http://www.npr.org/blogs/money/2014/06/25/325497878/the-real-price-of-college

Sometimes the statements will be set in print, and sometimes you will need to listen. (One of the aspects of the new California testing that I find intriguing is that the student is given headphones with which to listen to a short piece, then answer questions.)

So, start practicing: set aside the time of the piece, and some time on which to reflect upon what is said.

Oh, about note-taking: the average speech is 100-250 wpm, while your handwriting is about 25 wpm.

You have a lot of practicing to do!