Career paths agriculture TB kho tài liệu học tiếng anh

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James D. Libbin

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Published by Express Publishing
Liberty House, Greenham Business Park, Newbury,
Berkshire RG19 6HW
Tel.: (0044) 1635 817 363
Fax: (0044) 1635817463

e-mail:


© Express Publishing, 2011
Design and Illustration © Express Publishing, 2011
First published 2011
Made in EU
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form , or by any means, electronic, photocopying, or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of the publishers.
This book is not meant to be changed in any way.
ISBN 978-0-78098-379-0


Table of Contents

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1
Answer Key . ........................... . ......................... . ......... 4
Audioscripts .. .. .................. . .... . ... . .. ... . . .. . .... ... . . .......... . .. 12

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2
Answer Key .. . ........ . .. . .......... . ......... . ... . ..... . . . . ... . ... ........ 14
Audioscripts .......... . .... . .. . .. .. ...... . ........ . ....... . . . . . . . ... . . . .... 23

f:)
3
Answer Key .. .... ...... . .. . .......... . ... . ... . . . . ... .... . ........... ... . .. 26
Audioscripts ... .......... . ................ . ................................ 36

Book 1 Answer

Key

Unit 1

Unit 2

1 Suggested Answer

1 Suggested Answer

1 In the USA, Native Americans began farming
roughly 7000 years ago.
2 Farmers first grew squash and maize.

2

F

2 T

3 F

3 1 C

3 E
4 D

5 F
6 B

2 A

4 1 A water supply

2 1
2
3
4
B Irrigation
B harvesting

2 A Farming

1 My favourite fruits are cherries and mangos. My
favourite vegetables are carrots and potatoes.
2 Non-food products that come from plants include.
clothing, rope, and furniture.
melons, strawberries, blueberries
broccoli, peas, lettuce, tubers, legumes
granola
hemp shoes, shirts, hats

3 1 D

3 E

2 C

4 A

5 B
6 F

B

2 B

3 B

5 Suggested Answer

1 Agriculture started in the Fertile Crescent.
2 Farmers used the Nile River to water their crops.
3 Extra food was used to feed domesticated animals.

6

B

2 A

7 1 Excuse me
2 crops

3 ditches
4 water

5 control

4

4 A

5 Suggested Answer

At the market you can find fresh fruit (such as
melons, strawberries and blueberries) and fresh
vegetables (such as broccoli, peas and lettuce). You
can also find cereal and clothing.

6 gates
6 potatoes, strawberries, granola

8 Suggested Answer

A: Excuse me, Mr. Brown. I have a question.
B: Great. What is it?
A: How did early farmers irrigate their crops?
B: Oh, with ditches. They connected their fields and
the Nile river.
A: Okay. So, water moved through the ditches to the
fields.
B: Exactly!
A: Then, I have another question. How did they
control the water?
B: The ditches had gates. They opened and water

flowed through.
9 Suggested Answer
Name: Sam Johnstone
Date: 11/12
Class: 10 C
Subject: History

Farmers got water from the Nile River.
Water came to the fields in ditches.
They controlled the water by opening and closing
gates in the ditches.

4

Answer Key

4 How much
5 granola
6 Cereal crops

7 1 help you
2 strawberries
3 potatoes
8 Suggested Answer

B: Welcome to the farmer's market. Can I help you?

A: Yes please I want some fresh vegetables.
B: These peas are very fresh.

A: Okay, great. I'd also like some potatoes and some
broccoli. How much are they?
B: The peas are $2 a pound, the potatoes are $1.50
and the broccoli is $4.00.
A: I'll take two pounds of each one please.
B: Okay. Anything else today?
A: No, thank you.
9 Suggested Answer
Date of Sale:

03/08

Items Purchased:
21b Peas
21b Potatoes
21b Broccoli

Price:
$4.00
$3.00
$8.00

Total Amount Due:

$15.00


Book 1 Answer
Unit 3

2 Good soil is important because it provides crops
with nutrients to grow. The more nutrients the soil
has the better the crops will grow.

1 Suggested Answer
1 Different types of meat come from different animals,
they include: beef (cow), pork (pig), poultry (chicken),
venison (deer) and lamb (sheep).
2 Other products that come from animals include.
leather, wool and tallow.

C

2

2 D

3 A

3 1 A Milk
2 A Leather
3 A meat

B wool
B protein
B By-products

4 1 fat
2 bones

3 hooves
4 rendering

2 F

7 1 Listen up
2 do you mean

2 T

3 T

3 1 soil structures
2 clay
D

3 B
4 E

3 humus
4 Aeration

5 Loam

5 C
6 F

5 Suggested Answer
When planting tomatoes you need to take into
consideration the amount of water and air their roots

will have access to.

5 tallow

6

3 F
3 chemicals
4 expensive

F

2 A

Before it is used to produce soaps animal fat is
rendered.

T

2

4 1

5 Suggested Answer

6

Key

5 I'm sorry

6 most soaps

8 Suggested Answer

A: Listen up. We have a new product to sell. Mr.
Vlass will tell us about it.
B: Okay. Customers want natural products, right? So
we made an all-natural candle.
A: What do you mean by "all-natural"?
B: There are no extra chemicals. It's made of Tallow.
A: I'm sorry. What's tallow?
B: Oh, Tallow is rendered animal fat. It's used in most
soaps and candles.
A: Is it expensive?
B: No, It's very cheap because it's a by-product that
few people use. Each candle will cost 1Qc.
A: That is cheap!

A

2 D

7 1 soil
2 larger pot s
3 In that case

4 good aeration
5 holds water
6 I'll take it

8 Suggested Answer

A:
B:
A:
B:
A:

Hi. Can I help you with anything?
Yes. I need some soil.
OK. Is it for indoor or outdoor plants?
It's for outdoor plants.
What kind of plant is it for? Houseplants?
Flowering plants? Vegetables?
B: I have some tomatoes I would like to plant.
A: In that case you should use VegeGrow. It has
good aeration and holds water well, too.
B: Okay. I'll take it. Thanks for your help.

9 Suggested Answer
Product Name: VegeGrow
VegeGrow can be used for indoor or outdoor plants.
It supports houseplant and vegetable growth.
Best of all, it has good aeration and holds water
better than any product.

9 Suggested Answer
Product: Candle
Description/Special Qualities: All natural
Main Ingredient: Tallow

Expected Costs: 1Qc per candle

Unit 4
1 Suggested Answer
1 In the USA we have many different types of soil.
Dark, rich soil is used for growing crops, loose,
sandy soil is found in the deserts, and clay which is
not very fertile can be found throughout the USA.

Unit 5
Suggested Answer
1 Farmers get water from rain, rivers and wells.
2 Water shortages limit the amount of water a
farmer has to water their crops. Without water,
crops fail. With no crops to sell the farmer will
have no income.

2 1 B

2 B

3 A

Answer Key

5


Book 1 Answer
3 1 A ditch

2 A rainfall
3 A drought -resistant

4

B

2 D

3 C

Key

B groundwater
B shortage
B rain-fed

4 1 seeds

4 A

5 Suggested Answer

4 bulk
5 dormancy

2 days to maturity
3 sowing methods

The broccoli will be edible in approximately 8 weeks.

5 Suggested Answer
Less rainfall in the mountains has limited the water
cycle, meaning there will be less rain in the future.

6

F

2 T

T

4 could be
5 drought-resistant
6 won't help

8 Suggested Answer

A: I'm worried. My vegetables won't survive if this
drought continues.
B: I feel the same way. My corn and brocceli aren't
doing well.
A: What are you going to do about it?
B: I might expand my irrigation system.
A: That could be very expensive.
B: I agree. But I don't know what else to do.
A: You could always plant drought-resistant
vegetables next year.
B: That's a good idea. It will cost less. But it won't

help this year.
9 Suggested Answer
Farm Report
Date: 09/07
Crops planted: Corn, Broccoli
Crop Condition: Not doing well
Water problems: Drought
Possible Solutions: Expand irrigation system, plant
drought -resistant vegetables

Unit 6
1 Suggested Answer
1 When planting in fields farmers use machines to
plant seeds. When planting in a greenhouse or
small containers they do it by hand.
2 Seeds need good soil and water to grow.

