Сборник тренировочных упражнений по подготовке к ОГЭ устной части
материал для подготовки к егэ (гиа) по теме

Рець Марина Сергеевна

Сборник включает в себя такие разделы как: грамматика (словообразование), чтение, тексты на понимание прочитанного и извдечение нужной информации. Данный матеиал нацелеен помочь обучающимся успешно подготовится к сдаче устной части экзамена.

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МИНИСТЕРСТВО ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ САХАЛИНСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

ГБПОУ «САХАЛИНСКИЙ ПРОМЫШЛЕННО-ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКИЙ ТЕХНИКУМ»

СБОРНИК ТРЕНИРОВОЧНЫХ УПРАЖНЕНИЙ  ДЛЯ ПОДГОТОВКИ К ОГЭ ПО АНГЛИЙСКОМУ ЯЗЫКУ (УСТНАЯ ЧАСТЬ)

Составитель: преподаватель

английского языка

Рець М.С.

Г.ЮЖНО-САХАЛИНСК

2018

Цель предлагаемого пособия - помочь учащимся 9 класса в кратчайшие сроки подготовиться к устной части основного государственного экзамена (ОГЭ) по английскому языку. В сборнике представлены  тренировочные варианты, которые можно использовать в качестве практического материала для подготовки к экзамену. Предложенные варианты помогут составить представление о структуре, числе, форме и уровне сложности заданий и выработать правильную стратегию подготовки к экзамену. Сборник будет полезен и учителям, которые найдут в нем необходимый материал для работы на уроках.

ГРАММАТИКА (СЛОВООБРАЗОВАНИЕ)

Тест 1

B13

I grew up in the UK in the 1980s. During my ……………………………, there wasn't always a lot to do in the summer holidays.

CHILD

B14

On the rare occasions when it was a warm …………………………… day, we'd go for a picnic on Blackpool beach.

SUN

B15

As far as my family were concerned, there was nothing more…………………………… than eating sandwiches on the beach.

ENJOY

B16

We hardly ever went swimming, though, as the water was often…………………………… cold. So we would just play on the wet sand.

EXTREME

B17

But even if we were ……………………………with the weather and it started raining, we could always go for some fish and chips.

LUCKY

B18

Nothing gave us more pleasure after a…………………………… day at the seaside.

TIRE

Тест 2

Pablo Picasso

B13

Pablo Picasso was born in 1881 and died in 1973. He's an extremely well-known …………………………….

PAINT

B14

Although he was born in Spain, he spent most of his ……………………………life in Paris.

AMAZE

B15

Most of Picasso's pictures are quite …………………………… to look at, as they contain strange shapes and very weird faces.

USUAL

B16

His pictures are very bright.…………………………… often say they are dramatic works of art.

VIEW

B17

Picasso had close ……………………………with several other famous people from that time, including Henri Matisse and Gertrude Stein.

FRIEND

B18

His talent was widely recognised during his lifetime, and when people think of the greatest of all time, they…………………………… think of him.

GENERAL

Тест 3

B13

When Nick returned from his holiday, he met his friend Jill for a drink. She asked him if he had had a…………………………… time.

RELAX

B14

Nick said he'd really enjoyed swimming and visiting all the……………………………, but that it hadn't all been perfect.

ATTRACT

B15

Because of this, Jill asked him what had made him ……………………………during the trip.

HAPPY

B16

Nick replied that he hadn't really liked the hot weather. "You can't…………………………… enjoy yourself when you're sweating all the time," he said.

EASY

B17

Jill reminded him that now he was back in London, where it was grey and…………………………….

CLOUD

B18

"I know," said Nick, "but…………………………… I still have some sunburn from Thailand to keep me warm!"

LUCKY

Тест 5

B13

Before the Second World War, "youth culture" didn't exist. However, by the middle of the ……………………………century, it was very exciting being a teenager in the UK.

TWENTY

B14

This was the first …………………………… of young people with money to spend on music, clothes and going out.

GENERATE

B15

It was a time when everyone was…………………………… dressed and young people filled clubs, cinemas and music venues.

FABULOUS

B16

Many parents thought young people had …………………………… attitudes, and objected to the music they listened to.

SHOCK

B17

They also often complained about their children's ……………………………because of the modern clothes they wore and their strange haircuts.

APPEAR

B18

Nowadays, youth culture is appreciated for its ……………………………and how much it contributes to culture in general.

CREATIVE

Тест 6

B13

Before the Second World War, "youth culture" didn't exist. However, by the middle of the ……………………………century, it was very exciting being a teenager in the UK.

TWENTY

B14

This was the first …………………………… of young people with money to spend on music, clothes and going out.

GENERATE

B15

It was a time when everyone was…………………………… dressed and young people filled clubs, cinemas and music venues.

FABULOUS

B16

Many parents thought young people had …………………………… attitudes, and objected to the music they listened to.

SHOCK

B17

They also often complained about their children's ……………………………because of the modern clothes they wore and their strange haircuts.

APPEAR

B18

Nowadays, youth culture is appreciated for its ……………………………and how much it contributes to culture in general.

CREATIVE

Тест 7

B13

Ravi Shankar was born in 1920 and lived until 2010. He was a famous…………………………… from India.

MUSIC

B14

He played an instrument known as the sitar, which looks a little like a guitar but only has three strings. Its name…………………………… comes from a word meaning "three strings".

ACTUAL

B15

Shankar played ……………………………Indian songs that dated back centuries but were mostly unknown outside his own country.

CLASSIC

B16

In the 1950s, Shankar began touring the USA, playing Indian music around the country. He soon became popular with American music…………………………….

LOVE

B17

Before long, Shankar was giving concerts all over the world. He had become a real  ……………………………music star.

NATIONAL

B18

Shankar won many awards in his…………………………… career. He won Grammy awards and received the highest civilian honours in India and France.

CREDIBLE

Тест 8

B13

I went shopping yesterday. When I went into my local bookshop, I saw something …………………………….

AMAZE

B14

Jamie Oliver, the famous TV chef, was signing copies of his latest cookbook. You can't imagine my…………………………… at meeting him in person.

EXCITE

B15

I've seen a few other…………………………… over the years, but Jamie Oliver is one of my favourites.

CELEBRATE

B16

He has done various TV cookery shows, teaching viewers how to cook food which is quite simple, but still…………………………… and delicious.

HEALTH

B17

Jaime Oliver always appears to be such a friendly person. Some TV chefs, on the other hand, seem to try to be as …………………………… as possible.

PLEASANT

B18

I think they want viewers to…………………………… them, perhaps because hating them actually makes people keep watching their TV shows.

LIKE

Тест 9

B13

The British Broadcasting Company was formed in 1922. Its…………………………… saw the start of the first national radio broadcasting service in the UK.

INTRODUCE

B14

The company was ……………………………owned at first, but in 1926 it changed into a public corporation. In other words, it became owned by the state.

PRIVATE

B15

John Reith was the Director General of the new corporation. He insisted that the BBC must be completely…………………………… rather than under the control of the government.

DEPENDENT

B16

Reith's aim was to broadcast radio, and later TV, programmes that were both informative and very…………………………….

ENTERTAIN

B17

The BBC began regular TV broadcasts in 1934, and in 1964 opened a second TV channel, BBC2, renaming the…………………………… channel as BBC1.

ORIGIN

B18

Today, the BBC has millions of…………………………… and listeners all round the world.

VIEW

Тест 10

B13

The pirozhki is a well-known food around the world. It…………………………… comes from Russia.

ORIGINAL

B14

Pirozhkis are made using dough filled with meat and ……………………………vegetables.

DIFFER

B15

They are then baked in the oven or fried until they become a…………………………… brown colour.

GOLD

B16

The pirozhki has entered the cuisines of other countries, where it is made in…………………………… ways so that it resembles local food.

VARY

B17

Most non-Russian people…………………………… the word "pirozhki". The  accent falls on the last syllable, not the middle. You're supposed to say "pee-ro-SHKEE".

PRONOUNCE

B18

Because pirozhkis are made quite……………………………, they are popular as "street food" in many places worldwide.

EASY

Тест 11

B13

Alan walked into a bank to speak to someone about his cash card. He was…………………………… because the machine outside had just taken it from him.

HAPPY

B14

"Did you …………………………… change your PIN number?" the woman in the bank asked Alan.

RECENT

B15

Alan thought for a moment. He had the…………………………… that he had changed it.

FEEL

B16

"Yes, I think I tried to use the old number. I clearly didn't…………………………… the new one well enough," said Alan.

MEMORY

B17

Just then, a man walked up to the counter. "I found this card in the machine. Maybe it belongs to one of your ……………………………," he said.

CUSTOM

B18

It was Alan's card, and he thanked the man. The card was ……………………………, though, because Alan still couldn't remember the new PIN number.

USE

Тест 12

B13

Have you heard of "Big Ben"? It's one of the most ……………………………landmarks in Britain.

FAME

B14

When you think of Big Ben, what do you think of? You probably think of a clock tower on the end of a big…………………………… in the centre of London.

BUILD

B15

But Big Ben is …………………………… not a tower - it's the bell inside the tower. It's named after Sir Benjamin Hall, whose name is written on the bell.

ACTUAL

B16

The first bell cracked and broke, so the current bell is in fact a……………………………. It was first rung in 1859.

REPLACE

B17

Until 2012, the tower was officially called the Clock Tower. Then it was renamed in …………………………… of Queen Elizabeth's 60 years as queen.

CELEBRATE

B18

Now it is called Elizabeth Tower. And the …………………………… bell behind the clock has an official name too. It's not Big Ben - that's just a nickname. It's called the Great Bell.

NOISE

Тест 13

B13

Diamonds are stones that are usually clear and extremely hard. They are often very …………………………….

BEAUTY

B14

They're also quite rare, and as a result, they're very …………………………….

EXPENSE

B15

Diamonds make ……………………………jewellery. They are found in rings, necklaces, earrings and watchers.

LOVE

B16

The people who cut and polish rough diamonds to turn them into jewellery are called diamond …………………………….

CUT

B17

Diamonds were probably first discovered in India thousands of years ago. Today, though, the country's mines are almost ……………………………empty.

COMPLETE

B18

These days, diamonds are found in many countries around the world. Some of the largest ……………………………of diamonds are Russia, Canada, Australia and South Africa.

PRODUCE

Тест 14

B13

Being in a courtroom was a new experience for Alan. He felt more…………………………… than he had ever felt before.

NERVE

B14

He looked at the judge. She looked very serious and …………………………….

POWER

B15

Then he looked at the 12 members of the jury. They were sitting there…………………………… with serious expressions on their faces, too.

QUIET

B16

Then he looked in the…………………………… of his family. His mum smiled at him.

DIRECT

B17

"This is ……………………………," thought Alan's mum. "It's the proudest day of my life."

WONDER

B18

"This is fantastic," thought Alan. "I think I'm going to enjoy working as a……………………………."

LAW

Тест 15

B13

Do you use public transport? Russian cities provide a wide ……………………………of ways to travel around, including buses, trams, and trolley - buses.

VARY

B14

Seven of the largest Russian cities, such as Yekaterinburg, Samara and Kazan, have an underground metro system. This is very……………………………, especially when it's cold!

USE

B15

For …………………………… who want or need to fly, there are more than 1200 airports in Russia.

TRAVEL

B16

Flights from Pulkovo Airport in Saint Petersburg often go to other countries. For this reason, the airport is often called Pulkovo ……………………………Airport.

NATION

B17

Moscow is sometimes known as "the port of the five seas," due to its river and canal …………………………… to five seas, including the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea.

CONNECT

B18

The Trans-Siberian Railway is an…………………………… long railway. It takes more than 6 days to travel from Moscow to Vladivostok.

EXTREME

Тест 16

B13

My dream had finally come true. I had arrived in the truly ……………………………city of Rome.

AMAZE

B14

Looking at the beautiful and ancient buildings everywhere, I felt so small and ……………………………. What had I ever done to make the world a better place?

IMPORTANT

B15

Wandering through churches, museums and galleries, I thought about all the great ……………………………who had created the famous works of art that filled them.

ART

B16

After a day of exploring the historic centre, I returned to my hotel…………………………… exhausted.

TOTAL

B17

But, I was determined to enjoy every second of my stay there. In the evening, I booked a table at a very stylish and ……………………………restaurant.

FASHION

B18

As I knew it would, the view from the table on the restaurant terrace…………………………… took my breath away. I was in paradise!

ABSOLUTE

Тест 17

B13

'Greenhouse affect' is actually a ……………………feature of our atmosphere

 NATURE

B14

without which life on our planet would be …………………….

 POSSIBLE

B15

Certain atmospheric gases work as a kind of blanket, keeping the Earth warm. The amount of these 'greenhouse' gases used to be more or less the same for centuries. But the …………………… revolution broke this balance.

INDUSTRY

B16

Because of heavy industry and other human…………………… the amounts of CO2 and other gases have increased by 30%.

 ACTIVE

B17

Climate experts predict that by 2050 the…………………… average temperature will rise by 2-3 degrees.

 GLOBE

B18

It doesn't seem much. Remember, however, that the …………………… between the average global temperatures now and the last ice age (20,000 years ago) is only 6 to 8 degrees.

 DIFFER

 

 

 Тест 18

B13

Ask an American man to choose between losing his …………………… house and losing his car,

COMFORT

B14

and he might …………………… choose to keep his car.

EASY

B15

A car, after all, gives you ……………………, and this is what Americans want most of all.

