Экзамен в обычной форме. Положение.. Билеты. Тексты. Диалоги.
материал для подготовки к егэ (гиа, 9 класс) на тему

О ПРИМЕРНЫХ БИЛЕТАХ ДЛЯ СДАЧИ ЭКЗАМЕНА

ПО ВЫБОРУ ВЫПУСКНИКАМИ 9 КЛАССОВ

ОБЩЕОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНЫХ УЧРЕЖДЕНИЙ

РОССИЙСКОЙ ФЕДЕРАЦИИ, ОСУЩЕСТВИВШИХ ПЕРЕХОД

НА НОВЫЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ ОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНЫЙ СТАНДАРТ

ОСНОВНОГО ОБЩЕГО ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ

Письмо Федеральной службы по надзору в сфере образования и науки

от 18 января 2007 г. № 01-14/08-01

Федеральная служба по надзору в сфере образования и науки информирует о том, что подготовлены новые комплекты примерных билетов по 14 предметам федерального базисного учебного плана для сдачи экзамена по выбору выпускниками 9 классов общеобразовательных учреждений Российской Федерации. Новые комплекты экзаменационных билетов разработаны для общеобразовательных учреждений, осуществивших переход на новый государственный образовательный стандарт основного общего образования, утвержденный приказом Минобразования России от 5 марта 2004 г. № 1089 «Об утверждении федерального компонента государственных образовательных стандартов начального общего, основного общего и среднего (полного) общего образования». Они позволят проводить государственную (итоговую) аттестацию выпускников 9 классов общеобразовательных учреждений с учетом установленных требований к уровню подготовки учащихся.

Примерные экзаменационные билеты разработаны по следующим общеобразовательным предметам:

1. Русский язык

2. Литература

3. Иностранный язык

4. История России

5. Обществознание

6. Геометрия

7. Информатика и ИКТ

8. Физика

9. Химия

10. Биология

11. География

12. Технология

13. Основы безопасности

жизнедеятельности (ОБЖ)

14. Физическая культура

Каждый экзаменационный комплект по предмету содержит не менее 20 билетов. При необходимости билеты дополняются практико-ориентированными заданиями. Один из вопросов выявляет не только овладение содержанием данной предметной области, но и сформированность предметной компетентности, т.е. способности выпускников к практическому применению знаний и умений.

К экзаменационным билетам по всем предметам разработаны краткие пояснительные записки. В них разъясняется принципиальная разница между старыми и новыми примерными билетами, составленными с учетом государственного образовательного стандарта 2004 года, поясняются особенности проведения устного экзамена по предмету, указывается примерное время, отводимое на подготовку выпускника к ответу, даются разъяснения по использованию предложенного экзаменационного материала при разработке экзаменационных билетов на уровне общеобразовательного учреждения, описываются подходы к оцениванию ответа выпускника, носящие рекомендательный характер. В пояснительной записке также дается характеристика структуры экзаменационного билета в целом, комментируется специфика первого, второго и третьего вопросов билета, в общем виде формулируются подходы к оцениванию устного ответа выпускника и выставлению отметки за экзамен по пятибалльной системе. В комплекты примерных билетов по каждому предмету включаются рекомендации по оцениванию ответа выпускника, предлагаются критерии оценивания с учетом разных типов вопросов и заданий.

Общеобразовательным учреждениям, не перешедшим на новый государственный образовательный стандарт, для проведения итоговой аттестации выпускников 9 классов общеобразовательных учреждений в устной форме рекомендуются примерные экзаменационные билеты, опубликованные в предыдущие годы (например, в журнале «Вестник образования», издательство «Просвещение»*, и на сайте журнала www.vestnik.edu.ru).

Билеты всех предложенных комплектов носят примерный характер. Общеобразовательное учреждение имеет право внести в экзаменационный материал изменения, учитывающие региональный компонент, особенности программы, по которой строилось обучение: частично заменить вопросы, дополнить другими заданиями.

