Integrated speaking task

PRACTICE TASK 1 Reading Read a passage about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Take notes on the main points of the reading passage. You have 45 seconds to read the passage. Begin reading now.Reading time: 45 secondsObsessive Compulsive DisorderOCD is an anxiety disorder that causes a person to experience obsessive thoughts and to react to these with compulsive behavior or rituals. The obsessions are typically described by OCD sufferers as persistent thoughts or impulses that cause a great amount of stress. These differ from those stressors that the average person suffers from in daily life, such as work or financial problems, in that they are a product of the imagination. While most OCD sufferers admit to knowing that their concerns are not real, they cannot control the thoughts from recurring, and they compensate by performing certain repetitive actions. In addition to these symptoms and responses, a true OCD sufferer spends a large part of the day battling this disease. The debate continues over whether the disease should be classified as a psychological or biological disorder. Listening Now listen to a talk on the same academic subject. Speaking Explain how the professor's description of OCD expands upon the reading.Preparation time: 30 secondsResponse time: 60 seconds PRACTICE TASK 2 Reading Read an announcement about the closing of a fitness center. Take notes on the main points. Reading time: 45 secondsCampus Fitness Center to CloseThe campus fitness center will permanently close at the end of this semester. This decision was made by the university administration in coordination with representatives of the student’s association. Unfortunately, the building currently housing the center is very old and the university can no longer afford the cost of maintaining it or providing heat and air conditioning as required. Furthermore, the popularity of the center has declined since the university formed partnerships with several private fitness centers in the city. These partnerships mean that all full and part-time students can access five privately owned gyms across the city at no cost. Listening Now listen to a conversation about the announcement. Speaking The woman expresses her opinion of the university’s plan. State her opinion and the reasons she gives for holding that opinion.Preparation time: 30 secondsResponse time: 60 seconds