FREE

B16

The car is such an important part of American…………………… that many just can’t live without it.

LIVE

B17

A woman living in a suburb, for example, has a twenty-minute drive to take her children to school. She then turns her car around and drives for half an hour in another ……………………to get to her job in an office.

DIRECT

B18

To do her ……………………, she has another long drive to a super-market, so she plans and buys food for two weeks in one trip.

SHOP

 

Тест 19

The man behind James Bond

B13

Did you know that the man who invented James   Bond was a secret agent himself? Before he started   writing the James Bond stories, Jan Fleming worked for British Naval Intelligence.

In some ways, Jan Fleming was just like James   Bond. When he was young, women found him very …………………….  

 ATTRACT

B14

Jan Fleming was also educated at Eton and was …………………… in sports.

 INTEREST

B15

And like his …………………… character, Jan Fleming liked adventure, gambling, fast cars, fine wines and good food.

 FICTION

B16

In 1939, Jan Fleming met someone in the British   Naval Intelligence who was looking for bright    young men. Though he was young Jan Fleming was given a lot of…………………….

RESPONSIBLE

B17

He plotted intelligence …………………… and carried out dangerous missions. Very soon, he became the right-hand man to one of Britain's top spymasters, Admiral John Godfrey.

 OPERATE

B18

During his quite …………………… career, Fleming met many important people and he used some of them as models for the characters in his books.

 SUCCESS

Тест 20

The gorilla

B13

The gorilla is a shy creature and seldom violent.

In fact, it is quite different from the…………………… animal we sometimes see in films and comic books. It only stands on two legs and beats its chest if it wants to frighten an enemy away.

 DANGER

B14

Gorillas are the largest and the most…………………… of all the apes. Adult males reach an average height of 150-170 cm and weigh from 135 to 230 kg.  Females are smaller.

 POWER

B15

Both males and females are ……………………strong and can tear down branches and pull up small trees.

 EXTREME

B16

They spend their days …………………… for food or resting in the warm sun.

 LOOK

B17

But there are few of these animals left in the wild.  This is because people are cutting down the forests in which gorillas …………………….

 LIFE

B18

If we want to save the gorilla, we must take…………………… now.

 ACT

 

 Тест 21

Are teenagers a problem?

B13

According to 'the older generation' teenagers are lazy, they wear …………………… clothes and are rude to their elders.  

RIDICULE

B14

What's more, they spend all their time listening to awful music and watching ……………………films. And all they ever think about is parties, drugs and sex.

SUITABLE

B15

……………………, it seems to me to be quite the opposite. Teenagers spend a lot of time thinking about their work (studies), their families and friends and their hobbies.

ACTUAL

B16

Sure, they think about clothes, money, their bodies and …………………… in a certain situation.

BEHAVE

B17

But isn't it the same for most people? So what about the myth that all teenagers are rude,   selfish, lazy and ……………………? As far as I'm concerned, it's nonsense.

GREED

B18

The vast majority of young people I meet are polite, ……………………, open, interested and hard-working.                                   

FRIEND

 

 Тест 22

Fitness

B13

Physical fitness is a general state of good health, usually as a result of exercise and nutrition. Physical fitness can also be described as a condition that allows us to look, feel and do our best. Being fit helps us have more energy for work or school, and enough energy to enjoy our leisure time …………………….

ACTIVE

B14

Fitness is an individual quality. It is influenced by age, sex, heredity, …………………… habits, exercise and eating practices.  

PERSON

B15

You can't do …………………… about the first three factors. However, it is within your power to change and improve the others where needed.

ANY

B16

The level of physical fitness can be influenced by regular, …………………… exercise. How often, how long and how hard you exercise, and what kinds of exercises you do should be determined by what you are trying to get.

SYSTEM

B17

For example, an athlete …………………… for high-level competition

TRAIN

B18

would follow a …………………… program than a person whose goals are good health and active life.

DIFFER

 

 Тест 23

My mission

B13

I think my mission is to create a good home. Home isn't just walls or people or memories connected with …………………….

CHILD

B14

Home is something …………………… different.

ABSOLUTE

B15

It's the atmosphere of love, ……………………

HAPPY

B16

and …………………… that gives me lots of life energy. Home is my mother whom I love very much.

UNDERSTAND

B17

Sometimes she worries about me when I come home late or do …………………… things. Sorry, mum!

EXPECTED

B18

Home is my brother whom I love too, though sometimes he annoys me very much. Home is the place where I can hide away from all my …………………… where I can relax after a hard school day and be myself. If I leave my home, a piece of it will be always in my heart.

DIFFICULT

 

  Тест 24

Can we live longer?

B13

Scientists say that in the future people will live longer. With healthier lifestyles and better…………………… care the average person can live to 100.

MEDICINE

B14

But that's tomorrow. And today, we continue to stuff ourselves with fast food. What is tasty is not always healthy. Doctors say that chips and pizzas are fattening, cola spoils our teeth and coffee …………………… our lives.

SHORT

B15

If we eat too much, it will lead to heart disease, diabetes and other serious……………………. But the world today is getting fatter and fatter.

ILL

B16

Lack of exercise is another ……………………problem. We spend hours in front of our computers and TV-sets. Few of us do morning exercises. We walk less, because we prefer to use cars or public   transport. Research shows, however, that young people who don't take enough exercise often suffer from heart attacks.

IMPORTANCE

B17

It's common …………………… that cigarettes and alcohol can make our lives shorter dramatically.

KNOW

B18

Yet many young people drink beer and few of them give up ……………………. We all know that the healthier we are, the better we feel. The better we feel, the longer we live. So why not take care of ourselves?

SMOKE

 

 Тест 25

Difficult problems

B13

The use of animals for …………………… purposes is a difficult ethical problem. Many people owe their lives to modern drugs or surgical techniques that first were tested on animals.

SCIENCE

B14

Some of these …………………… would not have been possible without animal experiments.

DEVELOP

B15

People who campaign for animal rights are usually young and ……………………, and have not yet needed the benefits of medical progress.

HEALTH

B16

Perhaps it is ethically …………………… to sacrifice animals for the sake of medical research, as long as the animals do not suffer.

ACCEPT

B17

But that …………………… point of view rises another difficult question:

THEORY

B18

what can be considered as ……………………?

SUFFER

 

 Тест 26

Reading books nowadays

B13

In an epoch of technical progress, reading books is losing its value. Little by little radio, television and internet are beginning to force books from our …………………… life. If in the past a lot of the greatest poets and writers, such as Pushkin, Yesenin, Bulgakov created their works, in our days such masters of words are absent.

DAY

B14

We begin to consider some detective and love stories of poor quality as 'literary works'. It's a big …………………… for all mankind.

ADVANTAGE

B15

A book is a …………………… friend for a man. Reading is the thing which helps us to develop our soul, teaches us to get to know our life.

FAITH

B16

The heroes of books, by their examples, help us to avoid mistakes. A good book is a wise company, which can give us ……………………advice.

USE

B17

Reading develops our memory; our speech becomes richer, more literate and…………………….

EXPRESS

B18

Reading books in a foreign languages, we can get to know the culture and traditions of native ……………………, improve our language and broaden our outlook.

SPEAK

 

 Тест 27

Fashion hurts

B13

Do you know that …………………… clothes can be bad for you!

 FASHION

B14

This may surprise you, but some clothes can cause …………………… problems.

 VARIETY

B15

Researchers have discovered that following the latest fashion trends can be ……………………. For example, if you tie a scarf or tie too tightly it increases your blood pressure. Tight jeans and trousers, short skirts may all cause illnesses.

 HEALTHY

B16

How can we explain this? Very tight clothes can prevent people moving ……………………, and this is not good for you.

 NATURAL

B17

If you wear trousers or skirts that are too tight around the waist, then your stomach does not have room to expand after you have eaten, and this can cause stomachache. ……………………shoes with high heels can lead to foot and back problems.

 WEAR

B18

Even practical shoes can cause backache if they don't fit you …………………….

 PROPER

 

 Тест 28

Are you a couch potato?

B13

Centuries ago, people didn't have much free time, because everybody was ……………………working too hard.

SIMPLE

B14

In Britain in the nineteenth century, people invented football, rugby and cricket. It was even …………………… to watch a sport

POSSIBILITY

B15

and give the …………………… that you were actually doing something.

IMPRESS

B16

Later leisure activities became less and less demanding, and most people got a variety of more or less …………………… interests and hobbies.

ENERGY

B17

But now there is a new type of person who thinks that lying on the sofa watching television is the most exciting thing. This is the twentieth-century couch potato. For them, every …………………… is too much trouble,

ACTIVE

B18

and …………………… is an art form!

LAZY

 

 Тест 29

Travelling with parents

B13

I like travelling because it can ……………………outlook and helps me to understand other cultures.

BROAD

B14

I think that I'm already an experienced…………………….

TRAVEL

B15

First of all everything should be ……………………planned. I'm not an adult yet so I travel with my parents. This year we decided to go to Britain.

CAREFUL

B16

In Britain we stayed in a small hotel near London. It offered us a wide range of…………………… games, such as tennis and football,

DIFFER

B17

and a lot of ……………………: boating, canoeing and soon.

ACTIVE

B18

…………………… was offered for those who wanted to get to remote places choosing scenic routes.

CYCLE

 

 Тест 30

A person's opinion on higher education

B13

In my opinion, the Russian system of higher education is more …………………… for its early specialization.

 VALUE

B14

Besides, the course work produces more informed students in the fields of studies chosen by them. …………………… success in Russian universities depends on the time and efforts put in class.

 ACADEMY

B15

Meanwhile in many …………………… and American universities it is homework.

 BRITAIN

B16

Also Russian students are mostly used to solving problems at …………………… seminars with other students.

 DIFFER

B17

I sometimes ask myself if the cost of education is worth it. A student spends years of …………………… time studying and learning. And parents have to work hard to pay for the education.

 PRICE

B18

What are the benefits? In most cases, the effect makes a better life. And what can be more …………………… than that?

IMPORTANCE

 

 Тест 31

Dale Carnegie

B13

In 1912, Dale Carnegie was a poor……………………… actor living in New York City.

 EMPLOYED

B14

He wanted to change his bad luck………………………. So, he had a talk with the director of a Young Men's Christian Association. Dale needed listeners and a place for his night course in public speaking.

 GREAT

B15

The director gave him that ………………………chance.

 LUCK

B16

Carnegie's brilliant career as an America's master of ……………………… advice started with that job.

PSYCHOLOGY

B17

He was sure that it was possible to overcome………………………, fear and lack of confidence.

 SHY

B18

He taught that anyone could be won by a warm and ……………………… smile. His book 'How to Win Friends and Influence People', became the first paperback to sell a million copies, and itis still in print in dozens of languages.

 FRIEND

 

 Тест 32

As selfish as modern people

B13

We believe that in old times people were 'environmentally'……………………… and lived in harmony with nature.

 FRIEND

B14

Some people (such as the ………………………Indians) respected and protected their environment. But there are many examples of ancient people who carelessly destroyed the land they inhabited.

 AMERICA

B15

The great city of Ur was destroyed by floods because people cut down the trees……………………… on the bank of their river to use for their fires.

 REGULAR

B16

Although the Bible says that the cause of the floods was the anger of God, the real cause of the flood was probably ………………………damage by man.

ENVIRONMENT

B17

The dodo was a large bird, rather like a turkey, that lived on the island of Mauritius in the Indian ocean. When the first man arrived in Mauritius in the early 16th century, they found that the dodos were not afraid of people. The ……………………… killed dodos partly for food and partly for sport.

 SETTLE

B18

Less than 200 years after the first man settlement on Mauritius, the last dodo was dead. Only the expression 'as dead as a dodo' lives in the ……………………… language.

 ENGLAND

 

 Тест 33

How I was a 'punk'

B13

In the fashion and music industries hair styles change as ……………………… as traffic lights but bright red or green usually dominates.

 QUICK

B14

So, I'm neither the first nor the last to dye my hair a shock. When you dye your hair some……………………… color,

 NATURAL

B15

people feel that you are trying to draw attention to yourself and they start passing……………………… comments.

 DIFFER

B16

So, when some adults saw my ………………………red and green hair, they told me that they hated the color and some children cried, 'Lookit's a punk'.

At last I was not allowed to take my school exams because of that bright color.

 COLOR

B17

I ……………………… think that our social attitudes haven't changed since the late 1970's and the days of the punk Mohican.

 SERIOUS

B18

I was called 'rebellious' and '……………………… '. I have also discovered what poor manners many people show when it comes to reacting to other people's choice of hair color. Only hair color and nothing else.

 POLITE

Тест 34

Great values of the Internet

B13

One of the most ……………………… functions of the Internet is its information function.

 VALUE

B14

The Internet keeps people informed about……………………… events as well as

 DIFFER

B15

about the latest ……………………… in science and culture.

 ACHIEVE

B16

Recently a system of distance learning has become popular. You can study foreign languages and even study at universities. Individual ……………………… program can be developed especially for you.

 EDUCATE

B17

The Internet is also ……………………… used in business. 

 WIDE

B18

Thanks to the Internet, we have a quick……………………… with partners from all corners of the world. You can also conduct negotiations, hear and see your contacts, and exchange graphic and textual information.

 CONNECT

 

Тест 35

In the old city of Rochester

B13

Rochester is one of the oldest and most charming English cities. It was founded by the Romans who came here in 43 AD and built a fortress and a bridge over the River Medway.

Rochester is famous for its ancient castle, its magnificent cathedral, and its ………………………with Charles Dickens.

