1. Reading passage

The university's dining services department has announced a new policy to reduce food waste and promote sustainability. Starting next semester, students will be encouraged to bring their own reusable containers for takeout meals from campus dining halls. This initiative aims to minimize single-use plastics and raise environmental awareness among students.

2. Listening transcript

Student A: Hey, have you heard about the new policy regarding takeout containers?
Student B: Yeah, I think it's a great idea! I mean, we all use so many disposable containers every day, it's about time we make a change.
Student A: Exactly! And it's not just about reducing waste; it's also more convenient for us to have our own reusable containers ready.
Student B: Plus, I read that some other universities have successfully implemented similar programs, and it made a big impact on their sustainability efforts.

3. Speaking task instruction

The reading passage describes a new campus policy where students are encouraged to bring reusable containers for takeout meals. The student in the conversation supports this policy and provides reasons. Summarize the announcement and explain the student's opinion and reasons. Preparation time: 30 seconds, Response time: 60 seconds.

4. Sample student response

The university is introducing a policy to reduce food waste by encouraging students to bring their own reusable containers for takeout meals. I agree with this change because it helps the environment by cutting down on single-use plastics. Additionally, having our own containers is more convenient and can inspire us to be more conscious of our ecological footprint. Overall, I believe this initiative is a positive step towards promoting sustainability on campus.