Общеобразовательное учреждение может разработать собственные экзаменационные материалы для проведения устных экзаменов по выбору.

Руководитель                                                                В.А. БОЛОТОВ

* «Вестник образования». – 2005. – № 4; 2006. – № 4.

ИНОСТРАННЫЕ ЯЗЫКИ

Итоговая аттестация по иностранному языку в 9 классе осуществляется в двух формах: либо с помощью экзамена по выбору, который проводится в форме устного собеседования по изучаемому иностранному языку (английскому, немецкому, французскому, испанскому и др.) на основе экзаменационных билетов, либо путем выведения итоговой оценки на основе академических успехов школьника.

Примерные экзаменационные билеты для сдачи экзамена по иностранным языкам выпускниками основной школы (9 классы) общеобразовательных учреждений Российской Федерации составлены с учетом обязательного минимума содержания основного общего образования (приказы Минобразования России от 19 мая 1998 г. № 1236 и от 30 июня 1999 г. № 56) и федерального компонента государственного образовательного стандарта основного общего образования (приказ Минобразования России от 5 марта 2004 г. № 1089).

Предлагаемые экзаменационные материалы являются универсальными и могут быть использованы для итоговой аттестации учащихся, обучавшихся по любому из учебно-методических комплектов по иностранному языку, рекомендованных Министерством образования и науки Российской Федерации для использования во 2–9 или 5–9 классах общеобразовательных учреждений.

Экзамен по иностранному языку в 9 классе ставит своей целью проверку уровня сформированности коммуникативной компетенции учащихся в двух из четырех целевых умений – чтении и говорении в двух формах: монологической и диалогической. При проверке умений в говорении параллельно проверяются умения аудирования, произносительные, лексические и грамматические навыки учащихся, а также их социокультурные знания и умения. Под социокультурными знаниями и умениями понимается умение учащихся осуществлять межличностное и межкультурное общение с применением знаний о национально-культурных особенностях своей страны и страны изучаемого языка, в частности адекватное использование правил этикета в процессе устного общения с экзаменатором.

Контроль умений учащихся в аудировании и письме, а также целенаправленная проверка лексико-грамматических навыков могут быть осуществлены в форме итогового зачета по усмотрению педагогического совета школы. Предлагаемые экзаменационные материалы содержат ряд положений, составляющих их новизну:

• расширен спектр проверяемых коммуникативных умений: ознакомительное чтение, монологическая речь в связи с прочитанным и неподготовленный диалог;

• проверку продуктивных умений монологической речи (второй вопрос) предлагается проводить на основе прочитанного небольшого текста проблемного характера. Ученик должен выделить основную проблему, идею текста и прокомментировать ее, выразив свое мнение. Данный подход позволяет:

а) комплексно проверить речевые умения школьника (понимание основного содержания текста, передача основной идеи текста, выражение своего мнения и его аргументация);

б) обеспечить аутентичность и самостоятельность речевого высказывания ученика;

• диалогические умения учащихся предлагается проверять в ситуации общения, в которой партнером экзаменуемого является учитель, исполняющий роль, определенную коммуникативным заданием, и выступающий как равноправный партнер, готовый поддержать собеседника в ходе общения;

• разработаны критерии оценки коммуникативных умений учащихся, которые позволяют объективно оценить ответ учащегося на экзамене по пятибалльной шкале, принятой в настоящее время в школе;

• учитываются различия в условиях обучения и уровне подготовки учащихся общеобразовательных учреждений разных типов. Для учащихся школ с углубленным изучением иностранного языка предусматриваются дополнительные вопросы, более сложные и объемные тексты; более высокие требования к оценке ответов учащихся, что отражено в шкалах оценивания.

Экзаменационные билеты носят примерный характер и могут быть использованы в качестве основы при разработке экзаменационных материалов для конкретного общеобразовательного учреждения с учетом особенностей его образовательной программы. Допускается внесение следующих изменений: частичное изменение и расширение тематики текстов и ситуаций общения, незначительное увеличение объема текстов.

