Билеты по англ языку. Выпускной экзамен по английскому языку: как проходит, где найти билеты и полезные фразы

О ПРИМЕРНЫХ БИЛЕТАХ ДЛЯ СДАЧИ ЭКЗАМЕНА

ПО ВЫБОРУ ВЫПУСКНИКАМИ XI(XII) КЛАССОВ

ОБЩЕОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНЫХ УЧРЕЖДЕНИЙ

РОССИЙСКОЙ ФЕДЕРАЦИИ, ОСУЩЕСТВИВШИХ

ПЕРЕХОД НА ПРОФИЛЬНОЕ ОБУЧЕНИЕ

Письмо Федеральной службы по надзору в сфере образования и науки

Федеральная служба по надзору в сфере образования и науки информирует о том, что подготовлены новые комплекты примерных билетов по 20 предметам федерального базисного учебного плана для сдачи экзамена по выбору выпускниками XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений Российской Федерации.

Новые комплекты экзаменационных билетов разработаны для образовательных учреждений, осуществивших переход на профильное обучение . Они позволяют проводить итоговую аттестацию выпускников XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений с учетом того уровня (базового или профильного), на котором велось обучение по предмету.

Образовательным учреждениям, не перешедшим на профильное обучение , рекомендуются примерные экзаменационные билеты для проведения устной итоговой аттестации выпускников XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений, опубликованные в предыдущем году в журнале «Вестник образования» (№ 5–6, 2005) и размещенные в этом году на сайте журнала www.vestnik.edu.ru.

Согласно Закону Российской Федерации «Об образовании» освоение программ среднего (полного) общего образования завершается обязательной итоговой аттестацией. Государственная (итоговая) аттестация выпускников XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений Российской Федерации проводится на основании Положения о государственной (итоговой) аттестации выпускников IX и XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений Российской Федерации (утверждено приказом Минобразования России от 3 декабря 1999 г. № 1075 с изменениями от 16 марта 2001 г. № 1022, от 25 июня 2002 г. № 2398, от 21 января 2003 г. № 135).

Итоговая аттестация выпускников XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений проводится в форме устных и письменных экзаменов. Форма проведения устной аттестации по всем предметам может быть различной: экзамен по билетам, собеседование, защита реферата, комплексный анализ текста (по русскому языку).

Представленные экзаменационные билеты позволяют проводить итоговую аттестацию выпускников XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений с учетом того уровня, на котором велось обучение по предмету (базового или профильного). Экзаменационные билеты разработаны по 20 общеобразовательным предметам:

1. Русский язык

2. Литература

3. Иностранный язык

4. Алгебра и начала анализа

5. Геометрия

6. История России

7. Всеобщая история

8. Обществознание

9. Экономика

10. Право

11. География

12. Физика

13. Химия

14. Биология

15. Естествознание

16. Информатика и ИКТ

17. Мировая художественная культура (МХК)

18. Технология

19. Основы безопасности жизнедеятельности (ОБЖ)

20. Физическая культура

Каждый экзаменационный комплект по предмету содержит не менее 25 билетов, каждый билет включает три вопроса (за исключением комплекта по естествознанию, где предложено по два вопроса в билете). К экзаменационным билетам по всем предметам разработаны краткие пояснительные записки об особенностях проведения устного экзамена по предмету. В них объяснена принципиальная разница между комплектами, составленными с учетом базового уровня изучения предмета и комплектами, составленными с учетом профильного уровня изучения предмета, дана характеристика структуры экзаменационного билета в целом, прокомментированы различия первого, второго и третьего вопросов билета. Во всех пояснительных записках указано примерное время, отводимое на подготовку выпускника к ответу, описаны подходы к оцениванию ответа выпускника, носящие рекомендательный характер, даны разъяснения по использованию предложенного экзаменационного материала при разработке экзаменационных билетов на уровне общеобразовательного учреждения.

Билеты всех предложенных комплектов носят примерный характер: общеобразовательное учреждение имеет право в экзаменационный материал внести изменения, учитывающие региональный компонент, особенности программы, по которой строилось обучение; частично заменить вопросы, дополнить другими заданиями, а также разработать собственные экзаменационные материалы для проведения экзаменов по выбору в устной форме.

Порядок экспертизы, утверждения и хранения аттестационного материала для проведения экзаменов по выбору устанавливается уполномоченным органом местного самоуправления.

Руководитель В. БОЛОТОВ

ИНОСТРАННЫЕ ЯЗЫКИ

Экзамен по иностранному языку в XI классе является экзаменом по выбору и проводится в двух формах: в форме единого государственного экзамена (по английскому, немецкому, французскому языкам) и в традиционной форме устного экзамена на основе экзаменационных билетов.

Примерные экзаменационные билеты для сдачи экзамена по иностранным языкам выпускниками XI(XII) классов общеобразовательных учреждений Российской Федерации составлены с учетом обязательных минимумов содержания основного общего и среднего (полного) общего образования (приказы Минобразования России от 19.05.1998 № 1236 и от 30.06.1999 № 56), а также государственных стандартов основного общего и среднего (полного) общего образования (приказ Минобразования России от 05.03.2004 № 1089).

Учитывая реалии переходного периода, данные примерные билеты в содержательно-тематическом плане более ориентированы на обязательные минимумы, а в плане целеполагания, проверки практических умений – на федеральный компонент государственных образовательных стандартов 2004 г. Особо следует отметить, что предлагаемые экзаменационные материалы не ориентированы на какой-либо конкретный учебно-методический комплект/комплекты и являются в этом смысле универсальными.

Экзаменационные билеты носят примерный характер и могут быть использованы при разработке экзаменационных материалов в соответствии с особенностями образовательной программы конкретной школы. В предложенный материал можно внести изменения исходя из особенностей выбранной учителем программы по предмету: частично заменить вопросы, дополнить другими заданиями, а также разработать свои варианты.

Экзамен по иностранному языку за курс средней школы ставит своей целью контроль уровня сформированности умений в таких видах речевой деятельности, как чтение и говорение; объектами контроля являются также социокультурные знания и умения и лексико-грамматические умения и навыки учащихся. Рекомендуется также провести в конце четверти итоговый письменный зачет на контроль чтения и письма, в который могут быть дополнительно включены задания лексико-грамматического характера.

Экзамен проводится в устной форме. Каждый билет содержит три задания. Один комплект примерных экзаменационных билетов составлен с учетом базового уровня изучения предмета, другой – с учетом профильного уровня изучения предмета. Принципиальная разница между двумя комплектами заключается в более высоком уровне сложности заданий и более высоком уровне требований, предъявляемых к речевым умениям выпускников профильной школы (что отражено в рекомендациях по оцениванию ответов), а также в характере предлагаемых текстов. В билетах базового уровня два задания носят репродуктивный характер и одно задание – продуктивный. Билеты профильного уровня более ориентированы на проблемно-продуктивную речемыслительную деятельность; круг проблем, обсуждаемых в третьем задании, несколько шире, и сами проблемы требуют более глубокого осмысления и более сложного лексико-грамматического оформления.

В целях нормализации нагрузки выпускников в период сдачи экзаменов и с учетом того, что экзамен по иностранному языку – это экзамен по выбору, не рекомендуется существенно увеличивать количество экзаменационных билетов в комплекте: их должно быть не менее 15 и не более 25 (оптимальное количество – 20). При разработке экзаменационных билетов по иностранным языкам на уровне общеобразовательного учреждения следует также обращать внимание на то, чтобы внутри каждого билета задания не дублировали друг друга в отношении предметного содержания, а были бы тематически разнообразны. Например, если в билете № 1 базового уровня второе задание сформулировано «Расскажите о роли спорта в жизни людей», а третье задание связано с обсуждением темы «Путешествия», то текст к первому заданию должен основываться на какой-то иной, третьей теме в рамках программных требований.

При подборе текста для первого задания необходимо руководствоваться следующими т р е б о в а н и я м и:

Выбранный отрывок должен характеризоваться законченностью, внешней связностью и внутренней осмысленностью;

Текст должен соответствовать жанру, указанному в описании задания;

Текст не должен быть перегружен информативными элементами: терминами, именами собственными, цифровыми данными;

Языковая сложность текста должна соответствовать уровню подготовки экзаменуемых (базовый, профильный).

БАЗОВЫЙ УРОВЕНЬ

Первое задание проверяет умения ознакомительного чтения (чтения с пониманием основного содержания). Экзаменуемому предлагается законченный в смысловом отношении текст (из публицистической или научнопопулярной литературы) объемом до 1200 знаков. При обсуждении текста учащийся имеет право им пользоваться. В процессе подготовки к ответу учащийся может использовать двуязычный словарь. Задача экзаменуемого – кратко изложить основное содержание текста и обсудить его с экзаменатором. Экзаменатор задает не менее двух вопросов, которые проверяют, действительно ли учащийся понял основное содержание текста или просто воспроизводит короткие отрывки из него.

Второе задание проверяет умения монологической речи (монолог-рассуждение): умение делать сообщение, содержащее наиболее важную информацию по данной теме; рассуждать о фактах/событиях, приводя примеры и аргументы. Предлагаемая в билете формулировка задания ориентирует учащегося на монолог-рассуждение с привлечением личного опыта и выражения личного отношения.

Третье задание проверяет умения диалогической речи. Оно сформулировано в виде проблемного вопроса или актуальной коммуникативной задачи, которая обсуждается в беседе учителя и учащегося в рамках тематики, определенной действующей программой. Экзаменаторы оценивают коммуникативные умения экзаменуемого, выполнение коммуникативной задачи, владение речевыми формулами, умение поддерживать беседу, реагировать на высказывания партнера и выражать собственное мнение. Коммуникативная задача носит личностный характер и учитывает реальный социальный опыт старшеклассника. От экзаменатора ожидается готовность участвовать в диалоге, реагировать на высказывания экзаменуемого, уточнять интересующую информацию и т.д. Обязателен обмен не менее чем пятью репликами.

На подготовку всех трех заданий экзаменуемому отводится 30 минут; опрос занимает 8–10 минут.

ПРОФИЛЬНЫЙ УРОВЕНЬ

Билет также содержит три задания. Первое задание носит комплексный характер и проверяет умения ознакомительного чтения (с извлечением основной информации) и монологической речи с опорой на текст (художественный, публицистический или научно-популярный). Стимулом выступает оригинальный текст объемом до 1500 знаков на социально-культурную тематику, связанную со страной/странами изучаемого языка. Ознакомившись с текстом, экзаменуемый кратко излагает его основное содержание и проводит параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре. Экзаменаторы оценивают умения устно выступать в связи с прочитанным, кратко передавать содержание полученной из прочитанного текста информации, рассуждать о фактах/событиях, описывать особенности жизни и культуры своей страны и страны/стран изучаемого языка. При необходимости уточнить или прояснить высказывание учащегося экзаменатор задает вопросы, но вопросы не являются обязательной частью данного задания.

Второе задание проверяет умения монологической речи и строится на проектной работе*, выполненной учащимися в течение учебного года. Представление результатов проектно-исследовательской деятельности (в том числе и ориентированной на выбранный профиль) дает возможность учащемуся продемонстрировать умения излагать факты, высказывать и аргументировать свою точку зрения, делать выводы. При подготовке проектной работы в течение учебного года учащиеся выполняют сложные комплексные задачи: выбирают нужную для целей проекта информацию из разных источников; анализируют, систематизируют и обобщают ее в соответствии с поставленной целью и задачами; интерпретируют ее и логично излагают, соблюдая культуру письменной иноязычной речи. На экзамене учащиеся должны уметь в устной форме кратко изложить цели и задачи проекта, его основную идею, проблемы, поднятые в работе, результаты работы над проектом, аргументировать сделанные выводы и ответить на 2–3 вопроса комиссии по содержанию проекта.

1. Обращение к аудитории с приветствием.

2. Информирование о задачах проекта и о плане выступления.

3. Изложение основного содержания проекта или наиболее интересных его результатов.

4. Основные выводы по проекту и перспективы работы по данной тематике для других школьников.

5. Выражение слов благодарности аудитории и приглашение ее к обсуждению проекта.