 CONNECT

B14

Charles Dickens spent five of his……………………… years near Rochester. As a boy, he explored every corner of the city.

 CHILD

B15

When he became a ………………………, he often used the people and places of Rochester as characters and settings for his novels.

 WRITE

B16

Much later, when he was worldfamous, the……………………… returned to the Rochester area and spent the last 13 years of his life nearby. The last words Dickens ever wrote were about Rochester  the city he loved so much and where he wished to be buried.

 NOVEL

B17

To honour the great Victorian author Rochester holds ……………………… festivals.

 AMAZE

B18

At the beginning of December Rochester plunges into the atmosphere of Victorian Christmas. Many people dress up in Victorian costumes and parade the streets and the Castle gardens. There are bell ringers, carol singers, street entertainers and ………………………Dickensian characters.

Тест 36

The Sweeps festival

B13

Nearly 300 years ago, many children from poor families (sometimes as young as four) worked as chimney sweeps. It was hard, dirty and ……………………… work. The pay, however, was very low.

 DANGER

B14

So on the first of May chimney sweeps were allowed to have some fun and celebrate their 'Sweeps holiday'. Dickens described these……………………… in his works.

 CELEBRATE

B15

In 1860, Parliament passed a law that made it……………………… to use young boys to clean inside chimneys, and the traditional celebration died out.

 LEGAL

B16

But in the 1980s, Gordon Newton, a Rochester………………………, decided to revive the sweeps holiday.

 HISTORY

B17

He ……………………… researched the sweeps' tradition and studied Charles Dickens's descriptions of the event. In 1981 Newton organised a small parade with a group of dancers.

 CAREFUL

B18

The festival has now become very popular and attracts many thousands of ……………………….  

 VISIT

 

Тест 37

James Cameron

B13

Most people know James Cameron as a famous film director, who created The Terminator, Titanic and Avatar. But James is also a deepsea ……………………….

 EXPLORE

B14

It took Cameron and his team 7 years to prepare for ……………………… this trip.

 DANGER

B15

He spent 3 hours in this cold desertlike place, with no sunlight and heavy water……………………….

 PRESS

B16

People have not visited the Mariana Trench since 1960, when two divers first reached the planet's deepest place  nearly 11 kilometres  in the Pacific Ocean.  They could ………………………see anything and took no pictures.

 HARD

B17

James Cameron travelled to the Mariana Trench in his wellequipped minisubmarine. It has 3D cameras and a mechanical arm for collecting samples of soil and deepsea……………………….

 CREATE

B18

Cameron is going to make a 3D film about Mariana Trench. 'I see this as the………………………, ' he said.

 BEGIN

 Тест 38

Cosmetics

B13

Every day, women around the world use eyeshadow, mascara, blush and lipstick. Then maybe some nail polish, and ……………………… a little perfume.

 FINAL

B14

……………………… this every morning

 DO

B15

gives many women the ……………………… they need to go out and meet people.

CONFIDENT

B16

Wearing cosmetics is the most common type of body ……………………… in the world today.

 DECORATE

B17

With the help of cosmetics, you can hide skin problems, change the colour of your hair, the shape of your eyebrows, and the……………………… of your eyelashes.

 LONG

B18

A recent ……………………… in modern cosmetics is permanent makeup which helps women not to put it on every day.

 DEVELOP

 

 Тест 39

London streets

B13

Fleet Street in London used to be the home of most ……………………… daily and Sunday newspapers and that is why people often say 'Fleet Street' meaning 'the press' even now.

 NATION

B14

In the 1980s most of the newspapers moved to new ……………………… in different parts of London to use new printing technologies.

 BUILD

B15

British newspapers can be divided into quality and popular ones. These groups are easily distinguished because the quality newspapers are ……………………… the size of the popular newspapers.

 TWO

Тест 40

Baker street

B16

One of the most famous addresses in London is 221b Baker street, the ……………………… home of the world's most famous detective,

 REAL

B17

Sherlock Holmes and his ……………………… Dr. Watson  according to the stories by sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

 ASSIST

B18

The house at 221b Baker street was built in 1815 and was last used as a lodging house in 1936. The ……………………… study on the first floor is kept as it was then. The house is now protected as the city's cultural and architectural heritage.

 FAME

 

Тест 41

English habits

B13

In a nation of many millions there are many different kinds of people: good and bad, honest and ………………………, happy and unhappy.

 HONEST

B14

However, we can talk about some general things. The best-known quality of the English is that they are reserved. A reserved person is one who does not talk very much to unfamiliar people, never tells you anything about himself. If English people are making a journey by train, they will try to find an empty compartment. If they have to share the compartment with a ………………………,

 STRANGE

B15

they may travel without starting a……………………….

 CONVERSE

B16

If they start talking, ……………………… questions like 'How old are you?' or even 'What's your name?' are not easily asked.

 PERSON

B17

Questions like 'Where did you buy your watch?' or 'What is your salary?' are……………………….

 POSSIBLE

B18

But the people of the North and West of Britain……………………… the Welsh, are less reserved than those of the South and East.

 ESPECIAL

 

Тест 42

Da Vinci

B13

Most people know that Leonardo da Vinci was a great painter. However he was also a talented sculptor, musician, poet,………………………, architect and an engineer.

 SCIENCE

B14

Da Vinci was a great ………………………, too.

 INVENT

B15

Some of his projects were ………………………. For example, he drew a flying machine 400 years before the airplane was invented.

 SUCCESS

B16

He also designed an air, ………………………, an alarm clock, a reading lamp, a submarine and many other things. In all, da Vinci designed more than 1,000 inventions!

CONDITION

B17

………………………, he didn't have time to develop many of his ideas. He was always more interested in thinking about and planning projects than doing them.

 SAD

B18

Da Vinci was also a very ……………………… man. Nobody knows much about his private life. What's more, he wrote backwards in his notebooks and it took time to read what he had written in them.

 MYSTERY

 

Тест 43

Sleepy teens

B13

Sleep studies show that most teenagers don't get enough sleep and ……………………… go to school feeling tired.

 USUAL

B14

The problem with the poor sleep is how you feel when you are not sleeping  sleepy, irritated or ………………………. Sleepiness makes it difficult to concentrate and to learn, and sleepy students often get bad marks.

 MOOD

B15

And it's not only about the process of getting………………………. Studies show that teens who don't get enough sleep have problems getting along with members of the family at home and their classmates at school.

 EDUCATE

B16

They are more likely to have family fights and bad headaches. Sleepy teens who drive cars may cause serious, even ………………………accidents.

 DEAD

B17

Sleep ……………………… say that teens are programmed to go to sleep later and wake up later than other age groups. But many schools start classes early. Some American schools, for example, start classes at seven o'clock.

 SCIENCE

B18

Experts think that teens need more hormones for their normal ……………………… and such types of hormones are made during sleep. What can schools do? Maybe schools should start classes later in the morning.

 GROW

 

Тест 44
The man in the iron mask

B13

He didn't wear an ……………………… iron mask but he wore one made of cloth. For thirtyfive years this man was kept in prison. To this day nobody knows who the man was.

 USUAL

B14

He was put in prison by the king of France who refused to answer any questions about why the ……………………… was there or who he was.

 PRISON

B15

When the famous author Alexander Dumas heard about that ……………………… person, he used him as the basis of his popular book 'The Man in the Iron Mask'.

 MYSTERY

B16

To make the story even more tragic, Duma changed the cloth mask which the man……………………… wore into the iron one.

 ACTUAL

B17

The real man was put in prison when he was no more than twentytwo. He was told by his……………………… guards that if he said one word about who he was, he would be killed. So, he was allowed to speak only about his health and food.

 HEART

B18

According to some records, the man was kind,……………………… and never complained. When he died in prison, he was buried under a false name.

 PATIENCE

 

Тест 45

Extreme hairstyles

B13

Not so long ago, extreme hairstyles could shock people and even make them angry. When the Beatles became famous in the 1960s, older people found their long,……………………… hair very disturbing.

 TIDY

B14

Long hair on men was soon seen as a sign of……………………….

 REBEL

B15

The hippies of the same era expressed their……………………… with the rules and customs of the time by growing their hair even longer.

 SATISFY

B16

Then, just when people were getting used to long hair, the punks came along, with their spiky hair or ……………………… heads.

 SHAVE

B17

Today, people don't follow fashions as……………………… as they did in previous times.

 CLOSE

B18

Almost anything goes! Short hair, long hair, even no hair, are all ……………………….

 ACCEPT

 

Тест 46

Taking up a team sport

B13

People worldwide enjoy sports whether they are playing in a team or doing an individual sport. Some ……………………… team sports because they like playing in a team,

 CHOICE

B14

while those who take up individual sports consider team sports to have many……………………….

ADVANTAGE

B15

To begin with, one advantage of taking up a team sport is the sense of team spirit. Players learn to cooperate while working towards the same goal. Moreover, playing in a team can also help one make new friends. Another reason for taking up a team sport is that when you win, you share the ………………………

 ACHIEVE

B16

and when you lose, you have someone to share the ……………………… with.

 LOSE

B17

On the other hand, there is always a chance that not all players will get along with each other. This may cause ……………………… and make players very competitive.

 ARGUE

B18

In ………………………, when you are part of a team, you have to depend on other players.

 ADD

 

Тест 47

B13

Scotland is a popular tourist destination. To me, the main …………………… of Scotland is its castles.

 ATTRACT

B14

The landscape in Scotland is more dramatic than in England and the castles look very…………………… there.

 IMPRESS

B15

One doesn't need to be a poet or an…………………… to see their beauty.

 ART

B16

Visiting Edinburgh Castle was an ……………………experience. Its location is remarkable - it was built on top of a volcanic rock. Luckily, the volcano has never disturbed the Castle.

FORGETABLE

B17

But it has been …………………… damaged by people. Like most ancient castles, Edinburgh Castle was built as a fortress. It has been involved in many military conflicts, ruined and restored several times. The oldest part of the Castle dates from 12th century, the other parts were constructed and reconstructed later.

 SERIOUS

B18

Now the Castle houses several museums, including the …………………… War Museum.

 NATION

 

Тест 48

B13

The Internet is a great invention that has changed the way we communicate forever. Nowadays, if you want to exchange…………………… with someone, it's not important how far away the person is.

INFORM

B14

What …………………… matters is whether he has access to the Internet or not.

REAL

B15

I know that when people started to experiment with the Internet, it required lots of …………………….

EQUIP

B16

Computers and other devices were very large in size and it was …………………… to carry them around – they were always kept in a laboratory.

POSSIBLE

B17

Now …………………… devices have got smaller - you can carry them in a handbag or in your pocket.

ELECTRON

B18

I’m not a ……………………, or ever an engineer, but I'm sure there will be lots of new Internet-related interventions in the near future.

SCIENCE

 

Тест 49

B13

I don't like opera very much. I find it……………………. Like many people on my age I prefer another type of music - music you can dance to.

BORE

B14

My grandparents, however, …………………… with me. They think that every human being should listen to classical music, at least from time to time.

AGREE

B15

When I was younger, they even dreamt that I would become a …………………… or a composer.

MUSIC

B16

…………………… for me, now they understand there is no chance of that.

LUCKY

B17

Once I took part in a musical …………………… and came last! Anyway, when they go on their special outings to the Opera House, they insist that I should go with them. I usually obey.

COMPETE

B18

But not because I like opera. It's because I love architecture! And all the Opera Houses we’ve visited look …………………… room both inside and outside.

FANTASY

Тест 50

B13

There are lots of stories about animals who save people’s lives. Dogs, cats, horses and even rabbits sometimes help people in very…………………… situations.

DANGER

B14

Mary Pitt, for example, the …………………… of a cat, Toffy, survived the fire due to help pet.

OWN

B15

Nobody knows what caused the fire in the ……………………. Mary was fast asleep when the smoke filled in her room. She ignored the sound of the smoke alarm and kept on sleeping. Amazingly, instead of escaping the house, the cat, Toffy, stayed in the room trying to wake up Mary.

BUILD

B16

The cat bit her hand until she woke up. When the woman realised what was going on, she…………………… called the emergency services. The firemen stopped the fire.

IMMEDIATE

B17

Now Toffy enjoys the title of the most…………………… cat in Mary’s town.

FAME

B18

Some people say that cats are less devoted to people than dogs. For obvious reasons, Mary considers this statement …………………….

FAIR

 

Тест 51

B13

Nowadays lots of tourists prefer quiet places to big cities. That is why small ……………………towns have become very popular tourist destinations.

TRADITION

B14

I think this growing …………………… is very useful for local economies.

POPULAR

B15

The tourist industry creates new jobs. A good share of these jobs do not necessarily require…………………… and highly qualified workers.

SKILL

B16

It means students and people without college…………………… have a fair chance to earn a living.

EDUCATE

B17

In tourist regions people more often set up their own small businesses and it helps reduce …………………… too.

EMPLOYMENT

B18

A friend of mine, who lives in a small town, used to have constant problems with work. When his home town became popular with tourists, he became a taxi driver and now he's running a small business very …………………….

SUCCESSFUL

 

Тест 52

B13

Playing games is very important for children. Scientists say children …………………… learn different skills when they play.

QUICK

B14

When children play sports, they learn to work in teams and to reach goals - skills which will be vital for their …………………… life in the future.

PPOFESSION

B15

When role playing, children try different social roles: a child can act as a parent, a friend, a ……………………, a doctor, whatever.