F

2 T

3 T

3 1 A
2 B

3 E
4 F

5 D

6

Answer Key

6 C

3 F

4 bulk
5 No thanks
6 come in

8 Suggested Answer

A: Hi there. Welcome to Braxton Farms. How can I
help you?
B: Hi, I'd like to buy some seeds.
A: Great. What varieties are you interested in?
B: I want some cucumber, the Green Giant, and
some zucchini, the Imperial Blue.
A: I'm sorry. I didn't catch that.
B: The Green Giant cucumber and the Imperial Blue
zucchini.
A: Got it. Also we have a special today on bulk
orders. You get 20% off.
B: No thanks. I only need three packets of each.
A: Well, they come in packs of 5 for $6.99.
9 Suggested Answer
Seed variety: Green Giant cucumber

Number of packets: 3
Seed variety: Imperial blue zucchini
Number of packets: 3
Discount? N
Total Price: $13.98

Unit 7
1 Suggested Answer
As they grow plants get bigger. Their roots grow
longer in order to draw more water and to support
the plant. Leaves increase in size and number and
most plants produce flowers.
2 Roots- The roots absorb water and anchor the
plant into the ground.
Stem- The stem supports the plant and contains
the pipes that carry water and nutrients from the
leaves to the roots.
Leaves- The leaves capture light and turn it into
food through a process called photosynthesis.
Flowers- flowers are the plants reproductive
organ.

1

2

2 F

7 1 watermelon
2 didn't catch

3 Got it

3 T

7 1 survive
2 do about
3 expand

6


Book 1 Answer
2

F

2 F

3 T

3

B

2 C

3 A

4 1 yield
2 threshing

4 growth chart

5 Flowering
6 seed head

Gardeners like quinoa because it contains a lot of
protein and can grow in different environments.
2 F

3 F
4 doing well
5 few acres
6 or so

7 1 didn't you
2 at first
3 takes a while

During this year's harvest one field matured later than
expected, farmers reaped several bushels too early
and there was a problem with the equipment during
threshing.

A: Peter, you planted quinoa for the first time this
year, didn't you?
B: I did. I was worried at first, but it seems okay now.
A: Worried? Why?
B: It was growing so slowly. But it just takes a while
for the buds to flower.

A: Oh, so they're doing well?
B: Yeah, they are. We expect to harvest them next
week.
A: That's great. How much do you expect to
harvest?
B: Well, we planted 6 acres. So probably four thousand
pounds or so.

9 Suggested Answer
Acres Planted: 6
Summary of crop growth: Crops took some time to
flower but grew well.
Expected harvest: 4 thousand pounds
Actual Harvest: 5 thousand pounds
UnitS
1 Suggested Answer

1 In the USA different crops are harvested at
different times of the year. Corn, for example, is
harvested from October to November.
2 During harvest farmers use combine harvesters to
gather crops.

F

2 F

6

B

2 C

7 1 status
2 How many
3 excellent

8 Suggested Answer
harvest?
B: Well, we have twelve tons for immediate sale.
A: Twelve tons? How many did we sell from the last
field?
B: Let's see. We sold ten tons from the last field.
A: That's excellent! Your new planting schedule is
working nicely.
B: Yes, it is. We will approve another seven tons by
Monday.
A: Nice job, Joe. This is our largest harvest ever.

9 Suggested Answer
Date

Crop

10/09
10/15

wheat
wheat

B mature
B chaff
B tons

Package
Weight
16 tons
12 tons

1 Suggested Answer
1 In the USA different crops are stored in different
ways. For temporary storage crops are put into
bales or stored in silage bags. For permanent
storage they are kept in tower or bunker silos.
2 Stored crops can be damaged by excess
moisture and too little or too much ventilation. This
leads to mold growing on the crops. Also, stored
crops can be damaged by pests such as mice.

2 1 bunker silo

2 leveling

3 T

Package
Type
bushel
bushel

Unit 9

3 1 A Cool
3 1 A Reap
2 A harvest
3 A bales

4 planting schedule
5 Nice job
6 largest

A: Joe, what's the status on the latest wheat

8 Suggested Answer

2

5 package type

5 Suggested Answer

5 Suggested Answer

6 1 F

3 stacks
4 bushels

4 D

3 leaves

4 1 buds
2 roots

Key

2 A mold
3 A silage bag

3 ventilation
4 silage

5 tower

B dry
B storage
B ventilation

Answer Key

7


Book 1 Answer
4 1 A

2 C

3 D

Key

4 B

4 1 ration
2 minerals

3 nutrition
4 carbohydrates

5 Suggested Answer
Carla Thompson is contacting Mr. Garcia to inform
him that mold is growing on the silage.

6

F

2 T

5 Suggested Answer
The main duties of the animal nutritionist will be:
preparing feed formula for fifteen varieties of chicken,
researching and selecting low-cost ingredients with
high nutrient content, balancing carbohydrate, fat,
protein, vitamin and mineral content in daily rations
and adjusting the feed formula as needed.

3 F

7 1 all over the place
2 new assistant
3 leveling

4 see that
5 ventilation
6 old tower silo

6

B

2 B

8 Suggested Answer

A: Mr. Garcia, did you get my email about the bunker
silo?
B: I did. How bad is it?
A: It's pretty bad. There's mold all over the place.
B: How did this happen?
A: It was our new assistant. He wasn't trained on
leveling.
B: Well, see that he gets trained.
A: Of course. We're also checking the ventilation
system. There's too much air moving in there.
B: Use the old tower silo until you fix it and keep me
updated.
9 Suggested Answer

Bunker silo 13 has mold in it.
This was caused by improper leveling and too much
ventilation.
Use the old tower silo until it is fixed.
There is training on leveling for all new employees
this week.

Unit 10
1 Suggested Answer
1 The type of food a farm animal eats depends on
the type of animal it is. Cattle eat a variety of
grass, hay and grain. Pigs are omnivores so they
eat feed made from plants and animals. Poultry
are fed mostly grain, however, free range poultry
feeds mainly on grass.
2 Feed provides the nutrients an animal needs to
grow and survive. If the animal doesn't get the
nutrients it needs it will not grow. Feed can also
affect the taste of an animals' meat or milk and
its fat levels.

2

T

2 T

3 F

3

D

2 B

3 E

8 Suggested Answer

A: Good morning Mr. Smith, I'm Peter Ronaldson.
B: Nice to meet you, Mr Ronaldson.

A: Nice to meet you too. Please, take a seat and
we'll get started.
B: Thank you. Did you get my resume?
A: Yes, I did. It looks very good. Tell me about your
work at DPM Industries.
B: Well, I worked at their pig facility. I created special
formulas for high-protein feed.
A: Interesting. Now, applicants must have experience
with poultry. Have you ever worked with chickens?
B: Yes, in my previous job. It was at Reynolds Farms.
9 Suggested Answer
Name: Ben Smith
Position applying for: Animal Nutritionist
Current Position: Animal nutritionist at DPM Industries
Responsibilities: Create special formulas for high
protein feed
Former Position: Animal Nutritionist at Reynolds farms
Responsibilities: Creating feed for chickens

Unit 11
1 Suggested Answer
In the USA Animals are housed in different ways.
How they are housed depends on what type of
animal they are. For example chickens are kept
in a coop and cows can live in a barn.
2 Workers maintain animal housing structures
through regular cleaning and maintenance.

1

2 1 F

8

Answer Key

4 C

5 A

4 pig facility
5 poultry
6 chickens

7 1 Nice to meet
2 take a seat
3 Tell me about

2 T

3 F


Book 1 Answer
3 1 A coop

B cold stress
B pen
B slotted floor

2 A heat stress

3 A Waste management

2

F

2 T

3 F

3 1 progeny

3 rate of gain
4 heritability

2 breeding value

4

B

2 A

3 D

Key

4 C

4

B

2 A

3 E

4 C

5 D

5 Suggested Answer

For animals to be productive they must be at the
correct temperature and kept clean.

5 Suggested Answer

The cattle breeding service claims it can predict the
heritability of most traits.

6 1 They will have more animals
3 The barn has poor ventilation

7 1 ventilation
2 too hot

3 summer

4 twenty more cows
5 good point
6 space requirements

8 Suggested Answer

6

C

2 D

7 1 milk production

4 Of course

2 might interest

5 That depends

3 sire summary

6 far more

8 Suggested Answer

A: I think we need a new barn.