Третье задание на контроль умений диалогической речи сформулировано в виде проблемного вопроса или актуальной коммуникативной задачи, которая обсуждается в беседе учителя и учащегося в рамках тематики, определенной действующей программой. Экзаменаторы оценивают коммуникативные умения экзаменуемого, выполнение коммуникативной задачи, владение речевыми формулами, умение инициировать беседу, поддерживать ее, выражать свое отношение к высказываниям партнера и собственное мнение. Коммуникативная задача носит личностный характер и учитывает реальный социальный опыт старшеклассника. От экзаменатора ожидается готовность участвовать в диалоге, реагировать на высказывания экзаменуемого, уточнять интересующую информацию и т.д. Обязателен обмен не менее чем семью репликами.

На подготовку всех трех заданий экзаменуемому отводится 30 минут; опрос занимает 10–15 минут.

Различия между требованиями, предъявляемыми на базовом и профильном уровнях, также отражены в рекомендациях по оцениванию ответа выпускника.

Общая экзаменационная отметка складывается из трех отметок за выполнение отдельных заданий и является их средним арифметическим, округляемым по общим правилам (т.е. 3, 5 и выше дает 4 балла; 4, 5 и выше дает 5 баллов).

При оценивании отдельных заданий рекомендуется руководствоваться следующими схемами, которые не носят исчерпывающего характера и не описывают все возможные случаи, но дают некие общие ориентиры.

* Полат Е.С. Метод проектов на уроках иностранного языка // Иностранные языки в школе. – 2000. – № 2–3.

* Сафонова В.В. Программа элективного курса «British Cultural Studies»: 10–11 кл. профильной школы. – М.: Еврошкола, 2003. – С. 91–92.

Базовый уровень

Задание 1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

Задание 2. Монолог-рассуждение (1,5–2 мин).

Задание 3. Беседа по предложенной проблеме (2–2,5 мин).

Профильный уровень

Задание 1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/ параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

Задание 2. Презентация проектной работы.

Задание 3. Беседа по предложенной проблеме (1,5–2 мин).

БАЗОВЫЙ УРОВЕНЬ

Билет № 1

2. Расскажите о роли спорта в жизни людей.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, каким видом транспорта лучше путешествовать: самолетом, поездом или автобусом. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 2

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о роли книг в жизни людей.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, где интересней и приятней отдыхать летом: у моря, в горах или в деревеньке, окруженной лесами. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 3

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших планах на будущее.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие достопримечательности вашего города (ближайшего города/вашего региона) вы бы показали иностранцам. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 4

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших любимых книгах и обоснуйте свой выбор.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, как должны распределяться в семье домашние обязанности, какие из них могут выполнять дети. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 5

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о роли средств массовой информации в обществе.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, является ли в наше время книга лучшим подарком и какие подарки предпочитают дети разного возраста. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 6

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших любимых кинофильмах и обоснуйте свой выбор.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, как лучше использовать полученный школой грант: купить компьютеры, музыкальный центр или новые книги в школьную библиотеку. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 7

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о вашем любимом литературном герое и обоснуйте свой выбор.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, нужна ли школьная форма. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 8

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших родных местах и объясните, чем они вам дороги.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие хобби бывают у людей и что увлекательней: заниматься фотографией, спортом или коллекционированием. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 9

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о заинтересовавшем вас празднике страны изучаемого языка.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, все ли виды спорта полезны для здоровья. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 10

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о самом запомнившемся праздновании дня рождения.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, зачем люди изучают иностранные языки. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 11

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших любимых телепрограммах и обоснуйте свой выбор.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, что такое здоровый образ жизни. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 12

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о вашей будущей профессии. Чем вы руководствовались, делая свой выбор?

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, что молодежь предпочитает смотреть по телевизору: новости, музыкальные передачи, сериалы, художественные фильмы. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 13

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о самых выдающихся достижениях России в искусстве и и обоснуйте свой выбор.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие газеты и журналы популярны у молодежи. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 14

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших самых интересных летних каникулах.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, почему семья, семейные отношения важны для человека. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 15

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о том, как в вашей семье празднуют Новый год. Будете ли вы продолжать эти традиции?

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, сколько детей должно быть в семье. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 16

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о том, как проходит День города/праздник урожая в вашей местности.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, следует ли женщинам стремиться сделать карьеру, или для них важнее семья и дети. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 17

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших увлечениях.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие российские города интересно было бы посетить. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 18

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о природе и экологических проблемах вашего региона.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие достопримечательности Великобритании было бы интересно увидеть своими глазами. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 19

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о самых выдающихся достижениях страны/стран изучаемого языка в искусстве и обоснуйте свой выбор.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие достопримечательности США было бы интересно увидеть своими глазами. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 20

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о вашем опыте путешествий.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие три книги вы бы взяли с собой на необитаемый остров. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 21

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о том, как вы проводите свой досуг.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие открытия отечественных ученых оказали наибольшее влияние на мировой прогресс. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 22

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о ваших любимых телепрограммах.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, почему между родителями и детьми (особенно подростками) не всегда есть полное понимание. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 23

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о вашей семье и о семейных традициях.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, что можно посоветовать человеку, у которого нет друзей. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 24

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о наиболее значительных достижениях России в науке и технике.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие качества вы цените в друзьях. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 25

1. Прочитайте текст и кратко изложите его основное содержание.

2. Расскажите о наиболее значительных достижениях страны/стран изучаемого языка в науке и технике.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, как вы проводите свободное время. Поинтересуйтесь, какие предпочтения есть у преподавателя, и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

ПРОФИЛЬНЫЙ УРОВЕНЬ

Билет № 1

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем ситуацию: если бы вы выиграли заграничное путешествие, в какую страну и почему вы решили бы отправиться? Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 2

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем проблемы отечественного телевидения. Как вам кажется, в чем сильные и слабые стороны российского телевидения? Каким бы вам хотелось его видеть? Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 3

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем роль средств массовой информации в современном обществе. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 4

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, что означает понятие «здоровый образ жизни» и как надо заботиться о своем здоровье. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 5

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, как проводит досуг молодежь в России и стране/странах изучаемого языка. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 6

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем следующую ситуацию: многие зарубежные подростки работают после уроков на почте, в магазинах и т.п., чтобы иметь свои деньги на карманные расходы. У нас пока это не принято. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 7

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, почему все больше людей в нашей стране изучают иностранные языки. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 8

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, должны ли заботиться об экологии правительство и крупные промышленные компании или каждый из нас может что-то сделать для защиты природы. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 9

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем такую ситуацию: если бы ваш зарубежный друг по переписке приехал к вам в гости, что бы вы хотели показать ему в России. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 10

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем высказывание пессимистов о том, что, чем больше человек заботится об окружающей среде, тем больше страдает природа. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 11

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем мнение о том, что, чем больше человек путешествует, тем больше ему хочется вернуться на родину. Вы согласны с этим утверждением? Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 12

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, где лучше продолжить свое образование – в России или за границей. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 13

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, как сделать правильный выбор профессии и кто может помочь его сделать. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 14

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, что означает для разных людей слово «праздник»: просто выходной день, возможность увидеться с друзьями, родственниками или праздник – это еще и страничка истории страны. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 15

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, будут ли люди в будущем ходить в кино и театры или их заменит домашнее видео. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 16

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какими научно-техническими открытиями ознаменуется XXI век. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 17

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие три научно-технических открытия сыграли самую важную роль в истории человечества. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 18

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, какие научно-технические открытия отечественных ученых сыграли самую важную роль в истории человечества. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 19

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, всегда ли занятия спортом идут на пользу здоровью. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 20

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем вопрос о том, только ли в беде познаются друзья. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 21

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, какие праздники стали интернациональными в современном мире, а какие сохраняют свой национальный характер. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 22

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, какая музыка популярна у современной молодежи. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 23

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, перестанут ли люди в будущем читать книги, ходить в библиотеку, так как их заменит Интернет. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 24

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем преимущества и недостатки жизни в большом городе и в сельской местности. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

Билет № 25

1. Прочитайте текст, изложите его основное содержание и проведите сравнение/параллели с нашей страной, рассказывая о сходных традициях, обычаях, праздниках, достижениях в спорте, науке, культуре.

2. Представьте учебно-исследовательский проект, выполненный вами в этом учебном году, и ответьте на вопросы экзаменаторов.

3. Обсудите в беседе с преподавателем, почему знакомство через Интернет стало так популярно у молодежи. Поинтересуйтесь мнением преподавателя и аргументируйте свою точку зрения.

АНГЛИЙСКИЙ ЯЗЫК

№ 1

Are you proud of being Belarusian?

I am Belarusian because my parents who gave me life and brought me up are Belarusian. And what if I were born in a different country on a different continent? In my opinion, a sense of pride in your country, a sense of belonging to a particular nation develops in a person with time. Therefore at my age, by the way I am 18, I can say quite positively, that I am proud to live in Belarus.

The real treasure of Belarus is its wonderful nature. The country has hundreds of wild forests, rolling hills, green valleys, sweet-scented meadows and golden fields. Beloveshzkaya Pushcha is the only place where you can meet mighty European bison in the wild. Belarus is also famous for its clear lakes and ribbon-like rivers, that’s why it’s called a blue-eyed one. The resorts of lakes Naroch and Braslav are open all year round and let tourists experience the unforgettable peaceful atmosphere.

I am proud of the rich heroic history of my country and its people. Although for many centuries we were part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwelth and then the Russian Empire, we have managed to stay united and haven’t lost our uniqueness. Many foreigners admit that our people are extremely sociable, hospitable, and generous and we are welcoming with visitors. We are also described as resourceful and peaceful. When socializing, Belarusians are open, warm-hearted, fun-loving, humorous and outgoing in spite of all the difficulties they face in their life.

Of course I’m proud of our national holidays and traditions, especially those which are deep-rooted and typical of our nation such as Kalyady, Maslenitsa, Dazhynki. They are unique and make us stand out. Besides, they are of particular interest for tourists because they reflect our culture.

In conclusion, I’d like to say that I’m proud of my country and its people. Each time I go abroad I tell foreigners about our great past and achievements. Each time I leave the country I want to come back again, because I miss it. If I could draw I would start drawing pictures with its beautiful landscapes; if I could write I would write lyric poems about it. Belarus is the place my heart will always belong to!

2. When did the author understand that he/she is proud of being Belarusian? Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What makes the author be proud of his/her Motherland?

4. What would the author do if he/she were a creative person?

II. Listen to the story about a girl and answer the questions below.

1. Why was Whitney worried about going to college?

2. How did she find a friend?

3. What lesson did Whitney learn?

№ 2

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

UNESCO World Heritage 1 List

Belarus joined UNESCO in 1954. During many years, Belarus has been building up fruitful and dynamic relations with international organizations. Belarus programme of UNESCO activities includes numerous interesting projects in the fields of education, science, information, communications, and, of course, culture. In October 1988, Belarus joined the Convention on the Protection of theWorld Cultural and Natural Heritage. Today 4 Belarus sites have already been included into the UNESCO World Heritage List .

In 1992, the Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, a natural heritage object and a unique European forest reserve which has been protected since the 14th century, was the first one to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

In 2000, the Mir Castle Complex , which was built at the beginning of the 16th century, was also added to the UNESCO World Heritage List . The successful combination of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture 2 makesMir Castle one of Europe’s most impressive castles. In 2005, two more sites were included into the UNESCO World Heritage List . They are the Architectural, Residential and Cultural Complex of the Radziwills in Nesvizh and the Struve Geodetic Arc points 3 .

For centuries the Nesvizh Palace used to be the residence of the Radziwills, one of the richest families in Europe. Today the National Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve Nesvizh is a wonderfully restored castle, which is visited by hundreds of tourists from all parts of the world. No wonder, it has become a landmark of Belarus.

TheStruve Arc is a world famous construction. The same sorts of points are in 10 countries: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine and Moldova, all together 265 points. According to the historical data, there were 31 geodesic points in Belarus, and only 19 survived.

Belarus is going to propose to add Independence Avenue in Minsk for inclusion into the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Socialist Postwar Architecture in Central and Eastern Europe .