Желательно не нарушать тематический баланс между заданиями в билете. Во всех трех заданиях предметное содержание речи должно быть различно. Экзаменационные материалы содержат 20 билетов, что представляется оптимальным с точки зрения охвата проверяемых коммуникативных умений и затрагиваемой тематики и ситуаций общения. Количество экзаменационных билетов может быть увеличено по решению педагогического совета общеобразовательного учреждения. Однако их число не должно превышать 25, что продиктовано необходимостью нормализации учебной нагрузки школьников в период сдачи экзаменов.

Структура экзаменационной работы

Экзамен проводится в устной форме. Каждый билет содержит три задания.

Первое задание проверяет умения ознакомительного чтения (чтения с пониманием основного содержания). Экзаменуемому предлагается законченный в смысловом отношении несложный аутентичный текст (из научно-популярной, публицистической или художественной литературы), соответствующий допороговому уровню (А2 согласно европейской терминологии),

объемом до 1200 знаков. В процессе подготовки к ответу учащийся может пользоваться двуязычным словарем.

Задача экзаменуемого – ответить на 3 вопроса по содержанию текста, касающихся:

• основной идеи (О чем говорится в тексте? Какова основная идея текста?);

• главных фактов (Кто? Что? Когда? Как? Где? Куда?).

От учащихся школ с углубленным изучением иностранного языка, гимназий и лицеев, помимо ответов на три вопроса по содержанию текста, требуется ответить еще на два вопроса экзаменатора, в которых необходимо:

• оценить полученную информацию и выразить свое мнение (Что ты думаешь по поводу прочитанного и почему?);

• прокомментировать те или иные факты/события, описанные в тексте (Чем можно объяснить возможность/невозможность (возникновение/исчезновение, интерес/отсутствие интереса, популярность/ непопулярность т.д.) событий/фактов, описанных в тексте?). Тексты, подбираемые для проверки умения чтения, должны удовлетворять ряду требований:

• соответствовать определенному государственным стандартом предметному содержанию речи выпускников 9 классов;

• соответствовать государственному стандарту по языковой трудности;

• учитывать возрастные особенности и интересы учащихся 9 классов;

• не выходить за рамки жанрового и стилевого разнообразия, рекомендованного в стандарте в отношении текстов для чтения (текст научно-популярный, публицистический, художественный);

• характеризоваться смысловой законченностью;

• иметь образовательную и воспитательную ценность;

• не содержать информации, способной оскорбить социальные, религиозные и национальные чувства учащихся.

Формулировка задания для проверки умений в чтении соотнесена с критериями оценивания. Правильным ответом считается ответ, который полностью соответствует содержанию текста. Ответ, который содержит не только основную информацию, но и детали, является полным.

Второе задание проверяет умения монологической речи.

Задача экзаменуемого – сделать сообщение в связи с прочитанным текстом, высказать и аргументировать свое отношение к поднятой автором проблеме.

В качестве опоры для монологического высказывания используют небольшие по объему тексты разных жанров из любых источников (в том числе из УМК), соответствующие тематике, определенной стандартом основного общего образования по иностранному языку:

• межличностные взаимоотношения в семье, с друзьями, в школе;

• школьное образование, изучаемые предметы; проблема выбора

профессии и роль иностранного языка;

• досуг, увлечения;

• родная страна и страна/страны изучаемого языка; выдающиеся

люди, их вклад в мировую культуру;

• природа и проблемы экологии; здоровый образ жизни.

Объем монологического высказывания не менее 12 фраз.

От учащихся школ с углубленным изучением иностранного языка, гимназий и лицеев требуется объем монологического высказывания не менее 15 фраз.

Третье задание проверяет умения диалогической речи и предполагает решение поставленной коммуникативной задачи в типичных ситуациях общения в рамках тематики, определенной стандартом основного общего образования.

