AUDIO SCRIPTS

railway station. In general buying tickets Anna: Really? Where are they? They aren’t
TASK 1
online is convenient but it doesn’t always in the dishwasher.
Question 1 save time. At our cinema for example Ira: Maybe they’re in the cupboard. I’ll
There’s a desk and a chair and there are people have to queue to collect the look… Yes, there they are.
also some books in a book-case. It’s quite tickets they bought online.
Anna: You mean he actually washed
a spacious room. I really like it. I think I them up. Wow.
could study really well in there because
it’s very tidy. It’s easy to find what you TASK 3
Question 3
need when everything is so clean. It looks Question 1 John: What’s your favourite kind of
comfortable too. Especially the bed. We checked in early and spent some weather Claire?
time walking around. Then we went to Claire: It may seem strange but I really
Question 2
the departure lounge and had something like stormy weather. I mean I like to be at
Anna: Hi, Jamie! where are you off to? to eat. Finally we got on board and that’s home during a thunderstorm and admire
Jamie: I’m not sure, I need some envelopes when my brother realized he had left his lightning. On the other hand I don’t really
and stamps. Does the newsagents’ sell souvenirs in the duty-free shop. like windy days or when it’s foggy. That
them? kind of weather usually makes me feel
Question 2
Anna: Yes, it does. But the post office is down.
nearer. Why don’t you go there? Girl: I fancy watching a film. What do you
think?
Jamie: Well, I could, but there’s always
such a long queue. Boy: Yes, ok. What do you want to see? I TASK 5
think there are a couple of good ones on Question 1
Anna: That’s true. Oh, hang on. I think you
at the cinema at the moment.
can get envelopes at the supermarket Amy: Oh, I’m glad to sit down. My feet
too these days. Girl: Yeah, or we could download one hurt.
from a film website.
Jamie: Can you? hmm… That’s worse than Jane: So, did you find a nice top?
the post office, I hate queueing. Boy: Oh, I guess so, but we’d have to pay
Amy: Well, I saw one I really liked. I tried
for that.
Anna: Right then. Tell you what, I’ll come it on. It was perfect, but then I saw the
with you and get a magazine. Girl: It’s cheaper than the cinema and price.
there is not much on TV.
Jane: Oh, so you didn’t buy it. So, what’s in
Question 3 Boy: Oh, ok then. Let’s do that. your bag then?
My favourite sport? Is it cycling? No, I
Question 3 Amy: Well, I wasn’t looking for shoes, but
cycle, but it’s because I have to, I don’t
there was a sale and, well, I got some.
actually enjoy it. When I was younger I The climate is changing. In many
Look! What do you think?
had wanted to play tennis, but I couldn’t countries there are a lot of droughts
afford it. So I didn’t take it up. Badminton which are getting worse and worse every Jane: Oh, they’re great. I like the colour.
was much cheaper. I really enjoy it even year. I come from Banghladesh and we Did you get anything else? What about
now. have a different problem. Every summer jeans?
a big part of my country is underwater. Amy: Well I saw some nice ones. I want
In 1988, for example, the floods were your opinion. Will you come and look at
TASK 2 so big that 3 million people lost their them with me?
Question 1 homes. The irony is, that there is water Jane: Sure.
everywhere but this flood water is dirty
We recently took my grandfather back to Amy: Thanks. And we could look at the
so we can’t drink it.
the place where he was born. His house top again too.
was still there. It’s on the end of a row
of terraced houses opposite a river that Question 2
TASK 4
runs down into a big lake. There are lots Ben: Do you know my friend Tom?
of houses round the lake now. He was Question 1
Anna: Ammm… Is he the one with loads
quite shocked. He said there used to be My mum is a real bargain hunter when it of pets?
just one big old house there and nothing comes to buying used things. Last week,
else. Ben: Yes. That’s right. He’s got a kitten, a
for example, she bought a lovely dress
lot of fish and a parrot.
in a second-hand shop and a big serving
Question 2 plate which she found at the street Anna: Can it talk?
We were trying to use the ticket machine market. Oh, and recently she’s bought an Ben: Yes. Well, it says a few words,
at the railway station but the instructions old chair at an online auction. She said anyway.
were in Italian. We only wanted single it was so cheap that she just had to buy Anna: So, what about him?
tickets, but my dad bought return tickets it. My mom is so proud to be a smart
by mistake. Then we went to the wrong shopper, but my daddy thinks she is a Ben: Well, he’s getting another one.
platform. It was a disaster. shopaholic. Anna: Another what? Another parrot?
Ben: No, another pet. He was telling me
Question 3 Question 2 yesterday. He saw some hamsters in the
I have no experience of buying flight Anna: John’s bedroom is a terrible mess. pet shop and decided to get one.
tickets because I’ve never flown. But I Last time I looked there were about five Anna: What on Earth do his parents say
travel a lot by train and, to be honest, dirty mugs under his bed. about all these pets? My parents would
I don’t even remember the last time I Ira: Actually I think he’s put them in the go mad.
bought a ticket from a ticket office at the kitchen now. Ben: I know. They seem to like them.

FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+ 1

 AUDIO SCRIPTS

They’re all really into animals. Woman: Of course. What do you need? Man: Thank you.
Anna: Lucky him. I’d love to have a puppy Man: I’m looking for encyclopedias, but I
Question 3
but my parents won’t let me. don’t know where they are.
I went to visit my grandparents in Ireland
Woman: You’ll find them on the shelves
Question 3 and it was the first time I travelled alone.
near the entrance. I can show you where
Coach: You need to hit it harder, make it My dad drove me to the coast and I sailed
they are.
difficult for your opponents to hit the ball from there. It was a nice voyage. I sat at
Man: That would be great. Thank you. the window, looked at the sea. I’m sure I
back. If they can’t get it over the net after
hitting the ball three times your team saw a whale in the water.
Question 2
will win the point. Why don’t you all go
A lot of the passengers felt sick because
to a gym to work out and get stronger?
it was a really long journey and the driver TASK 9
Then you’ll be ready to take part in
was taking us higher and higher I had a
competitions. Question 1
window seat and I could see all the way
Andrew: Okay Coach. That sounds like a to the bottom of the mountain when I’ve got my first exam tomorrow and
good idea. we arrived at the village and goes off. I don’t feel confident. It’s Maths you
Everyone was really happy. see, and I’m not very good at it, but I’m
studying hard and I hope I pass.
TASK 6 Question 3
Question 2
Question 1 Presenter: And now over to Tom Buckley
for the weather. Alex: You’re good with computers and
Olha: Why are you packing a raincoat
all that kind of stuff. Why don’t you think
Ben? That’s a strange thing to take to the Tom: Well today has been pretty warm
about a career in it?
beach in Spain. and sunny just about everywhere in the
British Isles, with temperatures as high as Bohdan: I enjoy it, but I only do it for fun.
Ben: Oh, I didn’t tell you. I’m going to go
hiking in Scotland instead. 22 degrees in the southwest. I’m afraid Alex: Yeah, but that idea you had for
tomorrow isn’t looking quite so good. It’s a dictionary on smartphones is really
Olha: Oh, I see. Have you found a nice
still going to be warm, but the sun is likely clever. Dad told me, you could make a lot
youth hostel to stay at?
to disappear behind the clouds. It’s going of money if you developed it and sold it
Ben: Actually, I’ll be in a tent in the to be rainy on and off for most of the day. to a big company.
countryside.
The rest of the week isn’t going to be so Bohdan: Well, maybe. I’ll think about it.
Question 2 wet but it’s going to stay rather gray and But it’s not what I really want to do with
cloudy until the weekend. Then you can my life.
Well, I hope you enjoy your holiday here.
enjoy the sunshine again. Will be back to
I’ll just show you around the cottage. It Question 3
blue skies and warm, even hot weather.
won’t take long. Okay, let’s open the front
Don’t forget that sun cream. And the weather forecast for today. After
door and go into the hall. Now, the first
the snowy weather we’ve had this week
door on the right here is the kitchen. I
it’s going to be a bright sunny day with
hope you like it and at the end of the hall TASK 8 a clear blue sky. It’s still quite frosty now
here is the dining room. It’s got everything
Question 1 but the temperature will rise to about 3°
you need, I think. And the door opposite
below zero during the day.
the kitchen here is the living room. It’s Harry: I like your trainers, Emma. They
a lovely light dream isn’t it? And those look great!
doors lead out to the garden as you can Emma: Thanks, Harry. I had bought them TASK 10
see. before I took up jogging two months ago.
Question 1
Question 3 Harry: Where did you get them?
It’s a phone app that lets me send and
I really enjoy going to school and I like Emma: At ‘All Sports’ in the town centre. receive pictures, videos or messages that
all the subjects… err… maybe except for Harry: Do you know if they sell skates? I’m are available for a very short time. I love
Geography. It’s rather difficult and my going to take up ice-hockey. it, because I can create funny avatars
brother usually helps me with it. When Emma: Let’s go and see. I’m going skiing or draw some silly stuff on my photos
I was younger, I loved PE. You know, all on the 10th. I need a pair of boots. Maybe before I send them to my friends.
the kids love running and playing games. we can both find what we need.
Now it’s okay, but I’m not so excited Question 2
about it. But recently I’ve become much Question 2 My first day at middle school? Well, at first
more interested in Math. We have a new Man: Hello, when is the next train to it was difficult for me. I almost got lost,
teacher and he can explain everything in Carnforth? you know. Buy I quickly found out where
fascinating way. I think I could spend all the gym, the canteen and the stuff room
Booking Clerk: There’s one at 4.35. You
my school time learning only this subject where – the most important places, you
change at Preston.
and I wouldn’t be bored. know. Then I noticed a girl who seemed
Man: What time does it arrive? to be even more frightened. I showed her
Booking Clerk: Let me see. 6.48 around the school and I set with her at
TASK 7 lunchtime too. I like her. I think we’ll get
Man: Right, can I have a return ticket,
Question 1 please? on fine when we get to know each other.
Man: Excuse me. Could you help me Booking Clerk: Here you are. That’s 21.10 Question 3
please? £ please.
I know it’s weird, but I was actually looking

