Sample Audio Scripts Key Class XI

CBSE Assessment of Speaking and Listening Skills (ASL)
Audio scripts and Answer key Sample Worksheet for

Class XI Listening test
Worksheet 1 Class XI
Task 1
You will hear 5 short extracts of people talking about the hidden dangers of fitness
training and fitness centres.
Read the statements below, then listen to the extracts and match each statement AG to
each speaker 15. There are two statements you do not need. You will hear the
recordings twice.
Speaker 1
It was just another day at the gym. I was attempting to lift extra weights for the first time.
Suddenly, my shoulder began to hurt. My trainer dismissed it as mere cramps. Two weeks
later, when the pain persisted, I contacted the gyms senior trainers. They said it was a mild
shoulder injury that needed less strenuous workouts. After three weeks of torture, a doctor
diagnosed a torn bicep muscle. I had tried to lift 20 kilos in each hand the wrong way.
Speaker 2
I joined the weight loss programme of a local gym. I was asked to do cardio workouts on the
treadmill. Around the fifth day, my knee began to hurt. My instructor told me it was normal
because I hadnt exercised before. I walked an equivalent of four kilometres every day on the
treadmill. The pain in my knee grew unbearable. I couldnt sleep at night. An MRI scan revealed a
ligament tear and I needed reconstructive surgery. Sadly, I cant go back to the gym again.
Speaker 3
More and more people visit gyms to look like their favourite film star. Joining a fitness
programme without advance preparation means trouble. Before joining a gym, I would advise
beginners to start with regular cardiovascular exercises like brisk walking, jogging, cycling or
swimming. This would prepare the body for workouts at the gym. Whether you are a student, a
housewife or someone with a desk-bound job, any exercise programme must be gradual and
well planned. Dont push your body beyond a point!
Speaker 4
Food rich in carbohydrates and proteins is an absolute must with any strenuous physical activity.
Your body needs those extra calories when you are regularly exercising. In fact, two hours
before any rigorous training, I would recommend a carb-rich meal that includes oats, bread,
Central Board of Secondary Education Trinity College London
pasta or potatoes. You also need to drink much more water than usual. Lime juice with sugar is
very good after a heavy workout. To protect the bones in the long term, milk in the form of
fortified curd or cheese and even fish can be good sources of vitamin D.
Speaker 5
Do you know gyms and fitness centres that spring up at every street corner is part of a multi-
crore industry? Thats how profitable they are! But theres no proper regulation for fitness
instructors in our country. This is leading to a growing number of training injuries with
permanent damage. We need proper facilities with certified trainers and physiotherapists. I
think its time legislation was introduced to prevent gyms from becoming health hazards.
Task 2
You will hear two students talk about their experience of attempting to stay off the Internet
for ten days.
Read the sentences below, then listen to the conversation and choose A, B or C for each
sentence. You will hear the recordings twice.
Student 1: This experiment to stay off the Internet for ten days was quite a test!
Student 2: You can say that again! I never imagined it would be so tough!
Student 1: I thought I would go mad without being able to access any of the search engines I
wanted! Wellshall I start with MY experience about this experiment first?
Student 2: SureGo ahead.
Student 1: In my work at school, I have this urge to check things outevery single thing. So
Google is my constant companion. After we both took up this challenge, I was assigned a
Science project that needed lots of research. Can you imagine my plight?
Student 2: HmmmMustve been tough!
Student 1: I had to do my research the good old fashioned wayyou know? Buy magazines
read from the libraryit really took time but what happened was that I actually began to
READ once againit was something I hadnt done in a really long time. With search engines, I
move like a grasshopper from page to page, never really reading for detailsyou know? I think
one big thing I have developed after this challenge is the ability to readSLOWLY!
Student 2: Good for you!
Student 1: Im also obsessed about the Internet for the latest music and football newsGosh! It
was terrible to be unable to visit YouTube or the football transfer sites, you know?! I had to fight
the urge to break our bet. Finally, I found new sources of entertainment. My parents were very
pleased to see me outside my room minus my laptop! We actually spent more time together
and went out trekking for the weekend. I realised I had lost touch with Nature due to my
obsession with the Internet. Thats something Ive re-discovered. In fact, Ive decided to go
trekking one weekend every monthrain or shine!
Student 2: Thats great! Honestly, this experiment was too tough for words! I like being
online receiving and sharing interesting links, stories and pop culture. I missed that awfully!
Ten days without social networking was painful indeed. But I survived! I went back to my piano
classes, listened to lots of music and even tried singing with karaoke support! The break taught
to me to truly unwind!
Student 1: You really love Facebook and Twitter, dont you?
Student 2: Yes, I can honestly say I am a Twitter addict! The proof s in the 30,000 tweets
Ive built over four years!
You knowwhen we took this bet, the first two days were the hardestmy eyes kept darting
to my phone my thumbs couldnt still without wanting to check my account. What will power
it took!
But you know what? I forced myself to do other things...music, friends, family. I realised I
was able to think more than 140 characters or words! That was a release! I hope I will be
more responsible when I get back to my old ways!
Task 3
You will hear a speech by an expert on photography. Read the question below, then
listen to the extract and choose four of the options AG which are correct. You will hear
the recording twice.
Which FOUR of the following statements does the speaker believe to be true?
Why do I take photographs? Why do I prefer photography to painting or sculpting? I appreciate a
good sketch or painting as much as anyone, but I dont have the patience for those mediums.
A photograph, on the other hand, can capture a significant moment as it happens with just
the single click of a button.
And when you look at that moment years later, all the memories come flooding back. that
special day, that eventthose people in ita moment in time frozen forever, never to come
againone photograph capturing time, arousing different emotions at different times.
I think its this ability of photography to come to life instantly and to connect us to the past that
makes it win over art brushes and stone chisels.
We take pictures of events that are important to us...birthdays, weddings, festival gatherings, a
holiday, the birth and growth of a child. And everyone reacts looking at those photographs.
Thats the starting point for this hobby. I began when I was ten years old but you can start
photography even at forty, and continue building your knowledge for as long as you want.
Of course, today, its the best and worst of times for photography because everyone thinks I
have a camera, I am a photographer! Facebook, Twitter or Instagram have become premium
sites for sharing photos and getting instant feedback. Phone cameras have made it even easier
to chronicle life and make people imagine they are good photographers.
Good enough, is never good enough, you know! Every hobby needs discipline and hard work.
Im hoping true hobbyists among you in the field of photography dont sit back satisfied with
what you do. Im hoping you strive to learn the craft and become better informed
photographers. Because then your work becomes the highest form of artthey wont be just
pictures but emotions captured for eternity.
Task 4
You will listen to two students, a boy and a girl, debate about a ban of mobile phones in
schools. Read these sentences, then listen to the speakers and complete these sentences
in one word only.
You will hear the recording twice.
Student 1: I certainly dont think its right to ban mobile phones in schools. I believe mobile
phones are part of todays culture. They lend a distinct identity to teenagers. Whats wrong about
that?
Student 2: I disagree. Mobile phones have no place in the classroom. Texting, taking calls,
playing mobile games or surfing the web during class can be disruptive. Schools are a place for
learning not leisure.
Student 1: I record my school homework into my phone calendar. Ive never been late on any of my
assignments, thanks to this. My instant mobile research has been so useful for classroom discussion.
I use it as a dictionary, a calculator, even as a Dictaphone for notes or instructions to myself. Where
would I be without my mobile?
Student 2: How did generations before us complete their schooling? Did the absence of cellular
devices make them less capable or successful?
All students deserve a good education. But I strongly believe there will be no concentration on
academics if mobile phones are allowed inside the classroom.
Student 1: I beg to differthey are useful, innovative and handy creations that enhance
experiences in the classroom and beyond.
Student 2: Whats this need to keep in feverish touch with an appliance all the time? I think
mobile phones are just overrated pieces of equipment with plenty of nuisance value!
And what about those who break the school rules during examinations and use their mobiles?
Would you be able to stop all those offenders? I think not.
Student 1: Its truemobile phones can be misused in the hands of some mischievous
elementsI agree on that. And the law catches up with them in no time.
But in my opinion, the usefulness far outweighs the problem. Sudden emergencies require quick
and easy communication. I was at school when an earthquake suddenly rocked my city. It was
MY mobile phone that helped many of us contact our parents and reassure them of our safety.
Would this have been possible otherwise?
Student 2: Granted theyre useful in an emergency. But do these emergencies occur every day?
And whats the schools phone services for?
I strongly support a ban on mobile phones in schools. Multi-tasking with the mobile phone can
only disrupt the class. A few hours away from handheld devices will NEVER harm or destroy
students. Instead, therell be true classroom interaction among students.
Student 1: Which only brings me back to my opening argumentmobile phones ARE part of
todays culture. Theres no stopping the digital revolution. Banning mobiles is not the answer.
They must have appropriate restrictions in their use. The outcome lies in the hands of the user.
Key
Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4
Speaker 1 - D 1. c True Statements: 1. leisure
Speaker 2 - G 2. a A, C, E, G 2. concentration
Speaker 3 - E 3. c 3. misused
Speaker 4 - C 4. b 4. interaction
Speaker 5 - A 5. c 5. restrictions
6. a

