General Listening Quiz

1. Have you ever met a neighbor for the first time? How did it go?
2. What topics do you usually talk about when meeting new neighbors?
3. Do you think it’s important to get to know your neighbors? Why or why not?
4. How would you welcome someone new to your building or neighborhood?

1. 1. It’s polite to greet new neighbors as soon as they move in.
   2. Offering help with directions or stores is a good way to welcome someone.
   3. Inviting new neighbors for coffee or a chat is appropriate.
   4. It’s better to wait for neighbors to introduce themselves.
   5. Sharing information about local amenities makes new people feel comfortable.
   6. You don’t need to talk to your neighbors if you live in an apartment.
   7. Asking about someone’s move shows you care.
   8. Casual conversation helps build trust in a new neighborhood.
   9. Meeting neighbors is more important in small towns than in big cities.
   10. Being friendly to neighbors can prevent future misunderstandings.

“break the ice” = start a friendly conversation
“Sophie tried to break the ice by asking Alex how the move was going.”

“lend a hand” = help someone
“Sophie offered to lend a hand by showing Alex the nearest grocery store.”

Listen to the recording and answer the questions. (See transcript)

Here are some words that appear in the recording:

• neighbor (noun): a person who lives near or next to you
  – Sophie is Alex’s new neighbor in the building.
• unpack (verb): to take things out of boxes or bags after moving
  – Alex is still unpacking his clothes and books.
• grocery store (noun): a shop that sells food and household items
  – Sophie said the grocery store is two blocks away.
• post office (noun): a place where you can send letters and packages
  – Alex wants to find the post office near his new home.
• block (noun): the distance between two streets in a city
  – The grocery store is only two blocks from the apartment.

1. How would you welcome new neighbors in your building?
2. Have you ever helped someone who just moved in? What did you do?
3. Why is it important to know your neighbors?
4. What topics are safe for casual conversation with new neighbors?
5. How can small gestures, like offering directions or coffee, make new neighbors feel welcome?

Use the internet to learn about neighbor customs and community etiquette in different countries. Answer these questions:

• How do people usually greet new neighbors?
• Are there cultural differences in how people introduce themselves?
• Are gifts or invitations common when meeting neighbors?
• How important is neighborly interaction in urban vs. rural areas?