well, it will be very interesting to see if the system is successful. Kevin Smith, thank
you very much.

Track 2.19

Practice test, page 173, task 3

Presenter Hello and welcome to our daily phone-in. Do you ever worry that you might be
addicted to shopping? Believe it or not, shopping addiction is a growing problem in our society. Liz is
here with me this morning to tell us her story. Liz, thank you for coming to speak to us.

Liz You’re welcome.

Presenter So can you tell us how your addiction started?

Liz Mmm. Yes, I’ve always been interested in fashion, but ummm ... when I was a student, I
never had much money. My friends and I used to go to second-hand shops to buy all our clothes.

Presenter Great idea when you’re on a tight budget.

Liz Yes, but it became like a game – we’d challenge each other to get the best outfits for the
lowest price. We were living in Edinburgh and there are lots of really trendy second-hand shops,
which sell vintage clothes from the 60s and 70s.

Presenter I see. So what happened?

Liz Shopping became a habit; I couldn’t pass a second-hand shop without going in to buy
something. I had a student loan and as the clothes were so cheap – it didn’t seem to matter. I had a
great social life and all I cared about was looking good.

Presenter What did you do after you graduated?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Liz I got my dream job as an architect. I received an excellent salary – I paid off my student loan,
bought a flat and a car.

Presenter Sounds like a great lifestyle.

Liz It was. I never had to worry about money, and I soon developed a taste for designer clothes.
I had several credit cards and would go shopping every weekend.

Presenter You didn’t buy second-hand clothes any more?

Liz Oh, no, that was OK in my student days, but now I had very important clients. I couldn’t turn
up to meetings in vintage jeans and a T-shirt – I had to be able to impress them.

Presenter So what went wrong?

Liz I’d been working for the company for two years when they began to lose money. About six
months later, they went out of business and I was made redundant.

Presenter Oh dear.

Liz After that, I was unemployed. I had to sell my flat and my car, I hardly had any money, but I
kept spending. I knew that I couldn’t afford the clothes, but ...

Presenter ... you kept buying designer clothes?

Liz Yes, I just used my credit card. As I got further and further into debt, I became more
depressed. The only thing that made me feel good was shopping. And I wanted to hide the fact that I
was poor and unemployed by dressing in really expensive outfits.

Presenter When did you realize that you were actually addicted to shopping?

Liz When the bank stopped my credit card. I tried to pay for some clothes at the counter of an
expensive department store and they wouldn’t accept my card. I felt myself getting hotter and
hotter, my hands were sweating and my knees started to shake. I felt completely out of control – I
thought I was going to faint. I just didn’t want to leave the store without my new clothes.

Presenter What happened next?

Liz By coincidence, a friend was shopping in the store. She came over and asked me if I was all
right. I started crying uncontrollably, so she took me away. She realized that I needed help and
convinced me to go to addiction counselling.

Presenter And did that help?

Liz Yes, it did, but it took eleven months to get back to normal. My therapist, Melissa, helped
me to get my confidence back. She made me realize that it’s me who’s special. It doesn’t matter
what clothes you’re wearing, it’s the person inside that’s important.

Presenter So do you have any advice for people who may be suffering from shopping
addiction?

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script
Liz Yes, don’t use shopping to replace something that’s missing in your life. If you think you’re
addicted to shopping, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Counselling has helped me to solve my
problems and become a much happier person, and it can help you, too.

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Oxford Exam Trainer B2 Ukraine Student Book Audio script