TEACH

B16

While playing, children try different behavioral models which will help them interact with real people and solve all kinds of problems and conflicts. Playing develops…………………….

IMAGINE

B17

Children who play a lot are more …………………… than those who don't.

CREATE

B18

That is why adults should encourage children when they play, but, ……………………, they don't always take it seriously.

FORTUNATELY

 

Тест 53

B13

The weekend was boring. We had had lots of plans for Saturday but the weather…………………… ruined them.

ABSOLUTE

B14

When I woke up in the morning, the sky was clear which promised a wonderful day. My sister, Laura, and I were planning to go to the beach. A week before, we had discovered a…………………… place there.

FANTASY

B15

It was a little harbour, separated from the rest of the beach by two volcanic rocks. There were lots of …………………… seashells there.

COLOUR

B16

The rocks were difficult to climb and they made the area between them practically invisible to the …………………… tourists.

NOISE

B17

We were packing our lunch when the sky became overcast and it started to rain. I hoped the rain would stop soon and wanted to go anyway. But Laura said that she had to…………………… with me and she was right - it rained hard till the next morning.

AGREE

B18

It was a great …………………… for both of us.

DISAPPOINT

 

Тест 54

B13

I always wanted to take driving lessons and my dream came true recently. The driving school is very close to my house. Actually, it's in the …………………… next to it, so it takes me just a few seconds to get there.

BUILD

B14

My instructor is a very experienced……………………. He is strict and notices my every little mistake.

DRIVE

B15

He says there are no …………………… things when you are on the road, and every mistake could cause serious problems.

IMPORTANT

B16

I really enjoy my lessons but driving is still very …………………… to me.

STRESS

B17

There are lots of …………………… situations and I have to be very attentive and careful all the time.

DANGER

B18

The ability to react …………………… is also necessary.

QUICK

 

Тест 55

B13

The roller skates I got for my birthday were a great present. I could hardly wait till the next morning to try them. In fact, I had never gone roller-skating before but I had seen how…………………… people in the park did it and was sure I would manage too.

EASY

B14

After all, I'm sporty and a good football…………………….

PLAY

B15

I didn't even think that it might be…………………….

DANGER

B16

I went to the park alone and it was a bad…………………… to make.

DECIDE

B17

I fell and hurt my leg badly. My leg looked…………………… blue.

NATURALLY

B18

It was very …………………… and I could not walk. Some people called for an ambulance. Luckily, the bone was not broken, but I had to spend some time in hospital.

PAIN

Тест 56

B13

People talk a lot about diets and eating habits today. They say …………………… eating improves quality of life.

HEALTH

B14

I’ve recently seen a …………………… about the food pyramid we need to keep in mind when we design our menu. According to this pyramid, all necessary foods are divided into five groups.

PRESENT

B15

The first group contains pasta, cereal, rice, and bread - the basic foods which people eat the most. In the second group, there are…………………… vegetables and fruit. Milk, eggs, meat, and fish make the third group.

DIFFER

B16

Sweets and fats are the smallest group and people should almost totally avoid eating these foods, which can be …………………… to the body.

HARM

B17

I think this approach to your diet is very…………………….

REASON

B18

However, my friends, who are vegetarians,……………………. They think the third group should be avoided completely.

AGREE

 

ЧТЕНИЕ

Nowadays solar energy is widely used as an alternative form of power. Solar panels transform the energy from the sun into electricity. The first plane that does not need fuel was constructed in France in 2015. It uses only the sun’s energy. The panels are placed on the huge wings of the plane. It doesn’t fly very fast. Solar energy can make the plane move at only 140 miles an hour. However, the plane is able to travel round the world. It is safe and can successfully cross areas of bad weather. In the future, engineers hope to construct a model that people can fly in. Our dream of environmentally friendly transport may come true very soon. Would you like to take a flight on the solar plane?

***

We are always told that we should clean our teeth regularly to keep them healthy and to have fresh breath. It is believed that people started using a kind of paste to clean their teeth around 5000 years ago. However, the ingredients of these tooth powders were very different from ours. For example, the people of ancient Egypt used salt, mint, dried flowers and pepper to create tooth powder. Later, in the 18th century, in some countries in Europe, people brushed their teeth with burnt bread. The first toothpaste appeared in 1890, in Great Britain. At first it was sold in jars. Then special tubes were designed to make the toothpaste more comfortable to use.

***

Do you know why it is hot in the summer and cold in the winter? Most people believe that it is because the Earth is closer to the Sun in the summer and farther from it in the winter. But it is not like this at all! In fact, the distance between the Earth and the Sun is largest in July and smallest in January! Scientists suggest that the reason for different summer and winter temperatures is the angle of the Sun’s rays. In the summer, the rays reach the Earth almost at a right angle. Due to this, the rays are not spread out and a smaller area of the planet's surface gets the energy. In the winter, the angle changes and the Sun’s rays are spread out over a larger area. Besides this, the long nights and short days do not give enough time for the land to warm up.

***

Venus is one of the hottest planets in the Solar system. The temperature on its surface is 482 degrees. This unfriendly place looks much the same as the Earth 4 billion years ago. Both planets were formed from the same gas cloud, but Venus lost most of its water and atmosphere. This happened because the planet turns very slowly. As a result, now it has no magnetic field to protect it from the Sun's winds. The planet has turned into a lifeless desert. Most space modules that were sent to Venus, could not work on the planet more than two hours. The acidic clouds and high pressure quickly made them absolutely useless.

***

Studies of the atmosphere first received technical support in 1912. Equipment to measure temperature and pressure was invented in Germany. But the question was how to raise it high into the air. In 1921, Russian engineers suggested using planes. The special equipment was put on planes that made regular flights. Thanks to this, scientists got a lot of new information about the structure of the atmosphere. Nowadays scientists use modern flying laboratories to study the structure of clouds at different levels. Unlike the first planes, these laboratories can work in any weather and are able to predict climate changes.

***

Wombats are exotic animals that only live in Australia. They have become an unofficial symbol of the country. In 1974 a wombat appeared on an Australian stamp for the first time. Since then it has been regularly used on different Australian stamps and coins. Wombats look like little bears and prefer grass to meat. They also love eating berries, plant roots and mushrooms. Like camels, wombats drink little water because there is enough water in fresh grass. Wombats spend most of their life in holes under the ground. With their strong arms and long nails they are able to dig very long and complex tunnels. Fortunately, wombats have few enemies in the animal world. Most wombats live around 15 years.

***

Most people enjoy watching the night sky. And the brightest object in the sky is the Moon. Every night the Moon rises in the East and sets in the West. It takes about 27 days to go around the Earth, and it’s an interesting fact that we always see the same side of the Moon. The Moon is the closest object to the Earth. It would take us only 13 hours to get to the Moon by rocket. If we were able to travel at the speed of light, it would take a bit less than two seconds.

There is a very thin atmosphere on the Moon. Life is not possible there. In spite of this, the Moon can be used as a base for space exploration and even for space tourism. Some space companies say that they will be able to take tourists to the Moon as soon as in 2020.

***

 

In 1642 a French student invented the first mechanical calculator. He was only 18 and the counting machine was a present for his father. The father worked as a tax collector and the young man wanted to make his job easier.

The talented inventor made several machines, but nobody was interested. The young man was ahead of his time. Many years passed before people realized how useful these machines could be and started mass producing them.

Today most mechanical calculators have been replaced with electronic models. These small devices can perform a lot of mathematical operations. You just need to enter the numbers by pressing the keys and you’ll see the final result on the screen in no time.

***

One day a young man who lived near the lake in a small American town asked himself, “Why can’t people ski on water if they can ski on snow?” With his brother’s help he constructed several models of skis to test his ideas. He experimented on the local lake for a few days and created skis suitable for the water. This happened in 1922. The young man, who was only 18 at that time, didn’t patent his invention. However, he performed a lot of shows across the country that made him and the sport of water skiing popular. Later, he was recognized as the creator of a new sport – water skiing.

Water skiing equipment has been greatly improved since that time, and the number of people who enjoy this sport is growing in many countries.

***

The ninth planet of the solar system was discovered not long ago. It happened in 1930. Scientists had been hunting for the planet for a long time. They had calculated its probable position, but there was no proof that the planet really existed. It was too far away for the telescopes of that time to find it. It’s worth mentioning that the first photos of the planet were taken by a very young researcher. He was only twenty-four and had no formal education in astronomy. However he was deeply involved in the search for the ninth planet. The planet at the edge of the solar system was called Pluto, after the Roman god. The name for the planet was suggested by an 11-year-old British girl.

 

***

The first vacuum cleaner was designed in 1869. Since then, vacuum cleaners have changed a lot. Nowadays the robot vacuum cleaner is getting more and more popular. This device cleans a house automatically. Following a programme, the robot drives slowly around the house and makes it cleaner. It operates with brushes and a tube. The robot is so flexible that it can get under a table or sofa or reach dust in corners. Some advanced models can also wash floors of all kinds. These functions are provided by a complicated electronic system and sensors inside. The vacuum cleaner looks like a plate and can be kept in the corner. It is friendly to children and animals and works on electricity.

***

It's hard to find a more popular Russian symbol than the traditional Russian doll, or Matryoshka. It is well-known all over the world. The first set of dolls appeared in Moscow in 1890. It consisted of eight dolls. All of them were children: seven girls, one boy, and a baby. In those times, Matryoshkas were not meant as toys for children as their price was very high. Mostly, adults bought them as presents or home decorations. There was a belief that if you put a note with a wish into Matryoshka, it would come true. At the beginning of the 20th century, Russia started to export their national dolls abroad.

***

Global warming is a result of human activity. In 1985 there was a big conference in Austria where 89 climate researchers from different countries took part. After long discussions the scientists declared that the climate of the planet had changed. Indeed, it is warmer now than it was years ago. It can be clearly seen in the north. In the Arctic some places are ice-free now and polar bears have lost the place where they lived. The sea level has risen as well. The situation is getting more and more serious. Global warming is a great problem which needs to be solved in the near future.

***

English is the third most-spoken language in the world after Chinese and Spanish. Over 840 million people speak English as a first or second language. It is an official language of 67 countries. 80 percent of information stored on all computers in the world is in English. The vocabulary of the English language is the biggest in the world. A new word is added into English almost every two hours. The English language is said to be one of the happiest languages in the world. The word happy is used more often than the word sad! That's a good reason to learn this language, isn’t it?

***

The human brain is the most complex and remarkable organ of the body. It controls everything we do –thinking, learning, and even heart rate. Though the brain makes up only 2 percent of the body's weight, it uses around 20 percent of its energy. It works 24 hours a day. Even when a person is sleeping, the brain is working hard to keep other organs functioning. Most people think that our brain is more active during the daytime because it needs to deal with a great amount of information. In fact, that’s not true. The brain is far more active when a person is sleeping! However, scientists don’t yet have any explanation for this fact

***

We don’t realize how lucky we are to have clean water whenever we want. A lot of people around the world do not have such an opportunity. Did you know that more than 750 million people on the Earth do not have clean water to drink? Meanwhile, a lot of water is wasted and polluted. In 1993 the United Nations decided to celebrate the World Day for Water. Nowadays a lot of special events are organized in different countries. Their aim is to make people understand how important clean water is for their health, environment and agriculture. Water is essential for our life. We should think about saving it, as the fresh water supplies are limited. We need to keep it clean for ourselves and for future generations.

***

Earth Hour is an event that encourages people around the world to switch off electricity at the same time for one hour. Of course, switching off the lights for an hour makes a small difference to the amount of energy we use. But the aim of the event is not to save energy but to get people to think about the planet they live on. Earth Hour started in Australia in 2007. More and more countries join the ecological movement every year. Now, millions of people from 178 countries switch off their lights for 60 minutes at the end of March. People in Russia participate in this event too – large office buildings and small private houses go dark for Earth Hour.

***

Our planet is the only planet in the Solar System where rainbows are possible. They are not visible in big cities, due to pollution and smog. But if you are travelling after rain has fallen in the countryside or walking on the beach, you have a good chance to see a rainbow. The rainbow is a multi-coloured arc which appears in the sky. When you see a rainbow, the sun is always behind you and it is raining in front of you. It is impossible to get to the end of the rainbow and to touch it. When you move, the rainbow moves too. We have always learned that rainbows have 7 colours. However, until the 17th century, people used to think there were only 5 colours in the rainbow.

***

Though most people believe that the tomato is a vegetable, this plant is actually a fruit. Tomato is a fruit because it has seeds inside like apples, oranges, lemons, and all other types of fruit. The tomato comes from Central and South America. When tomatoes were brought to England in the 17th century, people thought that they were poisonous and refused to eat them. Only in 1820, Robert Johnson proved that tomatoes were absolutely safe and would not affect people’s health. He ate a basket of tomatoes in public. Nowadays, the tomato is widely used in all types of food. There are many different kinds of tomatoes – over 7,500! They differ in size, shape, colour and taste.

***

The Channel Tunnel is a rail tunnel beneath the English Channel which links Great Britain and France. It is considered to be one of the most amazing engineering constructions in Europe. The second longest undersea tunnel in the world was opened in 1994. It is said that 13,000 workers and engineers participated in the construction project. The Channel Tunnel contains three tunnels. The south tunnel is for people who are travelling from France to the UK, the north tunnel takes passengers from the UK to France. Nowadays it takes 35 minutes to go from Paris to London in the Channel Tunnel. The third tunnel is a service tunnel. It is not used by passengers.

