TOEIC Vocabulary Practice

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CHECK YOUR ENGLISH VOCABULARY FOR

TOEIC

®

by

Rawdon Wyatt

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www.acblack.com www.acblack.com

First published in Great Britain in 2006 First published in Great Britain in 2006

A & C Black Publishers Ltd A & C Black Publishers Ltd 38 Soho Square, London W1D 3HB 38 Soho Square, London W1D 3HB

No part of this publication may be reproduced in No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the permission of the publishers. any form without the permission of the publishers.

A CIP entry for this book is available from

A CIP entry for this book is available from the British Librarythe British Library

ISBN-10: 0 7136 7508 5 ISBN-10: 0 7136 7508 5 ISBN-13: 978 0 7136 7508 X ISBN-13: 978 0 7136 7508 X eISBN-13: 978-1-4081-0234-3 eISBN-13: 978-1-4081-0234-3

Text typeset by A &

Text typeset by A & C BlackC Black Printed in Italy

Printed in Italy by Legoprby Legoprintint

A & C Black us

A & C Black us es paper produced with elemental chlorine-freees paper produced with elemental chlorine-free pulp, harvested from managed sustainable forests. pulp, harvested from managed sustainable forests.

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Introduction

This book has been written for anyone who is planning to take the TOEIC

® ®

, and who

wants to practice and develop their vocabulary. A greater command of vocabulary is

one of the key factors that will help you raise your TOEIC

® ®

score.

You should not go through the exercises in this book mechanically. It is better to choose areas

that you are unfamiliar with, or areas that are of specific interest or importance to you.

Each exercise is accompanied by a full answer key at the back of the book. This key

also gives you other information about particular vocabulary items (for example, words

with similar meanings, alternative words and expressions, etc.) that are not covered in

the exercises themselves.

When you are doing the tasks in this book, look at the instructions carefully to make

sure you understand what to do, then read through the text / questions first before

attempting the exercises. This is a useful 'skimming' technique that you should also use

when you are doing the TOEIC

® ®

itself.

We recommend that you have a good dictionary with you, and refer to it when

necessary. However, always try to do the exercises

without

a dictionary first, and then

use a dictionary to

use a dictionary to check anything that you are not sure of.

check anything that you are not sure of.

It is very important to keep a record of new words and expressions that you learn, and

review these on a regular basis so that they become a part of your 'active' vocabulary.

Unless you are taking the TOEIC

® ®

Test of Spoken English, the TOEIC

® ®

is an exam

which tests your language

recognition

skills rather than your language

production

skills.

However, if you familiarize yourself with the vocabulary in the book by reviewing it and

then trying to use it in your written and spoken English on a regular basis, you will be in

a better position to recognize it i

a better position to recognize it if and when it comes up in the exam.

f and when it comes up in the exam.

No vocabulary book can possibly contain all of the words and expressions that you are

likely to come across in the TOEIC

® ®

, so it is important that you acquire new vocabulary

from other sources. Try to read as much as possible from a different variety of authentic

reading materials (books, newspapers, journals, magazines, etc.), and familiarize

yourself with spoken English by listening to English-language radio stations and

watching English-language movies and television programs whenever possible.

Try to get plenty of exam practice before you do the exam itself, so that you become

familiar with the format. There are several books, courses and other publications that

will help you. Barron's

How to prepare for the TOEIC

® ®

(ISBN 0 7641 7514 9), which

contains lots of helpful advice as well as complete model tests, is particularly useful.

We hope you enjoy doing the exercises in

We hope you enjoy doing the exercises in this book and that they help you to practic

this book and that they help you to practice

e

and develop the vocabulary that you need. Good luck in

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Page:

Title:

1 1 –

– 2

2 Changes 1

Changes 1

3

3 Changes 2

Changes 2

4

4 Comparing and contrasting

Comparing and contrasting

5 5 –

– 6

6 Computers and information technology

Computers and information technology

7

7 Condition and requirement

Condition and requirement

8 8 –

– 9

9 Confusing words

Confusing words

10 10 –

– 11

11 Continuing, repeatin

Continuing, repeating and

g and starting again

starting again

12 12 –

– 13

13 Contracts

Contracts

14 14 –

– 15

15 Different situations

Different situations

16 16 –

– 17

17 Earnings, rewards and benefits

Earnings, rewards and benefits

18 18 –

– 19

19 Entertainment, art, sports and the media

Entertainment, art, sports and the media

20

20 Food and eating out

Food and eating out

21 21 –

– 22

22 Hotels

Hotels

23 23 –

– 24

24 Job advertising

Job advertising

25 25 –

– 26

26 Job recruitment

Job recruitment

27

27 Joining

Joining ideas

ideas together:

together: addition,

addition, equation

equation and

and conclusion

conclusion

28

28 – – 2929

Location and direction

30

30 Meetings

Meetings and

and presentations

presentations

31

31 Money

Money matters

matters 1

1

32

32 – – 3333

Money matters 2

34

34 Obligation

Obligation and

and option

option

35

35 Opposites

Opposites 1:

1: verbs

verbs and

and adjectives

adjectives

36

36 Opposites

Opposites 2:

2: adjective

adjective prefixes

prefixes

37

37 – – 3838

Opposites 3: verb prefixes

39

39 Ownership,

Ownership, giving,

giving, lending

lending and

and borrowing

borrowing

40

40 Phrasal

Phrasal verbs

verbs 1

1

41

41 Phrasal

Phrasal verbs

verbs 2

2

42

42 Phrasal

Phrasal verbs

verbs 3

3

43

43 Prepositions

Prepositions 1

1

44

44 Prepositions

Prepositions 2

2

45

–

– 46

46

Sales and marketingSales and marketing

47 47 –

– 48

48 Shopping and consumerism

Shopping and consumerism

49 49 –

– 51

51 Similar meanings 1: nouns

Similar meanings 1: nouns

52 52 –

– 53

53 Similar meanings 2: verbs

Similar meanings 2: verbs

54

54 Similar

Similar meanings

meanings 3:

3: adjectives

adjectives

55

55 – – 5656

Starting and stopping

57

57 – – 5858 Travel 1Travel 1

59

59 Travel

Travel 2

2

60

–

– 61

61 Word forms 1: nouns from verbs

Word forms 1: nouns from verbs

62 62 –

– 63

63 Word forms 2: nouns from adjectives

Word forms 2: nouns from adjectives

64

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Changes 1

Look at the sentence pairs 1

Look at the sentence pairs 1 –

– 24, then complete the second sentence in each pair with

24, then complete the second sentence in each pair with

a word or expression from the box so that its meaning is similar to the first sentence.

