English B2 reading practice with questions and answers

Conversation before the rota is confirmed

Priya: We could ask each welcome volunteer to send a short report after returning home. It would save time at the centre.

Mo: That is an ambitious way to save time. I am sure a full report would be useful, but I would rather finish my part while I am still here.

Priya: Do you mean you dislike keeping any record?

Mo: Not at all. I can use the question form during my hour. I am reluctant to accept a task whose size only becomes clear after I leave. At home I have another responsibility, and “short” may mean something different to each person.

Dan: Would a three-line handover at seven be sensible, with the receiver adding anything later?

Mo: Yes, if the three lines record questions still open rather than a detailed story of the whole evening. I can agree to that boundary.

Note from Priya after the conversation

The word “ambitious” alone could express enthusiasm or doubt. Here, the following sentences make the concern clearer: Mo would rather finish on site and is reluctant to take an undefined task home. It would be misleading to describe the first reply as simple agreement, but it would also be unfair to infer that Mo opposes all records.

Their concern is about the timing and scope of the task. The revised offer keeps a record while giving it a defined end. I should check the meaning of an indirect objection before defending my original suggestion. A question such as “Is the difficulty the report itself or doing it after you leave?” would have invited clarification sooner.

The group will put the three-line limit on the form. That detail is not a special favour to one volunteer: it makes the commitment visible for anyone considering the role. If a later receiver needs more information, they can ask at the handover rather than silently expanding the task.