Part 5: Listening to a Discussion

Names and views

Speakers are usually introduced by name. Write each name on its own line and add their view as soon as you hear it. The video helps: facial expressions and who looks at whom show agreement and disagreement.

Who agrees with whom

Questions often ask which person supports an idea, or why someone changes their mind. Listen for agreement ("That's a good point", "I'm with Maria on this") and partial agreement ("I see what you mean, but…").

• The video discussion (full post)

The group decision

The discussion usually ends with a decision or a next step. As in Part 1, the decision may differ from the first idea. Star it in your notes.

• Listening Part 5 strategy and practice

Key points

• One line per speaker; add views as you hear them.
• Use the video for agreement and disagreement.
• Star the final decision.

Exercise

Ana: "We should move the meeting online." Ben: "I'm not sure; people zone out." Carla: "I agree with Ana, but only for short updates." Ben: "OK, that works."

1. Who first disagreed?
2. What did they decide?

Practise with free questions

Free questions in the CELPIP format, with answers and no account needed. Try a few now, while the lesson is fresh.

• Listening Part 5 sample tests: Listening to a Discussion
  30 free tests with answers
• Full-length Listening practice tests
  25 free tests · all parts, 38 questions, estimated CLB

All lessons in this course

1. How CELPIP Listening Works and Is Scored
2. Note-Taking When You Hear It Once
3. Part 1: Listening to Problem Solving
4. Part 2: Listening to a Daily Life Conversation
5. Part 3: Listening for Information
6. Part 4: Listening to a News Item
7. Part 5: Listening to a Discussion
8. Part 6: Listening to Viewpoints
9. Distractors, Guessing and Test Day