1 | Progress test

Working with words

A I hear we both 14____________ the work of
Complete these sentences with pairs from the list. the sales divisions in our companies.
B Not quite. I mainly 15____________ with
stressful + depressing varied + dull domestic markets, so I only 16____________
challenging + worthwhile routine + fun accounts in my own country.
rewarding + good demanding + glamorous A So 17____________ me. Where is that?
B I come from a small town in Germany by the
1 My main duties are fairly _______, but Rhine.
sometimes I go on a trip abroad and that’s a lot A That 18____________ nice.
of _______. B You’re 19____________ for sales as well,
2 Being in recruitment is _____ because you aren’t you?
help people with their careers and that makes A I’m in 20____________ of our European
me feel _______. clients and now North Africa.
3 A CEO probably has the most _______ job in B Really? So does your job 21____________ a
the company, and of course it can also be lot of travel?
quite _______ with all the executive events.
4 Most of the time I have lots of different tasks Language at work
to do, so my job is really _________, but
sometimes I have to spend hours doing Put these words in the right order to make
paperwork and that is really _________. questions.
5 Many people who work in finance find that
their high-powered jobs are very _________.
22 you work Quebec do in
Eventually they also find them ________ and
____________________________?
want to leave.
23 ask who your is can main supplier I
6 Working for an NGO in Africa must be really
____________________________?
_________, but also very ________ because
24 does parts of the world which supply your
you help so many people.
company
____________________________?
Business communication skills 25 do where Lisa you works know
____________________________?
Match 7–13 to a–g. 26 many hours do a week how you work
____________________________?
7 This is … ___ a meet you too.
8 I don’t think … ___ b delighted to Put these time expressions in the right place. See
meet you. the example.
9 I’d like to … ___ c a colleague of
mine. (once in a while) I work from our headquarters. I work
10 I’m very … ___ d introduce a from our headquarters once in a while.
colleague.
11 I’m … ___ e pleased to 27 (all the time) The phone rings.
meet you. ____________________________
12 I want you to … ___ f we’ve met 28 (hardly ever) We leave the office before seven.
before. ____________________________
13 Nice to … ___ g meet a 29 (about three times a week) I’d say I play
colleague of tennis.
mine. ____________________________
(normally) There’s a staff meeting on
Complete this conversation with words from the Mondays.
list. ____________________________

sounds involve deal tell responsible charge Result ___________ / 30 marks

handle

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Then use the Speaking test results
forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give them to
the students.
Student A Student B

You are at a conference. You are meeting the You are at a conference. You are meeting the
other person for the first time. other person for the first time.
• introduce yourself • introduce yourself
• exchange greetings • exchange greetings
• say who your work for* • say who your work for*
• say what you do* • say what you do*
• describe your responsibilities* • describe your responsibilities*
• find out about the other person and • find out about the other person and
show interest show interest
* If you are a student, say where and what you * If you are a student, say where and what you
study. study.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student Didn’t do Yes, but with Yes, did Can the student Didn’t do Yes, but with Yes, did this
… this some this very … this some very well
(0 points) mistakes well (0 points) mistakes (2 points)
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point)
introduce him / introduce him /
herself? herself?

exchange exchange
greetings? greetings?

say who he / she say who he / she

works for? works for?

Find out about a Find out about a

person’s person’s
interests? interests?

Find out about Find out about

the other person the other person
and show and show
interest? interest?

Result _________/ 10 marks Result ________/ 10 Marks

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2 | Progress test
Working with words
Complete these sentences with words from the list. Match answers in 16–20 to questions in 11–15.
Write the question numbers next to the responses.
budget track tasks deadline job update
schedule objectives resources skills 16 I’m afraid I’m busy. _____
17 Great. Thanks. _____
1 We’ll never meet the ___________ at this rate. 18 We’ve completed it. _____
Can we go any faster? 19 So far so good. _____
2 You never know. At this speed we might even 20 We’re still waiting for it. _____
finish ahead of ___________!
3 If we have another good day we’ll be back Read these phrases for starting and ending a call.
on ___________. There is one unnecessary word in each phrase.
4 It’s my job to allocate the necessary Write this word next to the phrase.
___________ to departments and check they
have what they need. 21 Hello. Samira is speaking. ________
5 The finance department is on the phone asking 22 I must let you get on with. ________
why we don’t appear to be staying within 23 What can I to do for you? ________
the ___________. I said they should talk to 24 Thanks for your calling. ________
you.
6 I find delegating ___________ one of the most
difficult things to do on a project like this. Language at work
7 My boss likes to receive weekly ___________
from everyone in order to avoid any problems Complete this email with the present simple or
or delays. present continuous of the verbs in brackets.
8 Any successful project needs the manager to
set clear ___________ right from the Dear Jaime
beginning. As you know, currently Josie 25___________ (take) a
9 Any project is an opportunity to learn new month off because of family problems. As a result, I
26
___________. ___________ (need) someone to take over her
10 Come on everyone. Let’s get on with the responsibilities on the New York project. So the reason
___________, otherwise we’ll never get home. I 27___________ (email) you is to ask if you could
deal with it. I 28___________ (understand) that you
are very busy at the moment, but I 29___________
Business communication skills (think) I could delegate some of your less urgent work
to Bruno. I called your office and they said you
Complete these questions with the missing words. 30
___________ (interview) people for the new position
all day, so can you call me back asap tomorrow?
11 ___________’s everything going? Thanks.
12 ___________’s happening with the paint I
ordered? Result ________ / 30 marks
13 So, ___________ are we with stage one?
14 ___________ you call them for me and find
out where the delivery is?
15 ___________ don’t I do that for you? I’ve got
time.

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Then use the Speaking test results forms to evaluate
each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give them to the students.

Student A Student B

You and your partner run a training company. Call You and your partner run a training company. Your
your partner to get an update on a seminar for partner calls to get an update on a seminar for
managers this weekend. You need an update on the managers this weekend. This is the current situation.
following:
• the venue The venue
• refreshments. The original hotel has cancelled the booking so you are
looking for another venue.
This is the current situation.
Refreshments
The two trainers The caterers will arrive at midday.
They have confirmed. One of them needs a hotel for
the night before the seminar. You need an update from your partner on the
following:
Stationery • the two trainers
The supplier hasn’t delivered paper with the company • stationery.
logo on.
Decide who will deal with which tasks and by when.
Decide who will deal with which tasks and by when. Remember to summarize your decisions at the end of
Remember to summarize your decisions at the end of the call.
the call.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

start the call? start the call?

ask for and give an ask for and give an

update? update?

offer or decline to do offer or decline to

something? do something?

summarize the summarize the

action needed? action needed?

end the call? end the call?

