B2 First FCE listening 5

1. Listen to the recording and choose the correct answer.

What is the primary function of the stress response in humans?

A) To help us relax after a long day. B) To improve our long-term memory. C) To prepare the body to deal with immediate physical danger.

2. Which hormone is predominantly released during a stressful event?

A) Cortisol B) Insulin C) Melatonin

3. What happens to the cardiovascular system during acute stress?

A) Blood vessels expand to cool the body down. B) Heart rate and blood pressure increase to pump more blood to muscles. C) Heart rate decreases to save energy.

4. According to the speaker, how does chronic stress affect the immune system?

A) It has absolutely no effect on immune cells. B) It makes it incredibly strong and resistant. C) It temporarily pauses it, making the body more vulnerable to infections over time.

5. How does chronic stress impact brain function and memory?

A) It only affects the visual cortex. B) It expands the brain’s capacity to learn new languages. C) It can shrink the hippocampus, leading to memory and concentration problems.

6. What physical issue in the gut is often caused by chronic stress?

A) Enhanced nutrient absorption. B) Increased production of healthy stomach acid. C) Changes in gut bacteria and digestion problems, like irritable bowel syndrome.

7. The speaker points out that modern stressors are different because:

A) They are often psychological and continuous, like work deadlines or financial worries. B) They only happen once a year. C) They are mostly physical predators like lions.

8. What does chronic stress do to our eating habits?

A) It encourages us to eat more green vegetables. B) It often increases cravings for high-calorie, sugary, and fatty comfort foods. C) It makes us completely lose our appetite permanently.

9. What is a recommended strategy to manage and reduce the effects of stress?

A) Drinking large amounts of coffee to stay alert. B) Ignoring the problem and working harder. C) Regular physical exercise and mindfulness practices.

10. The speaker’s main conclusion is that:

A) Short-term stress is normal, but managing chronic stress is vital for long-term health. B) Stress is just an illusion and doesn’t affect the physical body. C) All stress is bad and must be completely eliminated.

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