1 heritage [ˈheritidʒ] наследие

2 Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture [ˈgoθɪk, bəˈrok, rɪˈneɪsəns ˈɑːkɪtektʃə]

3 the Struve Geodetic Arc points [ˈstruːv ˌdʒiːəʊˈdetɪk ˈɑːk ˈpɔɪnts] ГеодезическаядугаСтруве, представляющаясобойцепьопорныхпунктовнаблюдения

2. Belarus is a member of UNESCO: Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. Which Belarusians sites are included on the list for protection?

4. What other sites does Belarusian government want to be on the UNESCO List?

II. Listen to the speaker speaking about choosing a career and answer the questions below.

1. Why is choosing the right job very important?

2. Which jobs are popular among young people at present?

3. What advice does the speaker give?

III. Let’s talk about the education.

№ 3

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

My ideal school

My ideal secondary school is a safe haven 1 . It shouldn’t be a place you hate going to, but a place you enjoy attending. I believe it should be social, as well as educational experience. A school should always have a soul… there should always be laughter ringing through the corridors. (Angela, 15, Moscow)

My ideal school is a school quite unlike any school we’ve heard of. This school consists of a large library and basic recreational facilities. There are no classrooms. The school is built on the idea of active learning. No student is forced to learn. (Tanya, 14, Rome)

School is the mould 2 , which shapes our future. It’s where we spend most of our valuable time — childhood. Yet I know from firsthand experience that many aspects should be changed: the impersonal attitude of some teachers who do everything only for results, instead of creating happy moments and valuable life experience for young people. These young people are far from being an ‘empty pot’ who are ready to be filled with knowledge. They are simply locked boxes full of potential which should be discovered by caring and encouraging teachers. (Anna, 15, Riga)

Schools may be getting good results but they are not helping the students as individuals. It seems to me that it’s the learner who should ask questions. Give us the freedom to ask questions and do help us to find answers. Don’t you see we learn more from our experience and when people trust and respect us? We learn from our mistakes as well. (Hero Joy, 14, Kent)

I think differences make the world go around. Good teachers know it more than Maths rules. I think school must teach differences. And at the moment some schools are doing the opposite, trying to make everyone normal. (Kate, 13, London)

Schools should develop creativity and dreams. When schools teach people not to seek knowledge on their own, people become passive. Everybody has the right to be free and choose what to be and what not to be, schools do not give that option, they have a ‘well organised’ systematic life for you, in which you have to fit. (Luis, 15, Boston)

1 a safe haven [ˈheɪvn]надёжноеи безопасноеместо

2 a mould матрица, шаблон

1. One of the children says that school should have a soul. Find this extract and read it aloud.

2. What do the children want to change at school?

3. Why do the children want more freedom?

1. What is wrong with the accommodation?

2. Why did the boy oversleep?

3. What agreement did he reach with the person on Reception?

№ 4

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

Anna’s diary

SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 1942

Writing in a diary is a really strange experience for someone like me. Not only because I’ve never written anything before, but also because it seems to me that later on neither I nor anyone else will be interested in the thoughts of a thirteen-year-old schoolgirl. Oh well, it doesn’t matter. I feel like writing, and I have an even greater need to get all kinds of things off my chest 1 .

“Paper has more patience than people.” I thought of this saying on one of those days when I was feeling a little depressed and was sitting at home with my chin in my hands. I was bored and wondering whether to stay in or go out. I finally stayed where I was and decided to start a diary. Yes, paper does have more patience, and since I’m not planning to let anyone else read this notebook, unless I should ever find a real friend, it probably won’t make a bit of difference.

Now I’m back to the point that prompted me to keep a diary in the first place: I don’t have a friend. Let me put it more clearly, since no one will believe that a thirteen-year-old girl is completely alone in the world. And I’m not. I have loving parents and a sixteen-year-old sister, and there are about thirty people I can call friends. I have a bunch of admirers who can’t keep their adoring eyes off me and who constantly try to catch a glimpse 1 of me in the classroom. I have a family, loving aunts and a good home. No, on the surface I seem to have everything, except my one true friend.

All I think about when I’m with friends is having a good time. I can’t bring myself to talk about anything but ordinary everyday things. We don’t seem to be able to get closer, and that’s a problem. Maybe it’s my fault that we don’t trust each other. In any case, that’s just how things are. That’s why I started the diary.

To enhance 3 the image of this long-awaited friend in my imagination, I don’t want to write only about facts, but I want the diary to be my friend, and I am going to call this friend Kitty.

1 to get off one’s chest облегчитьдушу

2 a glimpse [ɡlɪmps] взгляд

3 to enhance[ɪnˈhɑːns] усилить

2. The author explains why she decided to keep a diary. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What close people did Anna have?

4. Why did Anna start writing in a diary?

II. Listen to Alice speaking about her first job and answer the questions below.

1. What job did Alice do?

2. What difficulties did she have?

3. What did she learn at work?

III. Let’s talk about the environment.

№ 5

Be kind and stay safe

Everybody knows that we should be polite and kind to people in real life and online. Unfortunately this doesn’t always happen. Where can you report online abuse 1 or unkind messages to yourself or your friends? Do you know how to report and complain about harmful information online? For example, if you see an inappropriate tweet on Twitter you can click on ‘more’ and then choose ‘Report tweet’. You can then block all further tweets from that user.

Even celebrities can be cyberbullied 2 . Tom Daley, the British Olympic diver, was abused online. His father died during the 2012 Olympic Games and Tom received some very cruel tweets about his indifference towards his father’s health.

Here are our top tips for staying safe online:

1. Be nice! Treat people online as you do in real life.

2. Don’t post anything online that you wouldn’t want people in real life to see.

3. Check your privacy and security settings on social media sites and keep them as private as possible. Make sure you know exactly who can see your posts.

4. Don’t ever post personal information like your home address, your email or your phone number.

5. If you see something online that worries or upsets you, tell an adult about it straight away.

6. Take part in Safer Internet Day.

Safer Internet Day, or SID for short, tries to help people to use the Internet correctly. SID started in 2004 and is organised in February every year in 74 countries around the world to promote safe and responsible use of online technology and mobile phones. Each year there is a different topic such as cyberbullying or social networking. The focus for SID’s next campaign is “Let’s create a better internet together”. SID organisers want children and young people, parents and teachers, as well as industry and politicians to work together to build a better internet for all of us, but particularly for children.

There are special lessons prepared for schoolchildren on Safer Internet Day in Britain. You can find out about SID on this website: http://www.saferinternet.org.uk/.

1 abuse [əˈbjuːs] оскорбление

2 to be cyberbullied [ˈsaɪbəbʊlɪd] бытьпреследуемымвкиберпространстве

2. The journalist writes how to stop bad messages on Twitter. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What can we do to stay safe online?

4. Why is SID a good way to stop abuse on the Internet?

II. Listen to the conversation and answer the questions below.

1. Where does the conversation take place?

2. What is the man interested in?

3. How much do you need to pay monthly?

№ 6

I. 1. Read the magazine article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

Christmas Tree

Just before Christmas in 1944, a letter arrived at our house in Philadelphia. The postmark was from Tuskegee, Alabama, so we all knew who it was from. We excitedly gathered around Mother as she opened it.

My Dear Mother,

I did not get the leave I expected for Christmas. I will miss all of you. Please leave the Christmas tree up until I make it back. I hope to be home by March.

Love from your son,

I was 17 years old at the time. My heart sank. I felt a deep sadness that my favourite brother would not be home for Christmas. He was one of the Tuskegee Airmen 1 and was responsible for maintaining 2 the airplanes flying off to fight in World War II. My mother, being the optimist, said, “Well, it looks like we’ll get to have two Christmases this year!” After Christmas, my sister and I worked together to make sure we kept that Christmas tree looking as pretty as possible. This was no easy feat.

By mid-January, the branches dropped so low to the ground that they became a sliding board for the decorations. Each day, ornaments would come crashing to the ground and there were brand new pine needles 3 all over the wooden floor. My sister and I took turns sweeping them up. We moved the ornaments to the stronger branches on the tree, hoping they would stay on.

Each time we freshened that tree up, my sister and I were full of thoughts about Clifton and how happy we would be to see him again. It made us feel that he was close by, even though he was hundreds of miles away. On March 5, the doorbell rang. We ran to the door and gave Clifton a big hug. As he hugged Mother, I could see him looking over her head at the Christmas tree.

“It’s beautiful,” he said. “Thank you.” Clifton opened his presents and told us all sorts of stories about his work in Tuskegee. That night as we slept, we heard a crash in the living room. We all ran to see what had happened. The tree had toppled 4 onto the sofa and there were needles and broken ornaments everywhere.

We all had a good laugh. It was fortunate that Clifton got!

1 Tuskegee Airmen пилотыизТаскиги

2 to maintain обслуживать, готовить

3 a pine needle [ˈpaɪnˌ niːdl] сосноваяиголка

4 to topple [ˈtɒpl]опрокинуться, свалиться

2. The family got a message from Clifton. Find the extract which says about it and read it aloud.

3. What was Clifton’s job?

4. What proves that all the family loved Clifton very much?

II. Listen to three teenagers talking about homework and answer the questions below.

1. Why does the first speaker dislike doing homework?

2. What does the second speaker regret about?

3. What are the benefits of doing homework according to the third speaker?

III. Let’s talk about sport and a healthy way of life.

№ 7

I. 1. Read the magazine article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

The Condemned Room 1

Dear Mom,

I am working very hard on cleaning my room. But I want to go to Katy’s this afternoon to work on our Halloween costumes. Can I finish tomorrow? I would get up early and do it before breakfast and I’ll do a good job. Please, w rite back. Love, The Prisoner in Tower # 3

Dear Prisoner, No.

Love, Mom.

For days Sam’s mother never came up to her room. And then one day Sam would come home from school and find the Condemned sign on her door. Her mother had made the sign. It said: “The room is condemned. Its owner may not go anywhere or do anything until the area is restored”. In other words, Sam was to stay in until she cleaned her room.

It wasn’t fair. She was always getting the Condemned sign. Her brother hardly ever did. And his room was really disgusting, with posters of rock stars and basketball stars and movie stars wearing tiny bikinis covering every inch of his walls. But, her mother pointed out, his floor was clean and his desk as well. That was all she cared about.

Sam had been in her room for three hours now. She sat on the floor, looking at everything she was supposed to be putting away. It was possible she might be there all day. There were her clothes, lying high on her chair and overflowing onto the floor. Dirty shoes. An umbrella from when it rained on Tuesday. Library books. Magazines with pictures of cool teen-movie stars that Rebecca had given her. Her piano music from yesterday’s lesson. And different little things: nail polish remover, cotton balls, a tennis-ball, a note pad from Katy, rocks from rock collection they were making for science, pencils, chewing gum. And about twelve dirty handkerchiefs.

The thing to do, Sam decided, was sort everything into piles. A pile of dirty laundry, a pile of her dresser drawers, a pile to throw away. That was how her father, the organization man, would do it. She sighed. It was impossible to imagine she couldn’t leave her room all week-end. She decided to paint her finger nails instead.

1 condemned room комната, признаннаянебезопаснойдляпроживания

2. The author tells us about her brother’s room. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What made Sam’s Mum write a message?

4. Is Sam going to clean the room? Why do you think so?

II. Listen to the conversation and answer the questions below.

1. Where was Tina going?

2. What happened at the airport?

3. Why was Tina scared during the flight?

№ 8

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

Great grandad

It was a funny, surprising thing that brought Grandad back to me. It was algebra. I couldn’t cope with algebra in my first year at secondary school, and it made me mad. “I don’t see the point of it,” I screamed. “I don’t know what it’s for!”

Grandad, as it turned out, liked algebra and he sat opposite me and didn’t say anything for a while, considering my problem in that careful expressionless way of his.

Eventually he said, “Why do you do PE 1 at school?”

“What?”

“PE. Why do they make you do it?”

“Because they hate us?” I suggested.

“And the other reason?”

“To keep us fit, I suppose.”

“Physically fit, yes.”

He reached across the table and put the first two fingers of each hand on the sides of my head.

“There is also mental fitness, isn’t there? I can explain to you why algebra is useful. But that is not what algebra is really for.”

He moved his fingers gently on my head.

“It’s to keep what is in here healthy. PE is for the head. And the great thing is you can do it sitting down. Now, let us use these little puzzles here to take our brains for a jog.” 2

And it worked. Not that I fell in love with algebra. But I did come to see that it was possible to enjoy it. Grandad taught me that maths signs and symbols were not just marks on paper. They were not flat. There were three-dimensional, and you could approach them from different directions. You could take them apart and put them together in a variety of shapes, like Lego. I stopped being afraid of them.