A: Here are pictures of all our bulls. What traits do

B: What's wrong with this one?
A: First, the ventilation isn't very good.
B: I agree with you there. It's too cold in here during
the winter.
A: And don't forget, we're getting 30 more llamas in
June.
B: That's a good point. We'll need more space then.
A: I'll talk to a builder tomorrow.
B: Let's estimate the space requirements first.

you want in the offspring?
B: Well, I have a dairy herd. So, I'd like to increase
milk production.
A: This Holstein might interest you. Many of his
progeny are prize milk cows.
B: Really! Can I see his sire summary?
A: Of course. I'll get you a copy.

B: How much do you charge for breeding?
A: That depends. I give a discount for more than 20
cows.
B: That's great! I need to breed 40.

9 Suggested Answer

Dear Mr. Haynes,
We need a new barn.
Our current barn has poor ventilation.
And we are getting 30 more llamas in June.
The barn won't meet space requirements.
We need the new barn to be a lot larger and with
better ventilation.
It should be able to house 60 llamas.
How much will that cost?
Thanks,
Frank Carmichael

9 Suggested Answer
Customer name: Tom Smith
Type of Farm: Dairy
Traits Desired: High level of milk production
Paperwork requested: Sire summary
Number of cows: 40
Discount: Y

Unit 13
1 Suggested Answer

Unit 12
1 Suggested Answer

1 Farmers want different traits in different animals.
Cattle farmers want cows which produce a lot of
milk and have high quality meat. Poultry farmers
want chickens that produce high quality eggs and
mature quickly for processing.
2 Animals breed throughout the year. Animals, such
as cows and sheep generally breed once a year
whereas chickens may breed multiple times a year.

1 There are numerous slaughter methods. The most
common are:
Chemical: Animal is asphyxiated with carbon
dioxide and then their neck is cut and they are
allowed to bleed out.
Mechanical (captive bolt): A captive bolt stunner
is used on the animal to knock it unconscious
before its neck is cut.
Mechanical (gunshot): The animal is shot in the
head. This renders the animal unconscious or kills
it. It is then bled.
Answer Key

9


Book 1 Answer

Key

Electrical: An electric shock is applied to the
animal to render it unconscious before it is bled.
2 One challenge of slaughtering and processing is
the contamination of meat and the spread of
disease. The meat can be contaminated during
processing and various diseases can be spread
to people that eat the meat. Another challenge is
safety for workers during slaughtering and
processing. Workers in slaughterhouses and meat
packing facilities sustain injuries that range from
torn muscles and sprains to serious cuts or
amputated fingers or hands.

B

2

2 B

3 D

3 1 slaughtered
2 process
4 1 kill fee
2 humane

3 head
4 hides

3 Offal
4 inspected

5 cuts

5 butchering

Unit 14

1 Suggested Answer
1 In the USA farmers use tractors, broadcast
seeders and transplanters to plant their crops.
2 Modern equipment has made farming easier, more
efficient and more profitable. With the use of
equipment such as combine harvesters and
tractors less people can do more work. This has
led to an increase in farm sizes and greater
output, and an increase in revenue.

2

T

2 F

3 1 cultivator
2 harrow

4 1 C
2 F

3 F
3 chisel plow
4 planter

3 E
4 D

5 transplanter

5 A
6 B

5 Suggested Answer
5 Suggested Answer

All the advertisements are advertising used farming
equipment.

Hides are treated and offal is turned into dog and cat
food.

6

F

6

2 F

c

2 C

3 T

7 1 cattle
2 kill fee
3 per head

4 not bad
5 provide cuts
6 I'd like to

7 1 stone picker
2 good condition
3 size rocks

4 I'm asking
5 new unit
6 that's a bit much

8 Suggested Answer
8 Suggested Answer

A: Martino's Butchering Company. How may I help
B:

A:
B:

A:
B:

A:
B:

you?
Hi, I have sheep that I need slaughtered.
Okay, we can do that. How many are there?
I have 200. What's your kill fee per head?
For sheep? It's $25 per head.
That's not bad. Do you do cuts as well?
Yes, we provide cuts. It costs $.35 per pound.
Great. I'd like to schedule an appointment.

A: Hello, is Mr. Bradley available?
B: This is Mr. Bradley speaking. Can I help you?

A: Yes I'm calling about your listing. The one about
the chisel plow.
B: Oh, yes. Well, it's still available. And it's in good
condition.
A: Great! How much is it?
B: I'm asking $2000.
A: Okay, I'll take it.
9 Suggested Answer

9 Suggested Answer
Date 08/08

Type of animal: Sheep
Number of head: 200
Kill fee: $25 per head
Cuts requested? Y
Cut price: $.35 per pound
Appointment scheduled for: 08/10

10

Answer Key

Equipment For Sale: Chisel Plow
Condition: Good
Used For: Tilling
Price: $2000
Unit 15

1 Suggested Answer
1 Some examples of equipment used in harvesting are:
a combine harvester, a chaser bin and a gleaner.


Book 1 Answer Key
2 The main challenge associated with harvesting
crops is timing. Timing is important as crops
harvested too soon may have a low yield and be
poor quality whereas crops harvested too late
may be damaged by weather.

2

F

2 T

3 T

3

C

2 D

3 S

4 1 gravity wagon
2 bale wrapper
3 hay conditioner

4 A

5 E

4 conveyor belt
5 grain auger

5 Suggested Answer
Finneman's makes moving grain easy by supplying all
the equipment used in moving and transporting grain.
They have chaser bins and gravity wagons to move

the grain from the field to storage and grain augers
and conveyor belts to move it from storage to
processing.

6

s

2 A

7 1 combine harvesters
2 gravity wagons
3 We're set

4 get full fast
5 grain auger
6 fields harvested

8 Suggested Answer
A: Are we ready to start harvesting, Jose?
S: I think so. The combine harvesters are in the field
already.
A: What about the wagons?
S: The gravity wagons are attached to the tractor.
We're set.
A: Great, but we only have three wagons. They'll get
full fast.
S: I thought of that. I have the grain auger ready too.
A: Excellent. I want these fields harvested by three
o'clock.

S: Okay, boss. I'll let everyone know.

9 Suggested Answer
Equipment Used: Combine harvesters, gravity wagons
and grain auger
Problems: Wagons filled up too fast
Solution: Used a grain auger
Time finished: Three o'clock

Answer Key

11


Audioscripts
Unit 1
Student: Excuse me, Mrs. Anderson. I have a question
about the first farmers.
Teacher: Great. What is it?
Student: Well, they were in a desert. How did they irrigate
their crops?
Teacher: Oh, with ditches. They connected their fields
and the Nile River.
Student: Okay. So, water moved through the ditches to
the fields.
Teacher: Exactly.
Student: Then, I have another question. How did they
control the water?
Teacher: The ditches had gates. They opened and water
flowed through.

Unit 2
Farmer: Welcome to the farmer's market. Can I help you
with something?
Customer: Yes, please. I want some fresh fruit.
Farmer: These strawberries are perfect. We picked them
yesterday.
Customer: Oh, good. And I'd like some potatoes, too.
How much are they?
Farmer: A three pound bag costs one dollar.
Customer: I'll take a bag, thanks.
Farmer: Okay. Anything else today?
Customer: Yeah. I saw your ad for granola. Do you have that?
Farmer: Yes, we do. Cereal crops are grown on a nearby
farm.

Unit3
Manager: Listen up. We have a new product to sell. Miss
Smith will tell us about it.
Developer: Okay. Customers want natural products,
right? So we made an all-natural soap.
Manager: What do you mean by "all-natural"?
Developer: There are no extra chemicals. It's just the
basic ingredients.
Manager: Sounds interesting. Will it be expensive?
Developer: No. After all, the main ingredient is tallow.
Manager: I'm sorry. What's tallow?
Developer: Oh, tallow is basically animal fat. It's used in
most soaps.
Manager: And it's cheap?

Developer: Very. It's a by-product that few people use.

Unit4
Clerk: Hi. Can I help you with anything?
Customer: Yes. I need some soil.
Clerk: Is this for indoor or outdoor plants?
Customer: It's for indoor plants.
Clerk: What kinds of plants is it for? Houseplants?
Flowering plants? Vegetables?