2 FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+

 AUDIO SCRIPTS

forward to that day. I mean, I had a great Question 3 Mark: The LA Lakers and the Chicago
holiday, I did loads of things, but starting Sometimes I forget to bring my kits and Bulls. I think it will be exciting.
a new school was really exciting. I made my teacher gets angry. It’s not much fun Jenny: Ok, sure. Oh, and later this
lots of new friends and the teachers in the winter and I don’t really enjoy it afternoon the Monaco Grand Prix is on.
seemed really nice, in fact nicer than in because I’m not good at games, but there I hope Lewis Hamilton wins.
my last school. The only thing that didn’t aren’t any exams for it so that makes me Mark: Well, we’re useless at tennis, but
go well, you can laugh, but on the first happy. we’re great at motor racing, so let’s watch
day I couldn’t find the way from the gym
that. Maybe Hamilton will win.
to the classroom.
TASK 13 Question 3
TASK 11 Question 1 I can’t log into my account. What’s wrong
Woman: Look at this map. The theme with my password? I think it was changed
Question 1 by somebody else.
park is really far away.
My first day at school… Yes, of course
Man: You’re right, we can’t walk but
I was nervous. It wasn’t easy for me,
there’s a taxi rank on the corner. TASK 15
because, I didn’t know anybody at first.
I’m shy and it’s difficult for me to talk to Woman: I’m not sure about that. It must
Question 1
people, I also missed my old teachers. be expensive.
The first day back after the holidays was
I was afraid of getting lost round the Man: You’re right. We shouldn’t spend too
quite sad for me because Alice wasn’t
school. Anyway, now I’ve made some new much. Let’s go to the information desk.
there. We’ve been friends since our
friends and I feel better. I’m sure they can tell us if it’s possible to
first day at school. Well, we couldn’t do
take a bus there.
Question 2 anything about it. It’s not that I felt lonely.
Question 2 It’s just that although I quickly made
Man: Hello, I’m flying to Madrid at 11.30.
friends with other people, it wasn’t the
Woman: Can I see your passport and I found it difficult at first because there
same without her.
ticket please? was a lot to read and I fell behind. But
then I got a tutor and I was well-prepared Question 2
Man: Here you are.
for every lesson. Now I really enjoy it, So, I was reading an article on London
Woman: Can you please put your suitcase especially the lessons in the lab. I might and there was a link to a great travel vlog
on the scales? … Ok. Have you got any even study Chemistry at university. with lots of really useful information.
hand luggage?
Man: Just this bag. Question 3 Question 3
Woman: Here’s your boarding card. Your Good morning, everyone. My name is It’s hard but not as hard as Maths or
flight will board at Gate 27 in about an Marie. I’ll be your guide today, and this is Physics. I think it’s the most important
hour. Have a good trip. Joe, our driver. First, we’ll visit the palace. subject of all. It’s hard to get a job these
Then, we’ll go to the National Museum. days if you don’t have computer skills.
Man: Thank you.
We’ll have lunch in the main square and And if you study it at university you can
Question 3 then visit some more tourist attractions. get a great job afterwards.
There are two maps for you in the pocket
It’s a video-sharing website. I usually
of the seat in front of you. These maps
watch sports or funny videos on
show you some other places you can visit
it. But you can also teach yourself TASK 16
too.
useful things too, like how to repair Question 1
something. For example, I learnt
how to fix my phone when it stopped Anna: Come on, just one more goal.
TASK 14 Ben: I can’t watch. I don’t want a draw.
working.
Question 1 We need to win.
It was the first thing I installed when I got Anna: What is the referee doing? He’s
TASK 12 my new computer. But it doesn’t seem to showing a red card. There wasn’t a faul.
offer much protection at all. Ben: Is it a penalty? Oh, no. They’ll score
Question 1
and knock us out of the tournament.
We have great class discussions about Question 2 Anna: Yay, he missed it. It went out. I
the stories and the characters. Our can’t believe it. And that’s the end of
Mark: Jenny, the tennis is on. It’s the Davis
teacher makes it really interesting for us the match. Pheeew, we were lucky.
Cup and Great Britain is playing against
and sometimes we watch videos if the
Australia. I’d like to watch it, what about
book is also a film. Now I read during the Question 2
you?
holidays too and I love it.
Jenny: Tennis? No way, Mark. Australia Tom: And did you need a certificate or
Question 2 always beats us. It’s no fun watching that. something to do the job or were you
I use it to follow my favourite stars. What about football, is that on? trained?
There’s a lot of information about what Mark: Well, there are some Champion’s Anna: Both actually. First, I got a
they like and what they think about some League games, but they aren’t tomorrow. certificate and then they trained me.
events. Also, I arrange my social life with Hmm… What about basketball? There’s Tom: All right. And is it a full-time job?
it. It’s very helpful. an NBA game on now.
Anna: Only in the summer when there
Jenny: Who’s playing?

FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+ 3

 AUDIO SCRIPTS

are more people to watch. It’s part time It could be the same place I suppose. Sam: It’s this history project. It’s taking
in the winter because there are only a Kris: Hang on. I’ll have a look. Oh no, it’s ages.
few surfers then. somewhere in Switzerland. Katty: Oh. Is that what you were doing
Question 3 Lily: Oh, ok. Well, it’s lovely! last night? You probably didn’t sleep at
all.
Well, it’s summer now and all of my
friends are on holiday. I’m the only one Sam: No, it’s not that. But I was working
TASK 18 until ten o’clock and I still haven’t finished
still here. There’s nothing to do and
there’s no one to talk to. Question 1 it.
When I was in Tokyo, I decided to visit a Katty: Oh, but cheer up. I’m sure you
Cat café. They’re very popular with the won’t get into trouble. I mean, you’re
TASK 17 working as hard as you can.
Japanese. There are over 150 Cat cafes
Question 1 in Japan. That’s not surprising though Sam: Yes, I know. I’ll definitely do it on
Kristy: Ben asked me if we wanted to because Japanese flats are very small time. It’s just isn’t very interesting. I
go to the cinema with him on Saturday and in many rented flats keeping a pet is should have chosen a different topic. I’m
night. Why don’t we go? not allowed. The café I went to had a few so tired.
Josh: I can’t because I’m working nights at bad reviews from disappointed tourists, Katty: Oh, I see. Well, it’s too late to
the weekend. but I liked it. I found it really funny to see change now. You’ll have to do it.
all those businessmen in suits playing
Kristy: Again? You know, I worry about Sam: Yes, I know.
happily with the cats. I was looking at
you doing that? It isn’t safe at that factory them with a big smile on my face.
at night. Question 2
Josh: Yes, I know. But the pay is good. Question 2 Tom: Hi, it’s Tom. Leave your message
I’m lucky the manager gives me so much after the tone.
Lucy: That top would suit you. It would go
work. with your new jeans. Jason: Hi Tom. Jason speaking. I’m sorry
I’m calling so late but I have a big favour to
Question 2 Jessica: Umm… I’m not sure. I mean, it
ask you. I’m going with my parents to the
looks great on the model, but… Well, I
Rosie: Hi Ben! How are you doing? mountains for the weekend and I need
don’t look like her.
Ben: Hi Rosie. I’m fine. I just wondered. someone to take care of Sammy. You
Lucy: Ok, let’s see what else there is. know, my dog. Usually my grandmother
Umm… Do you like live music? You know, Mmm… Oh, that’s nice. Look, this one!
do you like going to concerts? does it, but she is ill and I can’t ask her
Jessica: Um! I like the style, but I’m not to do that. Actually, she advised me to
Rosie: Well I don’t get much chance sure about this blue. I wonder if they’ve ask you. You just have to walk him three
round here. I mean, there are quite often got it in any other colours. times a day and I’d bring you his food.
classical concerts at the town hall. But Could you do it for me? Call me please.
that isn’t really my thing. I went to one Lucy: They might. They don’t show
everything here. What shop is it from? Bye.
once with my parents. I was so bored I
wanted to cry. Jessica: I’m not sure. But there’s a list Question 3
Ben: So what kind of music are you into? of addresses on the last page. Umm…
The Coffee Bookworm is my favourite
Dezel’s.
Rosie: Well, you know, rock, pop, it doesn’t café. I mostly go there at weekends and
have to be new. I like a lot of old stuff. Lucy: Cool! There’s one in the High Street. sometimes after an exhausting day at
You’re lucky, you play an instrument, We could phone them and ask. school. The place is so cool, with lots
don’t you? Jessica: Um, maybe, or we could look of great magazines and books you can
Ben: Hmm… I play keyboards, not very online. I’m sure they’ve got a website. browse through. Seriously, you can’t get
well though. Lucy: Of course! Let’s do that! bored there. The last time I went to the
Coffee Bookworm I met my old friend
Rosie: Well, I wish I did. Anyway, why did Question 3 who’d moved abroad a year ago. I was
you ask about concerts? really happy to see her again. I couldn’t
Patrick: I still need something for mum.
Ben: Umm…Well, I’ve got a spare ticket wait to hear what she’d been up to. We
for one next week. But it’s an orchestra, Camila: I’ve already bought a present for
talked for hours and we had so much fun.
playing Beethoven. No worries, I’ll ask her. Actually, I think I have all I need.
someone else. Patrick: Do you think she will like this
Rosie: Oh… bunny? TASK 20
Camila: I don’t think so. I think she’ll be Question 1
Question 3 happier with this book.
David: So, did you go to the cinema?
Kris: Oh wow! Look at that! Isn’t it Patrick: Ok, I’ll pay for it. And let’s get back
Mandy: Yes. And it was wonderful. He
beautiful? home. We still need to decorate the tree.
even bought me flowers.
Lily: It’s not a very good one. I think the Camila: Yeah, Christmas eve is tomorrow.
David: Really? You’re so lucky. He’s really
colours are a bit too sharp. And it’s a bit I can’t wait.
handsome.
blurred. But anyway, the lake is really
nice. Mandy: I know. I still can’t believe it.
Kris: Yes. It’s like the place where we TASK 19 David: And do you parents like him?
stayed last summer. The mountains in Question 1 Mandy: Well, I haven’t told them about
the distance look the same, don’t they? Katty: What’s the matter Sam? You seem him yet. I don’t know how they’ll react.
Lily: Yes! I wonder where this was taken. really fed up.

