This technique is thought to focus the listener even before hearing the tape and thus “subdue panic” and “increase exam productivity”. The technique can be summarised as follows:

1. Read the instructions carefully (even though they always begin in the same manner, there is usually some information about the piece you will hear included also). Take this information into account when considering the likelihood of your answer.
2. Read the questions, underlining the key words. Mentally recall or actually jot down the French for these words above the English questions.
3. Now listen out for these or related words on the tape, your... (More)

• Je vais à une école mixte / de garçons / de filles qui s’appelle… I go to a mixed / boys / girls school called…
• C’est une grande / petite école… It is a big / small school
• Je porte un uniforme… I wear a uniform
• L’uniforme est obligatoire dans mon école… You must wear a uniform
• Il y a environ cinq cents élèves… There are about 500 pupils
• Il y a un personnel de 25 professeurs… There is a staff of 25 teachers
• Le directeur s’appelle M. Murphy et il est sympa /strict... (More)