Result________/ 10 marks Result________/ 10 marks

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3 | Progress test
Working with words
Complete these adjectives with the missing letters. 18 Sorry, but I should get ___________ to my
work now.
1 There’s a really _xc_t_n_ film on TV. Come
and watch! Read this voicemail and complete the information
2 I’ve just sat through one of the most b_r_ _ _ on the note pad (scoring = three marks in total, lose
presentations in my life. Everyone was nearly one mark per error).
asleep.
3 We had a r_l_x_ _ _ break at a health spa. Hi. Can you call me back on double oh seven, three
4 Standing at the top of a mountain after a long nine three, double one oh, two nine four? Or if I’m out,
hike is one the most ex_ _ _ar_t_ _ _ feelings. you can email me at michela dash thirteen at
5 Everyone in my office has a different enterprise underscore one dot F for Freddy I for Italy
background, so we have really i_ter_ _t_ _ _ all lowercase.
conversations.
6 We have a terrible boss who tries to motivate 19–21 Michela called. Call her back on___________or
us by making sure we’re f_ _ _ht_n_ _ of email her at_________________________________ .
losing our jobs.
7 One of the most _nj_y_ b_ _ holidays I have
ever had was staying at home doing nothing. It Language at work
was great!
8 The trip was really t_ _ _ _g, especially Complete this conversation with the past simple or
because delays at the airport added five hours the present perfect of the verbs in brackets.
to the flight.
Jane Hello Samuel, 22___________ you
___________ (you / meet) Frank?
Business communication skills Samuel No, I haven’t. Nice to meet you. Is this your
first time in the US?
Put these words in the right order to make Frank I 23___________ (come) here when I was a
questions. student, but that 24___________ (be) a long
time ago now!
9 do find you how our country Jane Frank works at our office in Vienna.
______________________________? Samuel Oh. I’m afraid, I 25___________ (never / be)
10 often do they visit head how office to Austria. I’ve heard that the skiing is great.
______________________________? Frank Yes, our family always spends some of their
11 films do sort you what like of holidays in the mountains.
______________________________? Samuel I love skiing. We’re planning our next skiing
trip at the moment. 26___________ (you / ever
Complete these sentences with the missing words. / be) skiing in Italy, Frank?
Frank Yes, I have.
12 They’re interested ___________ different Samuel When 27___________(you / go)?
cultures. Frank I 28___________ (go) about five years ago,
13 Rita is fond ___________ Opera. with a group of friends. It 29___________ (be)
14 Actually, I’m not that keen ___________ great there, but if you’re going skiing in
seafood. Europe you should definitely try Austria. I
15 She’s simply crazy ___________ skiing. She could show you around.
goes every winter. Samuel That sounds great!
16 He doesn’t seem excited ___________ the Jane Sorry to stop you there, but we really need to
changes at work. go now Frank. I 30___________ (put) you in
17 Anyway, I’d better get ___________. Speak the office next to mine.
again later. Frank Sure, let’s go. It was nice meeting you Samuel.

Result __________ / 30 marks

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 Roger Smythe is visiting your company for the 1 You have just come back from holiday. An old
first time. Call an old colleague to find out colleague calls. Make conversation and answer
more about this client: questions about a client:
• ask about work in general and his / her • the client’s number is
recent holiday 0044 576 847 22
• explain the reason for calling • the client’s email is
• find out the client’s number and email [email protected]
address • the client is fond of Italian food and
• ask about what the client likes doing keen on modern art.
in his free time
• end the conversation. 2 You are a training manager and a student
called Ivonna Pajak is coming to do a work
2 You are a college professor and one of your placement at your company. Her college
students is doing a work placement with a professor is an old friend, so you call to find
company. You are an old friend of the training out more about the student:
manager at the company. Your friend calls. • ask about work in general and about
Make conversation and answer questions his / her family
about the student: • explain the reason for calling
• the student’s email is • find out the student’s email address
ivonna [email protected] • ask about what the student likes doing
• the student is doing a thesis on in her free time
marketing • end the conversation.
• you think she is keen on hiking and
music.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B
Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this (0 Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

start a telephone start a telephone

call? call?

talk about work and talk about work and

leisure? leisure?

find out a person's find out a person's

contact details? contact details?

find out about a find out about a

person's interests? person's interests?

end a conversation? end a conversation?

Result________/ 10 marks Result________/ 10 marks

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4 | Progress test
Working with words 17 The purpose _________ today’s meeting is to
…
Complete these sentences with words from the list. 18 That is a downside, but _________ the plus
side …
19 _________ the one hand it’s more expensive,
immediate user-friendly efficient time-saving
accurate personal convenient up-to-date
but on the other it’s more efficient.

1 Your home page is really easy to use. It’s Language at work

_________.
2 How_________ is this data? It seems to be for Complete these sentences with adjectives from the
last month. list. Change the form of the adjectives if necessary.
3 Can you give me an _________ reply on this,
as I need to know straight away? friendly long complicated convenient stressful
4 The new supermarket is very easy to get to fast
from my house. It’s really _________ for me.
5 These figures don’t seem to be _________. 20 My previous job was much _________ than
I’ve found at least two mistakes. my present one. I feel much more relaxed
6 The engine on my new car is so _________. It now.
does more miles than my last one with the 21 This new printer isn’t nearly as _________ the
same amount of petrol. old one. You have to wait ages for it to print.
7 We will not pass on any of your _________ 22 I’m sure you miss Sonia. How is your new
details to other companies without your assistant getting on? Is she as _________ as
permission. Sonia?
8 These new _________ procedures have really 23 They say the tax system is going to be simple,
reduced the hours everyone spends on but it seems _________ than ever to me.
paperwork. 24 My commute to work is even _________ now
that they’ve closed the road.
Match 9–13 to a–e. 25 Online banking is so much _________.

9 Consultants help … ____ Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
10 Call centres make it easier … ____
11 Search engines let … ____ 26 I thought this week’s meeting was prepared
12 Using a laptop allows … ____ slightly / significantly better than last week. It
13 Financial advisors help … ____ was still quite bad, but at least we had an
agenda this time!
a for us to handle large numbers of enquiries. 27 The new software is nearly / isn’t nearly as
b staff to keep working while on the move. complicated as the previous version. They’ve
c us find information at the click of a button. really improved it.
d us to deal with our tax payments. 28 The more you use it, the better / as good you’ll
e organizations to improve the way they operate. become.
29 We certainly work a great / lot deal more like
Business communication skills a team.
30 I think a little / few more time spent planning
Complete these sentences with the correct might help.
prepositions.
Result ________ / 30 marks
14 It looks difficult _________ first, …
15 … but _________ fact it’s easier once you
know how.
16 It’s user-friendly, so _________ other words,
our customers will like it.

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Speaking test
Role card
This Speaking test has only one role card because each student has to give an individual presentation. Copy this
page and cut out the role card for the student. Then use the Speaking test results form to evaluate the student’s
performance. You can then cut out the results and give them to the student.

Your company wants to introduce new ways of working. You have been asked to give a presentation on hot-
desking and to explain the benefits and drawbacks. Read this summary about hot-desking.

