17.
W: Strauss, we've got a problem. We don't have enough money to pay the rent this month. I think I'd better ask Mom and Dad for a loan, or ask my boss for a raise.
M: Well, I don't know. But maybe I'd better not take another English course this semester.
Q: What's the problem they are talking about?
正确答案：C
解析：本对话中，女士提出他们的困难及建议的解决方法，男士作出反应和补充。C中的can't afford是对原文don't have enough money的同义表达，为答案。A、D是用loan和raise干扰；B的主语张冠李戴。

18.
M: It's nice and quiet here, away from the dust and noise of city. And our apartments are new and well-furnished.
W: It's a good place except it is a bit far from the place where we work. Anyway, I'll talk with my husband tonight and give you a call tomorrow.
Q: What is the woman doing?
正确答案：A
解析：男士夸自己的公寓新而且家具配备齐全，女士说好是好，就是离工作地点远了点，而且还要跟丈夫商量一下，可见她在找房子住。