***

The construction of the longest and the deepest railroad tunnel was finished in Europe. The tunnel runs through the Alps and links the north and south of Europe. The length of the tunnel is 57 kilometres. It runs straight from beginning to end. It will allow passenger trains to travel more quickly through the mountains. Modern technologies ensure safety and security when the trains go through the tunnel. The great project started in 2009 and it took 17 years to complete. It is considered to be one of the most amazing engineering constructions in Europe.

***

Bicycles or bikes are an important means of transportation in many parts of the world. The first bicycles turned up in Europe in the first half of the19th century but the word ‘bicycle’ only appeared later, in 1868. There are more bicycles in the world than cars. About 100 million bicycles are produced worldwide each year. A lot of people have realized that cycling is an easy way to get around and a great way to cut down on pollution. More and more cities have special places where people can borrow a bike and ride around the city. Over the past few years, a bicycle infrastructure has been created in Moscow. Cycling in the centre of Moscow in summer is one of the most pleasant and quickest ways of seeing the city.

***

Great Britain is home to the world’s oldest school. The King’s School was established in 1567 and it is still open. It has a long history. Many famous people have been educated at this old school. Nowadays The King’s School is an independent secondary school for boys and girls from 13 to 18. More than 800 pupils study at the school. Though The King’s School is located in old buildings, it has up-to-date technical equipment and provides a full modern education. The King’s School is also famous for its festival of music, drama and arts. It is held during the last week of the summer term and attracts a lot of people from different parts of the country.

***

Human activity creates waste. The problem isn’t new and space is no exception to the rule. Dead satellites, rocket stages and other things are littering our planet’s orbit. They are getting dangerously close to space stations and there is a great possibility of an accident. Space stations could be completely destroyed by the rubbish. In 1983, a tiny piece of paint from a satellite made a big hole in the side window of a spaceship. There is a great need to “clean up” space and to take away 3,000 tons of space rubbish. To solve the problem, scientists and engineers are designing special spaceships that will collect and recycle space rubbish.

***

The mobile phone has become an important part of our everyday life. We can’t imagine our lives without it now. Thanks to the mobile phone we can keep in contact with our relatives and friends at any time. We use them to text and to send emails, to share photos and videos. We can use the Internet and listen to music and do lots of other things. However, according to surveys, mobile phone users mostly spend their time on games and social networking. Around 80 percent of the world’s population has a mobile phone. The mobile phone industry is the fastest growing industry in the world. From 1983 to 2016, worldwide mobile phone subscriptions grew to over 7 billion.

***

Netball is played by over 20 million people in more than 70 countries of the world. It was invented in 1892 as women’s basketball. However, netball is different from basketball in many ways. For example, the ball and the basket are smaller and the court is bigger. The players cannot run with the ball. They are not allowed to touch the players who they are playing with. Netball has seven players in each team (not five as in basketball). During the 20th century, the game became very popular in English-speaking countries. Traditionally, only girls and women have played netball. Nowadays, netball is the number one women’s sport in the world but boys and men are starting to play it too.

***

Table tennis is the third most played sport in the world after football and cricket. It is considered to be an indoor version of Lawn Tennis. However, they have a lot of differences. Table tennis has a different scoring system, a smaller ball, smaller rackets, and a smaller playing area. Modern table tennis was invented at the end of the 19th century in England. Very soon the new sport became popular all over the world. In 1901, competitions with over 300 participants were already being held. According to numerous studies, table tennis has great effects on human health. It keeps the brain sharp and improves the player’s coordination. Since 1988, table tennis has been an Olympic sport.

***

A zoo, also known as a zoological park or a zoological garden, gives people the opportunity to watch animals from different continents. There are hundreds of zoos all over the world. However, most of them are located in major cities. The first zoo in Russia was opened in 1864, in Moscow. It was a small zoological garden. On the opening day, only 287 animals were on display. Nowadays, the Moscow Zoo is one of the largest in Europe. The unique collection of the Zoo includes over 8000 kinds of animals and birds. Scientists study the animals’ behavior and reproduction. They also breed rare animals there to stop them dying out.

***

Oxford University is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. It is also the second oldest university in the world. The University of Oxford is believed to have started in 1133. It is located in Oxford City on the Thames River, not far from London. Oxford University is one of the world’s most impressive centres of education. There are students from different countries there. In fact, there is no building in Oxford called Oxford University. The University includes 38 colleges and related buildings. Over 22,000 students study English language and literature, geography, history, law, modern languages and other subjects there.

***

The rainforest can be described as a thick and very tall jungle. The term rain comes from the great quantity of water that these forests get throughout the year. The rainforests are the world's greatest natural resources. They are called the lungs of our planet. Half of all the kinds of plants and animals that exist on the planet live in the rainforests. Unfortunately, the area with rainforests is being reduced due to global warming. 100 years ago, the rainforests covered 14 per cent of the earth’s surface. Now, it is only 6 percent. Scientists say that if the process continues at this rate, the rainforests will have disappeared in 40 years.

***

The Caspian Sea is one of the world’s natural wonders. It shares the characteristics of both a sea and a lake. In the past it was called a sea because of its great size and salty water. However, the Caspian Sea is listed as the largest lake in the world. There are about 130 rivers which bring their water to the Caspian Sea. But it is not a freshwater lake – its water is very salty. The Caspian Sea is famous for its wildlife. More than 850 kinds of animals and 500 different plants can be found in this unique sea. The Caspian Sea region is also one of the oldest oil-producing areas in the world. It is also rich in other natural resources.

ТЕКСТЫ НА ПОНИМАНИЕ ПРОЧИТАННОГО И ИЗВЛЕНЧЕНИЯ НУЖНОЙ ИНФОРМАЦИИ

Прочитайте тексты и установите соответствие между текстами и их заголовками: к каждому тексту, обозначенному буквами АG, подберите соответствующий заголовок, обозначенный цифрами 18. Используйте каждую цифру только один раз. В задании есть один лишний заголовок.

 

1. 

Good for everyone

 

2. 

Easy to care for

 

3. 

Part of culture

 

4. 

Screen fashion

 

   

5. 

An innovative idea

 

6. 

Working clothes

 

7. 

Jeans’ labels

 

8. 

Clothes to protest

A. 

Jeans are one of fashion's most long enduring trends. Cowboys wear them but so do supermodels, farmers, presidents and housewives. Ask any group of people why they wear jeans and you will get a range of answers. For some they're comfortable and easy  for others they're trendy and cool. Jeans mean different things to different people, but they are popular everywhere.

 

B. 

Americans do not have a national folk dress with a long tradition. Blue jeans are probably the most recognisable article of American clothing. They have been part of American life for over 125 years. Blue denim jeans became not only an expression of American fashion but also an element of American identity known around the world.

 

C. 

Jeans were first designed as trousers for farmers and miners in the states of the American West. They quickly grew popular with common people, including cowboys, factory employees and railroad builders. The new trousers were made from a very strong material which did not wear out easily. However, at the same time jeans were very practical and comfortable to wear.

 

D. 

Pockets were the weak point of the miners' clothes  they easily tore away from the jeans. A man called Jacob Davis had the idea of using metal rivets (fasteners) to hold the pockets and the jeans together so that they wouldn't tear. Davis wanted to patent his idea, but he didn't have enough money, so he offered Levi Strauss a deal if Strauss paid for the patent. Strauss accepted and started making jeans.

 

E. 

By the middle of the twentieth century, these heavy cotton trousers had become a symbol of opposition for young artists and writers. College students started to wear them to show they were against the Vietnam War. The new trousers were banned in American schools from coast to coast and sometimes in theatres and cinemas.

 

F. 

Jeans are good because they don't show the dirt. You can easily go a month without washing them and they don't look shocking. They don't need to be washed as often as other trousers and you don't need to iron them. What's more, because of the strong material you can wear your favorite jeans for years. Even the occasional hole or spot doesn’t spoil them at all.

 

G. 

In the 30s and 40s many people began to spend their spare time watching movies where adventurous cowboys rode horses, fought bad guys and wore blue jeans. The actors made jeans popular in movies and everyone wanted to wear them. Young people wished to imitate the casual “cowboyish” look they saw in films, and they began to wear jeans as casual wear.

Задание 2

1. 

Traditional delivery

 

2. 

Loss of popularity

 

3. 

Money above privacy

 

4. 

The best-known newspapers

 

   

5. 

Focus on different readers

6. 

The successful competitor

 

7. 

Size makes a difference

8. 

Weekend reading

A. 

As in many other European countries, Britain’s main newspapers are losing their readers. Fewer and fewer people are buying broadsheets and tabloids at the newsagent’s. In the last quarter of the twentieth century people became richer and now they can choose other forms of leisure activity. Also, there is the Internet which is a convenient and inexpensive alternative source of news.

 

B. 

The ‘Sunday papers’ are so called because that is the only day on which they are published. Sunday papers are usually thicker than the dailies and many of them have six or more sections. Some of them are ‘sisters’ of the daily newspapers. It means they are published by the same company but not on week days.

 

C. 

Another proof of the importance of ‘the papers’ is the morning ‘paper round’. Most newsagents organise these. It has become common that more than half of the country’s readers get their morning paper brought to their door by a teenager. The boy or girl usually gets up at around 5:30 a.m. every day including Sunday to earn a bit of pocket money.

 

D. 

The quality papers or broadsheets are for the better educated readers. They devote much space to politics and other ‘serious’ news. The popular papers, or tabloids, sell to a much larger readership. They contain less text and a lot more pictures. They use bigger headlines and write in a simpler style of English. They concentrate on ‘human interest stories’ which often means scandal.

 

E. 

Not so long ago in Britain if you saw someone reading a newspaper you could tell what kind it was without even checking the name. It was because the quality papers were printed on very large pages called ‘broadsheet’. You had to have expert turning skills to be able to read more than one page. The tabloids were printed on much smaller pages which were much easier to turn.

F. 

The desire to attract more readers has meant that in the twentieth century sometimes even the broadsheets in Britain look rather ‘popular’. They give a lot of coverage to scandal and details of people’s private lives.  The reason is simple. What matters most for all newspaper publishers is making a profit. They would do anything to sell more copies.

 

G. 

If you go into any newsagent’s shop in Britain you will not find only newspapers. You will also see rows and rows of magazines for almost every imaginable taste. There are specialist magazines for many popular pastimes. There are around 3,000 of them published in the country and they are widely read, especially by women. Magazines usually list all the TV and radio programmes for the coming week and many British readers prefer them to newspapers.

 

 

Задание 3

1. 

A change in people’s attitude

 

2. 

A problem still unsolved

3. 

A new state organisation

 

4. 

A governmental plan of action

   

5. 

No time to waste

 

6. 

An eco-friendly means of transport

7. 

A set of dangerous signs

 

8. 

A reason for global warming

A. 

Recycling is becoming easier and more widespread. Governments support companies that recycle waste. Also people prefer to buy things from companies that make their products from recycled materials. Reports say that people worldwide are starting to care more about what happens to waste products. For example, now Americans recycle almost 35% of their waste, while in the 1990s the percentage was much smaller.

 

B. 

In autumn 2004 a new body was created in Russia to protect the country’s natural resources. It’s called the Federal Ecological Service. The aims of the new institution are the following: to prevent environmental pollution and to control industrial waste. They say that the new governmental service has improved the state system of environmental protection in Russia.

 

 

C. 

Climate change is on us. Ten years ago we only spoke about it, now it’s happening before our eyes. Global warming is bringing unpredictable changes. The Arctic sea ice is disappearing; glaciers are melting faster every year. Due to heavy rains some rivers overflow, while others dry out. Disasters such as tornadoes and floods are spreading. Strong hurricanes are becoming more common and more destructive.

 

D. 

People burn plenty of coal, oil and natural gas. As a result of this billions of tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) are released into the atmosphere every year. CO2 is a greenhouse gas that traps the sun's radiation within the atmosphere, so the concentration of CO2 increases. As a result of this, temperatures in different parts of the planet rise.

 

E. 

Some cars are designed to work using electric power, without gasoline. It means that they don’t pollute the atmosphere, cost less and reduce the need for oil. Such cars are reliable and have interesting designs. However, they have a few bad points. Many have a maximum speed limit of about 50 miles per hour. Most cities are not ready for the appearance of such cars on their roads.

 

F. 

Environmental organisations have been discussing ways of saving the rain forests for many years. However, we are still facing huge losses in the Amazon. People think that rainforests have already had enough attention. They have been discussed in the press for years. Unfortunately, the rainforest is still in danger and can be destroyed completely.

 

G. 

Environmental problems are serious and we have to deal with them immediately. There may not be easy solutions, but we simply can’t continue living as if everything was fine. These problems aren’t going to disappear by themselves. If we want to keep this planet a healthy place for our grandchildren, it’s time to do everything we can to stop the catastrophe.

Задание 4

1. 

A talisman for luck

 

2. 

The wildlife of the country

3. 

The modern side of the country

 

4. 

Useful in many ways

 

   

5. 

A country profile

 

6. 

A false stereotype

 

7. 

Opportunities for different sports

 

8. 

The national sporting event

 

A. 

Thanks to television and films, Scotland is often seen by the rest of the world as a magical country, a land of misty mountains and the home of a lake creature called Nessie. This is the image most people have in mind. The truth, however, is completely different from the way the world thinks of Scotland. You may be surprised to find out that most Scots live in the lowlands and don’t believe in Nessie.

 

 

B. 

Scotland is much more than green hills and picturesque valleys. It’s dynamic and cosmopolitan, with a colourful history of invention and innovation. It’s the home of big businesses and a centre of new medical and scientific development. Each year, it hosts the world's biggest contemporary arts festivals. Scotland is an exciting place to live in, particularly for a young person.