12

Answer Key

Customer: I have some spider plants. They need to be
put in larger pots.
Clerk: In that case, you should use Wonder Grow. It has
good aeration and holds water well, too.
Customer: Okay, I'll take it. Thanks for your help.

Unit 5
Farmer 1: I'm worried. My vegetables won't survive if this
drought continues.
Farmer 2: I feel the same way. My lettuce and
cucumbers aren't doing well.
Farmer 1: What are you going to do about it?
Farmer 2: I might expand my irrigation system.
Farmer 1: That could be very expensive.
Farmer 2: I agree. But I don't know what else to do.
Farmer 1: You could always plant drought -resistant

vegetables next year.
Farmer 2: That's a good idea. It will cost less. But it won't
help this year.

Unit 6
Farmer: Hi there. Welcome to Braxton Farms. How can I
help you?
Customer: Hi, I'd like to buy some seeds.
Farmer: Great. What varieties are you interested in?
Customer: I want some watermelon, the Super King. And
some cantaloupe, the Royal Gold.
Farmer: I'm sorry. I didn't catch that.
Customer: Super King watermelon and Royal Gold
cantaloupe.
Farmer: Got it. Also, we have a special today on bulk
orders. You get 10% off.
Customer: No thanks. I only need two packets of each.
Farmer: Well, they come in packs of 3 for $3.78.

Unit 7
Farmer 1: Susan, you planted quinoa for the first time this
year, didn't you?
Farmer 2: I did. I was worried at first. But it seems okay
now.
Farmer 1: Worried? Why?
Farmer 2: It was growing so slowly. But it just takes a
while for the buds to flower.
Farmer 1: Oh, so they're doing well?
Farmer 2: Yeah, they are. We expect to harvest them
next week.

Farmer 1: That's great. How much do you expect to
harvest?
Farmer 2: Well, we only planted a few acres. So probably
two thousand pounds or so.

UnitS
Farmer 1: Cathy, what's the status on the latest corn
harvest?


Audioscripts
Farmer 2: Well, we have fifteen tons for immediate sale.
Farmer 1: Fifteen tons? How many tons did we sell from
the last field?
Farmer 2: Um, let's see. We sold eleven tons from the
last field.
Farmer 1: That's excellent! Your new planting schedule is
working nicely.
Farmer 2: Yes, it is. We also expect to approve another
five tons by Friday.
Farmer 1: Nice job, Cathy. This is our largest harvest ever.

Unit 9
Manager: Mr. Garcia, did you get my email about the

Unit 12
Breeder: Here are pictures of all of our bulls. What traits
do you want in the offspring?

Client: Well, I have a dairy herd. So I'd like to increase

milk production.

Breeder: This Holstein might interest you. Many of his
progeny are prize milk cows.

Client: Really! Can I see his sire summary?
Breeder: Of course. I'll get you a copy.
Client: How much do you charge for breeding?
Breeder: That depends. I give a discount for more than
twenty cows.

Client: I see. That's far more than I need.

bunker silo?

Owner: I did. How bad is it?
Manager: It's pretty bad. There's mold all over the place.
Owner: How did this happen?
Manager: It was our new assistant. He wasn't trained on
leveling.

Owner: Well, see that he gets trained.
Manager: Of course. We're also checking the ventilation
system. There's too much air moving in there.

Owner: Use the old tower silo until you fix it and keep
me updated.

Unit 10
Interviewer: Good morning Mr. Jordan, I'm Terry Riley.

Job applicant: Nice to meet you, Miss Riley.
Interviewer: Nice to meet you too. Please, take a seat
and we'll get started.

Unit 13
Butcher: Jacobson's Butchering Company. How may I
help you?

Customer: Hi, I have cattle that I need slaughtered.
Butcher: Okay, we can do that. How many are there?
Customer: I have twenty. What's your kill fee per head?
Butcher: For cattle? It's $50 per head.
Customer: That's not bad. Do you do cuts as well?
Butcher: Yes, we provide cuts. It costs $ .35 per pound.
Customer: Great. I'd like to schedule an appointment.
Unit 14
Caller: Hello, is Mr. Henry available?
Seller: This is Mr. Henry speaking. Can I help you?
Caller: Yes. I'm calling about your listing. The one about
the stone picker.

Job appl icant: Thank you. Did you get my resume?
Interviewer: Yes, I did. It looks very good. Tell me about

Seller: Oh, yes. Well, it's still available. And it's in good

your work at AGM Industries.
Job applicant: Well, I work at their pig facility. I create
special formulas for high-protein feed.
Interviewer: Interesting. Now, applicants must have

experience with poultry. Have you ever worked with
chickens?
Job applicant: Yes, in my previous job. It was at Reynolds
Farms.

Caller: Oh, good. What size rocks can it move?
Seller: Anything between two and twenty five inches.
Caller: And how much is it?
Seller: I'm asking $4000.
Caller: That's almost the price of a new unit.
Seller: Well, we didn't use it much.
Caller: Still, that's a bit much for me. I'll pass for now, thanks.

Unit 11
Farmer 1: I think we need a new barn.
Farmer 2: What's wrong with this one?
Farmer 1: First, the ventilation isn't very good.
Farmer 2: I agree with you there. It's too hot in here
during the summer.

Farmer 1: And don't forget, we're getting twenty more
cows in May.

Farmer 2: That's a good point. We'll need more space then.
Farmer 1: I'll talk with a builder tomorrow.
Farmer 2: Let's estimate the space requirements first.

condition.

Unit 15

Farmer: Are we ready to start harvesting, Jessica?
Assistant: I think so. The combine harvesters are in the
field already.

Farmer: Good. What about the wagons?
Assistant: The gravity wagons are attached to the
tractor. We're set.

Farmer: Great, but we only have three wagons. They'll
get full fast.

Assistant: I thought of that. I have the grain auger ready too.
Farmer: Excellent. I want these fields harvested by three
o'clock.

Assistant: Okay, boss. I'll let everyone know.
Answer Key

13


- - - - - --

Book 2 Answer Key
Unit 1

Unit 2

1 Suggested Answer

1 Suggested Answer

1 In the USA the beef industry is the largest
agricultural industry. It provides jobs for millions of
people and generates billions of dollars for the
economy.
2 Beef is the most popular meat in the USA.
T

2 T

3 T

3 1 G
2 F

3 D
4 C

5 A
6 B

2

1 In the USA the swine industry is the third largest
meat industry behind beef and poultry.
2 Farming swine has many challenges. Not only
must farmers keep the farm running efficiently and
keep the swine fit and healthy, but they also must
take into account the impact their farm has on the

community. Swine farms can emit odors and loud
noises. They can also pollute the soil and ground
water with nutrients from their manure.

7 H

8 E
F

2 T

3 T

3 1 E
2 B

3 A

5 D

4 C

6 F

2
4 1 feed lot
2 Beef
3 market weight

4 antibiotics

5 Growth hormones
6 herd

5 Suggested Answer
To get around the problems of grass-fed beef
farmers can send their cows to a feedlot. This will
rapidly increase their weight before processing.

6

D

4 swine

It is better to provide more space for hogs because
those with more space are healthier and more
productive.
4 that's not all
5 big mistake
6 realize that

8 Suggested Answer

A: I'm thinking about switching to grass-fed beef.
B: I don't think that's a good idea. The cattle will take
longer to reach market weight.
A: I understand that. It'll take longer and it'll cost more.
B: I hope you'll reconsider.
A: Well, that's not all. I'd like to stop giving them
antibiotics and growth hormones, as well.

B: That could be a big mistake. We could lose a lot
of money on sick and small cows.
A: I realize that. But we can also charge a lot more
for grass-fed, hormone-free beef.
9 Suggested Answer

Memo: All Staff Jackson Ranch
Soon, we will be switching to grass fed cattle.
That's because I'd like to stop giving our cattle
antibiotics and growth hormones.
This means that we could lose money on sick small
cows.
But we can also charge a lot more for grass-fed,
hormone-free beef.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Hank Jackson. Owner, Jackson Ranch
Answer Key

3 static space

5 Suggested Answer

2 A

7 1 grass-fed
2 take longer
3 reconsider

14

4 1 sow
2 social space

6

C

2 C

7 1 as it is
2 farrow-to-finish
3 combine

4 do about
5 make some room
6 Good thinking

8 Suggested Answer

A: I'm worried. Our sows aren't as productive as they
used to be.
B: It started when we changed those pens to
storage space.
A: Yeah. The sows seem restless with less room to
move around.
B: You might be on to something. What if we
increase their social space?
A: I don't know. We don't have much room as it is.
B: Well, I read an interesting article about this problem.
It said social space makes a big difference in

farrow-to-finish farms like ours.
A: I guess we overlooked that when we used those
pens for storage.
B: Well, we can fix it. Let's get all the storage out of
those pens. We can combine a few other pens so
the sows can interact.
A: That's not a bad idea.
B: But what can we do about storage?
A: I think we can make some room in the old barn.
B: Good thinking.