Task 1
You will hear 5 short extracts of people talking about films and books.
Read the statements below, then listen to the extracts and match each statement AG
to each speaker 15. There are two statements you do not need.
Speaker 1
I firmly believe that books are better than films, especially when it comes to adaptations. Thats
because a film has to score on several aspectsacting, visual impact, music, choreography and so
on. A film is also constrained by time. A book, on the other hand, is more elaborate. Theres a lot
of time and scope for the author to deal with things, to narrate the story, develop the plot, build
characterMore importantly, nothing can surpass the sheer joy of reading.
Speaker 2
I disagree about books being better than films! Therere so many books thatve been adapted for
the silver screen, with the film versions being better and more popular than the books
themselves! In fact, works of literature get a wider audience in the form of moving images. They
even make literature more accessible to the masses. A film takes less time than a book to be made
and watched, and it also provides relaxation and entertainment.
Speaker 3
Tell me, does everyone enjoy watching a film? I think that watching a film is more often than
not a group activity, whereas a book can be enjoyed by an individual any way he likeshe
can choose what he wants to read, when, where and how he wants to read itHe even has
the option of ignoring a book for a while and then coming back to it or reading many books
at a time.
Speaker 4
Precisely! Reading requires literacy, a fair amount of interest or focus and time. Imagineone
has to go to a library or a bookshop, browse through several titles, return it on time... And
what about people who cant read too well? What about people who are conversant only in
one language? Wouldnt they miss out on the classics of the world? Films, irrespective of the
language they are in, have universal appeal, which is perhaps why even adults enjoy animation
films and cartoons.
Speaker 5
Im inclined to think that films, especially those based on books, lack originality. Sometimes even
the best film fails to connect with many people. Well, what ARE the criteria that make a film
good? Films rarely leave anything to the audiences imagination, which means that theres little
or no food for thought. And today, many films are not suitable for viewing by children. Also,
watching a film has become an expensive affair not everyone can afford, thanks to malls and
multiplexes.
Task 2
You will hear two people talking about generation gap.
Read the sentences below, then listen to the conversation and choose a, b or c for each
sentence.
Ritu: Darius, have you completed your Science project?
Darius: Yes, ma. Its all done.
Ritu: Well, if you have a few minutes, I want to talk to you about what happened in the evening.
Darius: If its about the TV incident, I dont have to say anything, Ma.
Ritu: I hope you understand that the TV incident is not something your dad and I are
happy about. And
Darius: Now what did I do?
Ritu: I want you to know that your behaviour hurts Grandpa.
Darius: Come on ma! Whats wrong in wanting to watch the World Cup finals? Grandpas
at home all day, why cant he watch the repeat of his silly documentary later?
Ritu: Darius, theres nothing wrong in your interest in sports. But the way you took the remote
from him and the way you switched off the TV when you were done watching was not right.
AND, he wasnt watching anything sillyhe was watching a programme about his former
company.
Darius: Then why didnt Grandpa say anything to me? Why is he complaining to you instead
of sorting it out with me?
Ritu: Your grandfather did not say a wordnot to you, not to your dad, not to me. He might not
have said anything to you because he loves you and wants to let you have your way. But your
behaviour and attitude towards your grandfather is getting worse, and I want you to know that.
Darius: Ma!!!
Ritu: Dont tell me that you dont realise that your behaviour is hurtful. I understand that you
and Grandpa have different likes and dislikes. But that doesnt make his interests wrong or
bad. Neither does it give you the right to treat him disrespectfully.
Darius: But I never disrespect him, ma!
Ritu: Is that true, Darius? Dont you make a face if you see him watching what you call a boring
programme on TV? Dont you sometimes ignore his questions about school and studies? Dont you
ask him to go to his room when your friends come over?
Darius: Well, thats because Okay, sometimes Im not very nice to him, but thats not
intentional. You know that I love him. But hes so old-fashionedforever talking about things
in the pastWhat do I do when he talks about things I find boring? And he keeps asking me
the same questions again and again!
Ritu: I know that you dont agree with a lot of the things he says and does, but that is no reason
for you to be rude with him, right? The two of you were so closeit upsets me to see you both
growing apart.
Darius: I knowbut
Ritu: Its okay not to be cool all the time, you know? (smiles)
Darius: Yeah right!
Ritu: I hope you remember the good times weve all had with him. Hes getting old, and so he
may be a little slow in understanding the fast pace of life youre so used to Just the way he was
patient with you when you were a child, I think you should be a little patient with him now.
Dont you agree?
Darius: MmmWell, I guess Ive not been very understanding
Ritu: Im not blaming you, Darius. Your dad and I just want you to learn to be a little sensitive.
What you call compromise and adjustment is nothing but being, like you said just now,
understanding.
Darius: Okay, ma. Sorry if Ive been childish! Let me make it up to Grandpa. I promise Ill try
not to be so selfish again.
Ritu: Thats my boy!
Task 3
You will hear someone talk about the benefits of walking.
Read the question below then listen to the extract and choose FOUR of the options AG
which are correct.
Good evening, my young friends. Im here to tell you just one thingtake a walk!
As a parent of two teenagers, Im aware of the kind of stress todays teenagers undergo. I also
know that its very easy to recommend exercise or meditation as a stress-buster. But how many of
you really have the time or inclination for it? So, all Ill suggest istake a walk! Yes, you heard
right. Walking, like swimming and playing badminton, is a simple and effective exercise for the
body as well as the brain. How, you may ask. Let me explain.
Walkingor jogging or runningis a kind of meditation. It calms the nerves and makes you feel
happy, as if you have achieved something. And, it improves sleep. Surprising, isnt it?
Those of you who take great efforts to look good might want to take to walking for another
reasonwalking, specifically running, releases a hormone that makes you look young by slowing
down the process of ageing. Now, isnt that better than using cosmetics? (smiles) Walking also
boosts your immune system. Not to mention the fact that walking helps you maintain a healthy
frame, which in turn increases your confidence.
Teenagers are among the most social groupsmeeting new people, hanging out in large
groups, doing almost everything together with friendsTaking a quick walk gives you some
much-needed you time in which to think about yourself. My children tell me that theyve come
up with the most creative ideas for their projects and the whackiest solutions to problems while
on their walks!
In short, walking does wonders to reduce stress. If nothing, it helps you deal with stress better.
So, when and how does one make time for walking? Simplewalk to the bus-stop or the local
supermarket instead of riding a two-wheeler. Take a walk in your colony or in the neighbourhood
park with friends after school or college. Walk the dog as often as possible. Feeling bored?
Angry? Go for a quick walk on the terrace or around the house. It doesnt matter whether you do
it alone or only for five minutes or just once a week; it doesnt even matter whether if you walk,
jog or run, as long as you do it.
Task 4
You will listen to an excerpt from a debate on vegetarianism.
Read these sentences, then listen to the speakers and complete the sentences in one
or two words only.
Speaker 1
Im here in support of vegetarianism, to prove to you that it is an ideal way of life. In fact, since
ancient times, people in various geographies and different cultures have practised vegetarianism!
For instance, Pythagoras and Plato advocated a meatless diet; many well-known personalities
across the world were or are vegetariansLeonardo da Vinci, George Bernard Shaw, Leo Tolstoy,
Mahatma Gandhi, Franz Kafka, Jane Goodall, Carl Lewis, John Harvey Kellogg, the inventor of
cornflakes, to name a few.
People are vegetarian in their food habits on one of these groundsreligious, health or personal
reasons, ethical beliefs and economic compulsions. Some people follow a vegetarian diet on a
daily basis and some people eat a vegetarian diet on certain days or occasions, all to great benefit.
Many religions endorse vegetarianism as an extension of non-violent practices. Many people are
advised to stay off animal products in the interest of their health, especially people with diabetes,
cholesterol and people who have undergone surgeries recently. This is also because the body
needs extra effort to digest meat. Eating meat is even believed to harm human health!
I wonder if non-vegetarians are aware of the ways in which their food is made and packaged. As
if the killing of animals for food isnt cruel enough, animals for slaughter are handled and
transported in inhuman ways. Not to mention the unhygienic packing and packaging methods.
All these increase the risk to human health. Many studies have also shown that meat production
processes deplete natural resources and pollute the environment.
Its an undeniable fact that poultry and meat are not cheap. Sometimes, many non-vegetarian
delicacies like caviar and offal are so expensive as to be termed a luxury!
Speaker 2
Let me begin by saying that vegetarianism is nothing but a fad, and an unhealthy one at that.
A balanced diet needs proteins, and most food proteins for humans come from meat and poultry.
One of the strongest reasons to give up a vegetarian diet is the fact that a purely vegetarian diet
lacks in many essential nutrients like calcium, iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12, zinc, omega-3 fatty
acids and so on. Vegetarian diets are high in fibre and low in fats, which means that vegetarians
may feel full before theyve eaten enough calories. Similarly, vegetarian diets are usually very high
in carbohydrates and sugars, which poses great health risks. In other words, a vegetarian diet is not
good for most people, especially growing children and people with diabetes.
Doesnt it then make sense to include what is good for your health as a part of what you eat
instead of taking supplement tablets?
Different kinds of vegetarian diets, especially the strict kind like vegan and macrobiotic, have
different food restrictions, which may not be easy to adhere to all the time. The options available
for such people are either limited or very expensive.
As for the complaint of vegetarians about meat production, its nothing but a notion. Current
methods of producing meat are quite humane, and many of them are certified as safe by many
leading international associations. In fact, agricultural practices and transportation of food cause
the same environmental problems as meat production!
We humans have been eating meat for millions of years now. Why stop now?
Key
1. G 1. a True Statements: 1. economic
2. E 2. b B, C, E, G 2. packing, packaging
3. F 3. c 3. fibre, carbohydrates
4. B 4. b 4. restrictions
5. A 5. c 5. environmental problems
6. a

Task 1
You will hear 5 short extracts of people talking about the tourism industry.
Read the statements below and then listen to the extracts. Then match each statement
17 to each speaker AE. There are two statements that you do not need. You will hear
Speaker A
The topic of tourism is an important and relevant one. It is a key aspect of modern life. For
thousands of years, most people hardly had any leisure time at all. They worked, ate and slept.
But today, with modern technology, more people have the time to travel. Financially too, more
people are finding it easier to travelthey have many options and all the information they need
is available on the Internet.
Speaker B
But I do think it is most important to talk about domestic tourism. Tourism is big business. For
example, imagine a small town in the hills. It has lovely weather and beautiful tea plantations.
People hear about the town and begin to visit it. They will stay in the one hotel there. Soon, the
hotel will hire more people to work there and other services like taxis and tours of the area will
be started by the people who live in that town.
Speaker C
But tourism can have a negative impact on the local community too. People may leave their jobs to
work in the hotel. People often seem to prefer jobs that take them away from what they see as
familiar and non-profitable so some of the traditional sources of employment may dry up then.
More and more land will be used to build hotels, therefore shrinking the space needed for
the traditional work done in that area.
Speaker D
There is the impact on the environment as well. This is the irony of tourism. Tourists may
actually destroy the things that they came to see and enjoy. Tourists seem to feel no responsibility
for keeping their surroundings cleaninstead, they litter constantly and sometimes start small
cooking fires that could lead to forest fires. A small, beautiful town could become noisy and ugly
with more and more of the natural beauty being destroyed.
Speaker E
These are all good reasons that tourism must be managed carefully. But lets not forget that travel
really opens up our minds and can make us better informed and perhaps better behaved too!
Several people have told me about travelling to other countries and they all say that experiencing
a new culture and learning how to behave correctly in that country really changed them. They felt
like global citizens and more connected to the rest of the world. Travel is a good way to learn
more about our world too. So it can benefit people in different ways.
Task 2
You will hear a dialogue between two friends about some myths and legends. Read the
questions below and then listen to the dialogue. Choose A, B or C for each question.
Boy: Hi Gita! Did you enjoy the film last night?

Girl: Oh, hi Mukund. Yes, it was a film about an alien invasion of America.
Boy: Oh those films are always a lot of fun!
Girl: Yes, they are. But it was also quite violent. There was a lot of gunfire and bloodshed.
My cousin, Tina, was terrified and my mother got a headache.
Boy: Yes, sometimes the amount of violence can make some people feel physically sick. But these
situations have become quite commonplace in films these days. Theres no way we can avoid them.
Girl: Thats true. So what did you do last night?
Boy: I finished reading One Thousand and One Nights.
Girl: Whats that? Ive never heard of it before.
Boy: Of course you have. It is also called The Arabian Nights.
Girl: Oh! Sinbad and Ali Baba right?
Boy: Thats right. You know, I started reading these stories with some hesitation.
Girl: But why? These are classic stories!