4 FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+

 AUDIO SCRIPTS

Question 2 Question 3 where’s the sun?

There’s a Bruno Mars concert tomorrow. Joseph: Hello. This is Air hairdresser’s. Harry: Behind those clouds I expect.
And I’m going with my best friend. I’m Joseph speaking. How can I help you? Oliver: Mm… Maybe. I don’t like it anyway.
really looking forward to it. I’m sure I’ll Wendy: Hi. Emm… I’ve got an appointment Harry: No, well. How about this one?
have a great time. for tomorrow. Look!
Question 3 Joseph: Yes. What’s your name, please?
Andy: Hey Kim. What are you doing on Wendy: It’s Klark, Wendy Klark.
TASK 23
Saturday? Joseph: Oh, yes, Wendy. It’s at two o’clock.
Is there a problem? As you can see, the house is in a very quiet
Kim: Nothing much. Why?
street. But it isn’t too quiet. There are
Andy: Do you fancy a trip to the zoo? You Wendy: Yes. I won’t be able to make it I’m
always people going to work, or walking
know, the one just near here. I’ve never afraid.
to the shops or the park, so you never
actually been there. And I’ve heard it’s Joseph: Right. Well, shall we make you worry about being alone. Most of the
quite good. I… another appointment now? people living here are families with young
Kim: Umm… Actually Andy, I really don’t Wendy: Emm…I think I’ll ring back later if children. It’s very close to the school and
like zoos. I don’t think wild animals should that’s ok. I’m sure your children will soon make a
be kept in cages. Joseph: Of course. lot of friends. Another good thing is that
Andy: Oh! I see. I think they’re pretty good the houses have big gardens. So, the
Wendy: Ok, thanks. Bye then.
these days. I mean, they aren’t like they children can play safely and don’t have
Joseph: Bye. to meet in the street. Although, it would
used to be.
probably be quite safe even if they did.
Kim: Maybe, but still…
Now, let’s go inside. The house isn’t quite
Andy: In fact, zoos are quite important I TASK 22 finished yet and the men are working in
think because they protect endangered Question 1 the bedrooms upstairs, but we can look
species like tigers. around the ground floor. It will also give
Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen
Kim: I don’t know, maybe you’re right. But and welcome to Golden River’s. Make this you a chance to think about the kitchen
I still don’t think it’s ok to go and stare at evening a unique shopping experience. furniture you want to have. I know some
the poor things. Save up to sixty percent on footwear and people prefer to have a kitchen all ready
Andy: I can see you aren’t going to up to fifty percent on coats and jackets for them. But I think it’s better to make
change your mind. Oh well, how about in all clothes and shoe shops. Buy one the house really yours by being able to
something else? Bowling? and get one free in Sports & You on the choose the colours and styles you like
second floor, where there are also special best.
Kim: Oh yes! Cool!
offers on all fitness clothes. All the shops
in the centre are open today until 9 pm.
TASK 24
TASK 21 The supermarkets and the fitness centre
close at 10 pm. I really hate it when I see someone I know
Question 1 coming towards me in the street and
I went to the Ice Dice with Mark and Question 2 they’re listening to music on their MP3
Dorothy yesterday. You know, this new Harry: Oh no! players. It’s not that it’s loud because they
coffee shop where you can borrow listen on headphones. It’s just that, either
Chloe: What’s the matter Harry?
all kinds of exciting board games. We they’re so busy listening that they don’t
decided to play Zoo Quest, which was Harry: I’ve just realized I’m going to miss notice me, or, if they do see me, they don’t
alright, but I wasn’t very pleased because the next episode of Happy Lands tonight. stop and talk. They just wave or smile
I was losing. That’s not the point though. I’ll have to watch it tomorrow. So please or something, because they’re so busy
At the end of the game, I accidentally Amy, please don’t tell me what happens. listening to their music. They probably
spilled my orange juice all over the table. Chloe: I won’t! I don’t watch it! don’t mean to be rude, but it certainly
The whole board got wet and I stained Harry: Really? But it’s brilliant! seems rude. I mean, I’ve got an MP3
Mark’s T-shirt too. What a nightmare! I player and of course I listen to music on
Chloe: I know. Everyone says the same. I
felt so stupid that I didn’t know where to it. But when I see people coming towards
did start watching the first episode but it
put myself. I was afraid that Mark would me, I pull the earphones out of my ears.
was so scary I had to switch it off.
be angry with me. But he and Dorothy I stop listening, I say Hello and chat for a
just laughed hysterically. Harry: Oh, right, yes. It is quite scary I bit. I just think that some people should
suppose. That’s why I like it. be more sensitive and friendly. That’s all.
Question 2 Chloe: Oh, you’re weird. Give me a nice
I always shop around. Even when I buy comedy or a love story any day.
something inexpensive online. Just the TASK 25
other day I ordered a super cool case Question 3
Interviewer: Today we are talking about
for my mobile. After two hours of surfing Emma: Oh wow! I like that one! what inspires artists. Our guest is
the net, I found one three pounds forty Oliver: Mm… I don’t know. Trees don’t Martin Novak, who is an art historian
pence cheaper than the same model really look like that. and a huge fan of Edvard Munch. You
which I saw in the first store. Eventually, know everything about this painter
I bought the case for five fifty and that Harry: That’s not the point! It isn’t
supposed to be a photograph. It’s art! I Martin. Tell us please a little bit about his
included the delivery cost of two thirty.
think they’re beautiful. life and his masterpiece The Scream.
I’m a smart shopper, aren’t I?
Oliver: Hmm… It’s so miserable. I mean,

FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+ 5

 AUDIO SCRIPTS

Martin: Hi everybody. Yes, one of my My dad does it quite a lot. That’s how I Jamie: Hi Emma!
passions is expressionism and Edvard know! Jamie: Where’s Danny?
Munch was an expressionist painter. He Sam: Exactly right! My dad does it too. Emma: He’s just coming. He’ll be here
was born in Norway in 1863 and died in
in a minute. Shall we have a look at the
1944. The Scream is one of the paintings
menu?
that everybody recognizes immediately TASK 27
and it’s often a source of inspiration. Jamie: Sure! I’m hungry. Hmm…there isn’t
But actually, the painting is surprisingly It’s a very sad situation for some children much here for vegetarians.
simple. There’s a bridge, a ladscape of a in poor countries. They should be at Emma: You eat meat Jamie, don’t you?
Fiord and hills, and there’s also the sky, school or playing but they can’t do that.
Jamie: Yes, I do but Danny doesn’t.
which is colourful but also disturbing. In They have to work to help their families.
Some of them work on farms, others go Emma: Well he can have a pizza, I
the foreground, there’s a figure that may
to rubbish tips and look for anything they suppose. They also have great shepherd’s
be masculine or feminine. And it looks
can use or sell to make money. A lot of pie here. Yum! My brother was here last
scared. In the background we can see
children work in sweatshops. These are week and that’s what he had. He said it
two other figures who are on the bridge.
factories where a lot of the fashions was delicious.
But what inspired Munch to paint it?
Here’s what he wrote in his diary: ‘One we buy are made. There people work Jamie: Hmm…Yes, it looks nice but I really
evening I was walking alone the path. very hard, in bad conditions and earn fancy some pasta or…hmm…I’m not sure.
The city was on one side and the Fiord very little money. That’s why a lot of the Maybe a pizza. I can’t decide.
below. I felt tired and ill. I stopped and t-shirts, socks or jeans you buy in big Emma: Does Danny eat fish? He could
looked out over the Fiord. The sun was shops are so cheap. What can you do? have fish and chips. That’s what I’m going
setting and the clouds turning blood You can find out which fashion brands to have.
red. I sensed a scream passing through you like are produced in sweatshops
and stop buying them. Maybe if enough Jamie: I’m afraid he doesn’t. That sound
nature. It seemed to me that I heard the like a good idea though. No, I’m going for
scream. I painted this picture. Painted people in rich countries do that, things
will improve for working children in poor the pasta. There, I’ve decided.
the clouds as actual blood. The colour
screamed. This became the Scream.’ So countries. Emma: Great...Look! Danny’s coming! So
it seems that Munch was inspired by the with any luck we can order soon.
sky, with its many colours. Jamie: Yeah, I’m so hungry.
TASK 28
Interviewer: That’s really fascinating.
I thought the painting showed some Cathy: Achoo!
TASK 30
apocalypse, like a war or something. Rob: Bless you Cathy! Have you caught a
Anyway, our time’s up. Thank you. cold? Customer: Excuse me! Where’s the
Cathy: Achoo! Actually Rob, it’s hay fever. changing room?
I’m allergic to grass. It’s that time of the Sales assistant: Over there to the left.
TASK 26
year. Customer: These jeans are too tight. Have
Sam: Oh, hi Sophie. Hey, did you watch Rob: You still suffer from that? Hard luck! you got a larger size?
that documentary last night? The one Sales assistant: What size would you like?
Cathy: Yes, it’s a pain. I sneeze all the
about body language. It was really
time and I’ve got a runny nose. I’ve Customer: Err…36 please.
interesting.
tried all kinds of different pills. Nothing Sales assistant: Here you are.
Sophie: Oh, right. Yes, I saw it was on, but works but my doctor recently suggested
I was too busy with my Maths homework. homeopathy. Customer: But why are the legs like this?
What did you learn? They look strange.
Rob: Um I don’t really know what
Sam: Ok, let’s see if I can remember. homeopathy is. It’s for allergies, right? Sales assistant: It’s the latest fashion, sir.
Right, here’s one. If you cross your arms
Cathy: Achoo! Not only allergies, it’s for
in front of your chest, it means you’re not
lots of other things too. When they make TASK 31
very friendly.
homeopathic medicine they mix it with
Sophie: Really? Is that really true? lots of water so that there is almost no Claire: Hey Martin! I just saw Annie in the
Sam: Well, it could also mean you’re cold medicine left at all. Nobody really knows High Street. Did you see her?
I suppose. how it works. Martin: Oh Hi Claire! No, why? What was
Sophie: What else? Rob: Well, I guess that’s not important if she doing?
Sam: Biting your nails means you’re it works. Claire: She was standing outside a
stressed. Well, we knew that already. Oh, Cathy: Yes, of course. Some people say supermarket collecting money.
yes! If someone blinks a lot, they could be homeopathy works only because the Martin: Really? Why?
lying. patients trust the doctor and believe it
Claire: She’s a volunteer and the money
Sophie: Or, there’s something in their eye will work. You know, the power of the
is for the people who lost everything in
of course. mind. So my allergy is a bit better but I
the floods and became homeless.
don’t know if it’s because of the medicine
Sam: True. Martin: Oh you mean people in the UK or
I’m taking or my powerful brain. Achoo!
Sophie: Ok, give me one to guess. other countries?
Sam: Right. What does it mean if I tack my Claire: Um…in Bangladesh I think she
fingers like this? TASK 29 said. They have terrible floods there.
Sophie: It means you’re getting impatient. Emma: Hi Jamie! Martin: I know but we have floods here