Задача экзаменуемого – продемонстрировать навыки и умения речевого взаимодействия с партнером в рамках предложенной коммуникативной задачи:

1. Начать и закончить разговор.

2. Поддержать разговор, а именно:

• запрашивать и сообщать фактическую информацию, переходя с позиции спрашивающего на позицию отвечающего;

• дать совет и принять/не принять совет партнера;

• сделать предложение в соответствии с ситуацией и темой общения и выразить согласие/несогласие с предложением партнера;

• выразить точку зрения;

• запрашивать мнение партнера;

• согласиться/не согласиться с высказанным утверждением/мнением партнера;

• выразить одобрение/неодобрение, извиниться;

• выразить эмоциональную оценку обсуждаемых событий (радость/

огорчение/сомнение/удивление и т.п.);

• вежливо переспросить в случае необходимости;

• соблюдать очередность реплик.

Принимая участие в диалоге, в зависимости от коммуникативной задачи учащиеся могут продемонстрировать лишь некоторые из перечисленных выше умений речевого взаимодействия с партнером. Поэтому в характеристике ответа все коммуникативные умения обозначены термином «поддерживать беседу».

Партнером экзаменуемого выступает учитель. Предполагается, что экзаменатор должен быть доброжелательным и открытым для общения. Ситуации должны быть сформулированы таким образом, чтобы диалог начинал учащийся. Это позволит учителю оценить его умение вступать в коммуникацию.

Формулировки заданий для проверки умений учащихся в диалогической речи соотнесены с критериями оценивания. В заданиях заложены элементы прогнозируемого содержания высказывания учащегося, которые выступают объектами контроля. Например, выразить мнение, доказать ошибочность мнения оппонента, привести два аргумента. Каждый из элементов задания является показателем полноты его выполнения.

Обязателен обмен не менее 5–7 репликами с каждой стороны.

От учащихся школ с углубленным изучением иностранного языка, гимназий и лицеев требуется объем диалогического высказывания от 8 до 10 реплик с каждой стороны.

На подготовку всех трех заданий отводится 30 минут; устный ответ занимает 8–10 минут.

Ответ оценивается по пятибалльной шкале, принятой в Российской Федерации.

Общая экзаменационная отметка складывается из трех отметок за выполнение отдельных заданий и является их средним арифметическим, округляемым по общим правилам, то есть 3,5 и выше дают 4 балла, 4,5 и выше дают 5 баллов. При оценивании отдельных заданий рекомендуется руководствоваться приводимыми ниже шкалами, которые описывают наиболее типичные случаи.

Использование предложенных шкал оценивания требует определенного навыка. Поэтому учителю рекомендуется заранее изучить данные шкалы, ознакомить с ними учащихся и использовать шкалы в ходе учебного процесса до итоговой аттестации.

В состав экзаменационной комиссии рекомендуется включить учителя экзаменатора, который непосредственно ведет экзамен и учителя-эксперта, задачей которого является соотнесение ответов экзаменуемого с критериями в шкалах. Итоговая оценка определяется всеми членами экзаменационной комиссии.

Билет № 1

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы хотите поступить на курсы иностранного языка. Позвоните на курсы и узнайте, где они находятся, каковы сроки обучения, сколько стоит обучение и что необходимо для поступления.

Билет № 2

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы с зарубежным другом, который гостит в вашем городе, планируете, что будете делать в выходные. Спросите, когда он/она свободен/свободна, обсудите, чем вам заняться, почему именно этим.

Билет № 3

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы с зарубежным другом, который гостит в вашем городе, собираетесь поехать на экскурсию. Обсудите с другом, куда и когда лучше всего пойти/поехать; кого с собой пригласить. Примите совместное решение.

Билет № 4

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы должны написать статью о защите окружающей среды в школьный журнал, который издается на иностранном языке. Обсудите с редактором, какие проблемы следует осветить, как назвать статью, к какому сроку ее сдать.