Book 2 Answer Key
B: Did you say roosters or roasters?
A: Roasters. Both breeds can grow rather large. They
make good roaster chickens.
B: OK, then. Well then, I'll take half a dozen chicks
of each.

9 Suggested Answer
Proposed Changes: Increase sows' social space by
removing storage from pens and combining .other
pens, so sows can interact.
Cause: Sows are not as productive as they used to be.
Effects: Sows will have more room to move around
and interact. Productivity should increase.

9 Suggested Answer
Cluck Farms
Customer Name: Montgomery Brown

Chicks for: Meat and Egg
Breeds: Iowa Blue and Delaware
Number of Chicks: 6 Iowa Blue, 6 Delaware

Unit 3
1 Suggested Answer
1 The poultry industry produces eggs and meat
from various birds such as chickens and turkeys.
2 In the USA poultry is the second most consumed
type of meat behind beef. It is very common.

Unit4
1 Suggested Answer

A

2 C

3 D

3 1 D
2 B

3 C

5 A
6 E

2

4 F

1 Milk, cheese and yogurt are the most popular
dairy products in the USA.
2 The use of new technology has helped farms to
become more efficient. Fewer farmers are able to
produce more milk from fewer cows. New
technologies have also led to milk being able to
be transported further, so farmers can be more
spread out across the country. This means they
can use fertile land that would otherwise not be
usable because of distance.

7 G

4 poultry

4 1 Free-range
2 Litter
3 primary breeder

5 Roasters
6 pullets

5 Suggested Answer
Apart from breeding, Cluck Farms also operates a
small production facility where they produce eggs,
broilers and roasters. They also provide advice on
intensive farming methods, free range techniques and
effective litter removal.

6

F

2 T

3 F

7 1 not exactly sure
2 free-range
3 options

2

F

2 T

3 F
4 milk pipeline
5 Holstein

3 1 homogenized
2 udders
3 rBST

4 say that again

4 1 B

2 A

5 Probably both
6 roasters

5 Suggested Answer

3 F

4 C

5 D
6 E

Milk that passes through the pipeline is put into
storage where it is pasteurized and homogenized.

8 Suggested Answer
B: Hi, I'd like to order some chicks.

A: Is there a particular breed you're interested in?
B: I'm not exactly sure. I have a small farm, and I'd
like to raise a dozen or so chickens free-range.
A: Well, we have a few good options. Meat or egg
production?
B: Could you say that again?
A: Are the chickens going to be used for meat or
egg production?
B: Probably both. I want the hens to lay eggs for a
few years. But I'll occasionally slaughter them for

meat. Maybe one or two a year.
A: In that case, I'd recommend Iowa Blue or
Delaware. Both produce excellent eggs and grow
into roasters quickly.

6

C

2 B

7 1 our only concern
2 with her weight
3 heavy enough

4 Fair enough
5 pounds on her
6 Sound good

8 Suggested Answer

A: I think it's time for this heifer to leave the nursery
barn.
B: Really? Do you think she's ready to join the milk
herd?
A: I do. She's been in the heifer herd for a pretty long
time.
Answer Key

15

Book 2 Answer

Key

B: That's true. But I don't think she's ready to have a
calf.
A: Why do you say that? She's almost two years old.
That's the right age, if you ask me.
B: Well, age is important, but it's not our only
concern. Have you weighed her lately?
A: No, I haven't. Is there a problem with her weight?
B: It's not a problem, exactly. It's just that she's not
quite heavy enough to join the milk herd.
A: Fair enough. But we need to get her weight up,
then. Have you increased her feed rations?
B: No, we haven't
A: Let's start with that. If we can get another twenty
or thirty pounds on her, we'll move her into the
milk herd. Sound good?
B: Yes, that's a good plan.

9 Suggested Answer
Cloudhaven Sheep Farm
Sales Receipt
Customer Information
Name: Sam Wilson
Farm: Wilson Farms

1 Suggested Answer

D

2 A

3 B

3 1 A
2 F

3 E
4 D

5 C
6 B

4 1 A seasonal market
2 A finishing

4 Oh, definitely
5 market slaughter
6 that's great news

B: Cloudhaven Sheep Farm. This is Peter speaking.
How can I help you?
A: Hi, Peter. My farm is expanding operations, and
we're looking to get some feeder lambs.
B: Well, we can certainly provide that. About how
many animals are you thinking of?

A: I'd like 500 head. Can you complete an order that
large?
B: Oh, definitely. We try to keep a steady population
of about 3000. Of course, only half of those are
feeder lambs. The rest are market slaughter.
A: I see. Well, that's great news. In that case, let's
talk about prices.
B: Right now, you're looking at 70 dollars per one
hundred pounds.
A: Seventy dollars per one hundred pounds? That's
a really good deal. Let's place that order.

Unit 5

2

3 T

8 Suggested Answer

Heifer 1187

1 Raising sheep is different to raising cattle for
various reasons. Firstly sheep and cattle graze
differently and on different plant species. Secondly,
sheep are more likely to suffer from illness. Their
size means that they can become ill more than
cattle. Finally sheep, unlike cattle, are more likely
to be attacked by predators. Wolves, foxes and
dogs kill sheep, but pose little threat to cattle.

2 In the USA farmers raise sheep for both wool and
meat.

2 F

7 1 feeder lambs
2 thinking of
3 at least

9 Suggested Answer

Age: 2 years old
Weight: Light
Goal: Increase weight
Changes: Increase food rations
Will move to milking herd when: Gains twenty or
thirty pounds

F

6

Order Details
Lamb type: Feeder
# of Lambs: 500
Price per pound: $70

Unit6
1 Suggested Answer
1 In the past horses played a big role in agriculture.

They were used to plough the fields, carry things
and to transport people.
2 Today horses are used in various ways. They are
used in sports such as racing and show jumping.
They are also used as transportation. Horses are
starting to be used again on small farms as a
quieter and more cost effective alternative to a
tractor.

B accelerated lambing
B lam ping period

5 Suggested Answer
During the lambing period half of the lambs are kept
for finishing, while the other half are distributed to
meet seasonal market demands.

16

Answer Key

T

2 F

3 F

3 1 E
2 B

3 F
4 D

5 C
6 A

2

7 G


Book 2 Answer Key
4 1 broodmare
2 sacking out

3 vaccination schedule
4 stalls

production with the income they receive in order
to make a profit.
2 Apart from producing honey beekeeping provides
jobs for many people involved in the apiculture
industry. From production of hives to transportation,
apiculture provides employment and income for
many people.

5 Suggested Answer

Shady stables offers private riding lessons for less
experienced riders.

6

C

2 B

7 1 I have to say
2 sacking her out
3 What about

2
4 saddling

5 bridled her
6 saddle her

C

2 D

3 A

3 1 A apiary
2 A colony

B beesuit
B Liquid smoke
B skeps

3 A veils

8 Suggested Answer

A: Did you work with Buttercup today?
B: I did. And I have to say, I think she's one of the
best mares we've got.
A: Really? Why do you say that?
B: Well, last week I started sacking her out. She
didn't seem scared at all when I put the blanket
on her.
A: That's rare. What about yesterday?
B: The same thing happened yesterday. You know, I
think she might be ready for saddling.
A: Have you bridled her yet?
B: No. I guess I should probably work on that before
I try to saddle her.
A: Definitely. And that reminds me, she needs to see
the vet.
B: Is it time for more shots already?
A: I think so. Doctor Fitzpatrick, the veterinarian,
keeps track of the vaccination schedule.
B: OK. I'll talk to her first thing tomorrow.