I didn’t know it at the time, of course, but those homework sessions helped me to discover my Grandad. Algebra turned out to be the key that opened the invisible door he lived behind and let me in.

Now I learnt that Grandad’s world was full of miracles and mazes, mirrors and misleading signs. He was fascinated by riddles and codes and labyrinths, by the origin of place names, by grammar, by slang, by jokes — although he never laughed at them — by anything that might mean something else. I discovered My Grandad.

1 PE [ˌpiːiː] физкультура

2 take our brains for a jog [ˈteɪk əʊə ˈbreɪnz fər əˈdʒɒɡ] шевелитьмозгами

2. The author says she had problems with algebra. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. How did Granddad help the author understand the subject?

4. What else did the author understand about her Granddad?

II. Listen to the member of the Greenpeace organisation telling a story about whales and answer the questions below.

1. Why were the whales on the beach?

2. How did the people help them?

3. How did this event affect the story-teller’s life?


№ 9

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

AN INTERVIEW

Journalist: Do people in your country depend a lot on technology for communication?

Businessman: Yes. Everybody’s using all kinds of phones, mobiles and internet services. I think the benefits of the computers cannot be denied. They save valuable time and space. Time-consuming tasks such as checking bank accounts can now be done in a matter of minutes and a large volume of information is economically stored on tiny disks. In addition, with immediate access to the Internet, we can always keep-up with global and current issues and explore the world from the comfort of our homes.

Journalist: Do you manage to keep up with the development of technologies?

Businessman: I think the fact that methods in business have moved ahead at such speed has meant that we generally have to keep up with it all, whether we want to or not. Otherwise, we’ll be left behind. In fact this need to keep up has also entered the home, where a lot of people spend much money on computer equipment when all they do is play games.

Journalist: How different would everyday life be without technological means of communication?

Businessman: Of course, life would be very different without all these means of communication. For those working in the world of business, life would be much more difficult as it would take much longer to get in touch with other companies and to come to agreement on important matters. Basically, if we didn’t have email systems at home or mobile phones, etc., it wouldn’t be the end of the world. I mean, we survived before, didn’t we?

Journalist: How do you feel about mobile phones?

Businessman: I personally find them useful and necessary. They’re convenient if there’s an emergency on a business trip or when you’re in the middle of nowhere or need to contact the police or your family for example. Though, I do feel that they are overused in many cases. Think about how many people spend hours just chatting about silly, unimportant things or looking through sites for no special reason even at work.

  1. What are the benefits of the computers? Read aloud the extract which says about them.

3. How do businessmen benefit from using technological means of communication at their workplace?

4. When are technological means of communication misused?

II. Listen to the conversation and answer the questions below.

1. Where does the action take place?

2. What happened to the furniture in the grandmother’s room?

3. Why were Martin and his friend scared?


№ 10

1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

What is a good family?

Building a successful family is like building a house. Both need a plan. The best way to be organised as a family is to talk about family matters. By doing this, families enjoy a special closeness and stability. Choosing to spend time with your family sends a message more powerful than words.

How much time should families spend together? That varies from family to family. Families with young children usually spend most of their time together because young children need a great deal of physical care and guidance. Families with teenagers may spend less time together because teens naturally want to spend more time with their friends. Healthy families keep a good balance between ‘too much’ and ‘not enough’ time together. They spend enough time to satisfy all family members.

Nothing unites a family more than its traditions which include different norms, ways of behavior, customs and views. In united families these traditions are deep-rooted and passed from generation to generation.

Strong families take time to be together and talk to one another. They share their hopes and dreams, feelings and concerns over common meals. Members of successful families feel they really belong to their family. They celebrate their victories and help each other learn from their mistakes. They do their household chores together and go to the theatre. At the same time, strong families adapt relationships and family rules when needs arise. Since no family knows what tomorrow will bring, being adaptive is a good trait for family members to develop.

Recent studies affirm the importance of love in families. Research shows that expressions of affection towards children reduce behaviour problems and help children’s development. Strong families notice and share positive aspects of each member. They notice the talents, skills and achievements, special qualities and characteristics that make the other person unique. They find ways to be positive even when another family member makes a mistake and make an effort to develop closeness and show love at home.

2. The author explains what makes a successful family. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What makes a family united?

4. How much time should family members spend together?

II. Listen to the girl speaking about her eating habits and answer the questions below.

1. What problem does the girl have?

2. Why is it a harmful habit?

3. Why can’t she stop eating chocolate?

III. Let’s talk about youth and society.

№ 11

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

PYTHAGORAS*

Pythagoras 1 is often described as a very important mathematician, yet we know little about his achievements. What we do know is that he was the leader of a society which was half scientific and half religious. It was a secret society and today Pythagoras is still a mysterious figure.

It is believed that Pythagoras was born on the Greek island of Samos. His father was a merchant, and as a child, Pythagoras travelled with him selling their goods. Pythagoras was well educated. He learned music and poetry and had three philosophers to teach him who introduced Pythagoras to mathematics and advised him to travel to Egypt to learn more about mathematics and astronomy. So in 535 BC, Pythagoras travelled to Egypt where he visited many temples and took part in discussions with priests. Many of the customs he learnt in Egypt he came to adopt. For example, the Egyptian priests refused to eat beans and wear animal skins, as did Pythagoras later in his life.

In 525 BC the King of Persia invaded Egypt. Pythagoras was taken prisoner and was transported to Babylon. It was here, taught by the Babylonians, that he reached perfection in arithmetic and music. When Pythagoras returned to Samos he founded there a school which was called ‘The Semicircle’. It seems that the people of Samos did not appreciate the teaching methods of Pythagoras and they treated him rudely and improperly. Furthermore, they wanted to involve Pythagoras in local politics against his will. For these reasons, he went to Italy.

Pythagoras believed that numbers rule the universe and that numbers are present in all things. He also connected mathematics to music and recognized the healing power of music. He used it as a kind of therapy to help those who were ill. Another of his beliefs was that there are three types of men: those who love wisdom, those who love honour and those who love wealth.

Pythagoras was a mathematician, an astronomer, and a philosopher. Today we remember him best for his famous geometry theorem, known as Pythagoras’ theorem. 2

1 Pythagoras Пифагор

2 Pythagoras’ theorem теоремаПифагора

2. Where did Pythagoras go to learn mathematics and astronomy? Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. Why did Pythagoras go to Italy?

4. What are the three types of men according to Pythagoras?

II. Listen to the interview taken by the “Youth Magazine” with Mr Ron Cansler and answer the questions below.

1. How old is Mr Cansler?

2. What helped him to stay healthy?

3. What does he recommend listeners should do?

№ 12

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

AMELIA

Possibly the most famous female pilot ever, Amelia Earhart was born in 1897 in Kansas, the USA. Amelia had a difficult and unsettled childhood. Her family travelled a great deal so her father could find work. Although she often missed school, Amelia was nevertheless considered to be very bright academically. She enjoyed reading and poetry as well as sports, especially basketball and tennis.

After graduating from high school, instead of going to college, Amelia decided to study nursing. During the First World War, she worked as a military nurse in Canada. When the war ended she became a social worker back in America and taught English to immigrants. In her free time, Amelia enjoyed going to air shows and watching aerial stunts 1 , which were very popular during the 1920s. Her fascination with flying began when, at one of those shows, she took a ten-minute ride, and from that moment on she knew she had to learn to fly.

Amelia took on several odd jobs to pay for the flying lessons and after a year, she had saved enough money to buy her own plane. She organized cross-country air races for women pilots and formed a now famous women pilots’ organization, called the ‘Ninety-Nines’. One day Amelia received an invitation to be the first woman ever to make the flight across the Atlantic from Canada to Britain. Amelia made the flight in 1928 and, although she was only a passenger and two men flew the plane, it made her a celebrity. She also met there her future husband, George Putman, a publisher, who arranged the flight and organized all the publicity.

In 1932 Amelia and George decided Amelia should make the Atlantic crossing from America to Britain alone. She broke several records on this flight; she became the first woman to fly the Atlantic solo, the only person to have flown it twice and she established a new transatlantic crossing record of 13 hours and 30 minutes. Understandably, she became even more famous as a result earning respect for women pilots all over the world by proving that women could fly as well as men, if not better.

1 an aerial stunt [ˈɛərɪəl ˈstʌnt] фигуравысшегопилотажа

2. How did Amelia get interested in flying? Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. What invitation did Amelia receive one day?

4. Why did Amelia become famous?

II. Listen to the conversation between Nancy and her mum.

1. What do Nancy’s parents worry about?

2. Why does Nancy refuse to do household chores?

3. What arguments does Mum use to make Nancy clean the room?

III. Let’s talk about the mass media.

№ 13

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

THE STRESS OF COMMUTING 1

In today’s modern world, people are constantly looking for ways to avoid stress and improve their lifestyle. Too much stress can lead to a variety of illnesses from headaches to high blood pressure. Simple things, such as driving to and from work on a daily basis, can be such a stressful experience that many people are left feeling totally exhausted. Cars can give normally peaceful people a feeling of power that can make them more aggressive.

Fortunately, there are various means of public transport to choose from within modern towns and cities. Sometimes, all we need to do is to change a few of our long-standing habits in order to discover a much more comfortable way of life. By simply planning journeys, not only can we save time and money, but we can also reduce stress levels dramatically. By using public transport everybody wins. Most towns and cities are well-covered by bus, tram and metro services. While making use of these services, you are also helping against increasing levels of pollution.

Public transport systems have improved considerably in recent years and there is now more focus on environmentally friendly forms. For example, old tram systems have been reintroduced into many European cities, making movement across large areas much faster and ‘cleaner’.

Another way of reducing levels of both stress and pollution is an introduction of an environmentally friendly network of cycle tracks. The aim of building cycle tracks is to motivate people to use their bicycles instead of their cars. So, next time you see your neighbor or colleague waiting at a bus stop as you drive by, don’t feel sorry for him because he will, no doubt, arrive at the office much earlier than you as you will still be fighting to find a parking space.

Or you might consider another way of getting to work. Carpooling 2 is a relatively new and convenient system when several people arrange to share one private car to get to work. And some companies have already introduced a plan where those who carpool get preferential parking in the company garage.

1 commuting ежедневные поездки на работу в город из пригорода и обратно

2 to carpool [ˈkɑːˌpuːl] подвозить на машине по очереди

2. The network of public transport has improved lately. Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. How can we help reduce pollution?

4. Why is carpooling convenient?

II. Listen to the advice how to make a good friend and answer the questions below.

1. How do people feel if they have no friend?

2. What qualities does a good friend have?

3. Why is it good to be a real friend?

III. Let’s talk about international cooperation.

№ 14

I. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

Video Blogger

In April 2007, a 16-year-old English boy named Charlie McDonnell was studying for his exams. But he was bored, so he turned on his computer and started surfing the web. He soon found a website called YouTube and within minutes he was watching a video of another teenager sitting in his bedroom and talking to his computer about how bored he was. ‘I could do better than that!’ thought Charlie. So, using a cheap computer and webcam, he made his first video blog and posted it on YouTube under the name Charlieissocoollike.

A few days after the first video Charlie found that he had 150 subscribers. Encouraged by this, he went on to make more videos. A month later Charlie’s audience grew and he started to get hundreds of video messages from his fans. “It was really strange,” says Charlie. “I’d been talking to my computer for a month and suddenly my computer started talking back to me!”

His next big success came a few months later when Oprah Winfrey, the famous American TV host, showed one of Charlie’s comedy videos called How to be English on her programme, which made him popular in the USA too.

Charlie also realised he could use his fame to help people less fortunate than himself. To celebrate his 18th birthday, he raised £5,000 for cancer research. He raised more than four times as much when he co-presented a live show on the Internet. He stayed awake for 24 hours performing challenges from viewers. All the money went to the children’s charity UNICEF 1 .

But what is the secret of his popularity? “I just make videos that I would want to watch,” he says, “and I’m not trying to sell anything. I’m just trying to talk with people and that’s it for me.” His honesty and modesty are perhaps the main reasons why Charlie is so well liked. And of course, he is a talented song writer, camera man, actor and singer.