Билет № 5

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Ваш класс выиграл конкурс, и вам дали грант. Объясните иностранному журналисту, от кого вы получили грант, за что и что вы планируете купить на полученные деньги для школы.

Билет № 6

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Ваш друг вернулся из поездки в страну изучаемого языка. Расспросите его о поездке: где он был, что произвело на него наибольшее впечатление и почему.

Билет № 7

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. В одном из европейских городов вы отстали от группы во время экскурсии. Вам нужно добраться до отеля, где вы остановились. Спросите у прохожего, каким транспортом туда быстрее добраться, сколько это займет времени и где ближайшая остановка.

Билет № 8

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы в магазине в одном из европейских городов и хотите купить что-то из новой одежды на лето. Посоветуйтесь с продавцом, что купить, идет ли вам эта вещь, узнайте цену и решите, покупать ли вам ее.

Билет № 9

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы собираетесь сделать доклад о стране изучаемого языка. Посоветуетесь с учителем, какую тему выбрать, как подготовиться к докладу, узнайте, сколько времени на него отводится.

Билет № 10

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вам позвонил зарубежный друг. Он хочет, чтобы вы его встретили в аэропорту. Спросите, когда и каким рейсом он прилетает, где хотел бы побывать и что увидеть в вашем городе.

Билет № 11

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы в гостях у своего зарубежного друга. Вместе с ним вы хотите записаться в спортивную секцию. Обсудите, каким видом спорта заняться и почему, согласуйте с ним, по каким дням вы будете заниматься спортом.

Билет № 12

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы хотите пойти на курсы иностранного языка. Ваш друг считает, что не нужно учить иностранные языки, так как это требует много времени и усилий, в то время как всегда можно прибегнуть к услугам переводчика. Вы с ним не согласны. Приведите не менее двух причин, почему необходимо изучать иностранные языки.

Билет № 13

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Возьмите интервью у популярного зарубежного певца. Расспросите его, когда он начал свою карьеру, почему он выбрал этот вид искусства, каковы его планы на будущее.

Билет № 14

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Обсудите с вашим зарубежным другом, что нужно сделать, чтобы быть успешным в жизни: иметь талант, закончить вуз, успешно жениться/выйти замуж или что-то еще? Приведите не менее двух причин, почему вы так думаете. Спросите, согласен ли ваш друг с вашим мнением.

Билет № 15

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Ваш зарубежный друг часто ходит в Макдональдс. Объясните ему, что это не очень полезно для здоровья, приведите не менее двух причин. Дайте совет, как правильно питаться, чтобы быть здоровым.

Билет № 16

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Ваш зарубежный друг считает, что компьютер вреден для здоровья. Вы с ним не согласны. Докажите, что он ошибается. Приведите не менее двух причин в пользу использования компьютера.

Билет № 17

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы собираетесь в школе подготовить вечер, посвященный дню города, в котором примут участие ваши зарубежные гости. Посоветуйтесь с учителем, как и когда можно организовать вечер.

Билет № 18

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы собираетесь поехать в страну изучаемого языка на неделю в октябре. Узнайте у своего зарубежного друга, который там живет, какая погода в октябре, часто ли она меняется и что лучше брать с собой из вещей.

Билет № 19

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Ваш зарубежный друг в плохом настроении. Попытайтесь узнать, в чем причина его плохого настроения, чем вы можете ему помочь, дайте совет, как исправить ситуацию.

Билет № 20

1. Прочитайте текст и ответьте на вопросы к тексту.

2. Прочитайте текст и выскажитесь по проблеме, затронутой в тексте. Аргументируйте вашу точку зрения.

3. Разыграйте с учителем следующую ситуацию. Вы с другом готовите проект о стране изучаемого языка. Обсудите, о чем будет ваше сообщение и почему, кто из вас что будет делать.