9 Suggested Answer
Rider's Stables
Training Log
Horse: Buttercup
Trainer: Patrick Ramirez
Date: 01/07

Training Completed: Sacking
Trainer assessment of horse: Buttercup is fantastic
and ready to progress to the next level of her training.
Next training: Bridling
Medical status of horse: Ready for next vaccination

4 1 F
2 E

3 D

5 A

4 B

6 C

5 Suggested Answer
The web page suggests that every beekeeping
operation must have protective gear, e.g. beesuits.

6

F

2 F

3 T

7 1 liquid smoke

2 Why is that
3 too bad

4 recommend
5 I'd go with
6 honeycomb

8 Suggested Answer

A: Hello, can I help you?
B: Yes, I'm looking for liquid smoke.

A: OK. That's over here. Can I ask what type of
apiary you have?
B: I have a wooden beehive frame. Why do you ask?
A: Well, the liquid can ruin your honey. It also leaves
stains on wood.
B: That's not good. Is there something you would
recommend?
A: Yes. I would use cold smoke aerosols.
B: Will they stain the wood in my hive?
A: No. But you still need to be careful and avoid
spraying them into the honeycomb.
B: Thank you. I'll take two please.

9 Suggested Answer
Notes on smokers
Types: Liquid smoke, cold smoke aerosol.

Unit 7

1 Suggested Answer

1 Beekeepers face several challenges. They must
be aware of new diseases and parasites and how
to treat them. Beekeep'ers also face economic
challenges. They must balance the costs of

Instructions for use:
Liquid Smoke: Keep away from wood as it stains.
Do not smoke near honey as smoke will ruin it.
Cold smoke aerosol: Can be sprayed near wood.
Do not spray into honeycomb.

Answer Key

17


Book 2 Answer Key
UnitS

9 Suggested Answer
Soil Composition

1 Suggested Answer
1 There are many different types of soil. Some
examples are: clay, peat, chalk, sand, silt and loam
(highly-organic).
2 Soil type affects crop growth because it provides
nutrients for the crops. If the soil has a lot of chalk

it will not have many nutrients and the crops will
not grow well. If however, the soil is highly-organic
loam, crops will grow very well.

2

T

3

A
B
2 A
B
3 A
B

2 F

3 F

Highly-organic
course-grained
Peat
Clay
composition
unified soil classification system

4 1 F
2 A

3 C
4 D

5 B
6 E

5 Suggested Answer
Site two would not be a good location for a farm.

6

B

2 C

East field soil type: Sand
East field water/irrigation requirement: Irrigation
required. Soil drains quickly so water levels must be
monitored closely.

Unit 9
1 Suggested Answer
1 Salt can get into soil naturally through the water
table, or it can be introduced by people through
the use of fertilizer.
2 Farmers can reduce the acid levels in soil by
adding lime. This will increase its pH level.
However, this is a short term solution.

2

C

2 B

3 A

3

B

2 E

3 A

4 1 sodium
2 toxic

3 secondary salinity

7 1 hold water
2 fine-grained

5 Suggested Answer

8 Suggested Answer

6

4 As long as
5 one more thing
3 understand you correctly 6 make sure

B: Hello, BMD Laboratories, Peter speaking.

A: Hi, Peter. This is Ben at Fresh Farming. I just looked
over the results from the soil analysis you sent.
B: Do you have any questions?
A: Actually, yes, I do. Just so I'm clear the sample
from the north field had a lot of clay in it.
B: That's correct.
A: So if I planted corn there, it would hold water very
well.
B: Yes. It has very fine-grained clay. So when it rains,
the soil will hold the water very well.
A: If I understand you correctly, then I wouldn't need
to irrigate that field.
B: That's correct. As long as the rainfall is normal.
A: Of course. There's one more thing. The east field
sample showed it's very sandy. I just want to
make sure that I can irrigate there.
B: You can, but you have to be careful. It will drain
quickly.

18

North field soil type: Clay
North field water/irrigation requirement: As long
as rainfall is normal no irrigation is required.

Answer Key

4 D

5 C

4 pH value
5 sulfur
6 salinity

The soil on Harrison's farm is acidic and alkaline.
T

2 F

3 F

7 1 What about yours
2 you tried them

3 added lime to

4 it's raised
5 But the next
6 What I mean

8 Suggested Answer
A: All this irrigated water is making my fields acidic.
What about yours?

B: Yeah, I have the same problem. I've heard of a
few fixes though.
A: Have you tried them?
B: Only one so far. I've added lime to my fertilizer.
A: What are the results?
B: Well, it's raised the pH to 7.5.
A: That's good right?
B: It is and it isn't. It works for now. But the next time
I irrigate, that'1I change again. Do you see what I
mean?
A: I do. So are you trying anything else?
B: Not yet. The other options are more expensive
and time consuming.


Answer Key

A: It would be easier to just plant crops that like

B: Well, I think that's a good idea. Let's finish up with
this year's harvest. We still have a few days left.
A: Sounds good. Then we can sit down and figure
out what legumes to plant.

acidic soil, right?
B: Yeah, you're right. You do it once and you're done.
A: I think that's what I'll do next year.

9 Suggested Answer

9 Suggested Answer

Problem: Irrigated water is making fields acidic.
Possible Solution: Adding Lime to Fertilizer
Pros: Quick increase in soil pH
Cons: Does not last, pH changes after every irrigation
Plan for next year: Plant crops that like acidic soil

Harvest and Planting Schedule
South Field
1 Harvest this year's crops
2 Decide what legumes to plant for cover crop
3 Plant legumes to boost nitrogen levels

Unit 11

Unit 10

1 Suggested Answer

1 Suggested Answer
1

Nitrogen is added to the soil through decomposing
organic matter, animal manure and fertilizers.
2 Farmers must monitor nitrogen levels in soil
because it is important for plant growth. Too much
nitrogen will harm crops, but not enough will leave
crops looking thin and pale.

T

2

2 F

D

2 F

3 B
4 A

Soil can be damaged in many different ways.
Overuse of soil can leave it low in nutrients. The
use of fertilizer can increase salinity and acidity.
Improper irrigation and wind can lead to erosion.
2 In the USA good soil can be found in every state.
Fertile soil exists from the East coast through to
the West coast and all the way down to Florida.
Even in desert soil crops are grown successfully,
with proper irrigation.

3 T
B Nitrous oxide
B Eutrophication

3 1 A Ammonia
2 A Dentrification
4 1

1

5 E
6 C

2

B

2 C

3 A

3 1 B

3 E
4 A

5 D
6 C

2

F

4 1 perpendicular

5 Suggested Answer

8 G
4 crop rotation
5 land degradation

2 erosion
3 windbreaks

Plants start to absorb nitrogen in the mineralization
stage. Once decomposers turn the ammonia into
nitrites and nitrates it can be absorbed by plants.

7 H

5 Suggested Answer

6

B

Perimeter grassways slow water and direct it away
from fields. This prevents water erosion.

2 D

7 1 following you
2 I bet
3 Oh, I see

4 water supply
5 finish up with

6 figure out

8 Suggested Answer

A: So, what should we do with the south field?

6

F

2 F

3 T

7 1 looking pretty
2 past few weeks
3 eroding

4 not sure about
5 so many hills
6 have a point

B: I'm not sure what you mean.

A: Well, this year's yield is pretty low. The soil might
B:

A:
B:

A:
B:

A:

be nutrient poor.
What do you suggest?
We could plant legumes.
I'm not following you.
Well, I bet the soil is low on nitrogen. We could
use legumes as this year's cover crop.
Oh, I see. Just have the legumes restore the nitrogen.
Exactly. It's better than using too much fertilizer. I
don't want our water supply getting damaged.

8 Suggested Answer

A: I'm worried about the soil in the fields. It's looking
pretty soggy.
B: Yes, there's been a lot of rainfall in the past few
weeks.
A: The soil is eroding. We have to do something.
B: I agree. What can we do?
A: We should try contour farming.
B: Contour farming could be good for us in the next
few years. But we have to do something sooner.
Answer Key

19

Book 2 Answer

Key

A: How about a grassway?
S: Great. We can buy some sod and install it next
weekend.
A: Good idea. I'll look for some grass suppliers.

A: I think we'll adjust plant density this year.
S: Really? Why is that?

A: Well, our production has been down. We didn't

9 Suggested Answer

S:

Plan for Field 7

A:

Problem: Too much water/ water erosion
Solution: Contour farming as a long term solution to
stop erosion.