 

 

C. 

Scottish heather, a small bush with flowers, is the floral symbol of the country. The colour of the flowers usually varies from purple to lilac, but they can also be white. In the past, the Scots believed that they would never be captured by enemies and would win victories if they wore white heather. Today, when getting married, girls add white heather to bouquets to bring fortune to their family.

 

D. 

Heather has grown in Scotland as far back as its history goes. This has turned it into a kind of household good. Heather honey is rich in minerals, and was traditionally used in medicinal drinks. Thousands of years ago, dried heather was used to make perfumes, and the tough stems were used to make ropes. On many of the northern Scottish islands, heather played a major role in the construction of houses.

 

E. 

Scotland is an excellent destination for open-air activities all year round. Its lakes and coastline are ideal for boating and rowing and have some of the best sea-kayaking in the world. The rivers are perfect for fishing and the mountains are wonderful for hill climbing and skiing. Scotland is also good for walkers. You can enjoy easy family walks or more difficult mountain hikes.

 

F. 

The Highland Games in Scotland date back to long before Scotland’s written history. The various athletics allowed men to demonstrate their physical power and the skills needed for battle and survival. The Games today still include the athletic competitions in their original form together with dancing contests. All the competitors wear kilts. Traditional bagpipe music accompanies all the events.

 

G. 

Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom, occupying the northern third of the islandof Great Britain. Edinburgh, the country's capital and second largest city, is one of Europe's financial centres. The population of the country is a little over 5 million people. The currency is the pound sterling although the Bank of Scotland issues its own notes and coins.

 Задание 5

1. 

Coffee in the New World

 

2. 

The original taste of coffee

 

3. 

A chance discovery

 

4. 

A place for communication

 

   

5. 

An illegal drink

 

6. 

A long journey to Europe

 

7. 

Growing coffee plants

 

8. 

Different recipes

 

A. 

Coffee was first found in Eastern Africa in the area we know today as Ethiopia. A popular legend says that one day a man called Kaldi was watching his goats eating grass and leaves. He noticed that after eating berries from a certain bush the goats became very active. Curious, Kaldi tried the berries himself. He found that these berries gave him additional energy. The story quickly spread throughout the region.

 

B. 

The first coffee berries were transported from Ethiopia to Arabian countries and then they were cultivated in Yemen. From there, coffee travelled to Turkey where coffee beans were roasted for the first time over open fires. The roasted beans were crushed and then boiled in water, creating the drink we enjoy today. Finally, in the seventeenth century coffee arrived in France, Britain and Italy.

 

C. 

The first coffeehouses opened in Mecca and quickly became popular centres of social and political activity. The government believed that coffee stimulated radical thinking, and the governor even thought it might unite his opposition. As a result, coffee was forbidden in Mecca. The same thing happened in Turkey a century later, when coffee drinkers were severely punished.

 

D. 

They say, in 1776 the thirteen American colonies adopted coffee as their national drink instead of tea. When the British tried to raise the tax on tea, Americans refused to buy it and switched to coffee. In fact, by drinking coffee Americans demonstrated their political views and their dislike for the British  the famous tea-lovers.

 

E. 

The Italians drink their espresso with sugar, the Germans and Swiss add an equal part of hot chocolate, the Mexicans prefer it with cinnamon, and the Belgians  with chocolate. Coffee drinkers in the Middle East usually add cardamom and spices. The Egyptians, on the other hand, are extremely fond of pure, strong coffee. They add neither milk nor cream.

 

F. 

Plain and simple, nothing else. People discovered that if they drank coffee slowly they could taste bitterness, sourness, sweetness and saltiness. For a long time such a taste was new and more than enough. It needed no improvement. Only later did they start experimenting with coffee by adding milk, chocolate, and other flavors. However, nothing can hide the taste of real coffee.

 

G. 

When the first European coffeehouses opened, they quickly grew into places where people played chess, exchanged gossip, sang and danced. Coffeehouses were very popular because anyone could go and enjoy a cup of the drink. The price of a cup of coffee was reasonable. European coffee houses became meeting points for intellectuals, writers and businessmen.

Задание 6

1. 

Who supports the runners?

2. 

How it started

3. 

How to be sure of the winners

4. 

What to wear for a marathon

   

5. 

What it is like to run a marathon

6. 

How to get ready for a marathon

7. 

Who runs just for fun?

 

8. 

Can the landscape help?

A. 

Many cities in the United States hold marathons. The city of Chicago, Illinois, has its marathon once a year. The running area in Chicago is almost absolutely flat. The scenery is amazingly beautiful. This fact has helped some runners set some of the world’s fastest times there. Many of them hope to go back again.

 

 

B. 

Some people know that they have no chance of winning but they participate anyway. They are not officially registered for the race - they just start running with the crowd. These runners are called “bandits.” Many of them finish the race hours after the serious runners but they are happy to cross the finish line anyway.

 

 

C. 

An important battle took place in Marathon in Greece more than two thousand years ago. Greece’s army won the battle. A Greek runner was sent to Athens to announce the victory. The man ran for about 40 km at top speed. He announced his message. Then he fell to the ground and died. In memory of the great runner a marathon was included in the Olympic Games.

 

D. 

Recently, a British writer and journalist, Mario Roter, ran in a marathon. He thought it would be fun to write an article about what people felt during the race. Later he said that running forty-two kilometers was no fun. Many people agree that there is no pleasure in running a marathon, but afterwards it feels great to know that you have done it.

 

 

E. 

People usually start training for a marathon in early spring. They run often and gradually increase the length of their runs from eight to twelve and even to twenty kilometers. At this point it is necessary to build up the needed strength. In the months before the race, the average participant runs a total of more than eight hundred kilometers.

 

 

F. 

Usually there are lots of runners. The line of people stretches back hundreds of meters. As the winners are awarded prize money it is important to avoid cheating. In order to track all the participants, special chips are used. When the participants register for the marathon, they get their identification number and computer chips.  The chips are activated at the start of the race and keep time.

 

 

G 

A marathon is usually a big public event. In the city where the marathon is held hundreds of people give their time and effort to make the race possible. The city police block traffic on the main roads. Some runners thank the officers as they run by. Every few kilometers there are volunteers who offer water to the runners. Lots of people cheer.

 

 

Задание 7

1. 

Supporting sports

2. 

A remarkable container design

3. 

A universal medicine

4. 

A smart symbol

   

5. 

The drink ingredients

6. 

Good in any season

7. 

A fan society

8. 

The drink varieties

A. 

Coca Cola appeared in Atlanta, Georgia, 1886. Doctor John Pemberton made a special syrup, but he kept its components secret. He added some mineral water to it and took the new product to the chemist’s. There the syrup was sold for five cents a glass. Pemberton told everyone that Coca-Cola cured many illnesses, including headaches, stomachaches, and nervous breakdowns.

 

B. 

Coca Cola was first sold in ordinary bottles. In 1915, the company held a competition to create a new bottle for their drink. They said it should be a bottle that would make Coca Cola different from all other drinks. Even today the shape of Coca Cola bottle is one of the most recognized packages on the planet..."even in the dark!".

 

C. 

The famous Coca Cola symbol was created by John Pemberton's colleague, Mr. Robinson. He thought that two letters "C" would look great in advertising. Besides, the red and white colours were simple and effective. Red was energetic and bright and so would attract young people. As for the style of writing, it was just popular in the United States during that period.

 

D. 

Before the 1930s, Coca Cola was only considered to be a drink for warm weather, so the company started a campaign to remind people that Coca Cola was a great choice in any month. For this a talented artist drew pictures of a happy Santa Claus enjoying a drink of Coke. The pictures were published in magazines and made Cola even more popular.

 

E. 

Coca Cola was one of the first companies that invested money in public projects. For example, the company is proud to be an old and devoted partner of the Olympic Games. This connection began in 1928 with the Games in Amsterdam. Since then the company has sponsored lots of football, hockey, and basketball competitions.

 

F. 

The Coca Cola Collectors Club was formed in 1974 by a small group of people. Today it has become international with more than 5,000 people from 28 countries. Club members collect everything connected with Coca Cola: bottles, posters, newspaper articles, postcards  everything. They sometimes meet to exchange their treasures.

 

G. 

Today there are 16 special variants of the original Coca Cola recipe. Some have less sugar or no sugar at all. Such Coke is chosen by those who want to keep fit. Children may prefer a cherry or a vanilla flavour. The drink also changes from country to country, reflecting national preferences. For example, if you travel to France, you can try the unusual orange Coca Cola.

 

Задание 8

1. 

The opening ceremony

2. 

A great honour

3. 

The Olympic team

4. 

The Greek calendar

   

5. 

A symbolic meaning

6. 

A place to visit

7. 

A new start

8. 

The best location

A. 

The first winners of the Olympic Games got free food and housing for the whole lives. They were mentioned in poems and well-known all over Greece. Sculptors even built statues of the competitors. Everyone respected and admired the winners. In short, the victory in the competitions made the man a national hero and all the little children wanted to be like him.

 

B. 

Olympia was chosen as the place for the Games because it was a peaceful and neutral area. There the ancient Greeks praised their most important God  Zeus. Another factor was that it had a beautiful green valley. It was very suitable for all kinds of sports competitions. Also people could easily get to Olympia because there were two rivers nearby. It was impossible to find a better place anywhere else in Greece.

 

C. 

The Olympiads were named in honor of the runner who came first in the stadium race. For example, the Olympiad of Dionis. So, the years after this Olympiad were named as the first, the second, the third or the fourth year since the Olympiad of Dionis. The early historians used this system to give dates to important events.

 

D. 

The Olympic Museum was founded in 1993 in Switzerland. It has a big collection of pieces connected with the Olympic movement. It also has the largest number of books and documents about the Games in the world. No wonder, the place is one of the main tourist attractions. The museum is surrounded by a park with wonderful works of art based on a sporting theme.

 

E. 

The modern Olympics began in 1894. Baron Pierre de Coubertin, a Frenchman, decided to bring back the ancient Greek tradition. He wanted to begin a sports festival to celebrate health, youth and peace. The first modern Olympiad took place in Athens in 1896. Since then the Olympic Games have been held every four years with two exceptions because of the two world wars.

 

F. 

The Olympic Games traditionally start with the “Parade of the Nations”. Most of the participating athletes walk out into the stadium. The Greek athletes open the parade and the hosts appear on stadium the last. The name of each country is announced in French and English, the official languages of the Olympic Games, and the language spoken in the country that organizes the Games.

 

G. 

The five Olympic rings represent the five main regions of the world  Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania. Every national flag in the world includes one of the five colours, which are blue, yellow, black, green, and red. The rings are connected and there is a reason for it. It’s done to show that the Games are for all nations. All good sportsmen can come and compete against one another in unity.

Задание 9

1. 

Winning a quick victory

2. 

Saving a sportsman

3. 

Fit and healthy again

4. 

The first sporting events

   

5. 

The club history

6. 

Sport and its advantages

7. 

The swimmer comes back

8. 

Champions award ceremony

A. 

Sport can be a great way to develop life skills. It helps you to learn about teamwork, self-control, and competition. You set your goals and do your best to reach them. In a good sporting environment, children have the opportunity to make new friends and develop new interests. Sport also keeps you fit and greatly improves your health. If you do sports, you have no weight problems.

 

B. 

German planes have finally managed to save a climber from one of the world's highest mountain peaks. Tom Gummar, a Slovenian, was trying to climb the mountain when he ran into difficulties. He had spent nearly a week six-thousand metres above the ground. All the previous attempts to save him had been unsuccessful because of snow storms. Only yesterday the planes managed to reach him and now his health is improving.

 

C. 

The Ancient Olympic Games were held in Greece. The beginning of these games is surrounded with mystery and legend. One of the most popular myths says that Heracles was the first who called the Games “Olympic”. He started the tradition of holding them every four years. The legend continues that he built the Olympic stadium in honour of his father.

D. 

Former Wimbledon winner Maria Sharapova is back at the US Open semi-finals. "It's been a long road back to the tournament," said Sharapova, who had spent 10 months off court with a shoulder injury that needed serious treatment. “Now I’m in good shape again and hope to repeat the 2006 title win,” she added.

 

E. 

Chelsea was founded in 1905 and it soon entered the Football League. In the early years they saw little success. From the very beginning Chelsea had a reputation for inviting famous footballers to play for them but the team changed dramatically only after a new coach, Ted Drake, joined it. He led them to their first main victory: they won the national championship.

 

F. 

Yesterday Andy Wistler played one of his best matches at the Australian Open. Due to his wonderful performance he easily won three sets and the match was finished very quickly. It was impossible for his opponent Yang Chung to play at the same level and the match was finished in a very short time. Still, it should be mentioned that Yang Chung was an experienced Chinese tennis player.

G. 

Janet Evans retired from swimming in 1996. She was sure her best days were behind her. She had won three gold medals at the Seoul Olympics and had set world records that had stood for years. Everyone was surprised when Janet announced her return. She said she was hoping to become part of the US Olympic team. A big decision after a 16 year break!

Задание 10

1. 

Generation gap

2. 

Attractive but unhealthy

3. 

Youth movements and societies

4. 

Always busy

   

5. 

Conflicts with friends

6. 

Parents’ ambitions

7. 

Are teenagers happy?

8. 

They want to earn and spend

A. 

