For each question, mark the correct letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet. Rock Band Two years ago, our 14-year-old son, Ben, asked us for a set of drums for his birthday. At first, we were very much against the idea because of the noise. ‘It’s better than watching television or playing computer games in my free time,’ Ben argued, ‘and it’ll keep me out of trouble.’ In the end we gave in. ‘All right,’ we said, ‘but you must consider the rest of the family and the neighbours when you play.’ That was just the beginning. Because drums are not the easiest instruments to transport, the other members of Ben’s band started appearing at our home with their guitars and other electrical equipment. And so, for several hours a week, the house shakes to the noise of their instruments and their teenage singing. At least Ben’s hobby has been good for our health: whenever the band start practising, my husband and I go out for a long walk. And I must admit that, although their music may sound a little strange, they are a friendly and polite group of young men. I cannot judge their musical skill - after all I didn’t expect my parents’ generation to like the same music as I did when I was a teenager - but they do play regularly in local clubs for young people. Our main worry is that they won’t spend enough time on their school work because of their musical activities, though this hasn’t happened yet. I am always stressing to Ben how important his studies are. But one thing is certain - Ben was right: it has kept him out of trouble and he is never bored. 1. What is the writer trying to do in this text? A. Complain about her son’s friends B. Give advice to teenagers C. Describe her son’s hobby D. Compare herself with her parents 2. Why did the writer give Ben the present he wanted? A. She wanted to reward him for working hard. B. He already had too many computer games. C. She knew he would use it sensibly. D. He persuaded her it would be a good idea. 3. Why do the band always practise at Ben’s house? A. It is difficult for Ben to move his drums. B. The neighbours don’t mind the noise. C. Ben’s parents enjoy listening to them. D. They can leave their equipment there. 4. What does the writer say about the band members? A. Their influence on her son worries her. B. Their taste in music is different from hers. C. They play their instruments well. D. They avoid any contact with her. 5. What might the writer say to her son? A. Your teacher has just phoned. He wants to know why you weren’t at school today. B. When are you playing at the club next? Dad and I would love to come along again. C. If you don’t know what to do with yourself, there’s a good programme on the television in a few minutes. D. Are you sure you’ve finished your homework? It’s more important than band practice.