There are some words / expressions in the box that do not fit in any of the sentences.

You do not need to change the form of any of the

You do not need to change the form of any of the words / expressions.

words / expressions.

amended

amended broadenbroaden build upbuild up considerable growthconsiderable growth constant riseconstant rise cutscuts deterioration

deterioration downsizingdownsizing downward trenddownward trend dramatic increasedramatic increase expansionexpansion

fluctuated

fluctuated general improvementgeneral improvement marked progressmarked progress narrownarrow narrowingnarrowing

phased in

phased in phased outphased out reducereduce relaxationrelaxation restructurerestructure sharp decline / fallsharp decline / fall slipped

slipped steady decreasesteady decrease streamlinestreamline strengtheningstrengthening tightening uptightening up

upgrade

upgrade upward trendupward trend weakeningweakening wideningwidening

1.

1. Last Last year, year, 33% 33% of of the the population population worked worked in in secondary secondary industriindustries es and and 48% 48% worked worked in in thethe tertiary sector. This year, the figures are 27% and 53% respectively.

tertiary sector. This year, the figures are 27% and 53% respectively.

There has been a __________ of the gap between those working in different sectors of There has been a __________ of the gap between those working in different sectors of the economy.

the economy.

2.

2. Last Last year, year, the the overseas overseas market market accounted accounted for for 60% 60% of of our our sales. sales. This This year, year, it it onlyonly accounts for about 15%.

accounts for about 15%.

There has been a __________ in overseas sales figures in the last year. There has been a __________ in overseas sales figures in the last year.

3.

3. People People can can afford afford to to buy buy more more and and live live more more comfortablcomfortably y than than they they could could twenty twenty years years ago.ago. There has been a __________ in the standard of living.

There has been a __________ in the standard of living.

4.

4. Because Because our our company company is is bigger bigger now now than than it it was was two two years years ago, ago, we we need need to to recruitrecruit more employees.

more employees.

Because of company __________ over the last two years, we need more workers. Because of company __________ over the last two years, we need more workers.

5.

5. American American travelers travelers abroad abroad have have discovered discovered that that they they can can buy buy more more foreign foreign currency currency withwith their dollar.

their dollar. There has been

There has been a __________ a __________ of the dollar.of the dollar.

6.

6. It It is is now now much much harder harder to to import import goods goods into into the the country country than than it it was was a a few few years years ago.ago. There has been

There has been a __________ a __________ of border controls for of border controls for imports.imports.

7.

7. In In 2002 2002 inflatiinflation on was was running running at at about about 4%, 4%, in in 2003 2003 it it was was 4.5%, in 4.5%, in 2004 2004 it it was was 5% 5% and and in in 20052005 it was 5.5%.

it was 5.5%.

Between 2002 and 2005, there was a __________ in the rate of inflation. Between 2002 and 2005, there was a __________ in the rate of inflation.

8.

8. Last Last year, year, the the company company employed employed 200 200 people. people. This This year year it it now now has has over over 1000 1000 employees.employees. There has been a

There has been a __________ __________ in the number of ein the number of employees working for the company.mployees working for the company.

9.

9. Unemployment Unemployment figures figures have have dropped dropped by by about about 2% 2% every every year year for for the the last last four four years.years. There has been a

There has been a __________ __________ in unemployment figures over the last four years.in unemployment figures over the last four years.

10.

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11.

11. Because Because of of forecastforecasts s for for high high demand demand in in the the future, future, we we need need to to increase increase our our stocks.stocks. We need to __________ our stocks to cope with future demand.

We need to __________ our stocks to cope with future demand.

12.

12. The The government government will will spend spend less less on on the the welfare welfare system system next next year.year. There are going to be __________ in welfare spending next year. There are going to be __________ in welfare spending next year.

13.

13. Public Public services services are are less less reliablreliable e now now than than they they were were five five years years ago.ago.

There has been a __________ in public services reliability over the last five years. There has been a __________ in public services reliability over the last five years.

14.

14. Nowadays, Nowadays, more more and and more more people people are are traveling traveling abroad abroad for for business business and and pleasure.pleasure. There has been

There has been __________ __________ in the overseas travel in the overseas travel market.market.

15.

15. Compared Compared with with five five years years ago, ago, more more people people are are shopping shopping in in out-of-town out-of-town malls malls than than in in local local stores.stores.

There has been an __________ in the number of people shopping in out-of-town malls. There has been an __________ in the number of people shopping in out-of-town malls.

16.

16. Unless Unless your your work work visibly visibly improves, improves, we we will will have have to to recommend recommend a a transfer transfer to to another another department.department. We need to see some __________ in your work, or we will recommend a departmental transfer. We need to see some __________ in your work, or we will recommend a departmental transfer.

17.

17. Young Young Americans Americans want want to to travel, travel, meet meet new new people people and and see see more more of of the the world world than than theirtheir parents and grandparents did.

parents and grandparents did.

Young Americans want to __________ their horizons. Young Americans want to __________ their horizons.

18.

18. Over Over the the next next two two months, wmonths, we e plan plan to to make make our our office office computers computers faster and faster and more more efficient.efficient. Over the next two months, we plan to __________ our office computers.

Over the next two months, we plan to __________ our office computers.

19.

19. We We are are trying trying to to make make the the accounting accounting system system simpler simpler and and more more efficientefficient.. We are trying to __________ the accounting system.

We are trying to __________ the accounting system.

20.

20. Making Making the the company company smaller smaller by by making making a a lot olot of staf staff memberff members s redundredundant ant has has made made it it muchmuch more profitable than it was before.

more profitable than it was before.

__________ the company has made it much more profitable than it was before. __________ the company has made it much more profitable than it was before.

21.

21. Standards Standards of of service service have have gone gone down down recentlyrecently, , and and as as a a result wresult we e have have lost a lost a lot olot of f customers.customers.

Standards of service have __________ recently, and as a result we have lost a lot of customers. Standards of service have __________ recently, and as a result we have lost a lot of customers.

