Part 3 explained: students discussing a project

Part 3 is where many students start losing marks. The topic is academic, like a research project or a presentation. Two or three people talk, and they don't always agree. The questions often ask what someone thinks, not what they say. That small difference is the key to Part 3.

Why this matters

If you're stuck at band 6 in Listening, Part 3 is often the reason. In Parts 1 and 2 you catch facts. In Part 3 you need to follow opinions. Speakers suggest an idea, then reject it. One person agrees, the other doesn't. If you only listen for keywords, you'll pick the wrong answer.

What Part 3 sounds like

Common situations:

Two students planning a presentation
A student talking to a tutor about an essay
A group discussing the results of a survey

The questions are often multiple choice or matching. Sometimes there's a flow-chart or notes to complete.

Know who is speaking

In the first few seconds, you'll hear names. Write them down quickly. For example: Tom (student), Dr Patel (tutor). Many questions ask about one person's view. If you don't know whose voice is whose, you're guessing.

Listen for agreement and disagreement

This is the most important skill in Part 3. Here are phrases you'll hear often:

Agreeing	Disagreeing or doubting
Exactly.	I'm not so sure about that.
That's a good point.	Maybe, but...
I was thinking the same thing.	I see what you mean, but...
Yes, definitely.	Hmm, I don't know.
You're right.	That might be a problem.

When you hear "but" after a positive phrase, get ready. The real opinion is coming after the "but".

A short example

Maya: For our survey, should we interview people in the city centre?

Josh: That would be quick. But a lot of people there are tourists, so they won't know much about the local bus service.

Maya: Good point. What about the university campus?

Josh: Students use the buses every day. I think that's our best option.

Maya: Agreed.

Question: Where do the students decide to do their survey?

A) in the city centre
B) on the university campus
C) at the bus station

Show the answers

B. The city centre is mentioned first, but Josh rejects it. Notice that the bus station is never said, but "bus" is mentioned many times. That's the trap. The word "bus" makes C look right.

Three rules for Part 3

Write the names. Know who is who.
Wait for the decision. In discussions, the first idea is often rejected.
Listen to meaning, not words. Lesson L23 explains why all the options often get mentioned.

Try it yourself

Tutor: Your introduction is very clear, Sam. But the conclusion feels rushed.

Sam: I ran out of time, to be honest.

What does the tutor think needs improving? A) the introduction B) the conclusion C) the references

Show the answers

Honest note

Part 3 is hard even for good students. Don't expect 10 out of 10 at first. Getting 7 or 8 here is a strong score. Improvement comes slowly, by understanding why each wrong answer was wrong.

Your task today

Do one Part 3 from a practice test. Then read the transcript at the back of the book. Underline every phrase where someone agrees or disagrees.