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WW1 - Vox Pops 5.1

Independent Listening Practice for Wider World 1 – Vox Pop 5.1 (A1–A2 ESL Activity, Music & Instruments Practice)

About This Lesson

In this listening exercise, you'll hear people talking about music, instruments they play, and what they listen to. You'll practice useful expressions and vocabulary related to music.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn vocabulary for musical instruments and music genres
  • Practice listening for specific information
  • Learn useful phrases: "a little bit", "that's the extent of it", "I could go on forever", etc.
  • Practice expressions of desire: "I want to learn", "I'd like to learn", "I've always wanted to"

Pre-Listening Task

Match the words with their definitions:

Listening Task

A. Fill in the gaps with the words you hear:
B. Drag the phrases into the correct gaps:
C. Match the situation with the most appropriate phrase. Drag the phrases into the table:
Situation Appropriate phrase

Grammar Focus: Talking About Abilities and Desires

Notice how the speakers talk about what they can do and what they want to learn (in standard English we usually use articles):

Expressing ability:

  • "I play the guitar. I play the drums. I play the harmonica a little bit."
  • "I can beat out a good rhythm on a bucket turned upside down."
  • "I don't play many instruments. I do play the tin whistle."

Expressing desires and plans:

  • "Now I'm learning the piano." (present action)
  • "I'd like to learn to play the guitar." (polite desire)
  • "I want to learn to play the guitar." (direct desire)
  • "I've always wanted to play the piano." (long-time desire)

Try It Yourself

Write about your relationship with music:

Tell about:

  • An instrument you play (or would like to learn)
  • What kind of music you listen to
  • A musician or band you follow
  • Use phrases like: "I play ... a little bit", "I'd like to learn ...", "I've always wanted to ...", "I listen to everything"

Example: I play the guitar a little bit, but without real learning. I've always wanted to play the piano. I listen to jazz and classical music. I follow some musicians on Instagram.

Translation

Read and remember. The answers are hidden until you click "Check Answers".

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