Boy: Yes, but I felt a little uncomfortable while reading them. The stories have interesting plots
and theyre fun too. But have you noticed that many myths and legends tell us about one person
cheating another, or stealing something from them? And very often, animals and birds fall victim
when some man or woman wants what they have.
Girl: Do you mean like a dragon guarding some treasure?
Boy: Yes. In one of the stories about Sinbad, a few greedy merchants trick some huge eagles
into carrying diamonds to their nests. Then, they climb up to where the nests are and steal the
diamonds from the eagles.
Girl: Yes, very often animals are used to the advantage of the people in the story. But I suppose
thats not very different from real life, is it?
Boy: I knew you would see it that way! But as I kept reading, I realised that in most stories good
always winsthere is a moral embedded in these stories. I guess that happy endings are not
realistic, but they are better than evil winning at the end of the day!
Girl: Thats what makes these stories so enduring, I suppose. The values they teach us. As long as
the story doesnt preach!
Boy: So, what bothers you about myths and legends, Gita?
Girl: Well, I sometimes wish that the heroes and heroines of the stories were not always
handsome or beautiful. Surely, plain people can have adventures too.
Boy: But somehow most people seem to prefer beautiful people in stories. We see this even on
TV or in films.
Girl: Definitely! Oh Mukund, another thing that bothers me a great deal is stereotyping in stories.
Boy: Such as the evil stepmother?
Girl: Yes. Or making villains look very strange and threateningthey wear black clothes and
sneer or live in gloomy houses. Its very misleading. In reality, we cannot judge people by the way
they look or dress and a gloomy house could be just thata house that does not have enough
windows!
Boy: Well, Im sure that most people know not to take these stories at face value.
Girl: Oh, I hope so!
Task 3
You will hear a woman give a short lecture about food preservation. Read the sentences
below then listen to the extract and choose FOUR of the options AG which are correct.
Food hygiene is not just about clean food. It depends on three factorsbacteria, temperature
and time.
Many of us think that all bacteria are bad. In fact we do all that we can to protect ourselves
from germs and bacteria, including using medicated soap. While it is a good idea to be aware of
sanitation, we must also learn to draw a linewe must not take it too far. Being well informed
actually helps us understand how to keep clean and how to keep our food sanitary. For
example, curd contains many good bacteria that are good for our health. What we must be
careful about are harmful bacteria. Did you know that most bacteria multiply between 4 and
60C? If we leave food at room temperature for more than a few hours, the number of bacteria
can reach dangerously high levels!
Today, people think that since all our vegetables and fruits come beautifully packaged that we can
consume them as they are. But have you noticed a faint white powdery layer on some fruits and
vegetablesgrapes and apples for example? It is the remains of pesticides or other chemicals.
We must wash fresh produce thoroughly to clean them of all chemicals.
We use the refrigerator to keep food fresh, but we dont check its temperature settings. We
take food from the fridge and leave it at room temperature before cooking it. We shouldnt!
Because bacteria start multiplying the moment we take food, especially meat, out of the
freezer. What we must do is defrost food correctlyby leaving the food in the fridge for at
least a few hours after we take it out of the freezer.
Most packaged food is safe to eat, provided we use such food before the expiry date. A lot of food,
including milk products, eggs, processed foods like biscuits and masala have only a limited shelf-life.
They lose their original qualities after some time, and using them can harm health.
Remember that storing food well and using it appropriately is essential for good health.
Task 4
You will hear one side of a debate about the role of technology in our lives. Read the
sentences below and then listen. Complete the sentences with only one word or two.
Today, I would like to talk about the role that technology plays in our lives. Technology today
works in such a way that it is difficult to maintain privacy. As most of you must have already
realised in your day-to-day interactions on social websites and other online interactions, a lot
of information about you is readily available to those who know how to look for it. And this
is something that we seem to have slowly accepted over the years. But should we really be
comfortable with this compromise we have made?
Did you know that somebody somewhere knows everything about youwhat you buy at the
supermarket, who you call on your phone and even what DVDs you rent? Every time we use a
credit card, a phone card or even a supermarket card, our personal information is being recorded
somewhere. This is the price we pay for the convenience of using cards instead of cash. We have
even accepted the fact that nothing we do on our own computers is ever completely private.
Lets talk about TV. You might think that you have never been on TV but youre wrong! CCTV
(closed circuit TV) cameras are everywhere. They are in shopping malls, at ATMs, outside
buildings and even on our roads and motorways. They are operated by the police and private
security companies and are there to prevent crimes such as mugging, shoplifting and car-jackings.
They even watch the road for people who are speeding in their cars.
In the very near future, you will no longer have to worry about forgetting your computer
password or even your keys because your body will be your ID. Finger scanning which is
very similar to fingerprinting is already being used by large companies to identify employees.
Face recognition is another growing area of ID technology as are voice and eye recognition.
GPS too has become integrated into everyday life. Locating you when you are not at work or
school is much easier. GPS can, in less than a minute, with the use of a satellite, find exactly
where you are. Some car rental companies are already using this technology to keep track of their
vehicles. You can also use GPS on your mobile phone. This means that when someone makes a
call on their mobile or even if they just turn it on they can easily be located.
The question we have to ask ourselves now is how the rights of the individual will be preserved.
We must ask ourselves whether increased public safety and convenience will come at the cost of
our own privacy and if it is a price we are willing to pay. Is convenience worth the loss of privacy
as all our personal data from bank records to health information is on file and readily available?
Are we really ready to live in a world where our every move is being watched?
Key

1. Speaker E 1. c C, D, E, G 1. personal information
2. Speaker B 2. b 2. police
3. Not applicable 3. a 3. body
4. Speaker C 4. a 4. satellite
5. Speaker A 5. b 5. price
5. Not applicable
5. Speaker D

Task 1
You will hear 5 short extracts of people talking about First Aid in schools.
Read the statements below, then listen to the extracts and match each statement AG
to each speaker 15. There are 2 statements you do not need. You will hear the
recordings twice.
Speaker 1
I find children, on the whole, very responsible these days. That is why I believe we should
encourage their leadership skills. Im not talking about difficult or terribly challenging ideas.
I would like to see them equipped with a very basic tool. First Aid. All schools have some
emergency or the other almost every other day. Some child has fainted in class. Another child has
sprained her ankle playing football. Someone else has choked on her lunch.
Speaker 2
Many schools in several countries have introduced First Aid as part of the curriculum. If you
approach St Johns Ambulance Service they are happy to teach you how to administer first aid.
The teachers can decide on the kind of courses different age groups will take. At the end of it
you even get a certificate. That makes your grade sheets look very impressive. It really is a very
good thing for children to know how to handle an emergency.
Speaker 3
I was visiting my daughters school when I saw a medical emergency. One student had crashed
into the goal post. It looked like he had a head injury. He was bleeding. He was lying there
unconscious. I was amazed to see a student from Class X take control of the situation. He made
sure that nobody crowded around the boy so he wouldnt feel suffocated. Within seconds he
applied a cold compress to the boys wound. He also turned him to the side so he wouldnt
choke.
Speaker 4
I feel education is not only about reading, writing and arithmetic. Education is also about
teaching ourselves the value of life. First Aid saves lives. You are never too young to learn. First
Aid also teaches you team work. It teaches you that when you need to do something in an
emergency you have to work as partners and focus on the work at hand. That is a great attitude
which makes you an excellent student.
Speaker 5
I watched my friend giving first aid to my class teacher. She fell down the stairs and twisted
her ankle. She was in a lot of pain. My friend ran for some ice after asking me to gently place
my hand on her ankle. He applied the ice pack. The pain almost instantly began to subside.
My teacher was happy and proud that her student could do this all by himself. My friends
self-esteem shot to the stars!
Task 2
You will hear a girl and a boy talking about their study tour. Read the sentences below,
then listen to the conversation and choose A, B or C for each sentence. You will hear
Boy: Hi, Lata.
Girl: Hi, Sunder. I was looking for you. Teacher wants me to do a presentation to the class
on coral reefs.
Boy: Thats good. Its important that we are familiar with the ecology when we go to the
Maldives on our study tour.
Girl: Thats what I was thinking too.
Boy: You know Ive been to the Maldives on several trips with my father who works in
Tourism. Im sure I can help with the presentation, that is, if you want me to.
Girl: Of course! And really, thank you so much.
Boy: Why dont we go to class? I can use the blackboard so you can visualise the islands and
the ocean. Things are always clearer that way.
Girl: Excellent.
Boy: If I remember right, the Maldives is made up of at least a thousand coral islands spread
over a huge area. Some of these islands rise only a metre above sea level.
Girl: Wow!
Boy: There is what is known as a submarine ridge in the Indian Ocean where the Maldives is
situated. Ill draw it for you. It looks something like this. On top of this ridge you have live coral
reefs and sand bars.
Girl: Truly astonishing! Part of our study tour is actually seeing the reefs.
Boy: Of course we will have expert guides with us when we go down to the sea beds.
Girl: I cant wait to be there! What else can you tell me?
Boy: Maldives is the lowest country in the world. Beautiful no doubt, but a little frightening.
You see more water than land!
Girl: Arent there protected areas in the Maldives?
Boy: Im not very certain.
Girl: I do know for sure, though, that Maldives is the third most endangered nation.
Boy: Right! Straightaway we are looking at two issues.
Girl: Threat to coral reefs and climate change.
Boy: Exactly. Warmer waters will lead to rising sea levels. This will force the inhabitants to
move to safer places.
Girl: My grandmother wears a coral chain. But Im not sure I know what a coral reef is.
What really is a coral reef?
Boy: Coral reefs are colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters. They are built from stony
corals. They are often called the rainforests of the ocean. They provide a home for fish, mollusks,
worms, sponges, and other sea animals.
Girl: I have heard that coral reefs are fragile ecosystems.
Boy: Thats right. These reefs face threats from fishing, overuse of reef resources, pollution and
so on.
Girl: Thats quite a bit of information already. I think I will check a couple of websites and try
and get a complete picture. I can do a PowerPoint presentation after that.
Boy: You do that. And remember to give us some spicy information about the kind of food we
are going to eat. Also, the kind of clothes we should be wearing.
Girl: Will do. And Sunder, thanks again.
Boy: Youre welcome. Any time.
Task 3
You will hear a talk that spells out the benefits of vocational training in school. Read the
questions below, then listen to the extract and choose 4 of the options AG which are
correct. You will hear the recording twice.
Do you know that 90% of the jobs in India are skill based? What does this mean for young
people like you who will be in the job market a few years from now? The explanation is very
simple. Like the Prime Minister emphasised, India needs a literate youth who is, in addition,
skilled. Skills guarantee employment.
It becomes clearer, doesnt it, why we need to begin vocational training early enough. Vocational
training opens up opportunities for students in careers at various levels. Practical training in a
specific occupation, or what may be called a vocation, gives you hands on experience. It also gives
you the confidence to choose from various employment options. Some of these are nursing,
accountancy, pharmacology and lab technology.
Today CBSE offers around 35 vocational courses in the government and government aided
schools in the country. The plus point is that CBSE is working with industries to make sure that
the courses are relevant and good. You can choose to do your vocational training in Financial
Market Management or Hospitality and Tourism, Mass Media Studies and Media Production and
so on. You even get a certificate at the end of the course. What excellent training!
Many students in India look for jobs after they have completed school. Only a small percentage
goes for higher studies. Vocational training is indeed a boon to these students. By the time they
finish school, they have acquired both education and training. For those students who move on
to higher studies, vocational training gives them an idea of skills they are good at, or want to
develop. With this in mind they are able to choose subjects which will give them employability
in areas they like.
Many schools in India are opening up opportunities in vocational training. This will benefit
students greatly.
Task 4
You will listen to the speaker at a seminar on public transport in India. Read these
sentences, then listen to the speaker and complete these sentences in one or two
words only. You will hear the recording twice.
Buses carry more than 90 percent of public transport in Indian cities. Indeed, most Indian cities
have no rail transport at all and rely instead on a combination of buses, minivans, auto rickshaws,
cycle rickshaws, and taxis. The only exception is Mumbai, which has Indias most extensive
suburban rail network, carrying more than 5 million passengers a day. Kolkata and Delhi have
the underground metro system, Chennai has a hybrid surface and elevated metro, called Mass
Rapid Transport System, and Kolkata has Indias only remaining tram system.
The demand for public transport is rapidly rising. But we dont seem to be able to meet this
rising demand. Trains and buses in most cities are dangerously packed. On suburban rail lines in
Mumbai, peak-hour trains must carry more than twice their maximum design capacity, leading to
inhuman travelling conditions. On peak-hour trains, many passengers are forced to hang out of
doors and windows or to ride between train cars. Suburban trains and stations seem hopelessly
overcrowded and desperately need expanded capacity.
Buses in Indian cities are doubly disadvantaged. Buses themselves are seriously overcrowded,
with some passengers forced to ride on the outsides of vehicles. In addition, however, buses
must negotiate extremely narrow streets, having to fight with a mixed array of animal-drawn
carts, minivans, cars, taxis, motorized two-wheelers, auto rickshaws, pedestrians, cyclists, and
street vendors.
These congested conditions in public transport vehicles and stations, not only slow down travel
but make it outright dangerous. Tens of thousands of public transport passengers are killed or
injured every year in accidents. Many buses and trams do not even have doors and windows
that can be closed.
So what do we do?
Let me look at some basic methods by which we can meet the demand curve.
First of all, we need to invest in the system, both in terms of money and ideas and planning.
Second of all, we need to believe that public transportation is for all of us, and not only for those
who dont own cars. That way the very idea of public transportation enters the collective identity
of the Indian citizen. From there to jump to better efficiency in terms of transport and also in
terms of conserving fuel, doesnt seem difficult. Indeed it is possible to have a good system going
in the next 10 years.
A basic requirement would be infrastructure. Depots and stations must be well run, clean and
passenger friendly. Good lighting and security will give a big boost to the image of depots and
stations. People should be made to feel safe and welcome in clean, surroundings, with
good toilet facilities and drinking water.
Costing would be another major factor. Public Transport Corporations generally run at a loss.
Better management and improved efficiency will go a long way in making costs viable.
But most important, we must address the condition of the trains and buses, just as we address
concerns of road safety.
Key