Hot-desking is a working practice where employees do not have their own desks, but they are given a workspace
depending on their needs. This means that they may share a desk or workspace with other members of staff.
The benefits are that
• staff who work at different times can share space
• it makes better use of resources if staff are often out of the office.
The drawbacks are that
• staff must always clear their desks
• staff do not have a permanent place to work from
• it makes it difficult to build relationships with colleagues.

Now prepare and give your presentation.

Remember to
• introduce your presentation
• explain how the system works
• explain the advantages and disadvantages
• compare it with the current system.

Speaking test results

Use this form to evaluate the student.

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with some Yes, did this very well
(0 points) mistakes (1 point) (2 points)

introduce the purpose of

the presentation?

explain how the system

works?

explain the benefits?

explain any drawbacks?

compare it with the

current system?

Result________/ 10 marks

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5 | Progress test
Working with words Complete this conversation with the missing words.

Complete these sentences with words from the list. A Hello, I called earlier about the post in customer
Change the form of the word if necessary. service and we arranged an interview for next
Thursday afternoon.
guarantee require assist provide serve monitor
B Oh yes. I remember.
care satisfy expect A Well, I’m very sorry, but can we 18___________ it
forward to the morning?
1 Can you ___________ that the package will arrive B Well, I’m quite busy on Thursday morning. I’d
19
within 24 hours? ___________ the Friday morning.
2 The ___________ was rather slow at that new A That’s fine. 10 o’clock is 20___________ for me.
restaurant, but the food was good when it arrived. B Fine. We’ll see you then …
3 As part of your fitness check, we attach this
machine to your chest and it allows us to Language at work
___________ your heart.
4 In a recent survey we found that callers’ levels of Confirm a meeting with a customer by email. Write
___________ with the call centre were below each line of the email using the words below (two
average. marks per sentence).
5 With over 300 products in stock, we’re sure you’ll
find something to meet your ___________ . 21 write – confirm – our meeting – Friday 4th
6 We not only want to meet the ___________ of our
customers, we also want to exceed them. 22 we – meet – 10 a.m. – my office
7 I asked the shop ___________ for help, but she was
very rude to me. 23 bus to our company – leave – from train station –
8 Our customer ___________ policy is there to every fifteen minutes
ensure your complete satisfaction.
9 What kind of after-sales support does your
24 please note – our head of sales – also – join – us
company ___________ for its customers?
25 look forward – see – you
Business communication skills
21 ___________________________________
Complete this conversation with the missing words. 22 ___________________________________
23 ___________________________________
A Hello, I’m interested 10___________ your 24 ___________________________________
advert for customer service staff. Can you tell 25 ___________________________________
me a 11___________ more about the position?
B Sure, we have part-time and full-time Result _________ / 30 marks
vacancies and basically you answer questions
and help customers with any problems. Is that
something you could deal 12___________?
A Yes, I think so. I’d also like to find out
13
___________ the pay.
B Well, it would depend on your experience. The
best idea is for you to come in for a chat.
Would it be 14___________ for you to do
that?
A Maybe.
15
B ___________ about sometime this week?
A Next week would be better.
B OK. Wednesday the second 16___________
me.
A Sorry, I can’t 17___________ Wednesday, but
I’m free on Thursday afternoon.
B That’s fine …
Later the same day, the person calls again.
Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 5 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press
Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You need a venue for your company’s annual Sales 1 You manage a hotel in Dallas which often hosts
convention. Call a hotel in Dallas and find out about conventions for businesses. Answer a call.
• location (distance to stations, airports) Hotel location: 30 minutes from airport, ten minutes
• number of rooms from train station.
• meeting rooms Number of rooms: 200.
• relaxation facilities. Meeting rooms: one main room with 300 seat capacity,
twenty seminar rooms.
Arrange a meeting. You are busy on 26th May (p.m.) Relaxation facilities: pool, sauna, fitness gym, and
and 27th May. You are free on 28th May (p.m.) restaurant.

2 You manage a conference centre in Zurich. Answer a Arrange a meeting. You are free on 26th May (p.m.)
call. and 28th May. You are busy on 25th and 27th May.
Hotel location: twelve minutes from airport, fifteen
minutes from train station. 2 You are looking for a conference centre in
Centre facilities: main room has seating for 1,500, Switzerland. Call a centre in Zurich and find out about
twenty lecture rooms (50–200 per room), bars, two • location (distance to stations, airports)
restaurants. • size / rooms / refreshments
Audio-visual: projectors, audio, and flexible seating. • audio-visual facilities.

Arrange a meeting. You are free on 3rd March (p.m.) Arrange a meeting. You are busy on 2nd March (p.m.).
and 5th March (a.m.). You are busy on 1st, 2nd (a.m.), You are free on 1st, 3rd (p.m.), 4th (a.m.), and 5th
and 4th March. March.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

explain purpose of explain purpose of

the call? the call?

ask for all the ask for all the

information? information?

suggest times for a suggest times for a

meeting? meeting?

make an make an
appointment? appointment?

end the call? end the call?

Result _________ / 10 marks Result _________ / 10 marks

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6 Progress test
Working with words Business communication skills
Complete these sentences with words from the list. Match 18-24 to a response in a-h. Write the letters
Note that one word cannot be used. after the sentences. Note that one response cannot
be used.
trip facilities journey travel venues check
18 Did you have any trouble finding us? ___
1 How did your business _________ go? Was it 19 It’s nice to meet you in person. ___
successful? 20 Can I get you a coffee? ___
2 I don’t mind a long _________ on a plane if 21 Let me take your coat. ___
it’s comfortable and there aren’t any delays. 22 We’re going to begin with a tour of the
3 Have they confirmed all their _________ technical centre. ___
arrangements with us? For example, when are 23 For your safety, don’t touch the machinery.
they arriving? ___
4 Why don’t you _________ in online, rather 24 We’ll catch up again after lunch. ___
than waiting at the airport?
5 The _________ at that airport are excellent for a No, not really.
business travellers. They even provide b That sounds good. Let’s go.
secretarial services. c It’s fine thanks.
d Great. See you then.
Complete these words with the missing letters. e I’ll hang on to it for now.
f Thanks. White, please.
6 This is a local spe_________cooked in olive g Sure. No problem.
oil. h Likewise.
7 What kind of entert_________ do you think
they would enjoy? Perhaps opera? Or a play? Language at work
8 There’s a weekend exc_________ to Sicily
which you might enjoy while you’re here. Complete this conversation with verbs from the list.
9 When you travel as much as I do, visiting old
castles, museums, and sigh_________is fairly don’t need have to allowed supposed need
tiring to be honest. mustn’t
10 Thank you so much for your hosp_________.
Everyone’s been so kind to me. A OK. The first thing to remember is that you
11 I hear the ni_________ is good in Barcelona. 25
_________ log on, so you’ll always
Let’s go out tonight and see if it’s true. 26
_________ to remember your password.
B I heard that they change the passwords every
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. month.
A IT is 27_________ to reset them, but often
12 Would you like to freshen out / up / off before don’t do it. OK, once you’ve typed it in, wait a
dinner? few seconds while the system opens. You
13 I will pick Mr Hayes off / out / up from the 28
_________ click anything, or it all crashes.
hotel. B I see. By the way, am I 29_________ to send
14 He needed more time to show them up / personal emails? Or is that against the rules?
around / for the factory, so I guess they’re still A No, you 30_________ to worry too much, but
there. you mustn’t download any unknown
15 You will need to check out / in / on at documents.
reception when you arrive, and then join us in
the bar. Result _________ / 30 marks
16 One thing I’d like to do while I’m here is to
meet along / up / on with an old friend who
lives in the centre of town.
17 How about eating in / out / with at that
restaurant?

