LISTENING COMPREHENSION

BOOMERANG GENERATION

Correction

I – Listen carefully to the document and answer the following questions:

1. How many people are there? Can you guess what their jobs are?
Two characters are involved: Helen Campbell, lecturer in Economics at Thames University and
David, the interviewer.
2. What is the name of the radio programme?
It’s called “Modern Times”
3. What does the expression boomerang generation refer to?
It refers to young graduates/ students moving back home at their parents’ for financial reasons.
4. How old is the average first time buyer?
33 years old
5. What will probably happen with the next generation?
The next generation will probably be poorer than the current one.

II - After listening, decide if the statements are true or false.

1. The ‘boomerang generation’ is an expression used to describe a popular new game.

2. The interviewee Helen Campbell teaches at a university.
3. All university students receive money from the UK government to study.
4. The amount of student debt is decreasing in the UK.
5. A typical first-time buyer takes five years to save for a deposit.
6. Most young people living with their parents don’t pay any rent.

1 2 3 4 5 6
False True False False True True

III – Put back in chronological order according to the document:

A. Almost 6.8 million over 18s live with their parents in the U.K.
B. The level of debt has risen by 18.7%
C. Parents pay rents and allowances
D. The boomerang generation is due to social and economic factors
E. Many young people move back to their families after their studies

A B C D E
3 4 5 2 1
IV – Match the figures with the items:

ITEMS
Figures or %

1. Over 18 year-olds living with their parents 6.8 Million

2. the level of debt rose last year 18.7 %
3. Average graduates start their working life owing £ 12 000
4. What the amount of the deposit on a home is £ 24 000
5. The average first time buyer is 33 years old

V – Fill in the blanks using words from the oral document:

1. There is a new trend for 18 year-olds.

2. Student loan system has largely replaced the old university grant system.
3. The student debts have risen by 18.7%.
4. The cost of housing is very high.
5. 3.4 million young people receive weekly allowances from their parents.