22.

22. Property Property prices prices have have gone gone up, up, then then gone gone down, down, then then gone gone up up again again this this year.year. Property prices have __________ this year.

Property prices have __________ this year.

23.

23. We We have have made made small small changes changes to to the the rules rules for for applying applying for for instant instant credit.credit. We have __________ the rules for applying for instant credit.

We have __________ the rules for applying for instant credit.

24.

24. The The company company is is planning planning to to change change its its marketing marketing division division to to make make it it more more effective.effective. The company is planning to __________ its marketing division.

The company is planning to __________ its marketing division.

Also see

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Changes 2

The box below contains 27 words used to

The box below contains 27 words used to describe change in different situations. These

describe change in different situations. These

are all verbs, and they can be found by reading from left to right and from right to left,

starting in the top-left corner and following the direction of the arrows. Separate these

words, then use some of them to complete sentences 1

words, then use some of them to complete sentences 1 –

– 10 below. In some cases you

10 below. In some cases you

will need to change the form of the verb (for example, by putting it into its past simple or

past participle form).

 aa dd aa pp tt rr ee pp ll aa cc ee ee xx pp aa nn dd ii nn   tt ee cc uu dd ee rr ee tt oo mm oo rr pp ee ss aa ee rr cc   rr aa nn ss ff oo rr mm ss ww ii tt cc hh rr ee nn oo vv aa    ee tt ll aa ee tt oo mm ee dd ee gg nn aa hh cc xx ee ee tt   rr dd ii ss aa pp pp ee aa rr vv aa rr yy rr aa ii ss ee ll   ii ee hh ee gg rr aa ll nn ee dd nn ee tt xx ee rr ee ww oo    gg hh tt ee nn ll ee nn gg tt hh ee nn ww ii dd ee nn dd ee    ee rr hh cc tt ee rr tt ss nn ee tt rr oo hh ss nn ee pp ee    vv ii ss ee ff aa ll ll oo uu tt ss oo uu rr cc ee 1.

1. The The company company cannot cannot refund refund customers' customers' money, money, and and goods goods can can only only be be __________ __________ onon production of a receipt or other proof of purchase.

production of a receipt or other proof of purchase.

2.

2. We We have have made made radical radical changes changes to to the the working working regulations, regulations, and and employees employees are are expected expected toto __________ to these over the next few weeks.

__________ to these over the next few weeks.

3.

3. Our Our customer customer call call center center used used to to be be in in WichitWichita, a, but but last last year year we we __________ __________ it it to to India, India, wherewhere costs are much lower.

costs are much lower.

4.

4. The The new new director director has has completely completely __________ __________ the the company, company, from from a a small small local local enterprise enterprise to to aa major international concern.

major international concern.

5.

5. The The hotel hotel is is currently currently being being __________, __________, but but will will remain remain open open while while building building work work is is carried carried out.out.

6.

6. ProductiProduction on has has been been _________ _________ from from our our Boston Boston site site to to a a new new industrial industrial center center outside outside of of Portland.Portland.

7.

7. Our Our new new memory memory cards cards __________ __________ in in price, price, from from $35 $35 for for a a 64Mb 64Mb card card up up to to $125 $125 for for a a 2Gb 2Gb card.card.

8.

8. The The Internet Internet clothing clothing companycompany Pants-2-U.com Pants-2-U.com has __________ its range to include jewelryhas __________ its range to include jewelry and watches.

and watches.

9.

9. After After the the sales sales manager manager lost lost the the company company almost almost $20,000 $20,000 in in a a bad bad deal, deal, the the director director had had nono choice but to ________ him to sales assistant.

choice but to ________ him to sales assistant.

10.

10. Air Air fares fares will will be be __________ __________ on on July 21: July 21: domestic domestic fliflights ghts will gwill go o down down by by 10%, 10%, butbut international flights will go up by 22%.

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Comparing and contrasting

Complete these sentences with the most appropriate word or expression in

Complete these sentences with the most appropriate word or expression in bold

bold. In

. In

one case, all three options are possible.

1. The

1. The contrast / compare / comparisoncontrast / compare / comparison in working conditions between our Denverin working conditions between our Denver department and our department in Chicago is very noticeable, and employees are now department and our department in Chicago is very noticeable, and employees are now demanding equality in this area.

demanding equality in this area.

2.

2. The The two two companiescompanies differentiate / differ / differentdifferentiate / differ / different considerably from each other: one sellsconsiderably from each other: one sells to the wholesale market, and one sells directly to retailers.

to the wholesale market, and one sells directly to retailers.

3.

3. It It is is often often difficult difficult toto differentiate / differ / contrastdifferentiate / differ / contrast between employees who are off workbetween employees who are off work because they are genuinely ill, and those who are just enjoying a day at home.

because they are genuinely ill, and those who are just enjoying a day at home.

4.

4. Our Our new new software software program program shares shares some some commoncommon characters / characterizes /characters / characterizes / characteristics

characteristics with those that are already on the market.with those that are already on the market.

5.

5. There's There's a a clearclear distinguish / distinctive / distinctiondistinguish / distinctive / distinction between starting your own company,between starting your own company, and taking over one that already exists.

and taking over one that already exists.

6.

6. Compared / Compare / ComparingCompared / Compare / Comparing with 15 years ago, home PCs are cheaper, faster andwith 15 years ago, home PCs are cheaper, faster and have a

have a much bigger memory.much bigger memory.

7.

7. The The two two products products are are diffdifferent erent in in every every way: way: there's there's absolutelabsolutely y nono compare /compare / comparison /

comparison / contrastcontrast between them.between them.

8.

8. Our Our latest latest mobile mobile phonephoness similar to / alike / resemblesimilar to / alike / resemble those of our main competitor, exceptthose of our main competitor, except that they have more features and are more reliable.

that they have more features and are more reliable.

9.

9. There There are are severalseveral similarities / similarly / similar tosimilarities / similarly / similar to between our new photocopier and ourbetween our new photocopier and our old one: these include an advanced color facility and a multi-task option.

old one: these include an advanced color facility and a multi-task option.

10.

10. Serious Serious computer computer hackers hackers can can access access your your personal personal files files and and destroy destroy or or alter alter them.them.Exactly / In theExactly / In the same way / Just as

same way / Just as, they can gain access to , they can gain access to your Internet banking facility and steal yoyour Internet banking facility and steal your money.ur money.