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are meeting a visitor to your factory, which 1 You are visiting a factory which produces computer
produces computer components. The schedule for today components. You have a two-hour flight and short
is as follows. taxi ride from the airport to the factory.
Morning: tour of the factory • Meet your hosts. You’d like to start the tour straight
Lunch: meet the head of production away.
Afternoon: visit the technical centre (10 kilometres • Ask about the schedule and explain that you would
away) also like to meet Dr Ruth Obach, who is in charge of
• Welcome the visitor who has flown in this morning. research and development.
• Ask about the journey and offer something to drink.
• Remember to explain the reasons for wearing 2 You are in charge of a new conference centre in Milan.
overalls and not touching any components in the You are meeting a potential client, who has travelled
factory area. overnight from Zurich. The schedule for today is as
follows.
2 You are visiting a brand new conference centre in Milan Morning: tour the main seminar rooms of the centre
to decide if it will be suitable for a three-day conference. Lunch: eat out at a nearby local restaurant
You travelled overnight by train from Zurich. Afternoon: visit the newly built hotel connected to the
• Meet your host. You’d like to start the tour straight centre
away. • Meet and welcome the visitor.
• Ask about the schedule and mention that you’d also • Ask about the journey and offer something to drink.
like to do some shopping later in the day. • Remember to explain that the visitor needs to wear
an identity pass at all times.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

welcome the visitor? welcome the visitor?

ask about the ask about the

journey? journey?

offer a drink? offer a drink?

talk about the talk about the

schedule? schedule?

remind the visitor remind the visitor

about safety? about safety?

Result _________/ 10 marks Result ______/ 10 marks

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7 | Progress test
B Sorry, I’m not sure I 15understand. 16Are you saying
Working with words we’ll have to show our ID badges to get into the car
park?
Complete these sentences with words from the list.
A Yes , that’s right.
B 17Why are we doing that?
breach prevent access pass monitor security A It’s because anyone can drive in at the moment.
safeguard safety password
B So, 18you mean that we’ll have to stop, show our
badge, and then show it again when we walk in.
1 Call health and __________ and tell them someone It’ll take ages!
has been injured in production!
2 What __________ measures are you planning for
the arrival of the President? Language at work
3 Don’t tell me they’ve changed the __________
again for this computer, have they? Complete these sentences with the present perfect
4 There was a __________ of security at our plant in simple or present perfect continuous of the verbs in
Bristol. Someone cut a hole in the fence and broke brackets.
in.
19
5 It keeps saying ‘Unauthorized __________. Re- A ________________(you / hear) the news?
enter PIN’, but I’m using my normal PIN number. B What 20________________(happen)?
6 Excuse me, may I see your __________ please? A Richard 21________________ (resign)!
7 This new software didn’t __________ us from B You’re kidding! Why ?
getting that virus. Are you sure it’s a good product? A They say he 22________________(steal) stationery
8 In order to __________ against problems of regularly for some time now.
identity theft, the card has a special chip. B Really? Do they know exactly how long he
23
9 By having CCTV, the company is able to ________________ (do) that?
__________ for unauthorized personnel on site. A No one knows for sure.
B I don’t believe it. I work with him every day and I
24
________________ (never / see) him take
Business communication skills anything. And anyway, why 25________________
(they / not / fire) him if that’s true?
Replace 10–18 in the dialogue with a–i, so that the A I don’t know. They 26________________(talk) to
meaning stays the same. Write the letters next to him all afternoon, so maybe we’ll find out before
the numbers. we leave tonight.
10 ____11 ____12 ____13 ____ 14____ Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
15 ____16 ____17 ____18 ____
27 It’s the second attachment with a virus this week.
a as it stands f update you on Consequently / Due to, we’ll scan everything.
b up to now g follow you 28 In order to / So that there’s no delay, I’ve asked her
c are aware h by having to contact them straight away.
d do you mean i what’s the reason for 29 Make a backup disk so / therefore you don’t lose
e if I understand you correctly files.
30 We’ll have to increase the number of security staff
A As you 10know, we’ve recently had a visit from a because of / in order that these changes.
security consultant and I’d like to 11tell you about
their findings. They advise that we install sprinkler Result ________ / 30 marks
systems. The situation 12now is that we only have
fire alarms. The building would be safer in the
event of a fire 13because of the sprinklers.
Secondly, 14so far we’ve always had security staff
in reception, but not in the car park. We now plan
to have security at the entrance.

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 7 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You manage a small office of five people. You 1 You work in a small office of five people. Your
want to change the lunch break system. Give a manager wants to propose changes to the lunch
presentation on the situation. break system.
Present situation: all staff take lunch at the same You are not happy about the changes, especially the
time. proposal that some lunch breaks will begin at
Problem: there is no one in the office over lunch 11.30 a.m.
and clients have complained about this. Listen to the presentation and ask questions.
Proposed changes: staff will take lunch at different
times; lunch will begin at 11.30 a.m. for some and 2 You own a small, but growing business. You want
12.30 p.m. for others. to appoint an assistant to be in charge when you are
Be prepared to answer questions! away. Give a short presentation on the situation.
Present situation: you have to travel more and
2 You work for a small, but growing company. The more and you will be employing three more staff
owner wants to propose a change. next month.
You think he wants to make Sandra Piaf the new Problem: no one is in charge when you are away
manager. You are not happy about the change. You and you also need an assistant to help with the
think staff can work on their own when the owner is growing business.
away (and you don’t like Sandra). Proposed changes: appoint Sandra Piaf (a current
Listen to the presentation and ask questions. employee) to be your assistant; all staff will report
to her when you are away.
Be prepared to answer questions!

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

give background to give background to

the situation? the situation?

explain problems? explain problems?

propose changes? propose changes?

answer questions? answer questions?

convince the other convince the other

person? person?

Result________/ 10 marks Result________/ 10 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 7 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

8 | Progress test
Working with words
Complete these sentences with the correct
Complete these words with the missing letters. prepositions.