And if you were wondering how Charlie did in his exams back in 2007...well, he passed with nine A grades and one B! He says that he wants to go on to study at university in the future but decided to try and make a career on YouTube before that.

1 UNICEF [ˈjuːnɪsef] ФондООНпомощидетям

2. Charlie says how the idea of making a video crossed his mind. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. How did he become popular?

4. Why do people like Charlie?

II. Listen to Huan, a Chinese man, speaking about moving out and answer the questions below.

1. Why do young people prefer to live with their parents in Hong Kong?

2. How did Huan’s parents react to his decision?

3. What are the advantages of living on your own?

№ 15

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

MAKE YOUR HOME GREENER

Residential buildings are responsible for consuming 27% of the total amount of energy consumed within Europe and are the biggest source of global warming in the world. This is a fact that has, until recently, been overlooked by lawmakers trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, who have concentrated their efforts on industry and transport. The EU has now passed a new law which intends to cut considerably carbon dioxide emissions 1 from buildings. This means that each of us can now save the planet from the comfort of our own homes.

The first things we can do are simple and easy. We can block up draughts 2 , switch off unnecessary lights and make sure cold and hot water taps are not left running. The next step requires more planning and some expense, but as well as saving energy, we will also save on bills. Many homes have window and roof insulation 3 but it is rarely enough. Full insulation can have a dramatic effect on energy consumption. We should use energy efficient light bulbs. These are usually expensive to buy but consume less than half the energy of standard bulbs. These bulbs last much longer than conventional light bulbs reducing the consumption of resources. Also, thermal solar panels are very efficient. They are capable of providing all the hot water you need.

We can install a ‘grey’ water recycling system. At present water used to flush the toilets is of the same drinkable quality that comes out of the taps. This is an unnecessary waste of energy used in water purification. A grey water recycling system cleans water that has been used for washing and sends it through the toilet system reducing the use of clean drinking water.

New buildings have more energy saving features in their design. They can have a wooden structure, extensive insulation, electronic environmental controls, triple glazing 4 , a non-polluting heating system and a turf 5 roof. However, it is how we deal with our present homes that will determine housing’s contribution to global warming. It’s down to each of us, so get insulating!

1 carbon dioxide emissions [ˈkɑːbən daɪˈɒkˈsaɪd ɪˈmɪʃnz]выбросыуглекислогогаза

3 insulation [ˌɪnsjʊˈleɪʃn] изоляция, утепление

4 glazing [ˈɡleɪzɪŋ] остекление

5 turf торф

2. What energy saving features in the design of the building are used nowadays? Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. What can we do to cut carbon dioxide emissions from buildings?

4. What is considered to be an unnecessary waste of energy used in water purification?

II. Listen to the tour guide and answer the questions below.

1. What sort of tour is it?

2. What will the tourists see on the tour?

3. Why does the tourist ask to return the money?

III. Let’s talk about outstanding people.

№ 16

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

MR WEMMICK’S “CASTLE”

Wemmick’s house was a little wooden cottage in the middle of a large garden. The top of the house had been built and painted like a battery loaded with guns. I said I really liked it. I think Wemmick’s house was the tiniest I had ever seen. It had very few windows and the door was almost too small to get in.

‘Look,’ said Wemmick, after I have crossed this bridge, I raise it so that nobody can enter the Castle.’

The ‘bridge’ was a plank 1 and it crossed a gap about four feet 2 wide and two feet deep. But I enjoyed seeing the smile on Wemmick’s face and the pride with which he raised his bridge. The gun on the roof of the house, he told me, was fired every night at nine o’clock. I later heard it. Immediately, it made an impressive sound.

‘At the back,’ he said, ‘there are chickens, ducks, geese, and rabbits. I’ve also got my own little vegetable garden and I grow cucumbers. Wait until supper and you’ll see for yourself what kind of salad I can make. If the Castle is ever attacked, I will be able to survive for quite a while,’ he said with a smile, but at the same time seriously.

Then Wemmick showed me his collection of curiosities. They were mostly to do with being on the wrong side of the law: a pen with which a famous forgery 3 had been committed, some locks of hair, several manuscript confessions written from prison.

‘I am my own engineer, my own carpenter, my own plumber and my own gardener. I am my own Jack of all Trades 4 ,’ said Wemmick, receiving my compliments. Wemmick told me that it had taken many years to bring his property to this state of perfection.

‘Is it your own, Mr. Wemmick?’

‘Oh yes, I have got a hold of it a bit at a time. I have absolute ownership now. You know, the office is one thing, and private life is another. When I go to the office, I leave the Castle behind me, and when I come to the Castle, I leave the office behind me. If you don’t mind, I’d like you to do the same. I don’t want to talk about my home in a professional manner.

1 plank брус, доска

2 feet — мн. ч. от foot — мера длины, равная 30,48 см

3 forgery [ˈfɔdʒərɪ] подделка

4 Jack of all Tradesмастернавсеруки

2. ‘An Englishman’s home is his castle’. Read aloud the extract which proves this idea.

3. What do we understand about Wemmick’s home life?

4. Why does Wemmick call himself Jack of all Trades?

II. Listen to a part of the interview with a thirteen-year old writer, Sally Myers, and answer the questions below.

1. What made Sally write the book?

2. What did Sally’s Dad think about the book?

3. How did Sally’s life change after publishing the book?


№ 17

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

MOTHER TERESA

Mother Teresa was a simple nun 1 . She never wanted to be famous, but everyone in the world knows who she is.

Mother Teresa was born in 1910 in what is now Macedonia 2 . She was the youngest of three children. Agnes’s father died when she was a child. Her mother made dresses to support the family. Agnes’s mother also liked to do charity work, such as visiting the sick. Agnes often went with her, and she enjoyed helping these people.

Even as a child, Agnes wanted to be a nun. When she was 18 years old, she joined a group of nuns in India. There, she chose the name Teresa. Then she went to Calcutta to work at St. Mary’s School, in a convent 3 . Sister Teresa worked there for 20 years and eventually became the principal.

One day in 1946 Sister Teresa was riding on a train to Darjeeling 4 . She looked out of the window and saw dirty children wearing rags and sleeping in doorways. Sick and dying people were lying on dirty streets. At that moment, she believed God sent her a message. She decided to go to work with the poor.

Two years later, Sister Teresa left the convent and opened a school for the kids from poor families. Though at the very beginning the school had no roof, no walls, and no chairs, later it became well-known all around India. In 1948, Sister Teresa started her own group of nuns. They were called the Missionaries of Charity. The nuns lived in the slums 5 with people who were poor, dirty, and sick. It was hard work and the days were long. But many young nuns came from around the world to join Mother Teresa.

Later, she started homes for children without families. She also started clinics. Over the years, news of her work spread around the world. Many people sent her donations of money, others came to work with her. By 1990 the Missionaries of Charity were working in 400 centres around the world.

Mother Teresa got the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. But she always said her greatest reward was helping people. Her message to the world was: ‘We can do no great things — only small things with great love’.

1 a nun монахиня

2 Macedonia [ ˌmæsəˈdəʊnɪə] страна Македония

3 a convent [ˈkɒnv(ə)nt] монастырь

4 Darjeeling городДарджилинг

5 slumsтрущобы

2. The author writes about Mother Teresa’s family. Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. Why did Mother Teresa decide to devote her life to people in need?

4. What did Mother Teresa do for people?

II. Listen to the interview and answer the questions below.

1. What does Jackie want to become?

2. Why has she chosen this profession?

3. Why is it important for students to do sport at school?

III. Let’s talk about accommodation.

№ 18

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

The most mystique 1 picture

Every hour about 1,500 people visit the Louvre Museum in Paris with the specific intention of seeing one particular painting: the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. Most of these visitors look at the painting for about three minutes before they walk back to the tourist buses outside.

Leonardo loved the painting very much and people say that he took it everywhere with him. The painting was originally ordered by a rich businessman in Florence, who wanted a portrait of his wife, Lisa. Leonardo began the painting in 1503 and he finished it about three or four years later. The fact that Leonardo wanted to keep the painting himself, adds to the Mona Lisa’s mystique.

Mona Lisa’s mysterious smile has fascinated everyone who has ever seen the painting. In his ‘Lives of the Artists’, written just a few years after Leonardo’s death, Giorgio Vasari wrote, ‘While painting Mona Lisa Leonardo employed singers and musicians to keep her happy and so avoid the sadness that painters usually give to portraits. As a result, there was a smile that seemed divine 2 rather than human; and those who saw it were amazed to find how alive and real it appeared.’

Modern art critics also emphasize how the portrait seems alive and real. ‘She is like a living person,’ writes art historian E.H. Gombrich, ‘She seems to change before our eyes. Even in photographs we can experience this strange effect. Sometimes she seems to be looking down on us, and sometimes we can detect sadness in her smile. All this sounds rather mysterious, and it is; that is so often the effect of a great work of art.’

The Mona Lisa is certainly a masterpiece, a magnificent work of art, but it is also a part of modern popular culture. Her image appears on plates, T-shirts, mouse pads and in advertisements. Perhaps for this reason, officials at the Louvre Museum placed the painting in a specially built area in a room with other great 16th century Italian paintings. In this way, visitors have a better chance to appreciate the painting as a work of art rather than as a tourist attraction.

1 mystique таинственный

2 divine божественный

2. Why is Mona Lisa smiling? Read aloud the extract which says about it.

  1. What makes the Mona Lisa so special?
  2. Why isn’t the painting displayed in a separate room?

II. Listen to the conversation between two friends and answer the questions below.

1. What does Christian want to become?

2. Why does Kate need to learn English?

3. What piece of advice does Christian give to his friend?

III. Let’s talk about your family.

№ 19

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

Book Review

The Guinness Books of World Records 1 have certainly changed a lot in the last 60 years. The first Guinness Book was published in August 1955 in London, in Britain. Most editions were small paperbacks printed in black-and-white and contained more text than photographs. Now, there are colour pictures on every page — and the book also includes 3-D images.

This fascinating collection of records is divided into chapters on Space, The Living Planet, Being Human, Human Achievements, Spirit of Adventure, Modern Life, Science & Engineering, Entertainment, Sports, and the Gazetteer 2 .

Here you will see and read about extremes: for example, the world’s tallest, oldest, shortest, and tiniest — people, plants, animals, buildings. Some have set records for pulling buses, kissing, swimming, ironing clothes, running, and for having the longest legs, the smallest waist, etc.

Some images are a bit strange to look at for too long — check out the woman with the longest fingernails in the world. Also, one man had 14 operations to make himself look like a cat.

There’s a wide range of amazing facts contained on these pages. What is the world’s most expensive hamburger? — It is available in a New York restaurant for $120. Who had the most hit singles on the U.S. music charts? — Elvis Presley, of course, with 151 between 1956 and 2003 (and he died in 1977!). One of the most colourful sections shows records related to space, including some fantastic photographs of Jupiter. Take a look at the top movies such as the first summer blockbuster of all time, the first movie with Dolby sound, and the first to be more expensive than $100 million.

As always, there’s a helpful index in the back of the book, in which you can find subjects of interest in alphabetical order.

Please note that some stunts 3 in this book would be quite dangerous — or at least terribly painful — for you to attempt to meet or beat them. Therefore, please don’t attempt to set any world records that would cause risk to you or to others!

1 the Guinness [ˈɡɪnɪs] Books of World Records книгарекордовГиннесса

2 Gazetteer [ˌɡæzəˈtɪə] географическийсправочник

3 a stunt опасныйтрюк

2. The author describes how The Guinness World Records books changed with time. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What information will you find in this book?

4. Why can this book be interesting for the reader?

II. Listen to the young man describing where he lived and answer the questions below.

1. Why did the man’s family have to rent a flat for about a year?

2. What was their flat in the capital like?

3. How many people is he sharing the flat with at present?

III. Let’s talk about your future career.

№ 20

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

ARE YOU READY TO BE INDEPENDENT?

Angela Rowlands recently tested her teenage children’s ability to do basic household jobs in the house. When Angela and her husband Ben went to Spain for a few weeks’ holiday on the Costa Brava, their son Mark, aged 18, and daughter Frances, aged 16, stayed at home to look after the house. The parents wanted to see how Mark and Frances would manage in the house on their own.