6 FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+

 AUDIO SCRIPTS

too. What about the people who were in and look around! We’re sure there is of young people look at other people’s
flooded last winter right here in the UK. something here for everybody. happy photos and read about their
I think we should think about our own perfect lives and they get depressed.
people first. You know the saying ‘charity Ted: Oh come on! I don’t think that’s true
begins at home’. TASK 34
at all. I…
Claire: Well of course! We should help Cathy: Hi Joe! How’s it going? Emma: And…well, when you’re sitting at
them too. Joe: Hi Cathy! I’m ok, what about you? your computer you aren’t out socialising
Martin: We can’t help everybody! Cathy: Well…I’m a bit fed up really. I have with friends. You’re sitting alone instead
Claire: But don’t you think we have a duty to clean the bathroom. of being with actual real people. It isn’t
to help poorer countries. good for you!
Joe: Really? Do you? Why?
Martin: No, not really. We should look Ted: You could say the same about
Cathy: It’s Saturday. That’s my job. I reading a book! Actually, we use social
after people here. That’s the most used to do the vacuuming but now Sam
important thing. networking to arrange our social lives. It
does that. makes it easier for us to meet up. I mean,
Claire: Well…I think Annie’s doing a great
Joe: What? Your little brother vacuums have you actually ever used a social
job. I hope they raise lots of money.
all round the flat? networking site?
Cathy: Yes, he’s good at it actually. Don’t
TASK 32 you have to do jobs too Joe? I’m sure I’ve
seen you washing up. TASK 36
Max: Anna, can you pass me the remote Joe: Well…yes, I suppose I do that quite Josh: What’s the matter Emma? You look
control please? often. That’s about all. My sister doesn’t really fed up.
Anna: Sure, what are you going to watch even do that! Lucy always says she’s
Emma: Oh…Hi Josh. My tablet’s stopped
Max? busy with homework.
working. It’s a disaster! I can’t do anything
Max: It’s the first episode of a new reality Cathy: That’s not fair. Doesn’t she do without it.
show. It’s called Tweet teens and it’s a anything at all?
Joe: Well…I suppose she makes the Josh: Oh right, what a pain! Are you trying
about teenagers who are popular on
dinner sometimes but that’s only to do your homework or something?
Twitter.
because she enjoys cooking. It’s not like Emma: No…it isn’t that. I just need to go
Anna: Oh, do you know any of them? I
doing housework, it’s like a hobby. online for a few minutes. Can I use yours?
mean not personally in real life, but do
you follow them online? Cathy: Oh that’s not fair! At least Josh: Hmm…I guess so, for a bit. But I
she does it. It’s better than nothing. need it back, I’m looking for a present
Max: No, I don’t. I’ve never heard of any
Anyway… for my mum. It’s her birthday next week.
of them but I’m quite curious about the
I know what I want, I just have to find it
show. I’ve read some interesting stuff
online. Here.
about it. TASK 35
Emma: Thanks! Great. Oh…look! Katie’s
Anna: Well I’m sure they’ll become Presenter: Today we’re talking about the written something.
famous now and people will be obsessed effects that social networking sites are
with them. It’s strange though. They’ll Josh: Has she posted more photos?
having on young people. Some experts
be famous just because they’re on TV. I say that these sites cause all kinds of Emma: No she hasn’t, she’s having a party
think they’re attracted to fame and will do health problems, physical and mental. next week. Cool! Oh Ben’s posted too.
anything to become well known. Others say quite the opposite. Here to Look! Loads of pictures from his holiday.
Max: Yes, I know. That’s the weird thing discuss it we have Emma Jenkins whose Josh: Let’s see! Oh I like that one!
about reality TV. People can become book The Lonely Surfer has just been
celebrities although they don’t have any published and nineteen-year-old Ted
special talent. They can’t act or sing like Harrison who is a student and a keen TASK 37
true stars. It’s crazy! user of social networking sites. Let’s start These days millions of young people use
Anna: I agree. Oh, it’s starting! Turn up with you Ted. Why are you so keen on social media sites every day. We all know
the volume. Hey I recognise that boy, I’ve these sites? it’s important to be careful when you’re
seen his photo somewhere. Ted: Well, social networks can have online but let’s go over a few basics. First,
different uses. A lot of my friends use privacy. Do you really want strangers,
them to discuss work, you know, exchange people you don’t know, reading all about
TASK 33 ideas, help each other, that kind of thing. you and looking at your photos? No?
Is your bedroom boring and old So they help us study. You can also share So check your settings. Make sure your
fashioned? Maybe it’s time for a change. photos, hobbies or music of course but posts can only be seen by your friends,
At Homeshop we’ve got great modern to me they are mainly a fantastic way to people you trust. Next, security. That
furniture for teenagers’ bedrooms and keep in touch with friends. I’ve left school means protecting your computer from
simply everything a student needs. This now and I’ve moved away from home but viruses and hackers. Of course you know
week only, buy a desk and get a bookcase I can still chat to my old school friends you shouldn’t click on spam emails or
for free! There are lots of fantastic things and exchange news with them. open strange attachments but are you
to buy. Decorate your walls with awesome Presenter: Emma, what do you say to careful with games? Viruses are often
posters for just five pounds each. You that? carried by games so always check the
can find us in the shopping centre on website before you download the game.
Emma: Hmm…I suppose that’s a good
Smith Street opposite the car park. We’re point. But you know they cause an awful
open every day from 9 am till 6 pm. Come lot of unhappiness too. You know, lots