1. Speaker 2 1. a A, C, D, E 1. combination
2. Speaker 4 2. c 2. conditions
3. Not Applicable 3. b 3. narrow
4. Not Applicable 4. c 4. friendly
5. Speaker 1 5. b 5. costs
6. Speaker 5 6. b
7. Speaker 3

Task 1
You will hear five short extracts in which young people talk about how they started
their own business at an early age. Read the statements below, then listen to the
extracts and match each statement AG to each speaker 15. There are two statements
you do not need. You will hear the recordings twice.
Speaker 1
People dont really take an eighteen-year-old very seriously. So I decided to work hard and tried
to prove myself through my work. It all began as a hobby and then it became a successful
business. The journey so far has been fantastic. I started Scribbles, an e-magazine for the youth,
when I was 17 with a group of four friends. None of us had any idea how to go about it. We had
to do everything by trial and error. But we learnt so many valuable lessons.
Speaker 2
During my school days, I saved my pocket money and donated it to orphanages. My mother is an
active social work volunteer in Mumbai. I believe I have been influenced by that. After I
completed my college and began working, it was but natural for me to help in worthy causes. I
realised education is the solution to all problems. So three friends and I set up an NGO that
offers free coaching classes in Maths and Science to needy children. We already have 25
children and the numbers are growing!
Speaker 3
Every entrepreneur faces hardships. You need to be patient. My parents and my friends are my
greatest cheerleaders. My dad is an industrialist. I have learnt so much about business from him.
He encouraged me to set up my own garage unit when I was 18 years old. I manufacture
handmade paper and handicrafts. Friends and neighbours bought my products at first. Now, a
leading retail store has signed me on for the next two years! What a feeling that is!
Speaker 4
I didnt want to finish my education to start executing my ideas. So I began when I was in college,
when there was less pressure on me academically. My friends and I wanted to be together without the
worry of spending too much money. We set up Youth Caf where young people meet, read books
and magazines and enjoy snacks at affordable rates. On weekends, we have discussions, book
readings or short film screenings. Theres no looking back on this idea of mine!
Speaker 5
Never underestimate the power to dream! I was always meddling at home, trying to understand
how things worked. In no time, I had my own little gadgets in the kitchen to chop onions
without tears, to knead chappathi dough just right or to whisk the lightest lassi ever! I started
giving them to friends as birthday gifts. Soon neighbours wanted them too. To be honest, some
of my ideas flopped and I did lose money. But the trick is to never stop dreaming!
Task 2
You will hear two people discussing a book. Read the sentences below, then listen to
the conversation and choose A, B or C for each sentence.
Speaker 1: Did you read the book Making A First Impression that was discussed by the Book
Club last week? I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Speaker 2: Whats the book about?
Speaker 1: Its all about the way we convey information about ourselves to people. Did you
know our words carry only 20% of our communication when we first meet someone? I didnt
know that the clothes we wear often decide whether we belong to a group or not. Ive decided to
pay more attention to my clothes.
Speaker 2: I dont agree with that. Do clothes really make a person?
Speaker 1: Well, they communicate a lot about us. Our choice of clothes and our words
together send out positive or negative signals.
Speaker 2: How does it matter when Im with friends?
Speaker 1: Havent you often complained that you were ignored at a party? Wellthe book
suggests that people avoid us if we dont look and behave like them...if we dont make an effort
to place ourselves in their comfort zone.
Speaker 2: Comfort zone? What does that mean?
Speaker 1: The writer asks us to relax and smile in the company of strangers. It isnt easy, but
he does provide a useful tip. He asks you to visualise a successful moment in your life. That
builds confidence. Then you begin to relax. Then smiling wont be such a difficult thing!
Speaker 2: I suppose not. I rarely smile in the company of strangers!
Speaker 1: Another thing the author insists on is good eye-contact. He says its absolutely vital
to effective communication. People trust those who look at them while talking.
Speaker 2: Holding eye contact during a conversation is a challenge for me!
Even if we are looking at them, dont we have to focus the conversation on the people we are
talking to, rather than on ourselves.
Speaker 1: Yes. The trick is to make people feel important. When they feel good
about themselves, theyll value the person who gave them the experience.
Speaker 2: Oh, I see! That makes sense. I avoid those who talk about themselves all the time!
Speaker 1: Thats right. The writer also tells you how to keep people talking. He asks us to
use open-ended questions.
Speaker 2: Open-ended questions?
Speaker 1: Questions like: How were the beaches in Goa? What was the weather like?
Did you enjoy the food? These questions encourage people to talk..
Speaker 2: I remember he says a compliment is a good conversation starter. Are there
other conversation openers?
Speaker 1: Wellyou could ask someone about a recent experience, maybe, show your
concern about some unpleasant experience theyve had. But dont upset or embarrass them.
Speaker 2: What do you do when someone answers your questions in monosyllables? How
do you get them to talk?
Speaker 1: Oh! The book suggests an excellent technique. Repeat the words in their answers
back to them. Make these words sound like questionsand people will start talking more
than they usually do!
Speaker 2: Any other tip?
Speaker 1: Yesand the author also recommends adding your views or experiences to that
short response and then asking the other person for his or her opinion. He gives you a good
example too:
Where are you going this summer?
Dehradun.
Dehradun I love that place! Have you been there before?
Speaker 2: Wow! You even remember the examples! I think I would like to read it. Could
I borrow it from you?
Speaker 1: Sure. Ill bring it for you tomorrow.
Task 3
You will hear a short lecture on courage. Read the questions below, then listen to
the extract and choose FOUR of the options AG which are correct. You will hear
Have you ever wondered what courage is? Courage is a mental state and gets its strength from
spiritual and intellectual sources. The way in which these elements are combined, produces
roughly the two types of courage. The first, an emotional state which urges a man to risk injury
or death is physical courage. We often hear of even young children exhibiting remarkable
physical courage. The newspapers report how a young boy saved his friend or brother from
drowning. The second, a more reasoning attitude which makes a person risk happiness, or his
whole future, on his judgement of what he thinks either right or worthy, is moral courage. This
kind of courage is often seen when a person takes a stand or a decision to oppose something they
feel is wrong, even though no one else supports their decision.
To be really great, a personor for that matter, a nationmust possess both kinds of courage.
All people have some degree of physical courage. Its surprising how much. Complete cowards
are almost non-existent. Many people will act in a very courageous way in an emergency.
Can courage be taught? In one sense, physical courage can be taught. To teach moral courage is
another matterand it has to be taught because so few, if any, have it naturally. Young people
can learn it from their parents, in their homes, from school and university, or from other early
influences.
So are all people equally courageous and do all nations exhibit the same kind of courage? Nations
vary in the amount of their courage, as well as in the type of courage exhibited. An important
component of courage is endurance. Courage is a long-term virtue. Anyone can be brave for a little
while. But to be able to remain brave in the face of certain defeat requires belief and patience.
Task 4
Listen to two people speaking at a seminar on the subject of alternative energy sources.
As you listen complete the sentences given with one or two words only.
Anu: Mr Jatin Sharma, I am happy to meet you at this seminar on energy conservation. What
made you set up Sun Power Energy Private Limited?
Jatin: I worked five years in Southeast Asia and learned a lot about the energy markets. I realised
that solar power was the only solution for our planets growing energy demands. I knew that in
India, because of unpredictable power cuts and rising fuel costs, we would benefit greatly by
tapping into the sun. That set me off.
Anu: But before selling in a brand new market, you needed to do a lot of research. How did you
go about that?
Jatin: Yes, it took time and a lot of hard work. I knew that if I could identify and establish a
target market, half the battle was won. I had the products but I needed to take it to the right
people. People who wanted to be rid of power crunches and rising fuel prices would be the
key. If they knew there was a long-term solution to their problems they would invest wisely.
Anu: Why did you choose to set up the company in Bengaluru?
Jatin: The two options were Bengaluru and Chennai! I chose the city where I grew up and
where I had a lot of contacts. It helped to open doors and meet people who were ready to
explore alternative energy solutions.
However, I have a pan-Indian expansion plan in place. I will be looking at the main metros ...
New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and a few other industrial cities.
Anu: How long before you open shop there?
Jatin: Well, to be honest, its important to be successful in a particular region, clear all the
teething troubles and understand the challenges properly...before moving forward. I dont want
to rush the pace and then burn my fingers, literally!
Anu: True. Tell me, what has the response been since you began in 2011?
Jatin: Its been phenomenal...I mean, we found many enlightened clients. They knew the
initial expenses were high, but they also knew it was the future. They wisely understood the
efficiency and long-term value of solar installations.
Anu: Which were the geographical zones you tapped and what is the cost of your products?
Jatin: Nearly half of our systems were sold to suburbs and smaller cities. Weve sold over 100
systems ranging between Rs 30, 000 to over Rs 2 lakh. We also find that several villages are
interested in our services.
Anu: Thats encouraging! As a young entrepreneur, did you ever have any doubts? You gave up
a good job in Southeast Asia and alternative energy is a new business in India.
Jatin: To be honest, money was never the issue. Ive always been environmentally conscious. I
have a one-point vision of creating a cleaner, greener India. I would like to create a global Indian
energy brand that can change the Indian economy!
Key

1. D 1. B A, D, F, G 1. powercuts
2. B 2. C 2. invest
3. F 3. A 3. enlightened
4. A 4. A 4. villages
5. G 5. B 5. energy brand
6. B
Class XI Code XI-L-01
Audio scripts and Answer key

Time: 45 min Max Marks: 20
Task 1 5 marks
You will hear five people talk about children in the media. Read the statements given
in your worksheet, then listen to the extracts and match each statement AG to each
speaker 15.There are two statements you do not need.
You will hear the recordings twice.
Speaker 1
Children working in films, advertisements or television shows miss out on daily school
life and they are bound to regret it. I mean, whats childhood without schooling? School
life develops a childs character and personality. At school, children not only develop their
cognitive skills, but through group interactions they learn how to adjust to one another,
resolve conflicts and develop social and emotional maturity. Thats probably one of the
reasons why we insist our children have a right to education, isnt it?
Speaker 2
Im sure youll agree with me when I say talent shows are very challenging... physically as
well as mentally. And we actually put children through them regularly. Its really too much.
Imagine the pressures of facing a cameraa live studio audience and endless elimination
rounds...especially on days when you dont feel up to it. Then theres the pressure of dealing
with a tough panel of judges made up of Indias Whos WhoIts so difficult on an adult, let
alone a child!
Speaker 3
I dont think children have a choice in the matter, you know. Its all because of family
pressure. I know of several instances where youngsters stand before the camera only due
to ambitious parents. They heap their unrealised hopes and wishes on the child and dream
of success...of making it big. Today, that means becoming rich and famous. The spiral of
unending greed makes parents ruthless and manipulative. And more often than not, they
spend the money faster than its earned.
Speaker 4
I wish somebody would conduct a study on this. Do you know the number of hours child
artistes work in a day? Have you seen their work contracts? Their work terms and conditions
are never clearly defined or communicated at the outset. So children get exploited when it
comes to the hours of work they put in, the number of performances they must complete
and the amount they are paid for it. Most importantly, does anyone care about the childrens
personal safety?
Speaker 5
This is an ever-present danger and nobody really cares. I worry about actors handling success
at a tender age. You know, being a celebrity is a complex experience. Children are too young
to understand that their celebrity status can be momentary. They may not be able to cope
with real life once the popularity, the money or the fuss decline. Such difficult emotional and
psychological tests can scar them for life. Havent we seen it happen to countless child stars
around the world?
Task 2 6 marks
You will hear two students talk about childrens fashion. Read the sentences given
in your worksheet, then listen to the conversation and choose a, b or c for each
sentence.
Boy: Hi, Paro! Thats a nice outfit you are wearing!
Girl: Thanks, Siddu! I designed it myself!
Boy: Really? Do you design clothes only for yourself?
Girl: Yes. At the moment! I hope to do a course in fashion designing in college and then open
my own studio.
Boy: Thats nice! I was wondering, Paro... do you feel children today are getting very
conscious of their looks and clothes?
Girl: Of course they are, Siddu! Thanks to all the ads and TV programmes, its all about new
brands, new styles, the latest designs, and colours and cuts that matter.
Boy: Exactly! Why do you think this is happening?