CARD 1

I Read the text and answer your teacher’s questions.

The Presidents                                     ESL reading

George Washington was born February 22, 1732. He was the first president of the United States, elected by people in 1789. People call him the Father of their nation. He was one of the people who fought in the Revolutionary War and later helped write the United States Constitution. There is a famous story about George Washington when he was a young boy. It says that he chopped down his father's cherry tree with an axe. When his father asked, "Who did this?" young George replied "I cannot tell a lie. I did it." Many children have heard this story and are encouraged to tell the truth.

Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809. He became president in 1860. His presidency was difficult. The states in the north and the south were divided because of slavery. White people in the south owned black people. The north did not like it. A civil war began between the two sides. In the end, the northern states won and President Lincoln helped to free the slaves. He gave a very famous speech about how everybody had the right to be free and how all people were equal.

Both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were very famous presidents in the United States. Today you can see their faces on American money. George Washington is on the one dollar bill and Abraham Lincoln in on the five dollar bill. Many schools and some cities are named after each president. And the State of Washington and Washington D.C. were both named

after President Washington. (1196)

II Read the text and say why the books by Agatha Christie have been always popular.

Speak about your favourite authors and your favourite books.

THE QUEEN OF MYSTERY

                                                                                                                         tolearnenglish.com

Agatha Christie was probably the most successful writer in history. She wrote 78 crime novels, six other novels, 150 short stories, four non-fiction books and 19 plays.

Christie became a writer by accident. She was bored when her husband was away in the First World War. Agatha was working in a hospital dispensary. She decided to write a novel to pass the time. She chose a detective novel because she loved reading them. Her first novel was a great success. Readers loved the books, particularly because Christie always gave the readers all the information they needed to find the solution.

Christie loved travelling. When she became rich she could go all over the world. She used the travels in her writing. Agatha Christie died in 1976, but her stories are still very popular.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You want to do a course of English at a language school. You are phoning a language school to find out about the courses they offer. Ask questions about the location of the language school, how long the courses are, how much the courses cost, what is necessary to do to register for the courses.

СARD 2

I Read the text and answer your teacher’s questions.

DIFFERENT  ENGLISH

                                             5 minute English

English is spoken as a first language by several countries including Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, and the United States. While all of these countries share the same mother tongue, there are some differences in the way they speak and write.

The first difference is in the accent. Each country has its own accent. And within each country there are a variety of accents called regional accents.

Another difference is the spelling of some words, like ‘color’ and ‘colour’, or ‘theater’ and ‘theatre’.

And a third difference is that some of the words are not the same at all. For example, Americans say restroom, Canadians say washroom, and the British say W.C. (water closet.) But all of these words have the same meaning (the room where the toilet is located.)

So which English is the best English to learn? Well, there is no best English. They are all equally good and correct. But two things may help you decide which one is best for you to study.

First of all, where do you live? If you are from South America, for example, you will probably have more exposure to North American English. If you live in Europe, most likely you will be more exposed to British English.

But no matter where you study English or whether it's British, American, Australian, or whatever, it's good to know a little about English in other countries. (1123)

II Read the text and say if music is your hobby. Speak about your bobby (hobbies).

Do you prefer live music?

Many people say that going to a concert and seeing your favourite group play is a thrilling experience, and one which cannot be compared with listening to recorded music. The special atmosphere at a live concert makes it more enjoyable. The excitement of the crowd adds to your own excitement.

Other people disagree with this point of view. They say that recorded music is more convenient: you can listen to it whenever you want. Portable player also means that you can carry the music around with you.  

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You and your foreign friend, who is on a short visit in Moscow, are discussing what you are going to do at the weekend. Ask him/her when he/she isn`t busy, what he/she would like to do during his stay in Moscow, why.  

CARD 3

I Read the text and answer your teacher’s questions.

