English Language Proficiency Assessment: Past Tense and Vocabulary

I. Listening Comprehension (15 points)

1. What does Susan have to do on Saturday morning? Clean the house
2. Where does Susan have to go at 12:30? To the dentist
3. What time is Susan meeting with Julie? At 2:00 p.m.
4. What will Susan do after she cooks dinner? Clean the dishes
5. Why can't they watch a video at Susan's house? The TV isn't working.

II. Vocabulary Assessment (10 points)

A. True or False Statements

1. Many board games are played with a pair of dice, six-sided numbered objects. TRUE
2. A comb is a tool used by mechanics to tighten or loosen nuts. FALSE
3. A carry-on bag is usually picked up at the baggage claim in airports. FALSE
4. People in a crowd are those who usually converge at a place for an event. TRUE
5. If you bet some money on a team to win a game, it could be said you are gambling. TRUE
6. Christmas, New Year, and Independence Day are examples of holidays. TRUE
7. A ritual is an informal ceremony that takes place in homes on weekends. FALSE
8. The legendary in some books is difficult to comprehend. TRUE
9. Many tourists go sightseeing as one of their top activities. TRUE
10. An owner is a person who rents towns. FALSE

B. Vocabulary Terms (10 points)

The following terms are provided for reference or use in an associated exercise:

• Holidays
• Legendary
• Nowadays
• Tradition
• Resounding Gifts
• Equivalent Drinks
• Ritual
• Spending

III. Grammar Practice (10 points)

A. Past Tense: Using "Used To" or "Didn't Use To"

Recall activities done or not done in the past. Complete the sentences using "used to" or "didn't use to."

1. Mia Hamm didn't use to play basketball for the U.S. women’s team; she played soccer.
2. The Casco Antiguo area used to be quite dirty; now it has been polished.
3. I didn't use to like speaking English in crowds, but now I have no problem doing so.
4. Dayana used to live in Panama City; now she lives in Arraijan.
5. Mayelis used to wear straight hair, but she has curls now.
6. President Varela used to run the country, but there will be a new president now.
7. Nelly used to vote in La Chorrera before 2014.
8. Panama’s National soccer team used to score goals in every game, now they don’t.
9. Mark used to work for Bennigan’s; now he works elsewhere.
10. Francine didn't use to study at USMA before, now she does.