11.

11. The The quality quality of of our our products products is is excellent.excellent. Likewise / Alike / LikenessLikewise / Alike / Likeness, the price., the price.

12.

12. The The TOEFLTOEFL ® ® exam covers a variety of general English tasks.exam covers a variety of general English tasks. In contrast to / Although / ByIn contrast to / Although / By way

way of contrastof contrast, the TOEIC, the TOEIC ® ® focuses more on business and professional issues.focuses more on business and professional issues. 13.

13. The The company company has has not not performed performed very very well well during during the the last last quarter.quarter. Nevertheless / EvenNevertheless / Even so /

so / HoweverHowever, it , it has still managehas still managed to turn a profit and retain most of its clients.d to turn a profit and retain most of its clients.

14.

14. There There currently currently seems seems to to be be a a largelarge discrepancy / discrimination / differentialdiscrepancy / discrimination / differential between thebetween the number of people employed in service industries, and t

number of people employed in service industries, and t hose employed in the primary sector.hose employed in the primary sector.

15.

15. Our Our new new contract contract states states that that both both parties parties must must give give 6 6 months' months' notice notice of of terminationtermination,, unlikeunlike // whereas / wherebywhereas / whereby our old contract had an immediate 'get-out' clause.our old contract had an immediate 'get-out' clause.

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Computers and information technology

Exercise 1:

Read the text below, in which someone is talking about their computer. Unfortunately,

they have used rather 'un-technical' language. Replace the words and expressions in

bold

bold with something more appropriate from the

with something more appropriate from the box.

box.

CD drive

CD drive componentscomponents CPU (Central Processing Unit)CPU (Central Processing Unit) desktopdesktop DTP (desktop publishing)DTP (desktop publishing) flash-drive

flash-drive hard diskhard disk hard drivehard drive keyboardkeyboard laptoplaptop loadload memorymemory monitormonitor mouse

mouse printerprinter scannerscanner softwaresoftware spreadsheetspreadsheet USB portUSB port word processingword processing

This is my new (1)

This is my new (1) computer that sits on top of a table or deskcomputer that sits on top of a table or desk (I've also got a (2)(I've also got a (2) small computer whichsmall computer which can be carried or placed on your knees

can be carried or placed on your knees). As you can see, there are s). As you can see, there are six main (3)ix main (3) partsparts to it. The first is theto it. The first is the (4)

(4) part of the computer that runs it and controls what it doespart of the computer that runs it and controls what it does , and this , and this is the most important bis the most important bit. It carriesit. It carries the (5)

the (5) part that stores and controls the flow of informationpart that stores and controls the flow of information , including the (6), including the (6) round thing thatround thing that is usedis used for storing information

for storing information. Mine has a particularly high (7). Mine has a particularly high (7) capacity for storing informationcapacity for storing information, which, which

means that it's much faster than most. It came with its own (8)

means that it's much faster than most. It came with its own (8) computer programscomputer programspackage (including (9)package (including (9) writing, checking and changing texts

writing, checking and changing texts, (10), (10) calculating in columns of figurescalculating in columns of figures, and (11), and (11) producingproducing texts and pictures for magazines

texts and pictures for magazines packages). You can also (12)packages). You can also (12) put input in other programs using the (13)other programs using the (13) sliding tray for carrying round, plastic, information-holding things

sliding tray for carrying round, plastic, information-holding things, or the (14), or the (14) hole forhole for connecting computer parts to one another

connecting computer parts to one another (into which you can put a (15)(into which you can put a (15) small plastic and metalsmall plastic and metal stick which can hold a lot of information

stick which can hold a lot of information). The other five parts of the computer are the (16)). The other five parts of the computer are the (16) screenscreen that lets you see what your computer is doing

that lets you see what your computer is doing, the (17), the (17) flat thing with the letters and numbers onflat thing with the letters and numbers on it that let you control the computer

it that let you control the computer, the (18), the (18) machine that lets you make copies of the documentsmachine that lets you make copies of the documents that you create on your computer

that you create on your computer, the (19), the (19) device for making color copies of photographs anddevice for making color copies of photographs and other documents which you can put onto your computer

other documents which you can put onto your computer, and last but not least, the (20), and last but not least, the (20) devicedevice that you hold in your hand and move across your desk to control the cursor

that you hold in your hand and move across your desk to control the cursor..

Exercise 2:

Instructions as above

access attachment bookmark browser chatrooms

access attachment bookmark browser chatrooms crashingcrashing deletedelete download

download emailemail homepagehomepage InternetInternet keywordskeywords linkslinks log onlog on log outlog out online

online pop-uppop-up providerprovider search enginesearch engine spamspam upgradeupgrade virusvirus websitewebsite

Now, in my opinion, the best thing about modern information technology is the (1)

Now, in my opinion, the best thing about modern information technology is the (1) network that linksnetwork that links millions of computers from around the world

millions of computers from around the world. Once you've got yourself a / an (2). Once you've got yourself a / an (2) company that allowscompany that allows you

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which you can look at. Let me (8)

which you can look at. Let me (8) turn the computer on, enter my code and access the computerturn the computer on, enter my code and access the computer system

system, and I'll show you ours. OK, here we go. Oh no, another (9), and I'll show you ours. OK, here we go. Oh no, another (9) advertisement that suddenlyadvertisement that suddenly appears on the computer screen

appears on the computer screen. How annoying. Let me just remove it. That's better.. How annoying. Let me just remove it. That's better.

Now, I can never remember the exact address of our company, so first of all I'll type it into the (10)

Now, I can never remember the exact address of our company, so first of all I'll type it into the (10)programprogram that helps you find the information you want

that helps you find the information you want. OK, A & C Black Publishing. The computer identifies the. OK, A & C Black Publishing. The computer identifies the (11)

(11) most important or main wordsmost important or main words and then gives me (12)and then gives me (12) connectionsconnections to a list of to a list of possible sites. This onepossible sites. This one looks right:

looks right: www.acblack.com.www.acblack.com. I'll click on that. Bingo! Here's our (13)I'll click on that. Bingo! Here's our (13) front pagefront page. You can use this to find. You can use this to find the different books that we publish, and if you want you can even buy them (14)

the different books that we publish, and if you want you can even buy them (14) through the computerthrough the computer.. Hmm, this book looks good: Check Your English Vocabulary for TOEIC

Hmm, this book looks good: Check Your English Vocabulary for TOEIC ® ® . Now, before I (15). Now, before I (15) exit this siteexit this site, I'll, I'll just (16)

just (16) add it to my list of favoritesadd it to my list of favorites so that I can find it more quickly next time.so that I can find it more quickly next time.