The age between 14 and 17 is often considered to be one of the best periods in a person’s life. Grown-ups remember it with excitement and happiness. The wish they were teenagers again. However, most teenagers won’t agree with this point of view if they were asked. They're sure that they are facing a lot of difficult problems and that's quite true.

 

B. 

Smoking has become one of the most important problems for modern teenagers. About 40 percent of teenagers are attracted by the bright cigarette advertisement. It seems they just don't realize the harm it does to their health, because advertisements show smoking as something positive. They really believe that smoking will make them look like they're cool and grown-up.

 

C. 

In fact, teenagers have got a lot of work. They're busy with their studies, household chores, some of them have jobs. They can’t even find a moment to entertain themselves at times. It’s a more serious problem especially for those who are responsible and want to be successful students and good children.

 

D. 

The problem number one for most young people is between fathers and sons. All young people want to be independent, they want their parents to listen to their opinion. As for parents, they want to control their children’s lives. At the same time some parents can’t find a common language with their kids and simply don’t pay enough attention to them.

 

E. 

They say that all teenagers want to have a lot of money to dress well, to go to theatres, to visit foreign countries, to eat what they want and to buy books. But how can they do all these things? They have to get some money and it’s possible to do it. Some teenagers wash cars, others sell newspapers, help elderly people and babysit.

 

F. 

School ages are also very difficult. Children are always stressed because of their marks at school. It seems to teenagers that they do a lot of homework, but mothers and fathers are never satisfied. They want their children to have the highest marks at school. Teenagers do their best, but adults are never happy. They always want more.

 

G. 

There are many organizations which unite young people. Teenagers get together because of common interests and beliefs. Members of every organisations have their own attitudes to the world. There are some informal clubs, for example: emos, hippies, punks, and so on. However, some teenagers choose to join more serious groups like Greenpeace.

Задание 11

1. 

A magic journey

2. 

Freedom of choice

3. 

A trip around the world

4. 

An unusual means of transport

   

5. 

A family weekend

6. 

Ideal for beginners

7. 

An all inclusive trip

8. 

Across the continent

A. 

Everyone knows that cycling is a nice and healthy way to travel. It offers you independence. You don’t depend on timetables. You can go where and when you want. You can stop at a restaurant when you please, stay in the places you like and leave if you get bored. The world is yours.

 

B. 

Learn the basics of rock climbing with Cliffs and Ice. It is a perfect choice for those who decide to take up climbing for the first time. After a week in Cornwall you will learn the main skills necessary to become a competent climber. We will give you an experience that you can use in different climbing areas in the UK.

 

C. 

It is situated close to the Lake District, which is known for picturesque scenery. The ingredients that will help you make an unforgettable winter holiday with your nearest and dearest are: the welcoming fireplaces, delicious food, cosy rooms and different sports facilities. It’s perfect for a weekend trip with children. Take the people you love to our delightful hotel in the country.

 

D. 

A journey through a wild and faraway desert  by camel! This is a wonderful choice for anyone who wants to forget the modern means of travelling. You'll be on top of a camel and part of a desert caravan. Camel drivers will accompany you, providing good company, as you admire the golden sand and the bright blue sky.

 

E. 

If you take a train tour to the lakes, you’ll have nothing to worry about. You will leave London in a comfortable train, travel through the small picturesque towns and into the green hills. There will be no problems with the trip. The price already includes a return ticket, afternoon tea at Linden Hotel, a beautiful lake cruise, a visit to the medieval village and Hill Top, home of a famous English writer.

 

F. 

The Hogwarts Express plays a big part in the adventures of Harry Potter. A trip to the Scottish Highlands can be your chance to sit in the same carriage and dream about your own trip to the mysterious world. The journey goes through some of Scotland’s most splendid scenery. The best part of the journey is when the train crosses the Glenfinnan viaduct, a railway bridge.

 

G. 

Are you ready for Africa? Say yes and take a Safari Holiday. It is a mystery, wonder and … adventure! Our safari experts will take you through Africa from east to west. We offer views of dunes, mountain ranges, untouched beaches and open fields. You will see the amazing wildlife and beautiful nature. Let us make your African safari an experience you will never forget!

Задание 12

1. 

Worrying time statistics

2. 

Hidden dangers

3. 

New communication opportunities

4. 

Communication problems in real life

   

5. 

Different opinions

6. 

The best social networking site

7. 

Time eaters

8. 

Prospects in education

A. 

The popularity of social networking sites such as Vkontakte, Facebook, MySpace, and Classmates has risen more than four times from 2005 to 2009. Many users say these sites are good for our society, but others are sure that there are more dangers in them than benefits. Your attitude to such websites depends on your age, job, interests and way of life.

 

B. 

Social networks promote communication with friends and family, they give people necessary and useful computer skills and teach them to express their ideas in a clear way. Another thing is that the sites let people create new relationships and reconnect with old friends. In every way, more communication, even online, makes connections stronger.

 

C. 

Social networking sites make people spend more time online and less time communicating face-to-face. The sites have many time-wasting activities. You stay online longer than you planned and do nothing serious or important. Experts say that teenagers spend about nine hours every week on social networking sites.

 

D. 

A big risk about social networks is that teenagers are careless. They don’t worry that their personal information and photos could be open to lots of people. Also the sites don’t guarantee that their registered members are who they say they are. If a person says he is James Burns, a college student, we have to believe him. We cannot check his real name or occupation.

 

E. 

Psychologists say that social networking sites can have serious disadvantages. It is hard for children to have real conversations and make friends. They become selfish personalities and lose interest in real life. Parents spend less time with their children and all members of the family spend less time with each other because they are using the Internet instead of communicating in person.

 

F. 

Internet users spend most of their time on social networks and blogs. Users in the USA spend about five and a half hours every month on their favourite site. And the number is growing. Russians spend 6.6 hours monthly on social networking sites. It is more than people in any other country. For example, in Europe it is 3.7 hours a month.

 

G. 

New research shows that social networking sites can be used in schools. Teachers should find ways to use them in class. It would help students to learn how to get information from Internet resources and share it with classmates. Students would also be able to express themselves creatively and present themselves better.

Задание 12

1. 

A new music instrument

2. 

The latest fashion

3. 

A mobile for grandma

4. 

Phone addiction

   

5. 

A strange competition

6. 

A law against mobiles

7. 

Back to real-life communication

8. 

Digital personal assistants

A. 

Young people often worry about the style and functions of mobile phones. However, today companies present more models for people who are over 50 or 60 years old. They need a mobile phone with large buttons, so that they can dial numbers without glasses. The menu is also simple. It really doesn’t matter if the phone has a camera or the Internet. For them, less is more.

 

B. 

Today, when friends meet in a café, they put their mobile phones in the middle of the table. They aren’t allowed to touch them at all. If someone does it and answers the phone, they have to pay for everybody. Sounds fun, right? The idea is to make people concentrate on a real conversation with each other instead of using their mobiles all the time.

 

C. 

Visitors of theatres and cinemas often complain that mobile phones ring during performances. The city government of New York passed a new act. It is now forbidden to use mobile phones in places, like theaters, libraries, museums, galleries, and cinemas. Those who don't switch off their mobiles will have to pay $50.

 

D. 

With mobile phones we can contact anyone, anywhere, any time. Scientists say that some people are so used to mobiles that they can't go to the kitchen without them. They are in panic if they leave them at home or lose. It has become a habit to have a mobile everywhere. People depend on mobile phones so much that doctors have started worrying. They say it may be a thing similar to drugs.

 

E. 

Throwing mobile phones is an international sport that started in Finland in 2000. Traditionally participants throw mobile phones over their shoulders. The person, who throws farthest, wins. There's also freestyle throwing. In this contest sportsmen should throw a mobile in a beautiful and creative way.

 

F. 

In 2010 a young girl from China made a song using only her mobile phone. She wrote it without any guitars, pianos, drums. She used different functions of her mobile. It took her several days to record the song. Later she made a video of it and put the video on the Internet, where over a million people watched it. She sent the song to the Apple company and suggested using it in their advertisements.

 

G. 

Today's mobile phones can already send e-mails, surf the Internet, and keep you in touch with friends. Tomorrow's phones are like helpful secretaries. In a few years you'll see that they know your habits and can advise you what to cook for dinner. They will remind you where to go and what present to buy.

 

Задание 13

1. 

A holiday tradition

2. 

All kinds of entertainment

3. 

It’s a must for any tourist

4. 

Going back in history

   

5. 

A city of contrasts

6. 

The name meaning

7. 

The green spots

8. 

Not for everyone

A. 

The population of London grew in the 17th century. Many houses were built during that period. It was needed after the Great Fire of 1666. In the 19th century the city suffered from pollution and epidemics. The German bombings during World War II destroyed the historical centre of London. After the war the city was reconstructed and now it is one of the most beautiful European capitals.

 

B. 

Each year in December, the people of Norway send a present to Londoners. It is a very big Christmas Tree, which is put in Trafalgar Square. In this way they thank Britain for help during World War II. This tree becomes one of the unforgettable sights of London, especially when it is lit by hundreds of fairy lights. Londoners often group around the tree and sing Christmas songs.

 

C. 

Trafalgar Square is situated in central London. It is one of the greatest and most famous tourist attractions. Any visit to the capital usually begins with this place. It’s absolutely necessary for every tourist to see Nelson’s Column. Everyone should admire the lovely fountains of the square. Also, you can’t say that you’ve been to London if you don’t take a picture of yourself in the square.

 

D. 

London was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD and called Londinium. There is a common theory that the word “Londinium” comes from the name of a Celtic village. Also, the adjective “lond” meant “wild” in the Celtic language. Perhaps, it characterized the river Thames, on which the city was started. So, most scientists think that London is a “village on the wide river”.

 

E. 

In spite of being an important industrial and business centre London is known for its parks and open spaces. In every part of the city, you can find at least one park. It can be just a small pool with surrounding trees or a big and magnificent park like Hyde Park or Regent’s Park. They are all loved and visited by Londoners all the year round.

 

F. 

The liveliest part of London is West End. There are a lot of pubs, clubs, shops, theatres and cafes there. All kinds of pastimes are offered to tourists. Most of them choose shopping in Oxford Streetwith its stores, boutiques and gift shops. It’s a pleasant experience because the choices are great.

 

G. 

Big Ben is one of London's best-known sights. The name “Big Ben” actually refers not to the clock-tower itself, but to the thirteen ton bell hanging within. The tower is not open to the general public. A tourist from abroad can’t visit it. The citizens of the UK are luckier. They can write a letter to a member of Parliament and ask to allow them to tour the clock tower. Usually, the permission is given.

Задание 14

1. 

Different prices for a trip

2. 

Natural conditions and 
engineering decisions

3. 

Facing underground horrors

4. 

Effective in spite of lots of passengers

   

5. 

Special safety rules

6. 

Everything for passengers’ 
comfort

7. 

The underground art gallery

8. 

The most expensive transport system

A. 

The St. Petersburg Metro has been open since 1955 and carries almost 2.5 million passengers daily. Because of the river Neva and the city’s interesting relief, the Metro is one of the deepest subway systems in the world. The system’s deepest station, Admiralteyskaya, is 105 meters below ground because it is situated under the river.

 

B. 

The London Underground is the world's oldest underground system. It has lots of dark tunnels and passages where you can get lost. They say that some stations are visited by ghosts. On the Piccadilly Line there appears a man dressed in an evening suit. Some staff members have refused to work at the station because of him. They’re just too afraid.

 

C. 

In Paris no building is more than 500 meters away from a subway station. In the past the Paris metro offered a choice between 1st and 2nd class tickets. A 1st class ticket was more expensive. There were no other differences between the two classes. The result was that the first class trains were just less crowded. The difference existed till 1991.

 

D. 

The Tokyo underground system is extremely clean and unusually modern. It’s also very punctual: trains are always on time. At rush hour the metro is always overcrowded. The Tokyo subway has about 8.7 million passengers every day. The carriages are always packed. There are even special platform assistants who push people inside so that the doors can close.

 

E. 

The Metro in Washington DC has its own police. At each station police officers patrol to see if there is any trouble or danger around. Eating, drinking and smoking is not permitted in trains or stations. Anyone who enters the underground may be asked to open their bags for inspection. All this is done to protect the passengers as the metro is usually quite crowded.

 

F. 

The Stockholm Metro is one of the most picturesque underground systems in the world. Artists, painters and sculptors have turned 90 subways into displays of their art. As a result, the subways are decorated with pictures, frescos, and graffiti. For example, at one station there's a whole wall showing the history of different human civilizations.

 

G. 

The Dubai Metro is a well-planned automatic metro system in the United Arab Emirates. All trains and stations have air conditioning and are extremely clean. Every station has links with bus stops, taxi stands and places to lock bicycles. What's more, stations are like mini shopping centres, because there are food shops, travel offices, and even banks there.

 

Задание 15

1. 

The song of the winners

2. 

An annual music festival

3. 

Music of the future

4. 

Two sides of the same coin

   

5. 

An impressive show

6. 

Music in the classroom

7. 

The old music hit

8. 

Music for advert

A. 

Edinburgh Tattoo takes place every year in August in the capital of Scotland. It is an event when military music is played by different bands from all over the world. It also includes traditional dances, bagpipe melodies, songs and a horse parade. All this is accompanied by the sounds of national Scottish music.

 

B. 

Using music can make the learning process more enjoyable and effective. You can introduce a new topic with music. It may be a great way to improve vocabulary and make students start thinking in the right direction. If students are doing a grammar exercise, you may play some music in the background, and this will help them concentrate.