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 AUDIO SCRIPTS

Also, be extra careful when using free Presenter: Thank you for this inspirational bit because I was ill for two weeks and I
public Wi-Fi networks. Check the news story for both girls and boys. missed four lessons but I’ll catch up soon.
or read your favourite blogs but do not I’m talented and hard-working, aren’t I?
log into your email. If you log in, hackers
are given access to your password and TASK 39
private messages. They say that there are TASK 41
Jack: Hi Ruby! How’s it going?
three types of people in the world, those Toby: Hey Carrie! How did you get on
Ruby: Hi there Jack! Badly! I’ve only just
who have been hacked, those who will be with that Maths homework?
started, there’s so much to do.
hacked and those who are being hacked
Jack: Well…What have you done so far? Carrie: Oh…Hi Toby! It was ok, why?
right now. So beware!
Ruby: Umm…I’ve made a pile of all my Toby: I thought it was quite difficult. How
school books and papers but there isn’t long did it take you?
TASK 38 anywhere to put them. I’ve got to make Carrie: About an hour. Long enough to
Presenter: Today we’re talking about jobs some space somehow. play my new album all the way through.
that once were reserved for men only, Jack: You’ll have to throw some stuff Toby: Oh right. It took me much longer
like being an airline captain for example. anyway. than that. Does music help you think
But times are changing. In the studio with Ruby: Yes, I know. But it’s difficult, I don’t then?
me is Ian MacKaye, a journalist. Hi Ian, know where to start. Carrie: Yes, I can’t work without it.
thank you for coming.
Jack: Well…Y need some bin bags to put Toby: I don’t know how you can
Ian MacKaye: Hello everybody! Thank you your rubbish in. concentrate. I mean, I’ve tried playing
for having me. music while I work but it disturbs me. I
Ruby: Yes, good point. I think we’ve got
Presenter: I’ve read your article about some downstairs. have to switch it off so I can think.
Anny Divya, the youngest female pilot of a Carrie: Well, we’re all different.
Jack: Well there you go then. It’s easy!
Boeing 777. It’s one of the world’s largest
Ruby: But it isn’t, not really. I mean, I Toby: Yes, I guess so. Do you ever have
jets and can carry nearly four hundred
might throw something away and then the TV on while you’re working?
people. I’ve seen Anny’s pictures and I’ve
got to say I’m really impressed. Such a realise I need it. I don’t really want to Carrie: No, I don’t do that. Why? I’m sure
young person flying such a huge plane. throw anything away. you don’t, do you?
Ian MacKaye: Well that is something she Jack: OK, I’ll tell you what, have you got Toby: No, but my brother does. It drives
often hears. She’s thirty actually and any boxes? mum crazy but he gets good marks so it
most airline pilots are older than that. Ruby: Yes, there are some cardboard must work for him.
Presenter: Do you know how she became boxes in the garage I think. Carrie: That’s so strange. And you know
a pilot? Jack: Well sort things into three piles. Jackie? The girl who lives next door to
Things you definitely want go in one box, me.
Ian MacKaye: In one of her interviews she
said that was what she’d always wanted things you’re not sure about go in the Toby: Yeah, what about her?
to do. She was born in India. When she next box and things that are definitely Carrie: She often takes her books down
was a little girl she often looked up at rubbish go into the bin bag. Then, you to the coffee shop and works there!
the sky so one day her mum said “Annie put the second box in the attic and see if
Toby: Why? Does she meet up with
you can be there if you become a pilot”. you actually miss any of it.
friends? Do they study together?
It was unusual because at the time Ruby: Brilliant! Um…Jack?
kids in India were mainly encouraged Carrie: I don’t know think so. She says
Jack: Yes? she works better with lots of people
to study medicine or engineering and
aviation was not an acceptable career Ruby: You’re so good at this do you fancy around her, that’s all. She doesn’t like
for a woman. But Anny’s always had her coming over and helping me? silence.
family’s support. Although her parents
couldn’t afford to pay the fees for the TASK 40 TASK 42
flight school, they borrowed money from
family, friends, and a bank. My friends say I have a good ear for Fred: Have you got any plans for the
Presenter: Could you tell us if she had any languages. It may be true because I learn summer holidays yet, Jackie?
other problems becoming a pilot, apart new words easily and I really really enjoy Jackie: Yes, actually. My mum and dad
from the financial one? speaking foreign languages. At school want to go to France again like last year.
we all study French and German. Believe
Ian MacKaye: You know that English is Fred: Oh! Lucky you! I’d love to go to
it or not, I and some of my classmates
the international language of aviation, France and practice my French. Are you
are also learning Japanese. We belong
right? Well Anny said that at the start her going to Paris?
to the after-school Japanese club. We
English had been really poor. Her writing meet up with our teacher Kazumi twice Jackie: I think the idea is we spend a few
and listening skills had been fine but a week. Japanese isn’t easy but we study days in Paris this time because we’ve
she hadn’t been able to communicate hard and we’ve made a lot of progress. never been there and then go down to
well. The biggest problem was her In May we’re planning to take part in the south coast to the place we went to
pronunciation but she didn’t give up a language competition for primary last year.
and worked so hard that she got a schools. Our team will present a project Fred: Wow! That’s a long drive.
scholarship. Annie often repeats that it’s about teenagers in Japan, of course in
important to know what you want to be in Jackie: Actually, I don’t think we’re going
Japanese. We began our preparations in by car. I know that’s what we did last time
life and work hard to follow your dreams. January. Well…Now I’m falling behind a
Only the sky is the limit. but…