Perhaps the most important thing, however, is (17)

Perhaps the most important thing, however, is (17) a special electronic letter-sending facilitya special electronic letter-sending facility, which allows, which allows you to communicate with people around the world in an instant. Let me quickly check mine. Oh dear, nothing you to communicate with people around the world in an instant. Let me quickly check mine. Oh dear, nothing very interesting. Mainly a load of (18)

very interesting. Mainly a load of (18) unwanted advertisingunwanted advertising. I'll just (19). I'll just (19) removeremove it: I don't particularly wantit: I don't particularly want to rent a vacation home in Mexico, have my future read by one of America's top astrologers or buy a phone to rent a vacation home in Mexico, have my future read by one of America's top astrologers or buy a phone that lets you smell the person you're talking to. There's something here from my sister with a / an (20) that lets you smell the person you're talking to. There's something here from my sister with a / an (20) document or file that has been sent with it

document or file that has been sent with it. You have to be careful with these: sometimes they contain a. You have to be careful with these: sometimes they contain a (21)

(21) hidden routine placed in the program that destroys or corrupts fileshidden routine placed in the program that destroys or corrupts files. If you open it, it can do all. If you open it, it can do all sorts of horrible things to your

sorts of horrible things to your computer. I had one last week computer. I had one last week that kept (22)that kept (22)shutting downshutting down my computer. I domy computer. I do have a protection package, but it's a bit out of date: I really ought to (23)

have a protection package, but it's a bit out of date: I really ought to (23)bring it up to datebring it up to date..

The exercises above contain just a

The exercises above contain just a few of the words

few of the words and expressions related to computers

and expressions related to computers

and IT. Many more enter our vocabulary each year. How many others do you know?

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Condition and requirement

Rearrange the letters in

Rearrange the letters in bold

bold

to make words and expressions related to condition and

requirement. The first one has been done as an example.

1.

1. sa nlgo sasa nlgo sa customers continue to demand the BD17 model mobile, Telelink will continuecustomers continue to demand the BD17 model mobile, Telelink will continue to

to produce it. If demand falls, the line will be discontinued.produce it. If demand falls, the line will be discontinued. (Answer = As long as)

(Answer = As long as)

2.

2. seuslnseusln we receive your payment within ten days, we will have to start charging you interest.we receive your payment within ten days, we will have to start charging you interest.

3.

3. We We will will continue continue to to offer offer you you interest-free interest-free creditcredit no incotnido atthno incotnido atth you maintainyou maintain regular repayments to your account. The minimum monthly repayment is $250.

regular repayments to your account. The minimum monthly repayment is $250.

4.

4. Everyone Everyone will will get get a a pay pay riserise vogrnipid tthavogrnipid ttha we meet our sales targets.we meet our sales targets.

5.

5. The The mainmain retncopiinodretncopiinod for increased consumer spending is a stable economy with lowfor increased consumer spending is a stable economy with low inflation and low interest rates. Without these, people will save rather than spend.

inflation and low interest rates. Without these, people will save rather than spend.

6.

6. (Notic(Notice e on on a a fire fire alarm):alarm): ni eacs foni eacs fo fire, break class.fire, break class.

7.

7. ni het nvete foni het nvete fo a delay, all passengers will receive a voucher for a light meal at the airport.a delay, all passengers will receive a voucher for a light meal at the airport.

8.

8. We We agreed agreed to to sign sign the the contract, contract, the the onlyonly aputonstiliaputonstili being that it would run for at least five years.being that it would run for at least five years.

9.

9. The The management management hashas nidncoalitounnidncoalitountrust in its employeestrust in its employees: it : it knows they will do their best atknows they will do their best at all times, even if things get difficult.

all times, even if things get difficult.

10.

10. sumsagin hattsumsagin hatt the flight is on time, we will meet you at LaGuardia airport at ten o'clock.the flight is on time, we will meet you at LaGuardia airport at ten o'clock.

11.

11. We We will will proceed proceed with with the the delivery delivery of of spare spare partsparts no teh autonmsspi hattno teh autonmsspi hatt your order hasyour order has remained unchanged.

remained unchanged.

12.

12. Being Being able able to to drive drive is is one one of of thethe quereesisitprquereesisitprof the job: if you cannot drive, you will notof the job: if you cannot drive, you will not be considered for the post.

be considered for the post.

13.

13. Before Before you you accept accept a a job, job, it it is is important important that that you you agree agree with with thethe remstremst andand ioctnsodinioctnsodin set outset out in the contract.

in the contract.

14.

14. It It is is aa nmreiretquenmreiretqueof the company that employees have a medical at least once a year.of the company that employees have a medical at least once a year.

15.

15. If If you you have have a a query, query, telephone telephone us us at at the the number number above.above. niifagl tthaniifagl ttha, send us an email., send us an email.

16.

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Confusing words

The sentences below are all missing one word. Four possible answers follow each

sentence. Choose the best answer in each case. Note that each set of answers includes

some words that are often confused with one another, either because: (a) they are related

to the same topic, but have a different meaning; (b) they look similar but have a different

meaning; (c) they are English words which have a similar-looking word in another

language but which have a different meaning (we call these

language but which have a different meaning (we call these words

words false friends

false friends ).

).

1.

1. Try to make your report Try to make your report as ________as __________ as possible: only give us __ as possible: only give us the facts, and not your opinions.the facts, and not your opinions. (a)

(a) subjectivesubjective (b)(b) objectionableobjectionable (c)(c) subjectedsubjected (d)(d) objectiveobjective

2.

2. EnvironmentEnvironmental al inspectors inspectors regularly regularly __________ __________ our our kitchens kitchens and and other other food food preparationpreparation areas to make sure they conform to regulations.

areas to make sure they conform to regulations. (a)

(a) inspectinspect (b)(b) controlcontrol (c)(c)studystudy (d)(d) analyzeanalyze

3.