S:

A:

Problem: Too much water/ water erosion
Solution: Make a grassway to stop erosion in the
short term.

S:

A:

Problem: Nutrient depletion
Solution: Rotate crops and plant cover crops to
keep the soil fertile.

Unit 12

S:

A:

9 Suggested Answer

1 Suggested Answer

Dear Mr. Owens.
I want to change how we plant our barley fields next
year.
This year, production wasn't as high as last year.
I think this is due to planting too many seeds close
together.
I recommend that we reduce our seeding rate and

plant fewer seeds per square foot.
We can also add amendments and fertilizer.
Please let me know what you think of the changes.
Sincerely
Frank Jones

1 In the USA fields are prepared for a few months
leading up to planting. Fields are tilled with
tractors, plows and field cultivators. This softens
the soil and aerates it. Fertilizer and nutrients are
also added. Weeds are removed through tilling
and the use of herbicides.
2 The use of a drop seeder, broadcast seeder or
agricultural drill are three of the most common
methods of planting in the USA.

2

F

2 F

3 F

3

C

2 A

3 D

4 1 fertilizer
2 herbicide

3 soil temperature

4 E

5 S

4 topsoil
5 emergence
6 seeding rate

Unit 13
1 Suggested Answer
1 In the USA the climate determines where crops can
be grown and for how long. Crops only grow in the
environment they are comfortable in. Therefore, if
the climate is not suitable certain crops will not
grow. Climate also determines the length of the
growing season. Areas which have a longer and
colder winter also have a shorter growing season
than areas with a long spring and summer.
2 The weather can help crops by providing water,
through rain, and sunlight for them to grow. It can
hurt crops by raining too much, or not at all. It could
also be very windy or frosty and damage crops.

5 Suggested Answer
The farmer's guide says the best month to test the
topsoil is August.

62./
7 1
2
3
4

produce nearly as much this year as we did last
year.
That's true. You think it's because we planted too
many seeds close together?
Yes, exactly. I know we were trying to grow more
barley per field. Sut it's having the opposite effect.
So what do you suggest?
We'll just reduce our seeding rate and plant fewer
seeds per square foot.
I guess that would work. Sut we can do more to
increase production.
What were you thinking of?
Well, just the usual. Adding amendments and
fertilizer, things like that.
Oh, yes. I completely agree with you.

3./

nearly as much
too many seeds

having the opposite
just reduce

5 you thinking of
6 amendments and
fertilizer

2

F

2 F

3 T

8 Suggested Answer

A: Chris, I want to talk to you about planting the
barley fields next year.
S: OK. What's on your mind?

20

Answer Key

3 1 temperature
2 last frost

3 precipitation
4 hardiness zones

Book 2 Answer
4 1

A

2 C

3 D

4 E

5 B

2

2 T

4

3 F

7 1 pick out
2 Certainly, Ma'am
3 much warmer

3 C

2 A cost of production

3 A produce

A location with partial sun and lots of rain would be
perfect for growing Famosa cabbages.

T

2 A

3 1 A direct marketing

5 Suggested Answer

6

D

4 recommend
5 Oh, really?
6 handle the colder

C

2 D

Key

3 A

. B Indirect marketing

B supply and demand
B pricing strategy
4 B

5 Suggested Answer
The consultant suggests that a strategy of indirect
marketing through larger area supermarkets would
attract more clients.

8 Suggested Answer
B: Excuse me. Can you help me pick out some seeds?
A: Certainly, Sir. What type of crop do you want to grow?
B: I'm going to plant some vegetables. I found these
Poblano Pepper seeds.
A: Oh, I wouldn't plant the Poblano. It needs a much
warmer climate. I recommend the Famosa cabbage.
B: Oh really? Why is that?
A: The Famosa is very hearty. It likes the rain and
can handle the cold weather around here.
B: Great! Thanks for your help. I'll take ten packs of
the Famosa cabbage.

9 Suggested Answer
Simon's Seed
Customer Feedback Form
Customer Name: Jack Peterson
Items Purchased: Famosa Cabbage
Was our employee helpful? Y
Please describe your experience: I wanted to buy
some packets of Poblano Pepper seeds, but your

staff member advised me to buy the Famosa
cabbage instead. They said the Famosa liked lots of
rain and could handle the cold climate. They were
very helpful and I bought ten packs of seeds.

Unit 14
1 Suggested Answer
1

Crop prices are influenced by many factors,
mainly supply and demand. If demand for a type
of crop is greater than the supply, the price will
go up. If supply is greater than demand the price
will fall. Bad weather or disease can also affect
price. If crops are damaged and there are fewer
supplies then the price will go up.
2 A farmer's cost of production includes: materials,
labor, equipment, water, fuel, marketing and
transportation.

2 T

6

T

7 1
2
3
4

5
6

have a chance
the competition's pricing
the other sellers
realize how expensive
came up with
cost of production

3 F

8 Suggested Answer

A: Mr. Swanson, did you have a chance to read our
recommended business improvements?
B: I did, Ms. Carey. Can you give me some more
information about the competition's pricing?
A: Of course. Your peas go for $3.70 per pound. All
the other sellers in your area sell peas for at least
$0.70 less per pound.
B: Wow. I didn't realize how expensive my products
are. What changes do you suggest?
A: We came up with some estimates. You can lower
your price to $2.65 per pound and still cover your
cost of production.
B: That sounds like a big decrease. Are you sure
that's a good idea?
A: At first, you'll only lower the price for customers
who buy 15 pounds or more.

B: So, I'll still sell smaller quantities at the current price?
A: That's right. If this pricing strategy improves sales,
then you'll lower the overall prices later.
B: OK Ms. Carey. Let's give it a try.

9 Suggested Answer
Howard Farms - New Low Prices
Beginning this week, orders of 15 pounds or more of
peas will be at the new low price of $2.65 per pound.
Orders of 14 pounds or less will still be $3.70 per
pound.

Answer Key

21


Unit lS
1 Suggested Answer
1 In the USA the government does take an active
role in agriculture. They do so by providing funding
for farmers, establishing price floors, raising quotas
and reducing or increasing tariffs.
2 a I believe governments should control agriculture.
They can set prices and protect the local
economy. They can also provide funding for
farmers to help support them when crops aren't
productive. They can also determine which
crops to grow according to world markets.
b I believe governments shouldn't control

agriculture. With no government regulations or
control the market would be totally free. Prices
would be set by supply and demand and
competition would increase. This would allow
prices to reach equilibrium naturally. Customers
would receive better prices and the quality of
crops should increase as competition for market
space increases.
T

2 F

3 T

3 1 B
2 C

3 D

5 F
6 E

2

4 A

4 1 food and fiber industry
2 tariffs

4 surplus

5 price support

3 fallow
5 Suggested Answer
The government plans to decrease supply by
employing a strategy of adjusting production. They
plan to leave some wheat fields fallow to prevent
surpluses.

6

C

2 B

7 1 don't grow
2 produce less
3 no idea

4 surplus of wheat
5 prices go up
6 In the meantime

8 Suggested Answer

A: Mr. Robinson, I think I lost the planting schedule
for Field 7-D. It's not in my notes.
B: No, you didn't lose it, Francis. We're not planting
any wheat in 7-D this year.

A: Really? Why not?
B: It's part of the government plan to adjust production.
A: But won't we lose money if we don't grow enough?

22

Answer Key

B: Actually, the government is paying us to produce
less.
A: I had no idea. Why are they doing that?
B: They want to decrease the supply. See, right now
there's a surplus of wheat. So prices are low. But
if everyone produces less wheat, the supply will
fall. Do you see what I mean?
A: I think so. And if the supply falls, the prices go up
too. Right?
B: Exactly. In the meantime, we'll just plant some
cover crops in field 7-D.
9 Suggested Answer
Franklin Farms Memo
Staff: This year we will not be planting any wheat in
field 7-D. This is due to a surplus in wheat supplies.
With less production, supply should fall and prices
should rise again. The government will be paying us
to produce fewer crops as it is part of their plan to
adjust production. Until supply drops we will plant
cover crops in field 7-D.
Jack Franklin
Owner, Franklin Farms

Audioscripts
Unit 1
Rancher: I'm thinking about making a big change with the
cattle.

