English Listening Exercise: "Memory"

Free original listening materials for learners and teachers. Transcripts are placed below all audio/video files.

 

 
A2 Level (British accent)

B1 Level (American accent)

B2 Level: Version 1 (British accent)

B2 Level: Version 2 (American accent)

- with phrasal verbs and idioms

FULL LESSON - click this.

C1 Level (Scottish accent)

Transcript (A2 Level)

Memory helps us remember things. There are two main types: short-term and long-term memory. Short-term memory holds information for a few seconds, like a phone number. Long-term memory keeps things for a long time, like your birthday. Some people have memory problems, like amnesia, which makes them forget things. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are serious problems that affect older people. Age can change how we remember. Stress and strong emotions can make it hard to remember too. Good sleep is important for memory. In school, we use memory to learn new things. Technology, like smartphones and apps, can help us remember but can also distract us. (106 words)

Transcript (B1 Level)

Memory is crucial for our daily lives and has two main types: short-term and long-term memory. Short-term memory allows us to hold information for a brief period, like remembering a friend's name. Long-term memory stores information for much longer, such as childhood memories. Some people struggle with memory disorders, such as amnesia, which can cause them to forget recent events, or Alzheimer’s disease, which affects many older adults. Various factors impact memory, including age, stress, and emotions. For example, high stress can make it harder to focus and remember. Getting enough sleep is also essential for good memory. In education, strong memory skills help students learn effectively. Additionally, technology, like digital devices and memory apps, can support our memory but may also lead to distractions. (125 words)

Transcript (B2 Level) Version 1

Memory plays a vital role in our lives, encompassing two primary types: short-term and long-term memory. Short-term memory allows us to retain information temporarily, such as remembering a list of groceries for a few minutes. In contrast, long-term memory involves the storage of information over extended periods, like recalling significant life events or skills we've learned. Memory disorders, including amnesia, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia, can severely impact individuals, particularly older adults. Factors such as stress, age, and emotional state significantly influence our memory. For instance, chronic stress can hinder memory recall, while a good night's sleep enhances memory consolidation. In education and work, effective memory strategies are essential for success. Technology also plays a dual role; while digital devices and memory enhancement apps can aid our memory, they may also distract us, making it harder to focus and remember information. (140 words)

Transcript (B2 Level) Version 2
- with phrasal verbs and some idioms

Memory is an essential part of our daily lives, and it comes in two main forms: short-term and long-term memory. Short-term memory helps us hang onto information for a little while, like when we jot down a phone number. Long-term memory, on the other hand, lets us hold onto important events, such as our graduation day. However, some individuals face memory challenges, like amnesia, which can make them lose recent memories. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are also serious conditions that affect many older adults. Factors that can impact our memory include age, stress, and emotions. For example, if we’re feeling stressed out, it’s much harder to remember things. Getting enough sleep is crucial because it helps our brains store memories. In school and at work, using effective memory techniques can help us succeed. However, technology can be a double-edged sword; while apps can boost our memory, they can also distract us if we’re not careful. (155 words)

Transcript (C1 Level)

Memory is a complex and essential cognitive function that enables us to store, retain, and later retrieve information. It is generally categorized into two types: short-term memory, which holds information temporarily, and long-term memory, responsible for more durable retention. For instance, while you might remember a friend's name using short-term memory, your long-term memory allows you to recall significant life events or learned skills over the years. However, various memory disorders, including amnesia, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia, can greatly disrupt these functions, particularly in older adults. Factors influencing memory performance include age, stress, emotional states, and sleep quality; for example, chronic stress can impede memory recall, while adequate sleep is crucial for memory consolidation. In educational settings and workplaces, effective memory strategies are vital for learning and productivity. Additionally, technology has transformed how we interact with our memories; while digital devices and memory-enhancing apps can aid memory retention, they also pose risks of distraction, requiring careful management to optimize their benefits. (161 words)