In this article we will give you some tips and advice on how to approach the FCE Listening Paper, Part 1. We have also included an FCE Listening test you can do.
The FCE Listening Paper, Part 1, requires you to listen to eight short extracts from monologues or conversations between interacting speakers.
You will need to answer one multiple-choice question for each extract, and you will have to choose between three options: A, B or C.
Tips for the FCE Listening Paper (Part 1)
Whenever possible, try to identify the information you need before you listen. That way you are better prepared. Then while you listen, focus only on listening for those details and don’t worry about anything else.
Start by underlining the key words in the question. Remember that all the possible answers may be mentioned in the recording. However, only one will actually answer the question.
Listen out for key words that mean the same as the key words you have underlined. These will tell you that the correct answer is coming.
Sometimes this part of the FCE Listening Paper will be a dialogue. If this is the case, make sure that you listen for the right person.
Remember, all the options may be mentioned, but not necessarily by the person in the question. You may have to listen to the person’s attitude or opinion, which may not be a single word or phrase.
Try to notice if the speaker is using positive or negative words, and ask yourself how these reflect their viewpoint. If you hear mostly negative words, then the speaker’s opinion is likely to be unfavourable. Similarly, a lot of positive words would indicate approval.
FCE Listening Practice Test
We have included an FCE Listening which we hope you will enjoy. Before you do the FCE Listening, we suggest you download the answer sheet and answer key (see below).
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