Cell phones, or mobile phones, are becoming more popular around the world as a preferred form of communication, but can you find a cheap calling plan that will fit your budget? What do you look for when deciding on a cell phone or a phone carrier (e.g., cost of phone, number of minutes a month, cancellation fees, etc.)? What types of international calling cards can be used with such phones?

HELPFUL TIP: Cell phones are now a part of everyday life. Be sure to compare phone plans before you make a long-term commitment; otherwise, you might be paying for a long time.

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II. Listening Exercises [Top]

Listen to the conversation by pressing the "Play Audio" button and answer the questions. Press the "Final Score" button to check your quiz.

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[ Other Audio Options: Play RealMedia | Play Window Media ]

1. What reason does the girl give for needing a cellphone?
A. She can use it to check her email.
B. She can call family in case of an emergency.
C. She can make cheaper long-distance calls with it.

2.What is one major feature of the calling plan?
A. 1000 anytime minutes
B. unlimited weekday minutes
C. 1000 free weekday minutes

3. What is the term of service for this plan?
A. 3 months
B. 6 months
C. 9 months

4. Why does the girl suggest that her father buy a new car too?
A. Their current car is in bad shape, and it doesn't look good.
B. The cellphone's power supply won't work in an older car.
C. Their car isn't big enough to ride in with all her friends.

5. What do customers receive when they purchase the cellphone mentioned in the conversation?
A. a cellphone adapter for the car
B. money back for buying the phone
C. other cellphone accessories

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Score =
Correct answers:

Listen to the conversation again as you read the Quiz Script.

III. Vocabulary Activities [Top]

Review the key vocabulary from the conversation:

[ Why do these? ]

• Multiple-Choice and Short-Answer Questions
• Mixed-Up Sentence
• Sentence and Vocabulary Matching
• Text Completion Quiz

IV. Post-Listening Exercises - [ What's This? ] [Top]

There is often debate on whether a cell phone is a need or just a want in today's society. What is your opinion on this? At what age is it appropriate for children or teenagers to have a phone and should they be asked to cover part of the cost, particularly for cell phone plans that cover features such as unlimited texting?

V. Online Investigations - [ What's This? ] [Top]

Imagine you need a new mobile or smart phone and the perfect cell phone provider. Look around and find the best deal on a cell phone for your particular needs. If you are a student, price might be important if you are paying for the phone yourself. Compare the deals for different you know and discuss which appeals to you most. What specific features do you look for in a phone? What advertising tactics do cell phone companies use to attract customers?

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Please write your opinions on a related topic at Randall's ESL Blog HERE.

[ What's This? ]

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