# Using natural dyes to colour fabrics

IELTS Academic Listening - 10 questions - 7 minutes - Multiple choice, Matching features

Source: Recording, questions and answer key from Cambridge IELTS 13, Test 3, Listening Part 3. © Cambridge University Press & Assessment. Used for educational practice. Explanations and evidence notes are written by Testmigo.

## The recording

7 minutes of audio. Practice it with the player on the page; the transcript is on the answers page.

## Questions

### Questions 21-24: Multiple choice

Project on using natural dyes to colour fabrics. Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.

21. What first inspired Jim to choose this project?
   - A. textiles displayed in an exhibition
   - B. a book about a botanic garden
   - C. carpets he saw on holiday

22. Jim eventually decided to do a practical investigation which involved
   - A. using a range of dyes with different fibres.
   - B. applying different dyes to one type of fibre.
   - C. testing one dye and a range of fibres.

23. When doing his experiments, Jim was surprised by
   - A. how much natural material was needed to make the dye.
   - B. the fact that dyes were widely available on the internet.
   - C. the time that he had to leave the fabric in the dye.

24. What problem did Jim have with using tartrazine as a fabric dye?
   - A. It caused a slight allergic reaction.
   - B. It was not a permanent dye on cotton.
   - C. It was ineffective when used on nylon.

### Questions 25-30: Matching features

What problem is identified with each of the following natural dyes? Choose the correct letter, A-H, for each one.

- **A** It is expensive.
- **B** The colour is too strong.
- **C** The colour is not long-lasting.
- **D** It is very poisonous.
- **E** It can damage the fabric.
- **F** The colour may be unexpected.
- **G** It is unsuitable for some fabrics.
- **H** It is not generally available.

25. turmeric

26. beetroot

27. Tyrian purple

28. logwood

29. cochineal

30. metal oxide

[Practice online with a timer and instant marking](https://testmigo.com/ielts/listening/using-natural-dyes-to-colour-fabrics) - [Answers and explanations](https://testmigo.com/ielts/listening/using-natural-dyes-to-colour-fabrics/answers)