Part B: Listening Comprehension

2. Talks and Conversations

Directions: In this part of the test, you will hear several short talks and conversations. After each of these, you will hear a few questions. Listen carefully because you will hear the talk or conversation and questions ONLY ONCE. When you hear a question, read the four answer choices and choose the best answer to that question. Then write the letter of the answer you have chosen in the corresponding space in your ANSWER BOOKLET.

Questions 11 to 14 are based on the following conversation:

W: In Britain, there are four main types of secondary school, aren't there?

M: Ah, basically, yes. There're grammar schools, vocational¹ or technical schools and secondary modern schools and then there are comprehensive schools. In England, however, secondary schools are sometimes divided into 3 main types (Question 11): Comprehensive schools which are open to all children; grammar schools which are selective and require an entrance examination; and then single-sex high schools.

W: I must say I find your educational system rather complicated. And to make matters worse, you call your private schools public schools.

M: Well, I suppose it is all rather confusing especially in England and Wales. The term public school is used for non-profit-making independent schools (Question 12), and the term private schools for those that are run to make a profit. But like so many other things in Britain, our educational system is deeply rooted in tradition and yet it's changing all the time.

W: Really? In what ways is it changing?

M: Well, in nearly every way. For instance, there is a very strong movement now towards comprehensive schools. (Question 13)Will all children go for their secondary education no matter what their ability or background? There are already many of these state schools and many children are no longer tested by examination to be placed in schools according to academic ability. And then again public schools will probably become part of the state's system someday. (Question 14)

W: But will the wealthy always be in a privileged position? They are always able to send their children to the best private schools in the country.

M: Not necessarily. If independent schools join the state's system and we do away with the idea of grammar schools for the clever. Then every child should have an equal opportunity to do well and go on to higher education. (Question 14)

Question 11: According to the conversation, how many types of secondary schools are there in
Britain?

Question12: What is a public schools in England and Wales?

Question13: Which of the following reflects the way in which the British secondary education is changing?

Question14: According to the man, what is the benefit if independent schools join the state system?