1 You should take more r_ _ p_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ y at 19 __________ the long run it’s for the best.
work – that way you might get promoted. 20 Do you think you’ll be able to finish this
2 We’re too similar. We have the same strengths. Our __________ the end of the month?
skills aren’t c_m_ _ _ _ _ _ t_ _ y. 21 __________ the next few weeks I intend to talk
3 Maybe we should join f_r_ _s and find a solution to all staff about this.
together. 22 We’ll have finished __________ next Tuesday at
4 The two companies are hoping to form an the latest.
a_ l_ _ _ _e in order to survive this current 23 There may be some complaints __________ the
recession. short term.
5 Nigel isn’t much of a team p_a_ _r, I’m afraid. He 24 We plan to be ready __________ schedule.
prefers to work alone.
6 Let’s start by finding some common g_o_ _d, rather
than focusing on our disagreements. Language at work
7 I’d like you two to work more c_o_ _ _ y together
in the future. Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
8 It’s a joint v_n_ _ _e between a coffee company
and an electronics firm to produce vending 25 You should / ’re going to come along if you have
machines. time. The CEO will be there.
26 Profits will / might definitely fall a little next
quarter. Don’t worry. They always go back up
Business communication skills around Christmas.
27 Look at the awful findings on customer feedback.
Complete these sentences with phrases from the They’re terrible. I think we should / ’re going to
list. lose some of our key clients based on this report.
28 I’m not 100% sure, but I think I might / will apply
next step chances are well done going to for that job in the paper.
the deadline intend to I expect likely that 29 Let me check with the warehouse, and then I
planned to timescale on promise that I ’ll / ’m going to call you straight
back.
A So, what’s the 9__________? 30 There’s usually a shuttle bus that leaves the
B Well I 10__________ talk to the client and get conference centre at 3 p.m. If it’s running today
some feedback. It’s 11__________ they'll ask us to there is going to / should be one in about five
speed the project up. minutes.
A Remind me. What’s the 12__________ this ?
B July 31st is 13__________ but they’d like July 1st. Result __________ / 30 marks
A That’s rather optimistic.
B Well, I’m 14__________ need more people, but
I expect we’ll be OK. I’ve 15__________
employ more freelance staff anyway, so it won’t
affect my budget.
A 16__________ ! That’s a really good idea.
B And the 17__________we won’t be ready in time
anyway, so 18__________ the final date will still
be the 31st.

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 8 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You work in the human resources department of a 1 You are the production manager at a very large car
very large car factory. The production manager and you need fifteen new trainee employees in
needs fifteen new trainee employees in September. September. It is the end of May.
It is the end of May. Call the head of human resources to find out his /
Your production manager calls. Explain your plan her plan and intentions for recruitment. Remember
and timescale. to find out about the timescale for this.
Plan: advertise at local technical colleges; hold
open days and visits for students; interview 2 You are the sales manager for a medium-sized firm.
students; get references from lecturers. Your managing director calls for an update on this
Hopes and expectations: recruit by end of July; year’s brochure and price list. It is due for October
avoid expensive advertising. 1st and it is now September 2nd. Explain your plan
and timescale.
2 You are the managing director of a medium-sized Plan: contact the designers; contact the printers;
firm. hold a meeting to discuss prices for the year.
Call the sales manager for an update on this year’s Hopes and expectations: there will be a delay
brochure and price list. You want it ready for because we need new photographs of products; it’s
October 1st and it is now September 2nd. Find out going to be a few days late.
from your sales manager the timescale for this.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

answer the call? answer the call?

describe plans and describe plans and

intentions? intentions?

express hopes and express hopes and

expectations? expectations?

explain timescale? explain timescale?

end the call? end the call?

Result __________/ 10 marks Result __________/ 10 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 8 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

9 | Progress test
Working with words Business communication skills
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. Complete this conversation with words from the
list.
1 We don’t need to store any components /
warehouse on site because they are delivered when place look problem following find according
we need them. put asap take
2 It’s possible to keep a constant check on the supply
chain / inventory using bar codes. A Compusource components. Linda speaking.
3 There’s a customer / supplier on the phone B Hello, this is Kris Triers. I’m 12_____ up an order
complaining about a late payment again. I made three weeks ago. I’d like to 13_____ out
4 Everything is streamlined / distributed to our about it.
retailers using private logistics firms. A Sure. Can I 14_____ your account details?
5 One way to ensure quality is to begin by checking B Yes, the reference number was UU-1100.
the rough / raw materials that we buy in.
A OK. Let me see. When did you 15_____ the order
exactly?
Complete these sentences with the missing words.
B The 4th of March I think.
A OK. Was that fifty sound cards?
6 You should give them a call and find out where our
B That’s right.
order is. We don’t want to run __________ again
A OK, Mr Triers. 16_____ to my information, these
like last time and be left with nothing.
were 17_____ through to the warehouse on the
7 How __________ are we running on replacement
10th of March.
mother boards?
8 I’ve called three places now and they all say they B But I asked for them to be sent 18_____. Are you
are __________ of stock. sure? This is a real 19_____ for us.
9 If you log on to the site, you type in this reference A I’ll 20_____ into it immediately. Will you hold?
number and it’ll keep track __________ your
order. Complete these sentences with the correct
10 For this party I think we’ll need to stock up prepositions.
__________ more of that chocolate ice cream. It
was really popular last time and went within five 21 Please charge it __________ my account.
minutes! 22 Could you check it __________ for me?
11 You’re in luck. We have one left __________ 23 It was dispatched __________ Monday.
stock. How would you like it delivered? 24 I’m not happy __________ this.
25 I’ve had enough __________ this.
26 I’ll get back __________ you.

Language at work
Read this voicemail message. Then complete the
note to your boss using reported speech.

‘Hi, it’s Peter. Just calling to say I’ve looked into the
problem and our warehouse manager tells me they sent
the items two days ago. Can you call me when they
arrive?’
Message: Peter called. He said 27__________ the
problem and the warehouse manager 28__________
they 29__________ the items two days ago. He
30
__________ him when they arrive.

Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 9 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 Call your computer supplier: 1 You are a computer supplier:

• identify yourself • answer Student A’s call
• give reason for calling • take the order
• place an order for 100 motherboards • ask for details of late order
• check where the delivery from last month is • explain that it was sent by ship not air
(ref no: RG566) • promise action.
• complain about the problem
• give contact number for supplier to call you
back on. 2 Call your stationery supplier:
• identify yourself
2 You are a stationery supplier: • give reason for calling
• answer Student B’s call • place an order for 200 folders
• take the order • check where the delivery from last month is
• ask for details of late order (ref no: EA-1001)
• explain that it was sent to the wrong customer • complain about the problem
• promise action. • give contact number for supplier to call you
back on.
Speaking test results
Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B
Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

identify him / herself identify him / herself

and give reason for and give reason for
call? call?
place the order? place the order?

check previous check previous

delivery? delivery?

complain? complain?

give contact give contact

number? number?