3. __________ workers are often rewarded with higher salaries and other benefits. __________ workers are often rewarded with higher salaries and other benefits.

(a)

(a)consciousconscious (b)(b) conscientiousconscientious (c)(c) conscienceconscience (d)(d) consciousnessconsciousness

4.

4. Airlines are already increasing their prices on the __________ that fuel prices are going to rise.Airlines are already increasing their prices on the __________ that fuel prices are going to rise. (a)

(a) consumptionconsumption (b)(b) destructiondestruction (c)(c)assumptionassumption (d)(d) presumptionpresumption

5.

5. The fire caused a lot of __________ to the building and factory machinery.The fire caused a lot of __________ to the building and factory machinery. (a)

(a) damagedamage (b)(b) harmharm (c)(c) injuryinjury (d)(d) woundwound

6.

6. Government subsidies helped to __________ many companies being forced to close down.Government subsidies helped to __________ many companies being forced to close down. (a)

(a) preventprevent (b)(b) preventivepreventive (c)(c) avoidanceavoidance (d)(d) avoidavoid

7.

7. The The manager manager made made it it clear clear that that he he intended intended to to __________ __________ down down some some new new rules rules toto enforce workplace discipline.

enforce workplace discipline. (a)

(a) lyinglying (b)(b) lielie (c)(c) layinglaying (d)(d) laylay

8.

8. Cuts in advertising will have a serious __________ on sales.Cuts in advertising will have a serious __________ on sales. (a)

(a)effectiveeffective (b)(b) effecteffect (c)(c) affectaffect (d)(d) affectionaffection

9.

9. If you want to take photographs, you will need to apply for aIf you want to take photographs, you will need to apply for a __________. __________.

(a)

(a)permitpermit (b)(b) permissionpermission (c)(c) permissiblepermissible (d)(d) permittingpermitting

10.

10. At At the the meeting, meeting, the the manager manager talked talked __________ __________ about about the the need need for for better better attendanceattendance and punctuality.

and punctuality. (a)

(a) brieflybriefly (b)(b) briefingbriefing (c)(c)shortlyshortly (d)(d) shortsshorts

11.

11. The office will be closed __________ it is being decorated.The office will be closed __________ it is being decorated. (a)

(a) duringduring (b)(b) whilewhile (c)(c) forfor (d)(d) throughoutthroughout

12.

12. Can you __________ me on the best course of action to take?Can you __________ me on the best course of action to take?

(a)

(a)advisoryadvisory (b)(b) advisableadvisable (c)(c) adviceadvice (d)(d) adviseadvise

13.

13. Economic __________ slowly stagnated as the recession became worse.Economic __________ slowly stagnated as the recession became worse. (a)

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________ breakdowns are wasting us time and costing us a lot of money. ________ breakdowns are wasting us time and costing us a lot of money.

(a)

(a) continuingcontinuing (b)(b) continuouscontinuous (c)(c) continuationcontinuation (d)(d) continualcontinual

16.

16. She was very __________ of our efforts to help.She was very __________ of our efforts to help. (a)

(a) appreciableappreciable (b)(b)appreciativeappreciative (c)(c) appreciatingappreciating (d)(d) appreciateappreciate

17.

17. The The manager manager said said he he believed believed we we would would win win the the contractcontract, , but but I I knew knew that wthat we e didn't readidn't reallylly stand a / an __________.

stand a / an __________. (a)

(a) possibilitypossibility (b)(b) probabilityprobability (c)(c) chancechance (d)(d) opportunityopportunity

18.

18. The The proposals proposals he he put put forward forward were were excellentexcellent. . __________, __________, it it quickly quickly became became apparent apparent thatthat they would work when put into practice.

they would work when put into practice. (a)

(a) MoreoverMoreover (b)(b) HoweverHowever (c) Nevertheless(c)Nevertheless (d)(d) AlthoughAlthough

19.

19. We need to remain __________ to the needs of our customers, and react accordingly.We need to remain __________ to the needs of our customers, and react accordingly. (a)

(a) sensiblesensible (b)(b) sensitivesensitive (c)(c) sensitivitysensitivity (d)(d) sensibilitysensibility

20.

20. A __________ amount of working hours are lost every year because of illness and absenteeism.A __________ amount of working hours are lost every year because of illness and absenteeism.

(a)

(a)considerateconsiderate (b)(b) considerableconsiderable (c)(c) consistentconsistent (d)(d) convenientconvenient

21.

21. The new salesman refused to wear a tie on __________.The new salesman refused to wear a tie on __________. (a)

(a) principleprinciple (b)(b)principalityprincipality (c)(c)principalprincipal (d)(d) principallyprincipally

22.

22. Nobody raised any __________ when we insisted on opening an hour earlier.Nobody raised any __________ when we insisted on opening an hour earlier. (a)

(a) criticismcriticism (b)(b)complaintscomplaints (c)(c) protestsprotests (d)(d) objectionsobjections 23.

23. The The museum museum contains contains several several __________ __________ works works of of Renaissance Renaissance art, art, includiincluding ng twotwo paintings by Raphael, one by Dürer, one by Titian, and an early sketch by Tintoretto.

paintings by Raphael, one by Dürer, one by Titian, and an early sketch by Tintoretto. (a)

(a) worthlessworthless (b)(b) valuelessvalueless (c)(c) pricelesspriceless (d)(d) uselessuseless

24.

24. Despite the recent economic recovery, many people are still looking for __________.Despite the recent economic recovery, many people are still looking for __________. (a)

(a) workwork (b)(b)jobjob (c)(c) professionprofession (d)(d) careercareer

25.

25. The Avicenna Partnership is a __________ company with a long and successful sales history.The Avicenna Partnership is a __________ company with a long and successful sales history.

(a)

(a) respectablerespectable (b)(b) respectfulrespectful (c)(c) respectingrespecting (d)(d) respectiverespective

26.

26. Because of increased operating costs, we have been forced to __________ our prices.Because of increased operating costs, we have been forced to __________ our prices. (a)

(a) riserise (b)(b) razeraze (c)(c) raiseraise (d) arise(d)arise

27.

27. The The bank bank has has said said it it will will be be happy happy to to __________ __________ us us the the money money provided provided we we havehave suitable

suitable collateracollateral.l. (a)

(a) lendlend (b)(b) borrowborrow (c)(c) leaselease (d)(d) rentrent

28.

