What this part tests
- 5 questions, 3 minutes to answer all questions.
- A radio-style news report (monologue) on a current event or topic. You must understand the main idea, supporting details, and the reporter's perspective.
- A single audio followed by 5 dropdown-style questions displayed on screen.
- Example scenarios: a report about a new app for seniors, a city launching electric buses, a community watch program, a new recycling initiative.
Key strategies
01
Catch the main topic in the first sentence
News items almost always open with the key story. The first 10 seconds usually tell you what the entire report is about.
02
Listen for cause-and-effect relationships
Questions frequently ask why something happened or what resulted from an event. Listen for "because," "as a result," "this led to," "due to."
03
Distinguish facts from the reporter's commentary
Some questions ask what the reporter thinks or implies, while others ask about factual details. Notice when the reporter shifts from reporting to editorializing ("Experts believe…" vs "This is clearly…").
04
Anticipate questions about statistics and quotes
If a specific number, percentage, or direct quote is mentioned, there will likely be a question about it. Pay extra attention to these details.
Pro tip. The conclusion of a news item often restates or summarizes the key point. If you missed details earlier, the ending may help you answer the main-idea question.
Common mistakes
- Confusing details from the middle of the report with the main conclusion
- Missing the distinction between what an expert said vs what the reporter stated
- Choosing an answer that matches the general topic but not the specific detail asked