Girl: I think its because youngsters today dont want to be left behind. They want to fit in and
be accepted, you know? They want to look as smart as their friends or their favourite
media stars. Parents too, with rising incomes, only want the best for themselves as well
as their children!
Boy: I agree. And what with these fancy new malls in every city, you know, the big stores
located in bigger shopping complexes as well as the wonderful online shopping offers,
buyings never been made so easy before!
Girl: Yes. I agree. And it just shows childrens fashion has arrived to stay!
Boy: Yes...its become a huge industry in itself, hasnt it?
Girl: Absolutely! We already have so many international clothes lines in the country. And
they all have their miniature versions targetting children.
Boy: Whats miniature version, Paro?
Girl: Well, havent you seen shop windows with mannequins of adults and a child? The
father, mother and child wear identical designs and colours...the same clothes...just a
smaller version!
Boy: Yes! Ive seen that! But, what about our own designers? Do they create clothes for
children too?
Girl: Thats an interesting question, Siddu. I read an article about it recently. Do you know
childrens wear by Indian designers is really different?
Boy : Hows that?
Girl : Well...unlike their international counterparts, Indian designers are very particular
about using organic fibres, because they believe thats best for the climate and the skin.
So the feel of the cloth, the texture, is most important to them. And we all know what a
variety we have from each state of our country. Its a real gold mine!
Boy: Yes. Of course!
Girl: Another thing that sets our designers apart is that their childrens outfits are clothes
which children can live in. Not only are they comfortable, but theyre also easy to
maintain, you know? Theyre all about wash-and-wear.
Boy: I see your point....makes complete sense in a hot country like ours.
Girl: Yes. And another thing is our home-grown designers are coming up with ways in which
dressing can be fun! They are taking ideas from characters in our fables and mythology.
Today, many mother-turned-designer entrepreneurs have added so much creativity to

the designing of childrens clothes.
Boy: Really! Thats interesting to know! But...tell me...how do our designers stand in the face
of competition from international designers?
Girl: Well...theyre doing just fine! And thats because they are closely in tune with their
buyers. These people know how we think and have a finger on the Indian pulse, you
know? They know all our festivals, celebrations and the way we like to dress up!
Boy: Youre right! Come to think of it, our festivals are so full of life and colour...maybe
thats why our prints and clothes are so distinctive!
Task 3 4 marks
You will hear a speech on peer education. Read the statements given in your worksheet,
then listen to the extract and choose four of the options AG which are correct. Write
the correct letters in the blank boxes.
Good morning, friends! Its a pleasure to be with you, to share my thoughts on the benefits of
peer education.
What is peer education? I would describe it as an effort by young people from a similar age
group or social background to educate and inform each other on a wide variety of subjects. It
is a form of role modelling values or behaviour that benefits a larger group.
Why do we need peer education? Its rather obvious, isnt it? Peers are friends who share the
same life experiences. They are friends who can be trusted. Therefore, the information or
advice they share is bound to be relevant and honest. Young people are more receptive to their
peers and willing to absorb lessons from them.
Today, the benefits of peer teaching are being widely recognised and accepted because of their
positive outcomes. For instance, when young people take charge of their learning, it allows
qualities like commitment, loyalty and idealism to grow. Empathy and responsibility are two
other valuable outcomes from dealing with peer group challenges and problems.
Letting students help themselves increases self-worth. Peer mentors are willing to go the
extra mile for their friends. They want to make things happen. They want their friends to win.
The encouragement and faith helps low achievers become active and confident learners. The
change happens from within and thats really fantastic, isnt it?
I have no doubt about it. When equals talk to each other without being judgemental and
decide on a course of action, it triggers deep-rooted behavioural change. Peer discussions are
thus, a safe, yet dynamic way of learning and growing from shared experience.
I hope your peer education initiatives meet with the same outstanding success!
Good luck and thank you once again for the opportunity of sharing my views on this
topic today!
Task 4 5 marks
You will listen to two students, a boy and a girl, debate about reading e-books and
printed books. Read the sentences, then listen to the speakers and complete the sentences
with one or two words only.
Girl: If you had to choose between an e-book and a printed book, what would it be, Nitin?
Boy: Well...I really love reading...nothing excites me more than settling down in my favourite
corner with a new book! My idea of heaven would be a room lined with bookshelves...
bursting with books to be read....printed books only! Thats the only thing I would wish for,
Shoba!
Girl: But...who has that kind of space and time? Actually, Im quite excited about these new
books...the ones that can be read on screen. Its amazing! A new kind of reading has arrived!
What a boon for the book lover who can read efficiently without having to carry heavy
volumes about...to me, the fact that books are easily portable with a reading device makes it a
heaven-sent gift!
Boy: That may be, Shoba, but I dont think your kind of books can replace real books...never!
Theres something to be said about the texture of a book in your hands, isnt there? Think of
the charm of spending time just gazing at the cover of a book. Dont tell me you didnt do that
as a child? Can you ever do the same thing with an e-book? I am sure not!
Girl: I dont think you get it at all, Nitin. You see, e-books are a sign of changing times.
They are the best friends of todays reader... they are topping sales around the world. This IS
the trend, you know...and studies show that it will continue to grow. Today, you can browse
thousands of books in the digital format...and select the ones you want...in just a flash! Thats
another reason why they are so popular worldwide.
Boy: Well...trends change as fast as they are formed...Let me tell you from experience,
children cannot be encouraged to read unless it holds their attention. As a child, I felt each
book was a personal invitation extended only to me by the author... every detail of the book...
the design, the illustrations, the story...all made a connection to ME. I cant see this ever
happening with an e-book...They are so impersonal...they just dont have a voice, let alone
an appealing presence!
Girl: Theres nothing to say that e-books cant be beautiful! After all, its still a growing
medium with really creative and talented artists and designers involved in it. Theres no
reason why the potential of books on screen cant be further explored and developed. I firmly
believe the only way forward is e-books. What a world of knowledge the reader has easy
access to twenty-four seven...with just the simple click of a button!
Boy: Shoba, youve got to admit it. Virtual reading is a fleeting experience...it can never
linger in your mind. A real book is something sacred and to be treasured. It has lasting value.
I would say a real book appeals to the senses and satisfies the soul. Nothing can replace that
experience.
Girl: Oh well! We have our preferences and nothings going to change that, huh? Each to his
or her own!
Key

5 marks 6 marks 4 marks 5 marks
A - Speaker 4 1. b A 1. portable
B- 2. c C 2. texture
C - Speaker 5 3. b E 3. browse
D - Speaker 1 4. c G 4. connection
E - Speaker 3 5. a 5. lasting value
F - 6. b
G - Speaker 2


Task 1 5 marks
You will hear five short extracts of people talking about different types of tourism.
Read the statements given in your worksheet, then listen to the extracts and match each
statement AG to each speaker 15. There are two statements you do not need.
Speaker 1
People travel for different reasons. I travel because I love exploring new areas which are
not only scenically beautiful but also provide opportunities for exciting physical sports, like
mountaineering, trekking, skiing or river-rafting. Luckily for me, I dont have to worry too
much about company. I travel along with a group of four like-minded friends. We enjoy
travelling to a new destination every year. Instead of staying in hotels, we camp in tents. This
makes for a complete experience!
Speaker 2
With tourism really opening up in India, I look for the best options available. Many tour
operators promote group tourism to a variety of attractive destinations around the country.
Their itineraries include places where tourists can get a glimpse of the culture, tradition and
lifestyle of the region, along with an opportunity to interact with the locals. I have undertaken
several such trips with my family, especially during unusual events that occur once in a
couple of years.
Speaker 3
My idea of travel might seem a little away from the beaten path, but I wont have it any other
way! A few friends and I travel not for personal comfort or pleasure, but to work with local
communities. We choose destinations that are remote and underdeveloped. We work as
volunteers on various outreach programmes set up by NGOs. Digging wells, teaching local
children or women or working for the environmentthey have provided more memorable
experiences than a regular holiday could ever do.
Speaker 4
Medical tourism has probably become one of the biggest stimuli for travel. India offers the
latest and the most advanced medical facilities and treatments at very affordable rates. This
attracts people from all around the world. The governments visa-on-arrival schemes and
availability of budget accommodation and also knowledge of English contribute to a positive
travel experience. Experts predict that the annual growth of medical tourism in India is likely
to grow steadily, making it an extremely profitable industry in the country.
Speaker 5
Ever heard of food taking people places? A friend of mine described an extraordinary food
safari he went on while travelling abroad. This is a new concept of travel, with dedicated tours
to please the palate. He said chefs and restaurant managers not only spoil visitors with mouth-
watering food and recipes, but also entertain them with anecdotes and interesting insights into
the historical and cultural significance of local food. I accompanied him on one such journey
last year. What a culinary adventure it was!
Task 2 6 marks
You will hear two students talking about voting rights for teenagers. Read the sentences
given in your worksheet, then listen to the conversation and choose a or b or c for
each sentence.
Boy: I feel the voting age for teenagers should be lowered to sixteen years. There is no major
difference between a sixteen-year-old and an eighteen-year-old. In fact, I feel many sixteen-
year-olds are more sensible than some twenty-year-olds. After all, they have a say in deciding
the future of their country too!
Girl: Well, I partly agree with you on this, being a sixteen-year-old myself! But there must be
some wisdom behind granting teenagers the right to vote only when they turn eighteen. I feel
waiting a couple of years more to vote isnt such a bad thing. There is a time and age for every
right to be gained, isnt it? Be it getting a driving license, joining the armed forces or voting
rights. The thing is, voting involves complex decision making. The mind needs to be really
mature for it. It makes sense to keep it as one of the last rights to be gained.
Boy: Whats the harm in learning about our countrys democratic processes early in life?
It makes sense to involve future citizens like us in the countrys affairs from an early age.
Whats wrong in giving us the right to be part of the electorate? Its good to learn about
managing the countrys affairs from the age of sixteen. Its good for democracy and its good
for us sixteen-year-olds. In fact, the chances are higher well make wise decisions by the time
we reach twenty one!
Girl: Im not speaking for myself, but tell me, do all sixteen-year-olds really follow politics or
care about voting? They may have an opinion but not enough knowledge. All they would do is
ask their parents or best friend who they are voting for and that opinion will become his or her
own view! Wouldnt that be a terrible waste of voting rights?
Boy: Im not saying that wont happen, but dont adults do the same thing too? The members
of a household will definitely influence each other on who they should vote for. It happens all
the time in every part of the world, Im sure.
Girl: Another point is, sixteen-year-olds are not yet ready for real-world responsibilities. They
are rebellious and angry most of the time. I was recently reading some research that said that
the brains of young adults are not fully mature. To give them a right to vote can be dangerous.
They may vote somebody in for all the wrong reasons...a famous celebrity who may not know
how to rule the country, rights issues that appeal to the angry young teenager...none of them
will really help the nation.
Boy: But if you dont engage with teenagers early enough and empower them through a
democratic right, to influence decision-making, you are never going to inspire them to get
involved in our democracy. Youth issues are best represented by the youth themselves.
Girl: I agree, but they must be educated and well-informed to be able to do that. Its only
when you are a working member of society that you are ready to explore your rights with
responsibility and conviction. There is a time and a place for everything! I think its best we
leave it at that!
Task 3 4 marks
You will hear a speech by an expert on internships. Read the statements given in
your worksheet, then listen to the extract and choose four of the options AG which
are correct. Write the correct letters in the blank boxes provided. You will hear the
recording twice.
Who is an intern and what does interning demand of you?
Wellinterns are usually college or university students, but school students can be interns
too.
Interns are trainees who work, often without pay, in order to gain work experience or to meet
qualification requirements for a particular profession. So an internship is on-the-job training
without too many perks!
Most of you choose your subjects in high school after a lot of thought and discussion. But have
you had misgivings about what you are studying for? Whether you have made the right choice
or not? Dont worry. This is quite normal. Let me explain.
My childhood dream was to become a doctor. I worked as a volunteer in my fathers friends