28. When we leave the office tonight, __________ me to turn everything off and lock up properly.When we leave the office tonight, __________ me to turn everything off and lock up properly. (a)

(a) remembranceremembrance (b)(b)reminiscereminisce (c)(c) rememberremember (d)(d) remindremind

29.

29. Because of the current __________ situation, we have been forced to close down several of our cityBecause of the current __________ situation, we have been forced to close down several of our city center outlets.

center outlets. (a)

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Continuing, repeating and starting again

Exercise 1: The sentences below all contain a word or expression in bold referring to

continuing something

,,

repeating something

, or

starting something again

. In some of the

sentences, the word has been used correctly. In

sentences, the word has been used correctly. In others, the wrong word has been used.

others, the wrong word has been used.

Identify which sentences are correct and which are

Identify which sentences are correct and which are wrong. Replace the words in the

wrong. Replace the words in the wrong

wrong

sentences with a correct word. You

sentences with a correct word. You will find these

will find these words in the other wrong sentences.

words in the other wrong sentences.

1. Despite

1. Despite repeatedrepeated warnings, you have failed to show any improvement in your work orwarnings, you have failed to show any improvement in your work or your attitude.

your attitude.

2.

2. The The production production line line has has been been temporarily temporarily shut shut down down following following a a report report from from the the Health Health andand Safety officer, but we hope to

Safety officer, but we hope to ongoingongoing production as soon as possible.production as soon as possible.

3.

3. The The meeting meeting will will break break for for lunch lunch at at half half past past twelve, twelve, andand restartrestart at two.at two.

4.

4. I I think think that that we we have have talked talked enougenough h about about planning planning permission permission for for the the new new office. office. I I would would likelike to

to reopenreopento the previous subject of overdue payments, if that's all right?to the previous subject of overdue payments, if that's all right?

5.

5. We We like like toto continuouscontinuous good relations with our customers, and take any complaints verygood relations with our customers, and take any complaints very seriously indeed.

seriously indeed.

6.

6. The The computer computer crashed crashed on on Monday, Monday, then then again again on on Wednesday Wednesday and and once once more more on on Friday. Friday. If If itit gives us

gives us perseverepersevere problems, I suggest we get a new one.problems, I suggest we get a new one.

7.

7. A A regular, regular, repeated repeated tone tone means means that that the the person person you you are are tryitrying ng to to call call is is already already on on the the phone,phone, but a / an

but a / an maintainmaintain tone means that the number you are trying to call is not available.tone means that the number you are trying to call is not available.

8.

8. We We are are worried worried that that work work on on the the new new warehouse warehouse willwill progressprogress too slowly unless we offertoo slowly unless we offer the contractors more

the contractors more incentives.incentives.

9.

9. We We understand understand that that you you are are supposed supposed to to retire retire next next month, month, but but we we would would be be delightdelighted ed ifif you would

you would carry oncarry on working for us after that on a part-time basis.working for us after that on a part-time basis.

10.

10. The The economic economic climate climate is is very very bad bad at at the the moment, amoment, and nd we we are are losing losing over over $10,000 $10,000 a a monthmonth as a result, but I suggest we

as a result, but I suggest we steadysteady and hope that recovery comes soon.and hope that recovery comes soon.

11.

11. Unfortunately, Unfortunately, the the latest latest company company report report willwill persistpersist the rumor that we are going to closethe rumor that we are going to close down some departments.

down some departments.

12.

12. The The managing managing director director called, called, and and says says he he wants wants us us toto press onpress onwith the proposed changes towith the proposed changes to the distribution scheme despite opposition from the marketing department.

the distribution scheme despite opposition from the marketing department.

13.

13. The The hotel hotel will will be be closed closed for renofor renovations bvations between etween October October 15 15 and and November November 20, 20, but but willwill revertrevert in time f

in time for the Thanksgior the Thanksgiving holiday.ving holiday.

14.

14. The The Directors Directors have have said said they they are are delighted delighted with with the the commitment commitment you you have have shown shown the the companycompany this year, and hope that you will be able to

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16.

16. Staff Staff absenabsenteeism teeism is is a a / / anan keep upkeep up problem which we need to resolve as soon as possible.problem which we need to resolve as soon as possible.

17. The

17. The constantconstant noise from the highway outside the office makes it very noise from the highway outside the office makes it very difficult to concentrate.difficult to concentrate.

18.

18. As As long long as as the the negotiations negotiations continue continue toto proceedproceed well, we hope to sign the contract by the endwell, we hope to sign the contract by the end of the month.

of the month.

19.

19. Unemployment Unemployment figures figures have have fallen by fallen by about about 2% 2% every every year year for for the the last last ten ten years. years. It It is is hopedhoped that this

that this resumeresumedecreasdecrease will e will continue.continue.

20.

20. If If the the government government agrees agrees toto pursuepursue its current policy of reducing taxation, we can afford toits current policy of reducing taxation, we can afford to invest more in developing our technology.

invest more in developing our technology.

Exercise 2: Complete these sentences using the most appropriate word or expression from

Exercise 1. In some cases you will need to change the form of the word (for example, from

an adjective to an

an adjective to an adverb), and in some cases more than one option is

adverb), and in some cases more than one option is possible.

possible.

1.

1. We We have have asked asked them them __________ __________ to to send send us us the the invoice, invoice, but but they they have have ignored ignored us us every every time.time.

2.

2. The The air air conditioning conditioning is is __________ __________ breaking breaking down, down, usually usually when when it's it's really really hot.hot.

3.

3. Sales Sales figures figures have have been been dropping dropping by by about about 3% 3% a a month. month. If If this this problem problem __________, __________, we we willwill have to start making staff

have to start making staff cutbacks.cutbacks.

4.

4. Rail Rail services services between between Albion Albion Creek Creek and and Elgin Elgin City City have have been been suspended suspended while while the the track track isis repaired, but will __________ early next week.

repaired, but will __________ early next week.

5.

5. Learning Learning a a language language isn't isn't easy. easy. You You need need to to __________ __________ if if you you want want to to make make any any real real progress.progress.

6.

6. One One of of the the most most important important things things you you should should do do in in this this line line of of work work is is __________ __________ aa sense of humor, especially when things go wrong.

sense of humor, especially when things go wrong.

7.

