Part 1: Listening and Reading – Listen to the recording, answer the questions, and then read along.

Dating practices vary from culture to culture, but before people get married, they often date or go out together for a period of time to see if they are compatible. Some people enjoy going out on group dates with a number of friends so they feel less pressure and stress of trying to impress the other person. Other people go on blind dates, that is, going out with a person that they have never met. In either case, most singles try to date people that have similar interests and values. If you have things in common, you’re more likely to enjoy each other’s company. However, be careful when dating because people sometimes don’t show their true colors on the first, second, or fifteenth date. Furthermore, although finding dates online has become very popular, it’s difficult to get to know someone through email or online. Meeting people in person along with a few friends is probably a safe way to get to know others.

Part 2: Discussion

What qualities do you look for in an ideal partner? Explain your reasons.

Part 3: Online Investigation

Many online dating Website offer services which you can use to find people with similar interests. Would you personally use such a site to find someone to date? Why or why not? What are some advantages to using such services, and what possible dangers can exist?