General Listening Quiz
“Phone Message”
| Level | Topic | Speakers | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy | Phone Message | Man – Girl | 00:50 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
Make a list of all of the reasons why a person may not be able to take a call (e.g., she’s out of the office, he’s on another line, etc.). When you do take a call, be sure to repeat the caller’s name, number, and message before you hang up to confirm that you have the correct information.
Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!
These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, exploring ideas, and sharing opinions.
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In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way?
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In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms.
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For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate.
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- It’s better to call someone than to send a text message.
- Text messages are a quick and easy way to communicate.
- Leaving a voicemail is better than sending a text when you have important news.
- People should respond to text messages as soon as they can.
- It’s rude to not answer the phone when someone calls.
- You should always leave a voicemail if the person doesn’t answer your call.
- It’s okay to send a text message during a meeting or class.
- People should avoid using their phone in public places like restaurants.
- Sending a text message is better for asking simple questions than making a call.
- It’s important to check your voicemail regularly.
Idioms
“sleep on it” = wait until tomorrow to make a decision
“She wanted to sleep on it before making such an important decision.”
“right off the bat” = immediately
“When I called her yesterday, she told me right off the bat that she was getting married.”
Listening Exercise
Listen to the recording and answer the questions. (See transcript)
Vocabulary and Sample Sentences
Here are some words that appear in the recording:
- minute (noun): a brief period of time
– I’ll be there in a minute, just finishing up this task. - could (modal verb): used to indicate possibility or ability in the past
– She could run faster when she was younger. - message (noun): a communication or information sent to someone
– I left a message for him on his voicemail. - smart (adjective): having or showing good judgment
– That was a smart decision to study before the test. - really (adverb): very or extremely
– I really enjoyed the movie we watched last night.
Post-Listening Exercise
Practice this conversation with a partner. Then write your own telephone conversation by using some of the phrases you came up with in the pre-listening activity.
Online Investigation
At times, people may need a voicemail service to keep track of their incoming messages. In addition, some teachers even use such services to communicate with students and even perform speaking tests. Thus, search online and compare at least two companies that provide voice mail services and compare pricing and features.