7. The The work work on on the the new new airport airport isn't isn't __________ __________ fast fast enough, enough, and and won't won't be be ready ready in in time time forfor the beginning of the tourist season.

the beginning of the tourist season.

8.

8. The The presentation presentation ended ended early early because because of of __________ __________ interruptiinterruptions ons from from the the audience.audience.

9.

9. Staff Staff development development workshops workshops help help our our team team to to develop develop new new and and more more effectiveffective e ways ways ofof working, but eventually many of them __________ to their old ways.

working, but eventually many of them __________ to their old ways.

10.

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Contracts

Look at paragraphs 1

Look at paragraphs 1 –

– 6 in the boxes, and answer the questions that follow them.

6 in the boxes, and answer the questions that follow them.

1.

This contract is binding, and we expect all the parts involved (both clients and suppliers) to abide by the This contract is binding, and we expect all the parts involved (both clients and suppliers) to abide by the terms and conditions stated in sections 3a

terms and conditions stated in sections 3a – – 37g on pages 137g on pages 1 – – 17.17.

1.

1. One One of of the the underlined underlined words words / / expressions expressions in in the the above above sentence sentence is is wrong. wrong. Identify Identify and and correct correct it.it.

2.

2. True True or or false: false: A A contract contract which which isis binding binding is flexible and can be changed at any time.is flexible and can be changed at any time. 3.

3. Which Which of of these these words words / / expressions expressions could could replacereplace abide by abide by ?:?: (A)

(A) choose choose (B) (B) agree agree with with (C) (C) obey obey (D) (D) changechange

2.

On terminator of this contract, the company will be obliged to return any unused materials to the On terminator of this contract, the company will be obliged to return any unused materials to the supplier within 28 days, unless provision has been made for a temporary extension. If any of the rules supplier within 28 days, unless provision has been made for a temporary extension. If any of the rules of the contract are broken, all materials must be returned immediately.

of the contract are broken, all materials must be returned immediately.

1.

1. One One of of the the underlined underlined words words / / expressions expressions in in the the above above sentence sentence is is wrong. wrong. Identify Identify and and correct correct it.it.

2.

2. True True or or false:false: Provision Provision has a similar meaning tohas a similar meaning to arrangement arrangement .. 3.

3. Rearrange Rearrange these these lettletters ers to to make make two two words words which which have have a a similar similar meaning meaning toto obliged

obliged :: degabtlio edequrirdegabtlio edequrir

3.

The contract was originally verbal, but we've finally managed to get the company to give us something The contract was originally verbal, but we've finally managed to get the company to give us something on paper. They say that this contract is un-negotiable, but maybe we can persuade them to amend on paper. They say that this contract is un-negotiable, but maybe we can persuade them to amend some of the details before we sign on the dotted line.

some of the details before we sign on the dotted line.

1.

1. One One of of the the underlined underlined words words / / expressions expressions in in the the above above paragraph paragraph is is wrong. wrong. Identify Identify and and correct correct it.it.

2.

2. True True or or false: false: The The speakespeaker r thinks thinks that that it it might might be be posspossible ible for for small small changes changes to to be be made made toto the contract before she signs it.

the contract before she signs it. 3.

3. Rearrange Rearrange the the letters letters inin boldboldto make four words which have the same meaning asto make four words which have the same meaning as verbal verbal inin this situation

this situation

rola kosnep plidemi etodnurdso rola kosnep plidemi etodnurdso

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4.

Swillpot Airline Catering Ltd were sued by Pan-Globe Airways when they were found to be in beach of Swillpot Airline Catering Ltd were sued by Pan-Globe Airways when they were found to be in beach of their contract, specifically that they had failed to comply with clause 27B, which stated that their food their contract, specifically that they had failed to comply with clause 27B, which stated that their food should be "fit f

should be "fit for human consumptor human consumption."ion."

1.

1. One One of of the the underlined underlined words words / / expressions expressions in in the the above above sentence sentence is is wrong. wrong. IdentifIdentify y and and correct correct it.it. 2.

2. Find Find a a word word or or expression expression in in paragraphs paragraphs 11 – – 3 above which has a similar meaning to3 above which has a similar meaning to comply comply with

with in paragraph 4.in paragraph 4. 3.

3. True True or or false: false: Pan-Globe Pan-Globe Airways Airways are are unhappy unhappy with with SwillSwillpot pot Airline Airline Catering Catering because because theythey have breached

have breached all all of their contractual terms.of their contractual terms.

5.

Withers Interiors Ltd have entered into an agreement with Sophos Construction to act as sole providers Withers Interiors Ltd have entered into an agreement with Sophos Construction to act as sole providers of quality interior fittings commencing 15 August this year. This is to run for 18 months, with a 3 month of quality interior fittings commencing 15 August this year. This is to run for 18 months, with a 3 month period of notification in the event of cancellation by either side.

period of notification in the event of cancellation by either side.

1.

2. Which Which word word in in the the paragraph paragraph is is the the closest closest in in meaning meaning to to the the nounnoun contract contract ?? 3.

3. True True or or false: false: If If either either Withers Withers Interiors Interiors Ltd Ltd or or Sophos Sophos ConstructiConstruction on want want to to end end the the contracontract,ct, they must tell the other company 3 months before they do it.

they must tell the other company 3 months before they do it.

6.

This contract recognizes the anointment of Mr. Alan Wiley as non-executive Director to the board of This contract recognizes the anointment of Mr. Alan Wiley as non-executive Director to the board of AKL Publishing following the company's amalgamation with Berryhill Books. While Mr. Wiley may AKL Publishing following the company's amalgamation with Berryhill Books. While Mr. Wiley may continue to buy stocks in the company, he may not acquire a controlling interest, and he may have no continue to buy stocks in the company, he may not acquire a controlling interest, and he may have no professional dealings with any third parties during this period.

professional dealings with any third parties during this period.

1.

2. True True or or false: false: AKL AKL Publishing Publishing recently recently separated separated from from Berryhill Berryhill Books.Books. 3.

3. Mr. Mr. Wiley Wiley can can buy buy as as many many shares shares as as he he likes likes in in the the company.company. 4.

4. In In addition addition to to sitting sitting on on the the board board of of AKL AKL Publishing, Publishing, how how many many other other companies companies can can Mr.Mr. Wiley work for?

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