彼らはその知らせを聞いてびっくりした。

they (usually male); them

topic marker particle; indicates contrast with another option (stated or unstated); adds emphasis

that (something or someone distant from the speaker, close to the listener; actions of the listener, or ideas expressed or understood by the listener); the; um...; er...; uh...

notice; notification

indicates direct object of action; indicates subject of causative expression; indicates an area traversed; indicates time (period) over which action takes place; indicates point of departure or separation of action; indicates object of desire, like, hate, etc.

to hear; to listen (e.g. to music); to ask; to enquire; to query; to learn of; to hear about; to follow (advice); to comply with; to smell (esp. incense); to sample fragrance

to be surprised; to be amazed; to be frightened; to be astonished; to get startled; to jump; surprise (e.g. surprise party)