 

C. 

The performance Lady Gaga gave at Manchester was called “The Monster Ball”. It was a really strong and loud concert, consisting of four parts. The singer changed costumes 15 times. The “special” effects included a big sea monster and a grand piano which was burnt to pieces. The audience was just going crazy with every new song, it was no doubt a thrilling performance.

 

D. 

Are words important in a song? Some people say they don't matter much. A song is music and you enjoy listening to the melody and don't pay attention to words. On the other hand, a musician expresses himself through words, so they also matter. The words give meaning to a song and touch people’s feelings.

 

E. 

The most common song for English speakers on New Year's eve is “Auld Lang Syne”. When the clock strikes midnight, people join their hands and start singing. However, few of them remember that it's an old Scottish song first published by the poet Robert Burns. The Scots also sing it on January 25th when they celebrate Burns' birthday.

 

F. 

It’s typical to use music in advertising on radio and television. A lot of companies have jingles. They are short songs or tunes that attract customers. A jingle is quick to remember and usually has very simple words. The melody should be easy to sing and cheerful. The jingle must give a positive image of the company. A good example of it is McDonalds' “I'm lovin' it”.

 

G. 

“We Are the Champions” is a ballad performed by the British group “Queen”. It has become one of the most famous and widely used songs. It is also regularly played to celebrate sports victories. The song can be heard in many films, video games, cartoons, TV programmes. It was named the world's favourite song in 2005.

 

Задание 16

1. 

Learn and play

 

2. 

A less popular subject

 

3. 

Never too late to learn

 

4. 

The essential piece of uniform

 

   

5. 

Keeping the tradition

 

6. 

The advantages of learning together

 

7. 

Choosing the place to learn

 

8. 

School exchange programmes

A. 

Christ's Hospital school was founded in the 16th century. Its uniform at that time consisted of a long blue coat, a leather belt and yellow socks. Today students still wear the same uniform because they think it's a symbol that unites them. There was some talk about making the uniform more modern, but it was decided to keep the original uniform.

 

 

B. 

Nola Ochs from the USA is the world's oldest university graduate. She says she has always loved learning and has never lost her taste for knowledge. She started university when she was over 90. Her example proves that age is not important if you want to be a student. You can acquire new skills at any age.

 

 

C. 

The Dublin College of English offers one, two or three week Football and English Programmes. They are for young people who are interested in both learning English with native speakers and practising football. The students enjoy the friendly, inspiring atmosphere in the classrooms, after which they improve their skills on the school football pitch.

 

 

D. 

Harrow is a prestigious boys' school in northern London with a strict uniform policy. You can easily recognise a Harrow student by his hat, which is part of the uniform. All boys have to wear their hats every day when going to or from lessons. Some students are allowed to wear a different scarf, tie or jumper but the hat should always be there. Wearing it remains a must.

 

E. 

One of the recent trends is the growing number of elderly students in universities and colleges. It is believed that the elderly and the young can benefit from studying in a mixed class. The older ones are quicker at detailed and logical tasks. On the other hand, younger students can often help their older classmates with new gadgets and technologies.

 

 

F. 

When it comes to studying English abroad, try to get as much information about the school as possible. Asking the right questions will help you save money, time, and avoid culture shock. Remember that the school should provide you both with good teaching and with an unforgettable experience, so besides everyday classes, social activities should be part of the programme.

 

 

G. 

In most British schools children start studying a foreign language at 11, but many are happy to give up languages completely at 14. Research suggests that students think that it is more difficult to get good marks in Modern Foreign Languages than in other subjects such as Science or History. They also say that foreign languages are less fun than other lessons like PE or Art.

 Задание 17

1. 

The scientific explanation

2. 

The real shape

3. 

A lucky sign

4. 

Some tips

   

5. 

Places without rainbows

6. 

A personal vision

7. 

A bridge between worlds

8. 

Impossible to catch

A. 

Two people never see the same rainbow. Each person sees a different one. It happens because the raindrops are constantly moving, so the rainbow is always changing, too. Each time you see a rainbow it is unique and it will never be the same! In addition, everyone sees colours differently according to the light and how their eyes interpret it.

 

 

B. 

A rainbow is an optical phenomenon that is seen in the atmosphere. It appears in the sky when the sun’s light is reflected by the raindrops. A rainbow always appears during or immediately after showers when the sun is shining and the air contains raindrops. As a result, a spectrum of colours is seen in the sky. It takes the shape of a multicoloured arc.

 

 

C. 

Many cultures see the rainbow as a road, a connection between earth and heaven (the place where God lives). Legends say that it goes below the earth at the horizon and then comes back up again. In this way it makes a permanent link between what is above and below, between life and death. In some myths the rainbow is compared to a staircase connecting earth to heaven.

 

 

D. 

We all believe that the rainbow is arch-shaped. The funny thing is that it's actually a circle. The reason we don’t see the other half of the rainbow is because we cannot see below the horizon. However, the higher we are above the ground, the more of the rainbow’s circle we can see. That is why, from an airplane in flight, a rainbow will appear as a complete circle with the shadow of the airplane in the centre.

 

 

E. 

In many cultures there is a belief that seeing a rainbow is good. Legends say that if you dig at the end of a rainbow, you'll find a pot of gold. Rainbows are also seen after a storm, showing that the weather is getting better, and there is hope after the storm. This is why they are associated with rescue and good fortune. If people happen to get married on such a day, it is said that they will enjoy a very happy life together.

 

 

F. 

You can never reach the end of a rainbow. A rainbow is all light and water. It is always in front of you while your back is to the sun. As you move, the rainbow that your eye sees moves as well and it will always ‘move away’ at the same speed that you are moving. No matter how hard you try, a rainbow will always be as far away from you as it was before you started to move towards it.

 

 

G. 

To see a rainbow you have to remember some points. First, you should be standing with the sun behind you. Secondly, the rain should be in front of you. The most impressive rainbows appear when half of the sky is still dark with clouds and the other half is clear. The best time to see a rainbow is on a warm day in the early morning after sunrise or late afternoon before sunset. Rainbows are often seen near waterfalls and fountains.

 

Задание 18

1. 

Our never sleeping part

 

2. 

Influence on academic results

3. 

Advantages of bedtime routine

4. 

Good sleeping conditions

 

   

5. 

Pre-sleep activities

6. 

Sleeping classes

 

7. 

A negative effect on health

8. 

The mechanism of dreaming

A. 

Recent research shows that lots of teenagers are suffering from lack of sleep which is causing problems with their behaviour and learning. As a result schools have introduced a new lesson where students are given more of an idea of the importance of sleep. According to medical data, they should get at least nine hours' sleep a night. Young people should realise that sleep is very important if they want to do well at school and enjoy life.

 

 

B. 

It’s common knowledge that people sleep best in a dark room that is slightly cool. It's important to close your blinds or curtains and make sure they're heavy enough to block out the light. You can add extra blankets or wear pyjamas if you're cold. Note that an uncomfortable bed, heat and noise can ruin a good night's sleep. A TV is also a distraction.

 

 

C. 

If you don’t sleep enough or have a disturbed sleep you can get heart disease, high blood pressure and even diabetes. People who don't sleep enough get colds and flu more often than those who do. Moreover, recent research proves that poor sleepers gain weight more easily than people who sleep well. Extra kilos are the reaction of the body to the stressful sleepless situation.

 

 

D. 

Think twice before watching a movie late at night. Don’t spend sleeping time on endless computer games. The thing is that by getting up and going to bed at the same time every day, even on weekends, you teach your body to follow a healthy regime. You'll quickly fall asleep, will have a good night’s sleep and will wake up at the expected time feeling fresh and active.

 

 

E. 

Some easy steps can prepare your body for going to sleep. You probably have some regular bedtime habits, even if you don’t realise it. Brushing your teeth, taking a shower, reading a book and setting your alarm clock may all be part of your evening routine. Remember that you should perform these activities in the same manner and in the same order every night.

 

 

F. 

Sleepless nights at exam time are very bad for students. If you prepare for your exam late at night, it will not improve your performance during the exam. On the contrary, it will affect your ability to concentrate, to react quickly and to analyse information. Recent research shows that the results of the tests written after sleepless nights are lower than usual grades.

 

 

G. 

If you think that during sleep, the brain rests, you're mistaken. It's a common myth about sleep. Sleep is definitely needed  but it's not your brain that needs to rest, it's your body that needs to relax. Your brain is still working when you're asleep, controlling physical functions like breathing and your heart beat. However, because the brain does not have to go through the constant stress of thinking, you get up refreshed and recharged.

 

Задание 19

1. 

Local legends

2. 

Special in many ways

3. 

Tourist аttraction

4. 

Diverse wildlife

   

5. 

Protection of the ecosystem

6. 

Extinct species

7. 

Scientific expeditions

8. 

Harsh climate

A. 

The world’s deepest lake, the Baikal, is in Siberia. It is also the largest freshwater lake in Eurasia and the oldest lake on the Earth. At least 1,500 unique species live there - they cannot be found anywhere else on the planet!  The water in the lake is so clear that if you drop a coin, it can be clearly seen a hundred feet below the water.

 

 

B. 

People who live in the Baikal region believe that it’s a unique and mysterious place. According to them, the water from Lake Baikal can cure different illnesses, gives you strength and clears your mind. They also say that the lake was formed millions of years ago when a huge, hot rock fell to earth. It melted the ice around and that was how Lake Baikal appeared. The story about the meteorite has, however, never been proved by scientists.

 

 

C. 

The lake has also become famous for its unique fish and birds that are not found in other waters. The lake is home to more than 1000 animal species. Among them there are the world’s only freshwater seals. There’s no evidence of how the seals got to the lake, but they obviously enjoy their life there. Huge brown bears often come to the lake out of the forest to hunt and fish.

 

 

D. 

Though Lake Baikal is located in a very remote place, and is difficult to reach in autumn and winter, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. A chance to see this unique place is worth the long journey! On the banks of Lake Baikal you can stay in a modern, comfortable hotel, take part in hiking tours and enjoy the untouched natural beauty. People who have visited Lake Baikal once want to return to the place again and again.

 

 

E. 

However, the growing popularity of the lake and the industrial development of the region have caused ecological problems. The safety of this unique natural ecosystem has been discussed at an international level. Now Lake Baikal is on the list of heritage sites protected by UNESCO. A federal state law about the conservation of the lake was also supported in Russia.

 

 

F. 

The lake attracts not only tourists but also many wildlife researchers, biologists and even archaeologists.  The world famous explorer and scientist, Jacques Cousteau, and his team spent lots of time studying the deep waters of Lake Baikal. They also shot a film about their research that was broadcast by major TV channels all over the world.

 

 

G. 

Everyone considers the Siberian climate very severe, which is perfectly true for the Baikal region. The winters there are really freezing - the average temperature is as low as -25 degrees Celsius. Due to its location in the middle of the continent, the place is characterised by a sharp contrast between winter and summer temperatures. The summers are generally cool, with a few hot days. The sun shines brightly above the lake till late autumn.

 

 

Задание 20

1. 

Some time without noise

2. 

Harmful background noise

3. 

Special effects for better results

 

4. 

A way to reduce noise pollution

 

   

5. 

Colours for the classroom

 

6. 

Music in the classroom    

7. 

Music for relaxation

8. 

Different effects of music

 

A. 

Everybody remembers what school smells and sounds like. It may seem unimportant but research results suggest that smells and sounds can influence learning ability and creativity. Some schools are now introducing noises, music and even smell into the classroom. The aim is to see which of these factors can improve students’ grades.

 

 

B. 

It’s obvious that the constant sounds of traffic, airports and police sirens are a part of a busy city. Numerous studies have focused on the combined effect of aircraft and road traffic sounds on reading ability and memory.  It was found out that children from schools near big airports reported annoyance and showed less success at exams, which proves that the aircraft noise is the most harmful type of machinery noise.

  

 

C. 

The International Noise Awareness Day was started by the American Centre for Hearing and Communication in 1995. The aim of this day, which takes place every year in April, is to raise awareness among the people of the noise problem and the risks it makes. On that day people are asked to turn off noise sources such as TV sets and auto engines for a few hours and to enjoy the silence.

 

 

D. 

There is no one best colour, some are just better than others in different situations. The design of the classroom is very important, too. It should be nice and pleasant and help students to focus on learning  remember about it when you paint the walls! Generally, light blue and purple have a calming effect on learners. Warm tones like peach and light yellow provide a relaxing atmosphere that is good for learning too. Most physiologists say that red, white, black and brown should be avoided in the classroom.

 

 

E. 

However, when students do tasks in groups or discuss something, noise is unavoidable. Sometimes the noise distracts other students. To prevent this, a traffic light system has been introduced. A large set of traffic lights, made of coloured paper, is placed in the classroom. When the noise is acceptable, the green light is on. When it gets too loud, the yellow light is put on. Changing to the red light means the end of activities or complete silence.

 

 

F. 

On the other hand, some noises stimulate creativity, but the sound should be neither too high nor too low.  There was a special experiment held in an office. While working, the people were listening to different melodies, played at different levels. It was observed that the most original projects were created when the songs and compositions were played at a medium level. Low and high levels, on the other hand, damaged creativity.

 

 

G. 

According to Professor Shields, listening to classical or calm music helps creative learning.  This conclusion is not really new. For a long time, teachers and coaches have been using quiet melodies to inspire their students and stimulate their imagination. This is particularly useful in art classes, where students learn to create pieces of art like pictures, sculptures and hand-made articles.

 

 


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