So when thy left the house, they did not tell the children that they had prepared a few tests for them. “We took the plug 1 off the microwave and took out some good light bulbs 2 and put in light bulbs that did not work. We also made sure that there were other problems in the house: with an Italian coffee machine and one of the taps 3 in the bathroom,” says Dr. Rowlands.

When Dr. Rowlands returned from her holiday, she found, as she had expected, that her children had failed the independence test. Mark and Frances had asked an electrician to change the plug on the microwave and to change the light bulbs. They also paid a specialist for repairing the bathroom tap. When they saw that the coffee maker was broken, they went to buy a new one. They even did not think to look for the missing part in the cupboard.

Dr. Rowlands was not surprised by the results of her experiment. “A lot of young people today are not able to solve simple problems in the house,” she says. “They often throw things away when they are broken. This is wrong because it shows that young people do not understand how things work or are made. It can also be very expensive because you have to pay other people to do the work for you.”

But repairing broken things is only part of the problem. A lot of young people cannot cook at all. If there is no ready-made meal in the fridge, or if there is nothing to warm up in the microwave, then there is nofood. This can cause health problems.

The truth is that many young people do not want to learn basic household skills as they find them boring. Though, if people want to be prepared for independent life they should learn how to do simple jobs about the house.

1 a plug штепсельнаявилка

2 a light bulb [ˈlaɪt bʌlb] лампочка

3 a tap кран

2. Why did Dr. Rowlands decide to test the children? Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. What did the parents prepare for their children?

4. Do you think the children passed the test? Why do you think so?

II. Listen to Tom speaking about his day off and answer the questions below.

1. How did Tom spend his day off?

2. What went wrong?

3. What made Tom feel frightened?

III. Let’s talk about Belarus.

№ 21

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

Technology

Technology is everywhere. We see it any place we go to and, in fact, almost all of us carry some piece of technology with us every time we leave the house. We can’t imagine our life without them. But what we always forget, though, is just how useful and powerful technology can be when we want to help others.

There is not a single room in my house that does not have some gadget lying around in it. Whenever I am at home, providing that I am not sleeping, I am almost always using at least one electronic device. If you walked into my living room on any given day, you would find that, first, I have the television on (along with the other related appliances, such as the DVD player or my current favourite game console) 1 . At the same time, even though multi-tasking is definitely not my strong point, I usually have my laptop resting on my knee, or I will be using my tablet or mobile phone. In the background, the technology that I am not using will most likely be on charge somewhere in the house. Even when I’m not at home I am constantly using my phone. At work or in cafés, I sit down and connect to the local wireless network on my laptop. I must admit that I waste a lot of time on the computer. Instead I could spend it doing some online volunteering.

The technology we carry about everywhere can have a great power to do good for the world and to help others and recently I discovered just how much online volunteering there is to do in the world. From using your language skills to do translations, to developing and managing projects and helping with IT work, there is so much that so many people can do to help people in their own countries and across the world. The United Nations, in fact, has a huge page on its website designed for recruiting volunteers.

This work can support the poor and help charities who otherwise would not have the funding to pay for staff. Many organisations only require you to work an hour a week — some even less. And the support provided by online volunteers can really help make a difference to those in need.

1 game console [ˈɡeɪm kənˈsəʊl] игроваяприставка

2. The author disapproves of the way people use electronic devices. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What electronic devices does the author use?

4. How can online volunteering help people?

II. Listen to the conversation and answer the questions below.

1. What are the speakers doing?

2. What didn’t impress the speakers very much?

3. What did they decide in the end?

III. Let’s talk about Great Britain.

№ 22

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

From librarian to political reporter

The Pretenders is a very successful and popular TV series. In each programme there is a contestant who has just four weeks to learn to do a completely new job. At the end of the month the contestant has to do a ‘test’, where he or she has to do the new job together with three other professionals. Three judges have to identify the one who pretends.

Jessica Winters is a 26-year-old librarian. She studied English Literature at the University of Bath before getting a job at the local library. She didn’t know that two of her friends sent her name to the TV company to take part in The Pretenders. ‘When someone from the company called me, I thought it was a joke,’ said Jessica. ‘First of all, I said ‘no’, in the end my friends and my family persuaded 1 me and I agreed.’

Jessica had four weeks to turn from a quiet, shy librarian into a confident TV reporter. At the end of the month she had to interview the Minister of Education. It was her test.

An experienced political journalist, Adam Bowles, had to transform Jessica into a professional. He wasn’t very optimistic when he met her. ‘Jessica needs to be a lot harder, even aggressive. She is much too sweet and shy’, said Adam. ‘Politicians will eat her alive.’ They had just 28 days to teach her how to interview people, how to be confident, how to speak clearly.

Jessica was terrified at the beginning. She watched a lot of live interviews with politicians. Adam made her read the political sections of all the newspapers. It was boring for her and she felt exhausted. Later as soon as she began making progress, she felt more relaxed.

During the interview Jessica felt nervous but well-prepared as she had done much research and had practised a lot. ‘When it was all over came the worst part, I had to wait while the judges decided which of us they thought wasn’ t a professional’. The judges gave their verdict: they were all professional reporters.

For Jessica it was a great experience and she was pleased how she did it, but actually she doesn’t feel like changing her work.

1 to persuade убедить

2. The Pretenders is a famous TV programme. Read aloud the extract about it.

3. How did Jessica get to the programme?

4. Was it an exciting and useful experience for Jessica? Why (not)?

II. Listen to three people talking about their favourite countries and answer the questions below.

1. What country does the first speaker like most?

2. What makes Italy a favourite place for the second speaker?

3. Why does the third speaker like Argentina?

III. Let’s talk about national character and stereotypes.

№ 23

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

Mi Luna

Mi Luna is a restaurant in the Rice Village. The atmosphere is lively, and the food is delicious. It is a Spanish cuisine restaurant that you will soon consider one of your favourite restaurants.

There are many reasons why this restaurant is special. One is that they make a wonderful dish called Pulpo con Patatas . It’s a delicious Spanish seafood dish which has the following ingredients: octopus, potatoes, salt, olive oil, and chilepiquin 1 . (Chilepiquin is a special kind of chili that looks like red powder and is very hot.)

Another reason is the place itself. Once you are in the restaurant, you feel a Spanish atmosphere; it is painted with the classical colours that are used in Spain — red, yellow, white, and black. The way this place is decorated is really very impressive. On the walls, there are photos of Spanish bullfighters, taken at the perfect moments of their performances.

On one of the walls, you can enjoy a photo of the famous classical Spanish dance called Flamenco 2 . In it, the dancers are wearing the traditional clothes, and the lady has in her hands the most famous Spanish musical instrument called castanets 3 .

The service is pleasant, caring and quick. It makes you want to come back. The waiters just keep looking at your table to find out if you need something. If they see an empty glass, they immediately ask you if you want something else to drink. At all time, they are friendly and ready to clear all the used dishes from your table. They are always smiling because they are trying to make you feel comfortable and happy. They know each dish, so they are able to explain it to you.

On their menu, they serve a large variety of foods, and there is a section on the menu that I like most. In Spain, these dishes are called tapas 4 . Tapas or appetizers are dishes that have a small amount of food. In this way you will be able to try a lot of different Spanish dishes.

By the time you leave Mi Luna , you are sure to be entirely satisfied and have very good memories of the visit. It is a great place for any occasion, but it is very busy, so don’t forget to book a table first.

1 chilepiquin [ˈtʃɪlɪˈpiːkiːn] пикин (сортгорячегоперцачили)

2 Flamenco

3 castanets [ ˌkæstəˈnets]

4 tapas [ˈtæːpəs]

  1. The service in Mi Luna is very good. Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. What makes Mi Luna look very Spanish?

4. What makes Mi Luna a very pleasant place to visit?

II. Listen to the conversation between two friends and answer the questions below..

1. Why doesn’t Margaret like her new job?

2. What problem does Peter have?

3. What piece of advice does Margaret give to her friend?

III. Let’s talk about youth and society.

№ 24

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

WE ARE YOUNGER THAN WE EVER WERE

If you belong to the older generation, Elderhostel is a good place to live.

Elderhostel , founded in 1975, is the world’s largest educational and travel organisation for older adults. Its aim is to excite people’s minds and enrich people’s lives promoting and encouraging different activities among the older generation. There are no examinations or marks. All that you need, in order to enroll on a programme, is enquiring mind 1 and an adventurous spirit. Also, of course, you need to believe that learning and discovery continue all your life. There are expert instructors and experienced group leaders for field trips and cultural excursions.

Elderhostel offers a large number of programmes in a huge variety of areas. Amongst other things, it provides simple, on-line information on activities and services. First of all, there are traditional programmes. Here, people study ancient history, literature, and art, and can learn about different cultures, modern people and issues.

Also, Elderhostel believes that physical activity helps people to keep a positive self-image and contributes to the sense of well-being both mental and physical. Many programmes have keep-fit equipment and a large number of social and cultural events take place there, as well as sporting activities. Regular physical activity can prevent many common illnesses, such as high blood pressure and asthma and it helps people who already have such illnesses. Alongside the usual sports like swimming, hockey and cricket, bowling and tennis, you will find “Dog Clubs” and “Flying Clubs”. Then there is a group of adventure programmes involving activities like hiking, kayaking 2 , biking and studying whales.

There are also programmes which give people the chance to help communities in different ways, such as protecting endangered species, tutoring school children and building affordable housing.

Finally, there are programmes which take place aboard a boat, anywhere from Antarctic to the Mississippi River.

The word ‘old’ has a very different and very positive meaning in Elderhostel !

1 enquiring mind [ɪnˈkwaəɪrɪŋ maɪnd] пытливый, проницательныйум

2 a kayak [ˈkaɪæk] каяк (эскимосскаялодка)

2. What kind of organisation is Elderhostel ? Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3. What activities does Elderhostel offer?

4. Why does the word ‘old’ have a positive meaning in Elderhostel ?

II. Listen to the three people speaking about how they met their partners and answer the questions below.

1. Why was the first speaker surprised?

2. When did the second speaker ask the girl out?

3. Why did the third speaker think that the girl was awful when they first met?

III. Let’s talk about education.

№ 25

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

QUALITY OF COMMUNICATION

The Internet nowadays is like a huge city full of many different kinds of places and people. As in a real city, there are certain places which are suitable for youngsters and others which need to be avoided.

The Internet neither belongs to nor is controlled by any one person, organization or government. It gives all of us the opportunity to create materials for others to see. On the other hand, as in ordinary life, there are those who might use it for illegal purposes. The freedom of the Net offers exciting opportunities for youngsters and, by being aware of the possible dangers and taking steps to avoid them, they can happily explore that online world in safety.

The Internet has enabled and advanced new forms of human interactions through instant messaging, Internet forums, and social networking. Common sense will certainly help children to use the Internet safely. It is preferable, for example, for parents to get to know who their children are meeting online and make sure they never give out personal information about themselves. Although it is an excellent tool for learning, playing and communicating with others, youngsters should not be allowed to become so involved that they forget other activities important to their development. How often do we hear of youngsters spending all their free time in front of the computer, isolating themselves from other people their age? Computers are admirable tools that improve the quality of life, but when used sensibly. Steve Jobs said: “Technology is nothing. What’s important is that you have a faith in people, that they’re basically good and smart, and if you give them tools, they’ll do wonderful things with them”. Obviously, surfing as a family activity is the best solution, so that any problems that are found can be discussed together.

Parents need to think about safety issues and agree on a set of rules. Just as youngsters are given instructions on road safety, they also need to be instructed on how to travel safely along that superhighway.

2. The author says that the Internet offers exciting opportunities for youngsters. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. What is surfing the Internet compared to?

4. Why is it important to use the Internet sensibly?

II. Listen to three people speaking about their work-life balance and answer the questions below.

1. What does the first speaker complain about?

2. How has the life style of the second speaker changed?

3. What does the third speaker think about his way of life and the typical Japanese work-life balance?

III. Let’s talk about tourism.

Уже в этом году предстоит сдать выпускной экзамен по английскому? Чтобы ты зря не волновался и на самом испытании чувствовал себя уверенно, расскажет о структуре экзамена, где найти билеты по английскому языку, и даст полезные советы, как вести себя в присутствии комиссии.

