Section B
Directions: In this section, you will hear3 short passages. At the end of each passage, you will hear some questions. Boththe passage and the questions will be spoken only once. After you hear aquestion, you must choose the best answer from the four choices marked A), B),C), and D).Then mark the corresponding letter on Answer Sheet 1with a singleline through the centre.
Passage One
Body language, especially gestures, varies among cultures. For example, a nod of the head means "yes" to most of us. (16) But in Bulgaria and Greece a nod means "no" and a shake of the head means "yes". Likewise, a sign for OK, forming a circle with our forefinger and thumb, means zero in France and money in Japan. (17) Waving or pointing to an Arab business person would be considered rude because that is how Arabs call their dogs over. Folded arms signal pride in Finland, but disrespect in Fiji. The number of bows that the Japanese exchange on greeting each other, as well as the length and the depth of the bows, signals the
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social status each party feels towards the other. Italians might think you're bored unless you use a lot of gestures during discussions. (18) Many American men sit with their legs crossed with one ankle resting over the opposite knee. However, this would be considered an insult in Muslim countries, where one would never show the sole of the foot to a guest. Likewise, Americans consider eye contact very important, often not trusting someone who is afraid to look you in the eye. But in Japan and many Latin American countries, keeping the eyes lowered is a sign of respect. To look upon firmly in the eye is considered a sign of ill breeding and is felt to be annoying.
16. What gesture do Bulgarians and Greeks use to express negative responses?
17. What is likely to offend Arab business people?
18. What is considered to be impolite in Muslim countries?