clinic. I realised I was chasing an impossible dream. I caught a glimpse into the demanding
life of a medical professional. The smell of medicines and disinfectants caused headaches and
nausea. I knew I couldnt take this every day. I wondered how my parents would react to the
news. But, it was an important decision I had to take.
Today, when they see me as a successful entrepreneur, they are happy for me. And it was an
internship that helped me find my true path
Interning is a great way to find a career that suits your personality. Its the perfect opportunity
to identify what you will like doing for the rest of your working life. Grab any opportunity
that you can get to intern at clinics, offices or studios. Look for organisations where
volunteers are accepted.
Please dont think it is wasted effort. Whether you pursue your dream career or change
your decision, internships make your resum stand out. It speaks of your motivation and
willingness to workyou gain confidence and learn how to adapt in a challenging and
dynamic world.
Task 4 5 marks
You will listen to two students, a boy and a girl, debate about advertising and its impact.
Read the statements given in your worksheet, then listen to the speakers and complete
the sentences with one word only. You will hear the recording twice.
Boy: I personally believe advertising is a waste of precious time and money. Advertisers
compete with one another all the time, exaggerating the quality of their products and trying to
tempt and confuse prospective buyers.
Girl: On the contrary, I think advertisers are doing a great service. They inform people about
new products. They dont force people to buy things. Surely people know their own minds.
And remember, competition is healthy because it offers more choices and keeps prices in
check.
Boy: Not all buyers are as alert as you think. Most shoppers buy things because of sheer
temptation and regret it later.
Girl: You cant blame advertising for that. Organisations around the world want to become
more visible or make profits. Thats the way it works. Dont we all look at advertisements in
newspapers or magazines? Information about admissions to different colleges, vacancies for
jobs and property for sale must reach the wider public. So, whats wrong with advertising
goods and services for the same reasons?
Dont forget, this industry has helped the economy by generating revenue and employment
opportunities for millions.
Boy: Would you say the same of fast food chains that serve children junk food? We all know
they advertise food which lacks nutritive valueis addictiveand causes health problems.
What about the toy industry? A vast range of overpriced toys for young children or violent
video games for the youth are specially advertised to catch their attention and increase a desire
for them. Children nag their parents into buying the products at any cost. Is this ethical? Does
it reflect a sense of moral responsibility?
Girl: Your concerns are genuine. But parents raise their children with the right values from
their early years. Schools too train youngsters to cope with social pressures by integrating life
skills and value education into the curriculum. All these are bound to have a positive effect on
children.
Boy: How can you expect children to resist persuasive advertising? Unlike adults, children do
not possess critical thinking skills. They cannot make informed decisions. They can be easily
manipulated to accept new values designed only for profits. I honestly feel advertising must be
regulated. We need laws to prevent advertisers from marketing potentially harmful products.
Girl: Youll be glad to know that most governments have already passed laws which direct
food companies to use healthy and nutritious ingredients in their products and not to mislead
the public by hiding information.
Boy: Thats good news, indeed. I feel governments should also restrict the number of
advertisements on television and radioIts the commercial breaks that affect peoples minds
about brands, brand value and popular culture.
Girl: I know, but television channels can raise money only by selling space for commercials.
They cant manage operations otherwise. In fact, even governments look for outside
sponsorship of national eventsthe Commonwealth Games are an example.
Boy: No matter what, we have a moral duty to protect young minds from brand wars that
creep into schools, offices, streets, homes, and families.
Girl: Well, dont forgetIndia has improved literacy rates and wiped out polio because of
innovative media promotion. They can reach millions of people even in the remotest parts of
the country. So every black cloud has a silver lining!
Key

A - Speaker 4 1. a A 1. competition
B- 2. b B 2. temptation
C - Speaker 5 3. c D 3. critical thinking
D - Speaker 1 4. a F 4. commercial breaks
E- 5. b 5. literacy
F - Speaker 3 6. a
G - Speaker 2


Task 1 5 marks
You will hear five short extracts of people talking about the benefits of learning music.
Read the statements given in your worksheet, then listen to the extracts and match each
statement AG to each speaker 15. There are two statements you do not need.
Speaker 1
No wonder children who learn music do so well. By understanding beat, rhythm, and scales,
it is said children learn how to add, divide, recognise patterns and better understand areas of
Maths and basic Physics. Recent studies show music helps students do better in standardised
tests. Apparently, music develops the left side of the brain, which processes language and
reasoning, and it can actually wire the brains circuits in specific ways to help students
achieve higher grades in high school. Thats really fantastic, isnt it?
Speaker 2
I recently read that learning instrumental music promotes several skills in children. Thats
because they have to coordinate the movement of hands, arms, and feet. For instance,
keyboard instruments like the piano demand different actions from the right and left hand
simultaneously. (laughs) Its like patting your head and rubbing your belly at the same
time! Training in instruments helps develop ambidexterity and trains children to become
comfortable in uncomfortable positions. The mastery they achieve, thus fosters multiple skills
and competencies.
Speaker 3
Band classes reinforce a sense of cooperation and shared goals. If a child plays an instrument
too loudly or too quickly in a band, he will need to correct himself immediately. The shift
from I MeMy performance to WeUsOur performance happens automatically. For an
orchestra to sound good, all the players must play their part well at the same time. The effort
to synchronise musical instruments, makes them sensitive to each other. They realise how
each one contributes to the team.
Speaker 4
Music teaches children about delayed satisfaction. To make a single sound on the violin,
you must first learn how to hold the violin, where to place your chin and how to hold the
bow. Children must persist through intensive practice before they reach specific goals, like
performing a solo piece or with an orchestra. The daily training to reach a certain standard
takes time, patience and effort. When they finally achieve that goal, their sense of pride and
achievement is immeasurable.
Speaker 5
Group music classes offer a forum where children learn to accept and give constructive
criticism. Turning negative opinions into positive change helps build self-confidence.
Combined lessons help children understand that nobody is perfect, and that everyone has
room for improvement. This creates a sense of acceptance and togetherness. Students
appreciate it when they are heard and understood by others. They are inspired by one
anothers effort. They motivate one another to do well and excel.
Task 2 6 marks
You will hear a conversation between a student and a counsellor about career choices.
Read the sentences given in your worksheet, then listen to the conversation and choose
a or b or c for each sentence.
Counsellor: Good morning! How can I help you?
Student: Good morning! Thank you for meeting me at short notice. You see, I need to take
the right decision about my choice of subjects in Class XI. And I dont know what to do after
Class XII. I feel rather confused about the way ahead.
Counsellor: Dont worry. Thats common with students of your age. Have you been able to
narrow down a list of options?
Student: No, I havent.
Counsellor: Thats alright. Why dont we start with what you dont want to do?
Student: Well, my parents want me to take Science with Biology. We are a family of doctors.
But I dont see myself following that path. All my peers are taking up Sciencethey say its
the best choice. But I dont want to do the same thingsI wantsomething different.
Counsellor: I dont think you should let your peers force you or affect you negatively. You
should give yourself time.
Lets think of the subjects you might enjoy studying. Tell me, which classes hold your
attention at school?
Student: Well, I love literature and reading...And yes, Im quite interested in photography
but theyre obviously not subjects you can study exclusively at school. Im really not sure
what to pursue in order to build a career!
Counsellor: Hmmmthats a varied set of interests.
Student: The question is what will I be able to do with such mixed interests?
Counsellor: We can work it out. Dont worry. Each one of us is unique in our potential.
MmmmYou said you liked reading. Do you also like to write?
Student: Yes! I often contribute to the school magazine. I love my English classes! And my
grades have always been good in English.
Counsellor: How would you like to try photojournalism?
Student: Photojournalism?! You meanI can make a living out of taking pictures and
writing about them?
Counsellor: Wella photojournalist is a visual reporter of facts. He combines the best of