Коротко об экзамене

Испытание проходит в устной форме. Его цель — проверить навыки общения на английском, которые ты приобрёл за время обучения в школе. Подготовиться к экзамену лучше заранее: билеты по английскому языку можно купить в книжных магазинах или заказать на сайте OZ.by . Аудиоприложение к билетам можно скачать на сайте издательства «Аверсэв» . В аудиторию, где проходит экзамен, приглашают по четыре человека. Если ученик затрудняется ответить по билету, он может перетянуть его. Снижается ли в таком случае отметка? Этот вопрос решает комиссия.

Помни: экзамен по английскому начинается с того момента, когда ты вошёл в кабинет. Переступил порог — забудь русский язык, представь себя коренным англичанином. Поздоровайся с присутствующими: «Good morning!». Никаких «Hello!» и «Hi!». Ещё один важный момент: экзаменационный билет по-английски звучит как «examination card», а не «ticket». И не забудь назвать номер своего билета: «My examination card is number five» or «The number of my examination card is number five».

Экзамен по английскому языку состоит из трёх этапов

Тебе предстоит пройти аудирование, беседу по прочитанному тексту и на предложенную тему. Последовательность этапов определяет комиссия. Каждый блок заданий оценивается отдельно, итоговая отметка выводится как средняя арифметическая.

Беседа по прочитанному тексту

По номеру билета, который ты вытянешь, комиссия предлагает текст (научно-популярный, публицистический или художественный). Даётся примерно 20 минут на его прочтение и осмысление, так что будь внимателен. Перечитай текст несколько раз, обрати внимание на пояснения к нему (при наличии таковых), спроси себя, всё ли ты понял. Если увидел незнакомое слово, попробуй определить его значение по контексту.

Когда пойдёшь отвечать, листок с текстом будет у тебя перед глазами — подсматривай структуру предложений и отдельные слова, но не забывай отрывать глаза от написанного. Комиссия может спросить, о чём этот текст, какова его основная мысль, задать уточняющие вопросы.

Если не понял вопрос или отдельное слово, переспроси. Воспользуйся следующими выражениями: «Could you repeat the question / that, please?», «Could you say it once again, please?», «I didn’t understand / get it». Нужна буквально секунда, чтобы сориентироваться по ответу, — не впадай в ступор! Фразы «May I have a minute», «Let me think» помогут учителям понять, что ты собираешься с мыслями. Давай развёрнутые ответы, опираясь на содержание прочитанного. Но не сиди уткнувшись в текст, это произведёт плохое впечатление на комиссию.


Аудирование

Перед тем как приступить к прослушиванию записи, ты получаешь листок с вопросами, на которые потом будешь отвечать комиссии. Аудиозапись длится полторы минуты и представляет собой фрагмент радиопередачи, диалог, рассказ или интервью. На подготовку отводится 10 минут. Имена собственные и сложные для распознавания на слух слова даются в печатном виде.

Внимательно прослушай текст два раза: в первый пойми суть текста, во второй найди ответы на вопросы. Чтобы не тратить время на дословную запись, делай пометки, по которым сможешь дать развёрнутый ответ.

Беседа на предложенную тему

К разговорной части экзамена по английскому ты не готовишься заранее. На данном этапе проверяется умение излагать свою точку зрения, поддерживать беседу.

Не употребляй те слова, в значении или произношении которых ты не уверен. Замени их синонимами или перестрой фразу. Старайся разговаривать непринуждённо, улыбайся. Внимательно слушай вопросы учителей, переспрашивай, когда не понимаешь, отвечай развёрнутыми предложениями.

В конце экзамена поблагодари комиссию за внимание и попрощайся: «Thank you for your attention», «Thank you for taken time», «See you!», «Bye!», «Have a nice day!». Вежливость сыграет в твою пользу! Тренируйся на уроках английского языка, чтобы на экзамене чувствовать себя like a fish in water. А если нужна помощь профессионалов, чтобы прокачать уровень английского, .

Если материал был для тебя полезен, не забудь поставить «мне нравится» в наших соцсетях

Билет 1.

1.Топик «Я- моя биография»

2.

My Friend

I have a lot of friends. Most of them are my former schoolmates. But my bosom friend is Lena. She is 16. Lena isn"t very tall, but she is pretty in her own way.

She has red curly hair and a turn-up nose. Lena wears spectacles and when spring comes there are plenty of freckles on her cheeks, forehead and nose. But all that doesn"t make her plain or ugly. I like Lena because she is well-bred, jolly and kind.

She does well at school though she has an unbreakable rule: never to study at night no matter how many written reviews are coming in the morning. She is also fond of reading plain books, and Lena sometimes thinks that one book isn"t enough to read, she has two оr three books going at once. My friend has a lot of books at home, and she buys them wherever she goes.

Lena goes in for sports and she is a member of our school basket-ball team. She is terribly quick and strong .

It"s a pleasure to watch her playing basket-ball: while others are hopping about in the air she always gets under their feet and grabs the ball. I don"t like people who are bored at everything and who never make the slightest effort to be pleasant. That"s why my friend is Lena, the most amusing person in the world. She thinks everything is funny - even flunking an exam.

Lena is a sunny soul by nature and always takes the slightest excuse to be amused. My friend has an imagination and her own style. Usually she writes nice compositions and once even won short-story contest that our school wallpaper holds every year.

Lena and me are good friends. We help each other a lot and try not to quarrel. But when sometimes it comes to quarrelling we try to make it up at once.

Questions:

    How old is Lena?

2. Does she wear spectacles?
3. Does she do well at school?
4. What unbreakable rule has she?

5. What books is she fond of reading?

6. Does Lena go in for sports?

7. Is she a member of the school basket-ball team?

3.Выполните грамматические задания.

    Is this your ... friend?” - “No, it isn’t my ... friend, it is…my sister”.

    The woman liked the story. (Женщине понравилась история.)

    the result/the football match

4. Nick is (happier, the happiest) boy that I know.

5. I … (learn/have learnt/have been learning) Spanish since December. (Я изучаю испанский язык с декабря .)

6. They rarely drive to (their/them/theirs) office. They live near (it’s/it/its).

7. The bus moved very … (slow/slowly) and I arrived home late.

8. My office is … (near/near to/near with) the stadium.

9. John was tired after work.

10. There are 9 planets in the Solar system.

Билет 2.

    Топик «Моя семья»

    .

My Hobby

Tastes differ. Different people like different things, different people have different hobbies.

I go in for sports, I like to play tennis. I go to play tennis every day. Sport is very important part of our life. Many people go in for sports, they jogging, walking, swimming, skating, skiing, train themselves in clubs and different sections.

Physical training is an important subject at school. Pupils play volleyball, football, basketball. I have been playing tennis for 5 years. Tennis became very popular now. I take part in different competitions.

To be in a good shape I"m jogging every morning and do my morning exercises. Everyone should do all he can to stay healthy and choose the sport he is interested in. I do not understand people who say that they like sport, but they only watch sport on TV.

If one goes in for sports he feels much better, looks much better, sleeps much better. Your physical appearance will change too. You will be slimmer and trimmer. And what is even more important you will not get sick often.

Why do I go in for sports? Because I think that it is very important for a man to be strong and well-built. Sport is not for weak, because, you have to learn how to lose, and it"s not easy. My favourite proverb says: "A sound mind in sound body".

Questions:

    What is his hobby?
    2. What sports does he go in for?

    3. Does he like summer or winter sports?

    4. What does it mean to be healthy?

    5. Why did he choose tennis?

    6. What is his favourite proverb?

3. Выполните грамматические задания .

    I have ... sister. My ... sister is ... teacher. My sister’s ... husband is ... pilot.

    The white mouse is in the box. (Белая мышь находится в коробке.)

    the car/Mike parents

    Of the six cars, I like the silver one (better, best).

5. We … (were/have been/are) to France many times. (Мы были во Франции много раз.)

6. Look at (me/ mine/my) new watch. Do you like (it/them/its)?

7. Miss Jones ran … (quick/quickly) to the chemist’s.

8. Kevin often goes abroad … (in/on/for) business.

9. We live in a small town.

10. There are 7 days in a week.

Билет 3 .

    Топик «Внешность»

My Week-day

My week-days didn"t differ much one from another. I went to school six days a week. That"s why, I had to wake up at 7 o"clock every morning. Sometimes I wanted to stay in bed for some more time but my mother always insisted on my getting up.

I put on my bathrobe and slippers and unwillingly went to the bathroom. A cold shower made me feel not so sleepy, then I dried myself on a towel and hurried to the bedroom. I switched on a TV-set, it was just the time for a cartoon.

You may ask me why I didn"t do my morning exercises. From time to time, when I saw smiling slim girls on TV briskly doing their exercises to music, I swore I should get up earlier and do my morning exercises every day, but it didn"t last long and soon 1 forgot about it. Then I did my bed, dressed myself and had my breakfast.

At a quarter to eight I rushed to school, it usually took me 10 minutes to get there. My classes began at 8 o"clock, and every day I had seven or eight lessons.

At 3 o"clock the classes were over, and I went home. After dinner, I did some work about the house (washed dishes, swept the floor, went shopping) and sat down to my lessons. I spent a great deal of time on them.

At 8 o"clock all my textbooks and notebooks were put into a bag, and I could watch TV or read a book, look through papers and magazines. Sometimes, when my friend called for me we went for a walk.

At 11 o"clock, tired after a long working day, I went to bed and in some minutes fell asleep.

Questions:

    When did I have to wake up when I went to school?

2. When did I go to the bathroom?
3. When did I hurry to my bedroom?

4. At what time did I rush to school?

5. How many lessons did I have every day?

6. Did I do some work about the house?

7. What did I do in the evening?

8. When did I go to bed?

3.Выполните грамматические задания .

    I have …no ... car.

    The policeman is an American. (Полицейский – американец.)

    the garden/our neighbors

4. Jane’s notebook is (cheaper, the cheapest) than mine

5. There … (were/have been/are) too many people at the party yesterday. (Вчера на вечеринке было слишком много людей .)

6. Do you like (you/your/yours) new car? Oh, (it’s/it/its) has never let me down yet.

7. I’m afraid I wrote the test very … (bad/badly).

8. All the notices in the streets were … (on/by/in) French.

9. Summer has started at last.

10. There are 12 months in a year.

Билет 4.

    Топик « Характер »

    Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы.

Foreign Languages in Our Life

Learning a foreign language isn"t an easy thing. Nowadays it"s especially important to know foreign languages.

Some people learn languages because they need them for their work, others travel abroad, for the third studying foreign languages is a hobby. Everyone, who knows foreign languages can speak to people from other countries, read foreign authors in the original, which makes your outlook wider.

I study English. It"s a long and slow process that takes a lot of time and efforts. Over 300 million people speak it is as a mother tongue.

The native speakers of English live in Great Britain, the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand. English is one of the official languages of the United Nations Organization and other political organizations.

The great German poet Goethe once said, «He, who knows no foreign language, doesn"t know his own one ». That"s why in order to understand oneself and environment one has to learn foreign languages.

I think, that to know English today is absolutely necessary for every educated man, for every good specialist.

Questions:

1 .Is it an easy thing to learn a foreign language?
2. Why do people learn foreign languages?
3. Do you know any foreign language?
4. Where do the native speakers of English live?
5. What can you say about the English language?

3. Выполните грамматические задания .

    She has got ... terrible … headache.

    His wife is a secretary. (Его жена – секретарь.)

    the children / Don and Mary

4. This is (more delicious, the most delicious) cheese-cake I have ever had!

5. Paul … (was writing/wrote/has written) two novels last year. (Павел написал два романа в прошлом году.)

6. This tape recorder of (her/hers/she) is always out of order. - But so is (you/your/yourself).

7. She drives the car quite … (good/well).

8. Sorry. I took your bag … (on/for/by) mistake.

9. They have already left.

10. There are 5 fingers on one hand.

Билет 5.

    Топик «Мой лучший друг»

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My Day off

I go to school five days a week, so I have two days off - Saturday and Sunday (I"m lucky, because some other pupils have the only one day off). During the week I am very busy, so I like to have a rest on weekend.

I am not an early riser and it is a rare Saturday or Sunday when I get up before 9 o"clock. I enjoy staying in bed, when 1 don"t have to hurry anywhere. We have late breakfast at 10 and watch TV.