8 FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+

 AUDIO SCRIPTS

Fred: Yeah, you took the car across on Doctor: I think you might have an allergy. Tim: For now I’d like to carry on what
the ferry, didn’t you? I can’t be sure. I’m doing because it gives me a lot
Jackie: Yes, we did but this time they’re Cathy: What? But I’ve had Millie for five of satisfaction and freedom but my
talking about going by train. years, I can’t be allergic to her. ambition is to become a TV presenter. I
know that I’d have to learn how to work
Fred: Oh, but you can still take your car, Doctor: Allergies can take time to develop.
in a team because that’s what working
can’t you? On the train? Through, the I think we should test you to see if that’s
on television is about. Like most vloggers,
tunnel I mean. what it is.
I’m a one man band. I direct, film and edit
Jackie: Yes, you can but Mum and Dad Cathy: Oh I hope it isn’t that because… my videos all by myself so I have no idea if
don’t want to drive. They say it’s too tiring I’d be good at working with others.
but we’ll still go through the tunnel, it’s
quicker than the ferry. You can get to TASK 45
Paris really fast. I’m often told by my friends and family TASK 47
Fred: It sounds like fun! “Kate, you’re so creative”. I suppose The worst bargain ever. I saw an
they’re right. I like using ordinary things advertisement for trendy sneakers.
in surprising ways. Lately, I’ve used Velcro There was a sale and they were really
TASK 43 to improve a few things round the house. cheap. I went to the shopping mall. First,
I love honey but I’m scared of honeybees. For example, I’ve got this nice rug in my I had to wait in a long queue because lots
When I was a child I was once stung by bathroom which was always moving out of people wanted to take advantage of
a bee and I got a really strong allergic of place. I once even tripped on it. So I the special offer. I bought the sneakers
reaction. I was sitting on the grass in the put Velcro on the floor and some on the in a hurry and when I got home I saw the
garden and eating a banana when a bee underside of the rug. Now it’s always in shop assistant had given me the wrong
landed on my hand. I started running place and it’s easy to remove when you colour. I wanted to exchange them but
around flapping my arms and I stepped want to do the cleaning. Speaking of I discovered that I’d lost the receipt.
on another bee in the grass. It stung me which, do you have a problem of cables On top of that, the sneakers were poor
on the right foot. It was very painful, my lying on the floor when you vacuum quality. After a few weeks I discovered
whole foot swelled up to my ankle. It took your room? I do. There are lots of cables a hole in one of them. In the end my
three days for the swelling to go away. under my desk, you know, for the printer, grandad repaired it for me. It hadn’t been
Recently, I have been really surprised to computer, desk lamp and so on. Again, such a great bargain after all.
find out that some doctors use bee stings a simple solution to the problem was a
in alternative medicine. Apparently, bee piece of Velcro. I cut a small strip and tied
stings are prescribed for patients with all the cables with it. Now they look tidy TASK 48
some spine and bone diseases. Live and they’re easy to handle. Here’s one
I was walking down the street with
bees are not always used in the therapy, more idea. If you like watching films on
Becky. It was really busy. Lots of people
sometimes patients are given injections your mobile phone or tablet, you can
everywhere. You know, the pavement
with bee venom. Anyway, this is definitely use Velcro to place the device in your
was really crowded. There was lots of
not for me. I prefer regular pills and favourite spot. I’ve put three pieces of
traffic going past so we couldn’t actually
tablets. Velcro to the back of my tablet and a big
walk on the road but we were right next
Velcro board on a bedroom wall so I can
to it. It was really noisy with cars and
watch films in bed really comfortably.
motorbikes roaring past. Anyway, we
TASK 44
were talking about where to go next, we
Doctor: Hello Cathy! What’s the problem? TASK 46 were arguing actually, when suddenly
Cathy: Well basically, I’ve had a cold that somebody on the other side of the road
Presenter: Can you tell us Tim what your screamed and, well, then she sat down
won’t go away and I’m sneezing quite a lot
Vlog is about? right there on the pavement. We crossed
and I have trouble breathing sometimes.
It stops me from sleeping. And I have a Tim: In my Vlog I talk about all kinds of over and when we got closer I saw that
cough sometimes. mobile apps. I test them and review she was shaking and her face was white
them but I also interview people like app as a sheet. What had happened was,
Doctor: Well let’s have a listen to your
designers and simply other app users someone on a motorbike had snatched
chest, shall we?...Thank you! When
like me. her bag while she was walking along. She
exactly did you start feeling like this? Do
Presenter: How popular is your vlog? was carrying it over her shoulder. He just
you remember?
pulled it off her, he didn’t stop. It was a
Cathy: Umm...No, not really. It’s happened Tim: It’s just hit half a million subscribers
really dangerous thing to do. The thing is,
slowly, a few months ago I guess. so I suppose it’s quite popular. It’s an
I hadn’t seen it happen and neither had
amazing feeling to know that so many
Doctor: Is it worse in the daytime or in the Becky. It all happened so fast. I felt so
people want to follow me.
evening? sorry for the woman, it was such a shock.
Presenter: Do you think that social media Anyway, someone called the police and
Cathy: In the evening, definitely.
have a lot of career opportunities for she had a friend with her so there wasn’t
Doctor: Oh…So you’re ok in the daytime? young people? much we could do so we carried on. I’ll
When you’re at school, for example? tell you what though, I’m always really
Tim: Absolutely! If you’re a creative young
Cathy: Yes, I suppose I am. Except I’m person, it’s a great starting point. On the careful with my bag now and you should
always tired. It’s mostly when I’m at home. other hand, you really have to work hard be too.
Doctor: Have you got any pets Cathy? to be a successful youtuber.
Cathy: Pets? Why? Um yes, I’ve got a cat Presenter: And would you like to continue
Millie. vlogging in the future?

FOCUS ON EXAMS A2+ 9