Listening Skills Flashcards

During a phone call with your energy supplier, you hear: 'Your current tariff ends on the 15th of next month. If you don't switch, you'll be moved to our standard variable rate, which is currently 28p per kWh.' What will happen if you take no action?

Answer: You will be placed on a more expensive standard rate

Standard variable rates are typically more expensive than fixed tariffs. The supplier is warning that without action, you'll move to this higher rate automatically.

You hear an announcement at a train station: 'The 14:32 service to Edinburgh Waverley is delayed by approximately 25 minutes. This is due to a points failure at York. We apologise for the inconvenience.' When should you now expect the train?

Answer: At approximately 14:57

The original departure time of 14:32 plus a 25-minute delay gives an expected time of approximately 14:57.

A recorded message at your dentist says: 'If you need to cancel or rearrange your appointment, please give at least 24 hours' notice. A charge of £25 may apply for missed appointments or late cancellations.' What could happen if you don't attend without calling?

Answer: You might be charged £25 for missing the appointment

The message clearly states a £25 charge may apply for missed appointments or late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice).

During a work meeting, your manager says: 'Going forward, all overtime must be pre-approved by your line manager. Any overtime worked without prior authorisation will not be paid.' What is the new policy?

Answer: You must get permission before working any overtime hours

'Pre-approved' and 'prior authorisation' both mean you need permission before the overtime happens. Without it, you won't be paid for extra hours.

You hear on a radio traffic report: 'There are long delays on the M25 clockwise between junctions 8 and 10 due to a multi-vehicle collision. Drivers are advised to use alternative routes. Current delay is approximately 90 minutes.' How long is the delay?

Answer: 90 minutes

The traffic report specifically states the current delay is approximately 90 minutes (one and a half hours).

A voicemail from your child's nursery says: 'We're calling to let you know that there have been two confirmed cases of chickenpox in your child's room. Please look out for symptoms including a rash, fever, and tiredness. Keep your child at home if they develop any spots until all blisters have crusted over.' When can your child return if they catch chickenpox?

Answer: Once all the blisters have crusted over

The voicemail specifically states to keep your child at home 'until all blisters have crusted over,' which is the standard NHS guidance for chickenpox.