Usually we have something tasty: meat salad, fried potatoes, chicken, cake or pie. If the weather is fine, I usually do not stay indoors, I and my dog go outside. Often we go to the park and play there. If the weather is rainy and gloomy, I stay at home and watch TV, listen to the music, read, the books.

After dinner we go visit our grandparents or relatives, or just simply take a nap. Sometimes when my friends call me we go roller - blading near the Opera theatre .

I like roller - blading very much, I think it is a lot of fun. In the evenings I like to watch video and music programs. There is a big armchair in my room right beside the lamp with blue shade. If it is cold I like to sit there with cup of coffee and read.

Sometimes I do something special on weekends: go to an art exhibition, to the theatre, to the concert. I always go to bed late on Sundays, and Monday morning is the nastiest thing through all the week.

I like weekends very much, because I can rest and gain some energy for the next week.

Questions:

    How many day offs do you have?
    2. When do you get up on Sunday?
    3. What do you usually do during weekends?
    4. Do you spend a lot of time with your friends?
    5. Do you watch TV a lot?
    6. What time do you go to bed?

3. Выполните грамматические задания .

1. They have ... dog and two ... cats.

2. This is a sandwich with butter and cheese. (Это бутерброд с маслом и сыром.)

3. the eyes/the doll

4. This bookcase is (more beautiful, the most beautiful) than that one.

5. Every evening Jane … (work/works/have worked) in a café as a waitress. (Каждый вечер Джейн работает в кафе официанткой .)

6 . (Their/Theirs/ Them) knowledge of French is not much more superior to (we/our/ours).

7. Dad looked at me … (angry/angrily).

8. Shall we go … (for/on/to) a walk?

9. My parents got married in Paris.

10. There is 1 nose on the face.

Билет 6.

    Топик «Мой рабочий день ».

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My English

Many people think that it is enough to know one language, but scientists think it is too little. The world is constantly changing, borders between countries and states are opening, and each of us can visit any country we like. This is one of the arguments in favour of studying foreign languages. In addition, the study of languages develops your attention and memory, broadens your mind, and you feel more educated.

I don"t think I am a good language learner because I am lazy but I like English very much. Of course, it is really great to find out about English people, cities and events. At our lessons we read interesting books, translate from English intо Russian, learn new words. We speak about interesting people.

I understand that English teaches me to think, to speak, it helps me to find friends, but learning English is very difficult for me and takes me so much time and patience. Our English teacher is very good and kind. It is awful for me to learn English poems and songs by heart, of course, but I try. I think that English will help me in my future profession.

Questions:

    What do many people think about foreign languages?

    The world is constantly changing, borders between countries and states are opening, are they?

    What does the study of languages develop?

    What do we do at our lessons ?

    Will English help me in my future profession?


    Выполните грамматические задания .

    My ... cousin says he is going to be ... manager one ... day.

    He is my favourite actor. (Он – мой любимый актер.)

    the top/the hill

4. Do you feel (better, the best) today than yesterday?

5. It … (is raining/rains/will rain) heavily tomorrow. (Завтра будет сильный дождь .)

6. He can live without (me/my/mine) help but not without (them/their/theirs).

7. Mr. Potter was … (deep/deeply) touched by our greetings.

8. She has been in Africa … February. (in, on, at, for, since, during).

9. She can lose her temper easily.

10. There is no place like home.

Билет 7.

    Топик «Мой выходной день ».

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Introducing Myself

There is a saying that if you want something to be done well, do it yourself. So, I am following this wise saying and would like to introduce myself.

My first name is Sergey, my family name is Kravenko and my second name is Yurievich.

But in the beginning, I would like to represent my family and parents. Actually my family isn"t large. My family consists of my father, mother, sister and cat Boris.

My father"s name is Yuri. He is 41 years, but he looks much younger. He is a businessman. My dad is a well-educated and well-read person; he has experiences in many fields. That is why it is always interesting to communicate with him, he usually tells many exciting stories, of course, if he has free time.

And my mother is 37. Her name is Natalia. She is a good-looking, blond woman. She has large green eyes. I admire her character. She is an optimist; she is full of energy and enthusiasm. I really adore her sense of humour. She is a housewife. It takes her much time and power to take care of our home. But I can assure, she copes with her job very well. Besides, both my farther and I help her with the housework. For example, I wash dishes, plates, sometimes go shopping and so on.

Now, I think, it is time to speak about myself. My name is Sergey, but my friends call me Seriy. I am 15.

I am tall and not bad built. I have an oval face and large green eyes. Speaking about my character, I can say that I"m friendly, kind, generous and honest. I do not like falsehood. I have my own likes and dislikes. I am modest and sometimes shy, but do not advice someone tricking or kidding me. But in spite of all these characters, I can keep secrets; I never let my friends down. I usually say, what I think, that is why people around me often take offence. For me it is very difficult to cope with people who have such features of character as egoism and dishonesty.


Questions:

    What is my first name?

2. What is my surname name?
3 . Is my family large?
4 . What are my father"s and my mother"s names?
5 . How old are my parents?
6 . What is my father by profession?
7 . How old am I?

3. Выполните грамматические задания .

1. …Smiths have …dog and …cat.

2. My friend is a student. ( Мой друг - студент .)

3. the name/your daughter

4. I think my cat is (prettier, the prettiest) of all the cats in the world.

5. She … (is waiting/waits/has been waiting) for the bus for one hour. (Она ждет автобус целый час .)

6. She has not read a line of (you/your/yours), how can she criticize (you/your/yours) books?

7. We … (hard/hardly) know each other.

8. Dan has had his design studio … several years.(in, on, at, for, since, during).

9. The party will start in time.

10. Where there is love there is life.

Билет 8 .

    Топик «Хобби».

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My Friend

My best friends name " s Misha . We made friends a few years ago. We are of the same age. We live in the same block of flats, so we see each other almost every day.

Misha is a tall slender boy. He has got dark hair, large dark eyes, a straight nose, and thin lips. He wears spectacles. Misha is a nice guy. He is very honest and just, understanding and kind.

I trust him a lot, and I"m sure that I can rely on him in any situation. He never lets people down. Misha is only 16 but he is very responsible - he finishes whatever he starts. He"s got only one shortcoming. He is a bit stubborn; nevertheless he is pleasant to deal with.

Misha"s an only child and his parents love him very much. His father is a lawyer. He is the most brilliant man I"ve ever met. He knows everything there is to know about the law. His mother is a music teacher. No wonder Michael is so talented. He"s got a very good ear for music. He likes jazz and plays the piano very well.

We spend a lot of time together. We often watch video or listen to music. Sometimes we go to theatre, or walk around the centre of the city, visiting small cafes, museums, art galleries, and shops.

We talk for hours about all sorts of things (politics, love, teachers, and girls). We discuss films, television programmes, books.

I never quarrel with Misha. But if there is some misunderstanding between us we try to make peace as soon as possible. What I like best about him is that he is always willing to help and share his knowledge, thoughts, and feelings. I respect him for his fairness, strong will, intellect, and modesty.

I miss Misha when we don"t see each other for a long time. Without him I would feel lonely and uncomfortable. Our friendship helps me feel strong and sure of myself.

Questions:

    Where does Misha live?

    How old is he?

    Misha"s an only child, isn’t he?

    Does Michael like jazz and play the piano or rock and play the guitar?

    What do I like best about him?

3. Выполните грамматические задания .

    She was …first woman to swim across … English Channel.

    There is a big fish in the river. (В реке большая рыба.)

    the name/this city

4. Steve Jobs is (more famous, famouser) than Stephen Wozniak.

5. Ouch! I … (cut/am cutting/have cut) my finger! (Ой ! Я порезал палец !)

6. The clock has stopped.(Something/ Anything\ Someone) may be wrong with (it’s/it/its) spring.

7. The Internet is … (wide/widely) used all over the world.

8. The fishing season is to start … a couple of weeks. (in, on, at, for, since, during).

9. The dogs are sleeping.

10. There is no bad weather, there are bad clothes.

Билет 9.

    Топик « Мой английский ».

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About Myself

It is both pleasant and a bit difficult to speak about myself. It is pleasant because every person enjoys speaking about his or her interests, likes or dislikes. But at the same time it is difficult because to study a person, especially yourself, it is a great journey, not a little walk.

Speaking about my character I"d like first of all to define what character is. These are some qualities that make a person different from others. People often say about me that I am not like others. I don"t think that I am something special. When candles are out all cats are grey. But of course if you come closer and turn on the light you can see that some features are typical to me.

But to cut the long story short I think I am a good humoured, very responsible, hard working and emotional person. I like creativity and appreciate this trait in others. I don"t like to he and I feel when others do. I try not to be late and I hate when others don"t come on time. I prefer to associate with clever and polite people. It is very annoying when somebody whom I trust turns out to be unreliable.

But I try to treat other people so as I want them to treat me. I see the man whom I am looking for also as a person with a strong and sound body and mind. The person, who is interesting to talk to, whom I can trust and rely on.

As for my interests I am fond of psychology in the sphere of dealing with people and the questions of how to form your thoughts in the most favourable way. I adore travelling, seeing other people, their traditions, customs, to get acquainted with their culture, going sightseeing. Besides I like different kinds of music, I like music with rhythm you can dance to.

Questions:

    Why is it both pleasant and a bit difficult to speak about oneself?
    2. What can you tell about your character?
    3. What are you fond of doing?
    4. What do you hate that other people do?
    5. How do you try to treat other people?
    6. What are your interests and hobbies?

3.Выполните грамматические задания .

1.Could you give me … information I asked for in… my letter?

2. The bookshelf is between the mirror and the sofa. (Книжная полка находится между зеркалом и диваном.)

3. the magazine/today

4. This week the weather is (hotter, more hot) than last week.

5. Kate … (is sunbathing/has been sunbathing/has sunbathed) now. (Катя сейчас загорает .)

6. (Who\What\ Why) colour is the shirt? It is so far that I can’t see (it’s/its/it) colour.

7. Hurry up, kids! It’s … (near/nearly) midnight.

8. The kids worked on a farm … their summer holidays. (in, on, at, for, since, during).

9. The umbrella was broken.

10. There are plenty of other fish in the sea.

Билет 10.

    Топик «Изучение иностранных языков».

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My Daily Routine

As a rule, I get up at half past six. I put on my dressing-gown, go into bathroom and turn on the bath taps. Good health is better than wealth, so I do my morning exercises. I get breakfast at seven-thirty and listen to the news over the radio.

I like to begin the day well, so my breakfast is always a good one. For breakfast I usually have hard-boiled eggs or an omelette , bread and butter, tea or coffee; I read my newspaper with my last cup of coffee before I leave home.

Then, I say "Good-bye" to my mother, take my school-bag and go to school. I don"t live far from my school, so it doesn"t take me long to get there. The lessons start at half past eight. Each lesson lasts for 45 minutes. The classes are over at two o"clock.

I come back home, have dinner, wash up and go shopping. I buy foodstuffs for the family. Coming back I begin to clean the house and get the vegetables ready for supper. We have supper at seven. I do my homework for the next day. It usually takes me several hours to prepare well for the lessons.

In the evening, I always try to spend at least an hour at the piano. As a rule my parents and I sit and talk, watch a film on TV, read newspapers and magazines. Sometimes, we go to the cinema or to the theatre. Once or twice a month, I visit exhibitions in my home town.

I go to bed at about eleven o"clock, but my parents like to sit up late and write letters or read.

Questions:

    When do you get up as a rule?

2. Why do you do your morning exercises?
3. What do you have for breakfast?

4. How long does each lesson last?

5. When do you begin to clean the house?

3. Выполните грамматические задания.

1.war is terrible thing .

2. I can see a sheep in the field. (Я вижу овечку в поле.)

3. the video camera/Don

4. Our new house is (more expensive, expensiver) than the old one.

5. I really … (enjoy/enjoyed/am enjoying) my last holiday in Venice. (Мне очень понравился мой последний отпуск в Венеции.)

6. Why are (you/your/yours) sitting here? It is not (you/your/yours) desk.

7. The police officer examined the car … (close/closely).

8. My car will be ready … 3 days. (in, on, at, for, since, during).

9. He always gives money to homeless children.

10. There are two sides to every question.