Silent Listening

    If something bad just happened (happen) to your friend, what would you do? Would you mention it to him and say you feel sorry about it? Would you offer support or advice? According to Ruth Clark, such 41 (treat) could mean well, but it might not be what he 42 (real) wants or needs.

    Clark asked some college students to imagine some 43 (pleasant) situations, e.g., a low exam grade or the dad’s 44 (lose) of his job. The students were then 45 (ask) how they would like to be treated by a friend who learned of the bad situation from someone else. The results were a little 46 (surprise). Some said they would want and expect their friend to mention the 47 (annoy) situation, but most of the students in the study 48 (respond) that they would like the friend not to do it. The students made the 49 (decide) for themselves whether to discuss their problem with a friend. So, there is value in being a silent 50 (listen) around a troubled friend.

Business English Helps

    English plays an important role in the workplace. When it is used in the correct and proper 31,it can help to promote a career or a business. Some may 32 or want to study business English 33 they start their careers. Those who are already working have the 34 to see what they can and cannot do 35 in English in their current job.

Business English provides you with valuable skills needed for your work. For example, you will learn 36 to negotiate. Being able to deal with a 37 and knowing how to bargain and 38 an agreement can make a 39

difference to the outcome.

    Business English learning encourages professional and efficient communication, and promotes service to customers and business partners, 40 is a great advantage for any business.

A. big     E. reach    I. way

B. need     F. which    J. how

C. what     G conflict   K. small

D. before    H. effectively L. opportunity