Result__________/ 10 marks Result__________ / 10 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 9 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

10 | Progress test
Working with words
Complete these sentences with words from the list.
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
maybe work sure consider prove reservations
1 We are still badly equipped / cramped. There
better worth rather
simply isn’t enough space for anyone to work.
2 I made all the changes we discussed, so the reports
are now state-of-the-art / up-to-date. 13 _____we should begin by brainstorming a few
3 The old warehouses are quite run out / run down. ideas.
Should we renovate them or build new ones? 14 It might _____ more difficult than we think.
4 Everything’s new here. Even the water-cooler! So 15 I really think we should _____ a few more
we’re about as well equipped / spacious as you can options.
be. 16 We might be _____ off going to another supplier.
17 It’s probably _____ seeing what staff think first.
Which intensifier cannot be used in each sentence? 18 I have some _____ about that proposal.
19 I’d _____ not bring in any more freelancers if at
5 How was your weekend? _____ quiet, actually. I all possible.
just read and watched TV. And you? 20 Sorry, but I don’t think that would _____.
a Fairly b Quite c Not very 21 I’m not entirely _____.

6 This isn’t _____ what I had in mind, but never

mind. It should be OK. Language at work
a exactly b quite c fairly
Match 22–30 to a–i.
7 The new Jaguar has a / an _____ powerful engine.
It does 0–60 in five seconds. 22 There isn’t a lot …_____
a very b exactly c extremely 23 There are some …_____
24 You don’t have much …_____
8 The new offices aren’t _____ easy to find. You 25 Only a …_____
need to turn right off the motorway. 26 A few …_____
a very b exactly c pretty 27 We don’t think many customers …_____
28 I’m sorry, but I don’t have …_____
Business communication skills 29 There aren’t many people …_____
30 How …_____
Complete these questions with the missing words.
a any paper clips left.
9 _____ about installing new phones? b left at the old headquarters now.
10 _____ don’t we ask them to give their comments? c of extra time, so your schedule must be right.
d employees would like a smoking room.
11 _____ you thought about introducing bonuses?
e running machines at the back.
12 _____ n’t we have an open plan office area
f space in here, do you?
instead? g much of the day is spent in meetings?
h little money gets wasted using this system.
i care about quality, as long as the price is low.

Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 10 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role card
This Speaking test has only one role card because each student has to give an individual presentation. Copy this
page and cut out the role card for the student. Then use the Speaking test results form to evaluate the student’s
performance. You can then cut out the results and give them to the student.

Prepare and give a mini-presentation. Follow these stages:

• introduce and describe the place where you work (style of office, atmosphere, current facilities)
• explain the advantages of the work place
• explain any disadvantages
• recommend two possible improvements
• be prepared to answer any questions on your presentation.

Speaking test results

Use this form to evaluate the student.

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with some Yes, did this very well
(0 points) mistakes (1 point) (2 points)

describe his / her place of

work?

explain the advantages of the

work place?

explain any disadvantages?

recommend two possible

improvements?

answer any questions on the

topic?

Result__________/ 10 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 10 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

11 | Progress test
Working with words Business communication skills
Complete these sentences with words from the list. There is one incorrect word in each phrase.
Change the form of the word if necessary. Underline it and write the correct word at the end.

put have make carry have reach make 16 From my opinion of view it’s a bad idea. point
_____
avoid express go 17 far
As near as I’m concerned, it’s fine. _____
18 I’m not quite sure for that. about
_____
1 have
Do you __________ an idea of how long they’ll 19 I listen what you’re saying, but it won’t work.
be? hear
_____
make a suggestion?
2 Do you mind if I __________ 20 You’re absolutely right. I couldn’t agree much.
go
3 Why don’t we __________ for this plan and see more
_____
what happens? 21 To be truth, I don’t see how we’re going to
carry
4 I asked you to __________ out my decision and persuade them. honest
_____
you ignored me. Why? 22 I have your point about the costs, but I think it’s
reached an agreement yet? It’s
5 Haven’t they__________ take/see
worth it. _____
been hours. face
23 Let’s see it, he’s too old for the job! _____
put
6 I’d like to __________ forward an idea to
change how decisions are made.
make up my mind on this one.
7 I just can’t __________
Language at work
8 Let’s make sure everybody has a chance to
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
have
__________ their say.
9 I know this is a sensitive issue, so let’s try to Hi Jeff
avoid
__________ any confrontation during our
discussion. Thanks for your advice. If you 24will / could answer
10 We need an environment where employees feel one or two more questions about our idea, I’d be really
expressed their opinions freely.
able to __________ grateful. First of all, if we choose your idea of going
online (and I think we probably 25will / would), what
Complete these words with the missing letters. 26
will / would the start up costs be – approximately?
Would you know the name of someone who could
11 We’ll need the full ba backing
_ _ _ _ _ of the board for design a site if we 27need / needed help with this? If we
this plan. Without their support, it won’t work. could, it 28will / would be fun to try and design it
12 Are you all in fafavour
_ _ _ _ of this solution? Or are ourselves, but maybe that’s a bad idea. What 29will /
you against it? would you do in our situation?
13 The ma _majority
_ _ _ _ _ of the shareholders are against I look forward to hearing from you. If it’s OK with
investing any more money into this division. Only you, I 30will / would give you a call next week so that
one or two of them want to give any more money. we can talk about this some more.
14 I suggest we br _ _brainstorm
_ _ _ _ _ _ a few ideas and see
where we end up. OK? Best wishes
15 We tried reaching a cocompromise
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _, but they Ilse
weren’t willing to lower the price.
Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 11 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role card
This Speaking test has only one role card because students work together and have a meeting. Copy this page
and cut out the role card for pairs of students. Then use the Speaking test results forms to evaluate each
student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give them to the student.

Work in pairs.

Situation:
• you all work together for a small high street shop which sells ethnic and health food
• you have been open a month and business is OK, but not great
• you live in a traditional town, so your products are quite new.

Hold a meeting to discuss ways to promote the shop locally. Discuss each of the following ideas and try to suggest
others. Note that you have the budget for only two ideas. Make sure you reach a final decision.

1 Put balloons outside the shop and someone can walk around with a sign.
2 Sponsor a local event or charity.
3 Advertise in the local newspaper and ask them to write an article about you.
4 Run free cookery lessons in the shop to show people how to use the food.
5 Any other ideas?

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

give opinions? give opinions?

agree / disagree? agree / disagree?

acknowledge what acknowledge what

someone else says? someone else says?

check check
understanding? understanding?

reach a decision? reach a decision?