a writer and a photographer. You wouldnt be tied down to a desk. Youd be on your own,
visiting places of interest, taking pictures and writing stories. An arts education will prepare
you to face the challenge.
Student: Hmm...Ive never thought of this before. But, what stream will I have to study for it?
Counsellor: You could take up any stream in Class XIeven humanities. In college, may be
you could do a degree in professional photography and learn the art of conveying messages
through pictures.
Student: Hmm, that sounds good. But what if I dont take to photojournalism later?
Counsellor: Well you could always review your options at that time. Switch to print
journalism since you are good at writing. Advertising or Mass Media could be other lucrative
options. You never know what new directions you might take...so be flexible and open-
minded.
Student: Thats very true. Youve given me a lot of food for thought. I shall research and
build my knowledge on it first. Thank you!
Counsellor: Youre welcome! You can contact me again if you need to discuss anything
further.
Task 3 4 marks
You will hear a book report by a student. Read the statements given in your worksheet,
then listen to the extract and choose four of the options AG which are correct. Write
the correct letters in the blank boxes provided. You will hear the recording twice.
Hello, friends!
This vacation, I thoroughly enjoyed a book called Hot Tea Across India by Rishad Saam
Mehta. He is an engaging travel writer and photographer who provides a new spin to the cup
that cheers.
The book opens with these lines: If there is one certainty about roads in India, it is thatno
matter where you are or what the hour isif you want a cup of tea, youll find a tea stall
within a few kilometres.
The drink is the link to a series of funny, dangerous, thought-provoking and surprising
adventures Mehta goes through while travelling all over India.
Mehta loves driving and a major part of the book covers his travels in the Himalayas
perhaps a bit too much of the book covers this part of his visit, because it leaves very little
room for the other places, especially the southern and eastern parts of the country. His
experiences on the steep routes had me almost wishing I could have done the same! An
experience at the Raid-de-Himalayas had me holding my breath till the very end of the tale!
Mehta is like a dear friend spinning tall tales of all the places he has been to. A part of you
knows that some of the stories are just a bit over the topbut hes so funny and so sincere
you cant help laughing anyway!
Mehtas fascinating tour from Manali to Munnar, the Rann of Kutch to Khajuraho, offers a
wonderful combination of wit, warmth and insight. If you enjoy travelling, you will love this
book. If you enjoy drinking tea, you will be entertained a lot more. If you do neither, then you
will still be enchanted by the books delightfully lighthearted tone and the splendid landscapes
it captures.
Task 4 5 marks
You will hear two students debating about online education. Read the sentences given in
your worksheet, then listen to the conversation and complete the sentences with one or
two words only. You will hear the recording twice.
Boy: Hello, friends. I will be speaking to you today about online learning and its key benefits.
Girl: Hello, everybody. I will be supporting the time-tested methods of regular schooling and
why virtual learning can never come close to it in impact.
Boy: Well, I think online education is a far better option than traditional education because
you dont have to be in a fixed place at a fixed time in order to study, you know.
Girl: Classroom teaching needs the discipline of a set place and time for study. It offers far
more than a virtual world. I strongly believe the teacher-student interaction is what makes all
the difference. It is this connection that triggers actual learning and growth. And, speaking
about interactions, what about lab classes? Can you study the sciences without hands-on
laboratory training?
Boy: Oh, alternatives can be found for that. Online education has far too many advantages
to be dismissed. Think of the flexibility it allows. Think of those who work or cant attend
regular schoolwont they be benefitted by an online medium of study? Im convinced its
definitely more convenient and economical as well.
Girl: It may be a more practical option, but we still cant do away with the teacher, especially
in the younger years of schooling. In fact, I strongly believe the school teachers influence can
never be replicated by a cold electronic medium. Who will feel the pulse of student emotions
and reactions? Who will respond to their doubts and problems? Who will motivate and inspire
them to reach higher and farther?
Boy: Online tutors can coach and clear doubts at the pace the students set for themselves.
They can even counsel and guide whenever required.
Lets look at other issuesfor instance, the problem of space. Traditional schools limit the
number of student admissions due to non-availability of seats. They say you also have to live
within a certain area for admission into a particular school.
The virtual classroom does nothing of that kind. Anyone who has a genuine passion for
learning can apply. Students can explore any subject without the discomfort of cramped
classrooms or fear of ridicule or peer pressure of any kind.
Girl: That is precisely my point. The classroom trains students to deal with challenging
situations all the time. School will teach you how to take risks and assert yourself today in the
classroom, so you are equipped to face the real world tomorrow. It may be easier to receive an
education sitting behind a screen, but of what use is it if it deprives students of important life
skills?
Boy: E-learning encourages independent thinking and thats very important for life. But in an
actual classroom, I feel it is the teachers point of view that overshadows everything else.
Girl: Wellall I can say is there are advantages and disadvantages to every type of learning
environment. Technology might determine the future of how education is delivered. But we
must always think of student needsand what will equip him or her best in their journey
through life
Key

A - Speaker 3 1. b B 1. Actual learning
B 2. a D 2. flexibility
C Speaker 5 3. c E 3. influence
D Speaker 1 4. c G 4. space
E 5. b 5. life skills
F Speaker 4 6. a
G Speaker 2

Task 1 5 marks
You will hear five short extracts of people talking about positive thinking. Read the
statements given in your worksheet, then listen to the extracts and match each statement
AG to each speaker 15. There are two statements you do not need.
Speaker 1
I think its yoga that helps me stay positive. I never believed what was said about its benefits
until I began practising it myself. While it has built my flexibility and muscle tone, the best
benefits I feel have been to my mind. I used to suffer from a sleep disorder that kept me
awake all night. This drove me to yoga. Deep breathing cleared my mind and relaxed me
totally. I enjoy better focus and concentration and face challenges calmly and sensibly.
Speaker 2
The perfect analogy is to compare the mind to a garden. Both need constant care and
monitoring or they can become a wilderness beyond control. If you tend it with beautiful
plants, it will be a place of beauty and comfort. Similarly, if you fill your mind with positive
thoughts, your mind will be peaceful and relaxed. You will lead a happy and prosperous life.
If neglected, then negative thoughts, like weeds, will creep in and affect your peace of mind.
Speaker 3
Show me your friends and I will tell you who you are, said a wise man. And I think he is
absolutely right. Good friends can form your mind and character. If you surround yourself
with positive people who always see a rainbow behind the clouds, you will automatically
think on the same lines. You can break the negative spiral of worry or fear by talking to a
friend who puts things in perspective and gives you constructive advice and support.
Speaker 4
If ever there was a pessimistic person who walked the earth, it was me. I always felt I was
the victim. I blamed everything and everybody else but myself. Luckily, I was able to check
this negative trend. I realised it was my attitude that needed to change. Was my life really half
empty or half full? Werent there blessings I could count in my life? Of course, it was not an
overnight change but I took responsibility and worked on my attitude to life.
Speaker 5
Did you know that it takes more muscles to frown than to smile? What a difference it makes
to see a happy face than a grumpy one, right? A smile can certainly change anyones mood
and relieve stress. So its good to try and see something funny in your daily routine and
chuckle over it to yourself. And if you can spread the good feelings, then share it with others
and make them enjoy the ridiculous. See how popular you become in your circle of friends!
Task 2 6 marks
You will hear a boy and a girl talking about their career choices. Read the sentences
given in your worksheet, then listen to their conversation and choose a or b or c
for each sentence.
Girl: Hello, Ashok! How are you? The Board exams are almost done, arent they?
Boy: Hello, Keya! Yes! Just one more to go and then Im free!
Girl: So, what are you planning to do after your Board exams, Ashok?
Boy: Well, I want to continue in sports. Now that Im a national level archery champion, its
my dream to represent India at the Olympics. Ive been training since I was ten years old, you
know. And Ive enjoyed every bit of it! Some people take up sports as a career for easy money
and fame but I have a passion for it. What are your plans for the future, Keya?
Girl: Oh! I want to study law. Im good at public speaking and have strong analytical skills.
However, my parents want me to be a doctor or an IT professional. They think that law is
dominated by men and is too demanding a profession for girls.
I know its a challenging profession and requires intelligence, presence of mind and lots and
lots of hard work. But Im prepared for that. In fact, I would like to take up cases in support of
the rights of citizens. But most importantly, for women and their cause.
Boy: Thats great, Keya! Im sure youll be a successful lawyer. No one can ever win a debate
against you in school!
Girl: (laughs) Thanks! Tell me, Ashok. Are your parents willing to send you to a sports
training institute?
Boy: Not at the moment! My parents dont want me to take up sports as a career. They think
sport has a risky future. I dont blame them. Its not easy to become famous in an individual
sport like archery! In a regular job, you can work till youre sixty, whereas, a sportsman has
to retire as soon as he loses his fitness or his form. He cant support a family if his career in
sports ends abruptly. Now, if I were as good at cricket(laughs) that would be a different
story!
Girl: (laughs) Of course! But I dont agree entirely with you. Life doesnt need to stop after
retirement, you know. You can open your own academy or become a professional trainer
Its really unfortunate, isnt it? We are such a large country yet we have only a handful of
successful sportsmen and women.
Boy: Yes, thats true. I think its more because we dont take sports training seriously.
We have very few world class training institutes with professional coaches. The fees
for specialised coaching is so high that only a handful can afford it. I wish we had more
sponsors to bear the training expenses. But things are changingthe development of sports
infrastructure and the training of national champions is slowly picking up. And its showing in
our performances at international sports meets.
Girl: Hmmmbut we still have a long way to go! I have to go now, Ashok. Nice talking to
you. All the best to you! I hope you can convince your parents and pursue your dreams. Bye!
Boy: Thanks, Keya! Good luck to you too!
Task 3 4 marks
You will hear a student talk about the right attitude to life. Read the statements given
in your worksheet, then listen to the extract and choose four of the options AG which
are correct. Write the correct letters in the blank boxes provided. You will hear the
recording twice.
Hello everyone!
For todays peer meeting, I was asked to share a few experiences that have shaped my attitude
to life. Believe me, its a story worth sharing.
Let me be frankI wasnt always the perfect student. In fact, I was the perfect rebel! They
say negative thoughts make one negative. That was so true where I was concerned. I had to
argue about everything. I couldnt listen, understand or do as I was told. I believed that life
was so easy for my elder brother whereas I...I had problems that always weighed me down...
condemned me to misery. I felt even my pet dog Chip preferred my brother to me!
One day, I spoke to my brother. How did he remain so cheerful while I always felt miserable?
What trick did he know that made Chip like him more than me?
My brother looked at me. Do you want to carry a pebble or a boulder all your life? he asked
me. Do you want to blame me, Chip, or everybody else but you? Choose now! he insisted.
Choose NOW and even Chip will know the difference, he challenged.
I looked at Chip and whistled at him. Was it really about negative energy? I whistled and
tossed a pebble in the air. Chip was up in a second. Just like that. Positive action...positive
reaction.
I used this energy to beat restless, anxious, or lazy states of mind. Choose now! Choose
right! I kept telling myself whenever I felt tense or cornered. And I began to smile
Somebody once told me, Its worse losing your smile than your wallet! Its true, you know.
Ive seen how my decisions have changed my life. The right attitude is in your hands, friends.
You can be a burden to others or a source of light and inspiration. Its up to you. Choose now!
Choose right!
Thank you.
Task 4 5 marks
You will hear two students, a boy and a girl, debating the issue of restrictions on the
use of private vehicles. Listen to the debate and complete the sentences with one or two
Boy: Good morning! Today, I stand before the house to speak on the topic Do we need
restrictions on the use of private vehicles?
There is no ambiguity in my stand. Yes, we do. We need to do it fast and we need to do it now.
Traffic congestion and increasing pollution levels have become a matter of grave concern
in our cities and towns. Unless steps are taken to fight this, the quality of life of the average
citizen is sure to be affected. Traffic jams are a nightmare in metropolitan cities. They disrupt
normal life, extend working hours and cause unnecessary stress. They are mainly responsible
for increasing incidents of road rage and road accidents.
Steps must be taken to restrict the number of cars on our roads, as is being done in other
countries like Singapore, Mexico, Greece and China. In fact, not only should we discourage
the use of private vehicles, we should also introduce a ban on new car purchases.
Girl: Good morning, friends! I am surprised that my dear friend can even suggest such an
idea in todays scenario. We cannot place restrictions on the purchase and use of private
vehicles. In fact, I strongly believe personal transport has become an absolute necessity. It
is no longer a luxury of the rich and famous. As cities are growing, the distance between
peoples homes and workplaces is also increasing. This creates a greater dependency on
transport.
Moreover, flexible work hours give people the option of travelling after the morning rush
hour, and this eases congestion on the roads. So, why should we think of restricting private
vehicles?
I agree with my opponent that traffic problems are a cause for concern but better planning
with newer and better roads, as well as staggered school and work timings, can address the
issue.
Boy: My worthy opponent thinks that better planning is the perfect solution. To what extent?
And for how long?
We have constructed so many flyovers and launched a costly metro service too, but the traffic
hasnt eased. The addition of new cars every day only adds to our woes. And, have you
thought about the huge oil imports that damage Indias economy just to meet our transport
needs?
Our road systems are already overburdened. A prosperous middle class and the availability
of affordable cars are only going to make things worse. The use of private vehicles must be
restricted. And the time for that is NOW!
Girl: My worthy opponent is absolutely right in worrying about the consequences of rising
traffic. But better planning also means improving the public transport system, increasing car
parking charges and raising taxes on cars. Why cant we encourage the use of bicycles or
make car pools more popular? Thats the best way forward.
The problem is global but the solutions can be local. We can find our own answers to tackle
the traffic menace. And the answers can be found without restrictions on private vehicles.
Key
A- 1. b A 1. ban on
B - Speaker 4 2. c C 2. dependency
C - Speaker 1 3. a E 3. timings
D - Speaker 5 4. a G 4. oil imports
E - Speaker 2 5. c 5. car pools
F- 6. b
G - Speaker 3