Assistant: What exactly are you thinking about
changing?
Rancher: Well, grass-fed beef sales are up these days.
It's the new trend.
Assistant: Are you suggesting we switch to grass fed?
Rancher: I'm thinking about it.
Assistant: I don't think that's a good idea. The cattle will
take longer to reach market weight.
Rancher: I understand that. It'll take longer and it'll cost more.
Assistant: I hope you'll reconsider.
Rancher: Well, that's not all. I'd like to stop giving them
antibiotics and growth hormones, as well.
Assistant: That could be a big mistake. We could lose a
lot of money on sick and small cows.
Rancher: I realize that. But we can also charge a lot
more for grass-fed, hormone-free beef.
Assistant: I think it's risky. But we can try it.

Farmer: Could you say that again?
Breeder: Are the chickens going to be used for meat or
egg production?

Farmer: Probably both. I want the hens to lay eggs for a

few years. But I'll occasionally slaughter them for
meat. Maybe one or two a year.
Breeder: In that case, I'd recommend Iowa Blue or
Delaware. Both produce excellent eggs and grow into
roasters quickly.
Farmer: Did you say roosters or roasters?
Breeder: Roasters. Both breeds can grow rather large.
They make good roaster chickens.
Farmer: Oh, I see. Well then, I'll take half a dozen chicks
of each.

Unit4
Employee 1: I think it's time for this heifer to leave the
nursery barn.

Employee 2: Really? Do you think she's ready to join the
milk herd?

Employee 1: I do. She's been in the heifer herd for a
Unit 2
Farmer 1: I'm worried. Our sows aren't as productive as
they used to be.
Farmer 2: It started when we changed those pens to
storage space.
Farmer 1: Yeah. The sows seem restless with less room
to move around.
Farmer 2: You might be on to something. What if we
increase their social space?
Farmer 1: I don't know. We don't have much room as it is.
Farmer 2: Well, I read an interesting article about this

problem. It said social space makes a big difference
in farrow-to-finish farms like ours.
Farmer 1: I guess we overlooked that when we used
those pens for storage.
Farmer 2: Well, we can fix it. Let's get all the storage out
of those pens. We can combine a few other pens so
the sows can interact.
Farmer 1: That's not a bad idea.
Farmer 2: But what can we do about storage?
Farmer 1: I think we can make some room in the old barn.
Farmer 2: Good thinking.

pretty long time.

Employee 2: That's true. But I don't think she's ready to
have a calf.

Employee 1: Why do you say that? She's almost two
years old. That's the right age, if you ask me.

Employee 2: Well, age is important, but it's not our only
concern. Have you weighed her lately?

Employee 1: No, I haven't. Is there a problem with her
weight?

Employee 2: It's not a problem, exactly. It's just that she's
not quite heavy enough to join the milk herd.

Employee 1: Fair enough. But we need to get her weight

up, then. Have you increased her feed rations?

Employee 2: No, we haven't.
Employee 1: Let's start with that. If we can get another
twenty or thirty pounds on her, we'll move her into
the milk herd. Sound good?
Employee 2: Yes, that's a good plan.

Unit 5
Employee: Cloudhaven Sheep Farm. This is Michael
speaking. How can I help you?

Customer: Hi, Michael. My farm is expanding operations,
Unit3
Breeder: Thanks for calling Cluck Farms. How may I help
you?

Farmer: Hi, I'd like to order some chicks.
Breeder: Is there a particular breed you're interested in?
Farmer: I'm not exactly sure. I have a small farm, and I'd
like to raise a dozen or so chickens free-range.
Breeder: Well, we have a few good options. Meat or egg
production?

and we're looking to get some feeder lambs.

Employee: Well, we can certainly provide that. About how
many animals are you thinking of?

Customer: I'd like at least 300 head. Can you complete

an order that large?

Employee: Oh, definitely. We try to keep a steady
population of about 3,000. Of course, only half of those
are feeder lambs. The rest are market slaughter.
Customer: I see. Well, that's great news. In that case,
let's talk about prices.
Answer Key

23


Audioscripts
Employee: Right now, you're looking at eighty-five dollars

Farmer: Actually, yes, I do. Just so I'm clear, the sample

per one hundred pounds.
Customer: Eighty-five dollars per one hundred pounds?
That's a really good deal. Let's place the order.

Scientist: That's correct.
Farmer: So if I planted wheat there, it would hold water

Unit 6

Scientist: Yes. It has very fine-grained clay. So when it

Trainer 1: Did you work with Snowflake today?
Trainer 2: I did. And I have to say, I think she's one of the

Farmer: If I understand you correctly, then I wouldn't

best mares we've got.
Trainer 1: Really? Why do you say that?
Trainer 2: Well, just yesterday I started sacking her out. She
didn't seem scared at all when I put the blanket on her.
Trainer 1: That's rare. What about today?
Trainer 2: The same thing happened today. You know, I
think she might be ready for saddling.
Trainer 1: Have you bridled her yet?
Trainer 2: No. I guess I should probably work on that
before I try to saddle her.
Trainer 1: Definitely. And that reminds me, she needs to
see the vet.
Trainer 2: Is it time for more shots already?
Trainer 1: I think so. Doctor Roberts, the veterinarian,
keeps track of the vaccination schedule.
Trainer 2: OK. I'll talk to him first thing tomorrow.

Scientist: That's correct. As long as the rainfall is normal.
Farmer: Of course. There's one more thing. The east field

from the north field had a lot of clay in it.

well.

Unit 7
Employee: Can I help you find anything today?
Customer: Yes, I'm looking for liquid smoke.

Employee: OK. That's right over here by the smokers.
Can I ask what type of apiary you have?

Customer: I just got a wooden beehive frame. Why do
you ask?

Employee: Well, liquid smoke can be a problem with
wooden hives.

Customer: Really? Why is that?
Employee: It leaves stains on wood. Also, you have to

rains, the soil will hold the water very well.
need to irrigate that field.

sample showed it's very sandy. I just want to make
sure that I can irrigate there.
Scientist: You can, but you have to be careful. It will
drain quickly.

Unit 9
Farmer 1: All this irrigated water is making my fields
acidic. What about yours?

Farmer 2: Yeah, I have the same problem. I've heard of
a few fixes, though.

Farmer 1: Have you tried them?
Farmer 2: Only one so far. I've added lime to my fertilizer.
Farmer 1: What are the results?

Farmer 2: Well, it's raised the pH to 7.5.
Farmer 1: That's good, right?
Farmer 2: It is and it isn't. It works for now. But the next time
I irrigate, that'1I change again. Do you see what I mean?

Farmer 1: I do. So are you trying anything else?
Farmer 2: Not yet. The other options are more expensive
and time consuming.

Farmer 1: It would be easier to just plant crops that like
acidic soil, right?

Farmer 2: Yeah, you're right. You do it once and you're done.
Farmer 1: I think that's what I'll do next year.
Unit 10

be really careful when you use it. The liquid can ruin
your honey.
Customer: Oh, that's too bad. Is there something else
that you'd recommend?
Employee: I'd go with cold smoke aerosols.
Customer: Will those stain the wood in my hive?
Employee: No. But you still need to be careful and avoid
spraying them into the honeycomb.
Customer: OK. I'll take four of those, please.

Farmer 2: What do you suggest?
Farmer 1: We could plant legumes.
Farmer 2: I'm not following you.
Farmer 1: Well, I bet the soil is low on nitrogen. We could

UnitS

Farmer 2: Oh, I see. Just have the legumes restore the

Scientist: Hello, KCI Laboratories, Kim Horton speaking.
Farmer: Hi, Kim. This is Sam Jones at Breyton Farming. I

Farmer 1: Exactly. It's better than using too much fertilizer.

Farmer 1: So, what should we do with the south field?
Farmer 2: I'm not sure what you mean.
Farmer 1: Well, this year's yield is pretty low. The soil
might be nutrient poor.

use legumes as this year's cover crop.

just looked over the results from the soil analysis you
sent.
Scientist: Do you have any questions?

24

nitrogen.
I don't want our water supply getting damaged.

Farmer 2: Well, I think that's a good idea. Let's finish up
with this year's harvest. We still have a few days left.

Farmer 1: Sounds good. Then we can sit down and figure

out what legumes to plant.

Answer Key