Result__________ / 10 marks Result__________ / 10 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 11 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

12 | Progress test
Working with words B Yes, how does this affect our department?
A Sorry, I 19didn’t catch that.
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics.
B Our department. What changes does it mean?
A Good question, but can I 20explain that later? I
1 I’ve never seen a product like this before. It’s really don’t want to go into exact detail here and now.
reliable / original! B But I think everyone needs to hear.
2 How did you come up / out with that idea? It’s A Sure, and I 21understand your opinion, but I want
great. to be able to give you precise figures when I have
3 My new car design is only at the brainchild / them.
prototype stage at present. It still needs a lot of
work.
4 When I first started in business I had lots of Language at work
obstacles / catalysts to get past because I didn’t
have a lot of qualifications. Complete these sentences with the superlative form
5 This new mobile contains highly reliable / of the adjectives in the list.
sophisticated technology. It’s state-of-the-art!
6 We’re a revolutionary / traditional company with a well known happy high valuable bad low late
long history of providing quality clothes to older friendly expensive
customers.
7 Sorry, but I don’t think I follow the basic concept / 22 Resigning from my job was probably the
a-ha moment for your idea. __________ decision I’ve ever made.
8 He’s a young, simple / dynamic executive with a 23 The __________ mistake we made was investing
great future! in that company. We lost so much money.
24 I think Ireland is one of the __________
Business communication skills countries I’ve ever visited. Everyone is so nice!
25 I’d say that your employees are your
Complete this presentation with phrases a–g. __________ asset by far.
26 You got the second __________ sales results in
a morning and e take your questions the division. Well done!
b First f let’s look 27 Unemployment has fallen to its __________
c we’ll look at g I’d like to begin point in ten years. Most people can get a job
d you can see nowadays.
28 R&D have sent over the designs for their
Good 9_____ thanks for coming. 10_____ by outlining __________ prototype. I hope this one works!
the aim of this meeting. 11_____ , I’ll give an 29 Disney is probably __________ for its films for
overview of the current situation with regard to staff children.
organization. Then, 12_____ our proposal for some 30 The team seem __________ when they have
changes, and finally I’ll 13_____ . So, 14_____ at this clear aims and objectives.
slide. As 15_____ , it shows you …
Result __________ / 30 marks
Replace the underlined phrases with a–f. Write the
letters next to the numbers.

16 _____ 17 _____ 18 _____

19 _____ 20 _____ 21 _____

a couldn’t hear you d ’s everything I want

to say
b see what you mean e Are there
c get back to you on that f listening

A So that 16brings me to the end of my presentation.

Thanks for 17your attention. 18Do you have any
questions?

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 12 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role card
This Speaking test has only one role card because each student has to give an individual presentation. Copy this
page and cut out the role card for the student. Then use the Speaking test results form to evaluate the student’s
performance. You can then cut out the results and give them to the student. The student will need pens and
paper to prepare a visual aid.

You are in charge of creating a new mission statement for your place of work (or study).

1 Prepare your new mission statement and write it out. It should be no more than twenty words.
2 Now prepare and give a short (five-minute) presentation. Follow these three stages:
• give a brief overview of your place of work (or study)
• explain what you want to emphasize about it in the mission statement
• present the final mission statement (prepare a visual aid with the mission statement written on it).

Don’t forget to begin and end your presentation appropriately, and be prepared for questions at the end!
Make sure you prepare a visual aid with the mission statement written on it for the final stage.

Speaking test results

Use this form to evaluate the student.

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with some Yes, did this very well
(0 points) mistakes (1 point) (2 points)

start the
presentation?

give an overview?

refer to visuals?

close the
presentation?

respond to questions
or comments?

Result__________ / 10 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 12 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

13 | Progress test
Working with words
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. A What appears to be the 15t__________?
B My boss is 16a__________ giving me more
1 Excuse me, I think there’s a fault / failure with projects when we haven’t finished the last ones. I
my washing machine. just can’t keep up.
2 Your idea’s good, but there’s one major flaw / A It 17m__________ be useful to talk to her.
faulty in the plan. You haven’t considered what B But she’s never here. I just get notes stuck on yet
the union will say. more reports.
3 I’m sorry, but there seems to have been some kind A The 18b__________ thing would be to ring her.
of breakdown / misunderstanding. My Just talking should solve the problem.
appointment is at 2.00 p.m., and your appointment
is 2.30 p.m., so I should go first. A Hello, how can I 19h__________?
4 Sorry, you’ll have to wait if you want to use the B Well I bought this from you last week, but it
Internet. The server will be wrong / down for at doesn’t work.
least three hours. A What’s wrong with it 20e__________?
5 Don’t bother trying to use that software on a PC. B It won’t come on, and there’s a smell when you
It’s incompatible / defective with anything but a plug it in.
Mac. A What 21s__________ of smell?
6 You won’t believe this. My car is down / has B A kind of burning.
broken down for the third time this month. It’s at A It sounds 22l__________ there’s a problem with
the garage now. the electrics. I’ll give you another one.
7 I wouldn’t use them. They’ll fix it for you, but
they’re so unreliable / defective for getting things
done on time. Language at work
8 Take the stairs. The lift’s down / out of order
again. Tick () the correct sentences and change the
9 I think the problems are due to the mistake / incorrect sentences.
failure of staff to communicate properly. We need
some more staff training. 23 I think you should to ask for help.
10 It’s not always in our interests to achieve zero _________________________
failures / defective, as this can be expensive and 24 You have to get it approved by your boss.
push up prices. _________________________
25 I’d speak to her if I would be you.
Business communication skills _________________________
26 What would you do in this situation?
Complete these conversations with the missing _________________________
words. 27 Is it enough easy for you?
_________________________
A 11
So what’s the m__________ exactly? 28 Sorry, but I don’t have enough time for that.
B It’s this DVD. It 12k__________ on switching _________________________
off. 29 This is really too complicated to fix.
A When you say it switches off, do you _________________________
13
m__________ it stops, or there’s no power at 30 The main problem is that we don’t have too
all? resources. _________________________
B No power. It goes dark.
A Are you using it on battery, or mains? Result __________ / 30 marks
B Battery I think.
A Have you 14t__________ plugging in the power
cable?
B Is there one?

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Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 Call customer services at a computer supplier. 1 You work at the call centre for a computer
Main problem: you bought a faulty computer. supplier. Answer a call and do the following:
Details: you loaded some old software on to it, • find out the main problem and details
but it won’t work with this computer; you’d like • note that there is nothing wrong with the
to send the computer back and get a refund. computer, the customer’s software sounds out-
of-date and incompatible
2 Your colleague calls you with a problem. Answer • advise the customer to buy new software
the call and do the following: • the company has a no refund policy.
• find out the main problem and details
• note that the problem is probably just a simple 2 Call a colleague.
misunderstanding Main problem: your boss is always giving you
• advise your colleague to talk with his / her boss work.
• confirm that better communication is the Details: you have three reports to complete and
solution. have now been given another; your boss is never
here.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

ask what the ask what the

problem is? problem is?

ask for details? ask for details?

diagnose the diagnose the

problem? problem?

give advice? give advice?

confirm a solution? confirm a solution?

Result __________ / 10 marks Result __________ / 10 marks

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14 | Progress test
Working with words Business communication skills
Complete these sentences with verbs from the list. Complete this conversation with the missing words.
Change the form of the verb if necessary.
A Hello. Can you 12s __________a couple of
13
pick take feed put make m__________?
B Yes, what can I 14d__________ for you?
1 We _____ all our furniture out of real wood. A That was a very interesting talk. I’d like to know
2 _____ the boxes up and put them on the lorry. some more about the process and I was
15
3 Sorry! I _____ the paper into the fax machine w__________if you’d 16l__________ to join
really slowly, but it’s jammed. me for a drink.
4 The nuts are _____ out of their shells using this B That would be 17n__________, but I’m a bit
18
machine. t__________ up at the moment.
5 Can you _____ about ten litres of petrol into the A It can’t be 19h __________. Well, I’d be
20
engine? d__________ if you would join me later –
perhaps for dinner?
Match 6–11 to a–f. B That would be 21g__________ .