Task 1 5 marks
You will hear five short extracts of people talking about the need for more national
parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Read the statements given in your worksheet, then
listen to the extracts and match each statement AG to each speaker 15. There are two
statements you do not need.
Speaker 1
I have no doubt about this. National parks and wildlife sanctuaries reflect the wealth of a
nations biodiversity. And we need to build on them to our advantage. India has a variety of
flora and fauna that can be brilliantly showcased through more of these green spots. It can
lead to twin benefits for the country. We can not only preserve unique life forms but we can
also build tourism around these parks and make money. Its a win-win situation for all,
isnt it?
Speaker 2
Havent you heard about the web of life? Everything is interlinked and interdependent. All
forms of natural life are integral to the ecosystem. We all know this, dont we? So if we
neglect even one of them, we can pay a very heavy price for it. The more plants, trees and
wild animals we look after...the more green sanctuaries we set up for their cause, I feel, the
brighter the hope for ourselves and for our childrens children as well.
Speaker 3
We need to be pragmatic and maintain what we have as well as we can and leave the rest to
Nature. Do you know how much it costs to maintain national parks around the country? Have
you ever thought about this at all? Let me tell you, they cost a fortune! If my facts are correct,
there are over 90 national parks and 448 wildlife sanctuaries in the country. We dont need to
add any more, we dont need to reduce them either!
Speaker 4
Heres a cold hard fact. Biodiversity is never evenly distributed across the world. Some
areas are far richer than others. And we need to take care of them better than we do any
other spots. The Himalayan region and the Western Ghats in India are two particularly rich
biodiversity hotspots that need to be closely guarded and nourished at all times. By this, Im
not suggesting that we ignore less diverse areas. Im only saying these pristine spots need
focussed and sustained attention all the year through.
Speaker 5
So many of our herbs that heal are disappearing and were not even aware of it.
Rhododendrons are a rare, endangered flowering plant that may be wiped out if we dont read
the danger signals. They grow only in higher altitudes and have aesthetic, sacred, aromatic
and therapeutic values. Deforestation and human interference have affected them badly. We
need more reserve forests and botanical gardens to protect species like these for posterity or
we will have only ourselves to blame if they disappear from the face of the earth.
Task 2 6 marks
You will hear a student interviewing a sports coach about youth sports. Read the
sentences given in your worksheet, then listen to the interview and choose a or b or c
for each sentence.
Student: Hello, Coach Ahluwalia! Thank you for joining us to tell us more about YSP or the
Youth for Sport Programme. Lets begin straightawaywhat is the aim of YSP or Youth for
Sport?
Coach: Hello, Anita! Well, first and foremost, YSP builds a strong and positive temperament
in young boys and girls. We train them in very important life lessonsabout following
rules, persevering and overcoming the odds, realising goalsAbove all, we train students on
developing team spirit and working together.
Student: Yes, weve heard so much about it. But coach, do you think enough is being done to
keep the students healthy and safe from injury?
Coach: Fitness and exercise is the best way to keep the youth healthythats an obvious
benefit, isnt it? I agree that safety is a big concern at all levels of sportsmore so for
growing children who go through a lot of physical changes.
Well, at YSP, we inform the parents of the choices they must make for their childrenof the
rigour of the course and the consequences of the training on their bodies We make sure they
understand the positive and negative effects. We are open and clear to them. They make the
final decisions.
Student: How involved are parents in YSP? Are there any challenges you face?
Coach: Thats a good question. Some parents dont realise how much they affect their
children by their behaviour. We have had parents at youth games who take things far too
seriously! They throw tantrums, abuse coaches, or worse, scream at their own children for
under-performance. Thats been a big challenge to deal with.
Its good to be enthusiastic about your childs performance, but when the enthusiasm becomes
obsessive, it can be damaging. I feel parents must find the right balanceits their duty, I
would say!
Student: Which brings me to my next questionWhat is ethical coaching?
Coach: Yesthis is a very important part of YSP. How a young athlete develops both within
the sport and as a person has a lot to do with the coaching. Young people are very easily
influenced. It is the coach who builds the physical and emotional quotients of each athlete.
Often, a coach drives players very hard in order to motivate or shape talent. However, some
athletes do not respond well to this approach. They cannot take that kind of pressure. So the
coaching must be designed sensitively for each athlete. That is YSPs basic, ethical obligation.
Student: Thats good to hear. And finally, my last question. Whats your opinion about
winning, coach? Do you think everyone deserves to win?
Coach: A very difficult question for a coach! Theres a big debate today on who should get
awards. Some argue that sports for young people should be about having fun and encouraging
talent. They feel everyone deserves a trophybecause ultimately they all succeed just by
trying. I agree. I think thats the best way to keep youngsters motivated!
Student: Thank you, Coach Ahluwalia! What a positive note to conclude this interview on!
Task 3 4 marks
You will hear a speech by a professor on the occasion of Teachers Day. Read the
statements given in your worksheet, then listen to the extract and choose four of the
options AG which are correct. Write the correct letters in the blank boxes provided.
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for this honour to deliver a keynote address
on the occasion of Teachers Day.
With over three decades of serving the student community, I have been fortunate to interact
with several generations of bright young minds. I will never underestimate their ability to
question, to divert or to provoke! And I will also never misjudge their haste to grow up and
take on the world!
Students today want many things from their parents and teachers, but what they want the
most are elders who are their friends. They dont want teachers who just teach to the test but
mentors who steer them along the right path, who empathise and respect them and who accept
students for who they are.
Connecting students to real life is an important part of education. I would encourage you
to try what I have done. Invite experts in the field into the classroom. Encourage job
shadowingan activity in which students can learn about a specific job while observing
the actual workspace. Let them learn in the real world.
Learning through outdoor experiences provides the maximum fun AND the maximum
learning. More importantly, the relaxed surroundings offer you the best opportunity to
observe, understand and connect to students.
As I mentioned, many teachers focus on teaching only with the exams in mind. I am uneasy
about this kind of an approach because rote learning is not the kind of thinking that helps
students succeed. Teaching methods must encourage independent thinking that can be applied
in any test or examination and in life. We must not create mechanical entities but lively...
vigorous...dynamic personalities who can face life with confidence.
I deem it a great privilege to belong to this fraternity. I think teaching is endless learning. Its
a journey of endless possibilities for the teacher and the student alike.
In conclusion, let me wish you great joy and greater success in your individual journeys in the
years ahead.
Happy Teachers Day to you all!
Task 4 5 marks
You will hear a speech by an expert on terrace gardens. Read the statements given in
your worksheet, then listen to the extract and complete the sentences using one or two
Hello, everyone! Thank you for inviting me to speak to you on planning terrace gardens in
apartment complexes.
To give you a little background information, there are two types of terrace gardens. One is
the garden that you find on the terrace or roof of a home. Another is a type of garden built in
a series of raised or terraced beds against sloping land. This would be what you call terrace
agriculture. But today, I will be focussing on the first variety, which is becoming very popular
in todays congested urban environments.
High-rise buildings, like this complex, have swallowed up most of the green spots in the
neighbourhood. Gardens feel like a thing of the past, dont they? Im really glad the residents
of this complex are working to bring back some greenery to the area and fight the menace of
concrete jungles.
Its a very good move in the right direction because terrace gardens provide many advantages.
They cool the building...they change micro-climates with an increased production of oxygen
and a reduction of carbon dioxide. They offer a good form of exercise. Above all, they
become happy retreats for people to unwind with Nature.
Depending on what you are looking for, terrace gardens can be ornamental or functional.
You can design a green retreat with a range of potted plants that are easy to maintain. Or you
can plan a herb and vegetable garden to feed the family! Think of the health benefits with
chemical-free, fresh produce all the year round! If you are really keen, you can blend a bit of
both in your terrace garden.
Terrace gardening is not very expensive. The set-up costs are minimum. All you need
is a good waterproof roof, pots or boxes, good soil, water, a variety of seeds and lots of
enthusiasm!
However, there are some conditions where terrace gardening is not possible. If your roof is
weak or leaking, it is unfit for terrace gardening. The other major limitation is if your roof is
surrounded by tall buildings and does not allow enough sunshine on the roof. Then you cant
grow vegetables. You can, however, grow flowers like anthurium or orchids.
At this point, I must mention one more challenge posed by terrace gardens. A common
complaint is people with terrace gardens use precious drinking water supplies for their
gardens needs. We need to remember that thousands of people do not have access to daily
drinking water. So, we need to be responsible and adopt simple methods of rainwater
harvesting or recycling water for gardening purposes. This will be environmentally friendly
and build more value for terrace gardens in the long run.
In conclusion, I would urge you all to take up terrace gardening. Keep yourself positively
engaged. Watch your hobby change into an all-consuming passion! Make your terrace the best
part of your home. Enjoy it. Take pride in it. Let it bring you and your family much peace and
joy.
Happy gardening!
Key

A - Speaker 3 1. b A 1. concrete jungles
B Speaker 5 2. a C 2. micro-climates
C Speaker 1 3. c D 3. ornamental
D 4. b F 4. health benefits
E Speaker 2 5. a 5. adopt
F Speaker 4 6. c

Sample Audio Scripts Key Class XI

Caricato da

Informazioni sul documento

Descrizione originale:

Copyright

Formati disponibili

Condividi questo documento

Condividi o incorpora il documento

Opzioni di condivisione

Hai trovato utile questo documento?

Questo contenuto è inappropriato?

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Sample Audio Scripts Key Class XI

Caricato da

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

CBSE Assessment of Speaking and Listening Skills (ASL)

Audio scripts and Answer key Sample Worksheet for

Student 2: SureGo ahead.

Student 2: HmmmMustve been tough!

Student 2: Good for you!

Student 1: You really love Facebook and Twitter, dont you?

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

Speaker 1 - D 1. c True Statements: 1. leisure

Audio scripts and Answer key Sample Worksheet for

Audio scripts and Answer key Sample Worksheet for

Boy: Hi Gita! Did you enjoy the film last night?

Girl: But why? These are classic stories!

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

3. Not applicable 3. a 3. body

Audio scripts and Answer key Sample Worksheet for

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

3. Not Applicable 3. b 3. narrow

4. Not Applicable 4. c 4. friendly

Audio scripts and Answer key Sample Worksheet for

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

Audio scripts and Answer key

Boy: Hi, Paro! Thats a nice outfit you are wearing!

Girl: Thanks, Siddu! I designed it myself!

Boy: Really? Do you design clothes only for yourself?

Boy: Exactly! Why do you think this is happening?

Boy: Yes...its become a huge industry in itself, hasnt it?

Boy: Whats miniature version, Paro?

Boy : Hows that?

Boy: Yes. Of course!

Today, many mother-turned-designer entrepreneurs have added so much creativity to

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

E - Speaker 3 5. a 5. lasting value

Audio scripts and Answer key

Who is an intern and what does interning demand of you?

My childhood dream was to become a doctor. I worked as a volunteer in my fathers friends

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

C - Speaker 5 3. c D 3. critical thinking

D - Speaker 1 4. a F 4. commercial breaks

Audio scripts and Answer key

Counsellor: Good morning! How can I help you?

Student: No, I havent.

should give yourself time.

Counsellor: Hmmmthats a varied set of interests.

Counsellor: How would you like to try photojournalism?

Counsellor: Wella photojournalist is a visual reporter of facts. He combines the best of

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

A - Speaker 3 1. b B 1. Actual learning

Boy: Thanks, Keya! Good luck to you too!

D - Speaker 5 4. a G 4. oil imports

E - Speaker 2 5. c 5. car pools

Audio scripts and Answer key

Student: Which brings me to my next questionWhat is ethical coaching?

Happy Teachers Day to you all!

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4

A - Speaker 3 1. b A 1. concrete jungles

Potrebbero piacerti anche