6 You’re ready to go, …_____

Language at work
7 The basic procedure is …_____
8 Essentially, there are three …_____ Complete these sentences with the active or passive
9 First …_____ form of the verbs in brackets.
10 Having finished that, …_____
11 Finally, you’re …_____ 22 Try to __________ (notice) by your boss as
quickly as possible if you want a promotion.
a of all, press this. 23 People prefer to __________ (do) business with
b ready to go. people they like.
c quite simple. 24 Staff must __________ (warn) if they break any
d once you’ve switched it on. rules.
e it’s ready to eat. 25 I __________ (give) this report by your secretary
f main stages. a few minutes ago.
26 If you __________ (invite) to dinner in Germany
it’s a good idea to be on time.
27 Jatropha plants can __________ (plant) on
infertile ground.
28 The conveyor belt __________ (carry) the
components to this box here.
29 My company __________ (found) in 1958 by
two brothers.
30 We can __________ (fire) you if you turn up
late for work.

Result __________ / 30 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 14 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You work in IT and you are very busy, but your 1 You know your colleague in IT is busy, but you
colleague needs help. Answer the phone and need to call him / her. Call and do the following:
respond: • ask if your colleague has time to talk
• explain that the procedure is simple and follows • ask for an explanation of how to renew the anti-
this sequence: click on the old anti-virus icon; virus software on the computer
click on ‘renew’; you are directed to the • thank your colleague for his / her help and
website; follow the instructions and put in invite him / her for a drink after work.
credit card details; the software is
automatically downloaded 2 You are head of recruitment at a company. You are
• respond to your colleague’s invitation. late for a meeting, but a colleague stops you in the
corridor. Say you are busy, but agree to help:
2 You meet your colleague in the corridor. Get his / • explain that the procedure is simple and follows
her attention. You need some help: this sequence: details of the job are given to
• tell your colleague that you need a new you; a job advert is put in the trade press or
assistant in your department newspaper; you make a shortlist of applicants;
• ask for an explanation of how the recruitment they are interviewed by you and your
procedure works colleague
• thank your colleague for his / her help and • respond to your colleague’s invitation.
invite him / her to your office after the meeting
to discuss the job requirements in detail.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student … Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

respond to a request respond to a request

for help? for help?

describe the basic describe the basic

procedure? procedure?
explain stages? explain stages?

use expressions to use expressions to

show sequence? show sequence?
accept or decline an accept or decline an
invitation? invitation?

Result________/ 10 marks Result________/ 10 marks

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15 | Progress test
Working with words Language at work
Choose the correct answer from the words in italics. Complete these sentences with the past perfect or
past continuous of the verbs in brackets.
1 What we look for in staff is 100% dedication /
punctuality to the job. 21 I __________ (work) in a hotel bar when I first
2 Most importantly, nurses must be very confident / met him.
caring people. 22 I mentioned it, and he said he __________
3 The most highly motivated / patient staff are not (already / ask) them.
those who want a bonus, but those who naturally 23 By the time they arrived, the guests __________
want to make things work. (leave) and gone home.
4 We don’t really work fixed hours. Some days you 24 Why __________ (you / talk) to them just now?
might work late and other days you might leave a You’re not thinking of working for them, are you?
little earlier. We like a flexible / helpful approach 25 She ate her sandwich while she __________
to the working day.
(still / work) on her computer. It isn’t good for
5 I’m afraid your work record so far hasn’t been
her.
very good. You don’t seem very dependable /
26 The appraisal said he __________ (not /
dependant. For example, last month you were late
improve) his performance in the last six months
for work four times.
and things needed to change.
6 I remember when I was as creative / ambitious as
27 When I first started in business, they
him and wanted to reach the top of the company.
7 Patience / Enthusiasm is a key quality in __________ (not / invent) computers!
customer care, especially when you have to listen 28 I don’t think he __________ (do) anything when
to customers complaining about products. I spoke to him earlier, so he probably has time to
8 One of the most creative / hardest-working help.
members of staff is Gill. She’s always here first. I 29 Can I have a word? Why __________ (you /
think we should give her a bonus. send) an email to a friend when I walked past
your desk just now? You know our rules on that,
don’t you?
Business communication skills 30 I saw the report on the accident, but only after the
same thing __________ (happen) three more
There is one mistake in each phrase. Correct it. times.
9 We’re very please with your performance.
Result __________ / 30 marks
_______
10 You done a good job. _______
11 You seem to be do very well. _______
12 Perhaps one thing to work along is your
communication skills. _______
13 How do you think about these changes? _______
14 How are you getting up with your new job?
_______
15 One of your key strongs is listening. _______
16 I think this is an area for improve. _______
17 So let summarize what we’ve agreed. _______
18 One thing you’re going do is a training course.
_______
19 How does that hear to you? _______
20 Are there anything else you’d like to add?
_______

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 15 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press

Speaking test
Role cards
Copy this page and cut out the role cards for the students. Students should do both role-plays. Then use the
Speaking test results forms to evaluate each student’s performance. You can then cut out the results and give
them to the students.

Student A Student B

1 You are giving a six-month performance 1 You are having your six-month performance
review to an employee in your sales office: review with the manager of your sales office:
• tell the employee that you’re very happy • explain that you are basically happy, but that
with his / her performance you would like to make more sales
• comment on his / her teamwork • request some computer training with Excel.
• find out how he / she feels 2 You are giving a six-month performance review
• suggest that he / she takes some training in to an employee in your human resources
sales on the telephone department:
• summarize the discussion and set some • tell the employee that you’re fairly happy with
objectives. his / her performance
2 You are having your six-month performance • comment on the good work he / she has done so
review with the manager of your sales office: far
• explain that you are not very happy • find out how he / she feels
because you don’t think you are being • suggest that he / she takes some training in how
given enough responsibility to interview candidates for jobs
• say you would like more involvement in • summarize the discussion and set some
the recruitment process of new staff. objectives.
• request training in report-writing.

Speaking test results

Use these forms to evaluate the students.

Student A Student B

Can the student ... Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this Can the student ... Didn’t do this Yes, but with Yes, did this
(0 points) some mistakes very well (0 points) some mistakes very well
(1 point) (2 points) (1 point) (2 points)

assess overall assess overall

performance? performance?

give feedback? give feedback?

encourage self- encourage self-

evaluation? evaluation?

suggest some suggest some

objectives? objectives?

set and agree some set and agree some

objectives? objectives?

Result __________/ 10 marks Result __________/ 10 marks

Business Result Intermediate Progress Test 15 Photocopiable © Oxford University Press