The Sceptic’s Dictionary 

The Story of Atlantis

Atlantis is one of the greatest mysteries of the world. Everybody has heard about the disappearance of Atlantis, but did it exist? There are thousands of theories – some of them are breathtaking (Atlantis was an exploded planet!) – and people have been searching the trace of it. There are a lot of books, films, scientific articles – but there is no answer.

The story of Atlantis first appeared in one of Plato` s (a Greek philosopher) books. What did Plato tell us in his books?

The history of the island began when the immortal gods divided the world among themselves. Atlantis, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, became the land of

Poseidon.

It was a great and wonderful empire where noble and powerful people lived.

They had great wealth thanks to the natural resources found throughout their island. The island was a centre of trade and commerce. The climate was so good that two harvests were possible each year.  There were a great number of animals, including elephants. Atlantians were great engineers and architects, building palaces, harbours, temples and docks.

For generations the Atlantians lived simple, good life. But slowly they began to change. Greed and power began to corrupt them. When Poseidon saw how they had changed, he gathered the other gods to punish them. So, the island of Atlantis, its people, and its memory were swallowed by the sea. Such was the end in the Plato` s book.     (1173)

II Read the text and comment on the situation described in the text. Say if you like watching TV, what programmes you and the members of your family prefer, why.

Television                                                                                                                       ESL reading

My mother used to tell me how she and her family got their first television when she was a teenager. Of course it was black and white. When I was young we had only about 3 or 4 different channels. My bothers and sisters and I would sometimes fight about which channel to watch. Nowadays we can get hundreds of channels on TV. There are channels with only old movies, and channels with only cooking, and channels with only fishing. It's amazing! There is a channel for everything. I wonder how much my brothers and sisters and I would fight if we had hundreds of channels when I was a child. Of course we had only one television set. These days I notice families with 2 or 3 or more television sets in their homes. I guess it stops people from arguing over which channel to choose from.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You and your foreign friend, who is on a short visit in Moscow, are going on an excursion.  Discuss when and where it would be better to go; who you’d invite to go with you.

CARD 4

I Read the text and answer your teacher’s questions.

ENDANGERED  ANIMALS                                                                HELPdesk

What do the following animals have in common: pandas, rhinoceros, loggerhead turtles, Californian condors, pink pigeons, small tooth sawfish, and Siberian sturgeons? They are all endangered animals! Animals become endangered for a variety of reasons. Sadly, humans are behind every one of them! Here are three reasons.

Hunting: for centuries, humans have hunted elephants for their impressive tusks, killed tigers for their beautiful furs, and scooped up sturgeons to make caviar. While we still have elephants, tigers, and sturgeons in the wild, we cannot say the same about many others that have simply disappeared!

Loss of habitats: humans and animals have always competed for land and other natural resources. We clear an area of a forest for farming. We cut down trees and build beautiful houses. At the same time that we are trying to make our life comfortable, we inadvertently destroy the habitats of wild animals.

Pollution: more than once we have seen on televisions that rescue workers are trying to save seabirds soaked in spilled oil. More than once we have heard about how carbon dioxide and other gases have raised the Earth temperature and caused global warming. Pollution has a long lasting, and usually irreversible, effect. If we choose to do nothing and continue to pollute our planet Earth, our next generations will have to bear the consequences of abnormal weather and polluted environment. (1187)

II Read the text and say if the problems in Russian families are different or the same. Speak about your family.

Family Problems                                                                                                                BBCnews

 Father leaves for work in the morning after breakfast. The two children take the bus to school, and mother stays at home cooking and cleaning until father and the kids return home in the evening. This is the traditional picture of a happy family living in Britain. But is it true today? The answer is - no!

The biggest change has been caused by divorce. The large rise in divorces has meant many women need to work to support themselves and their children. In addition, women are no longer happy to stay at home raising children, and many have careers earning as much as or even more than men. Although it is difficult to be a working mother, it has become normal and it's no longer seen as a bad thing for the children.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You are to write an article on environmental problems for your school English Magazine.

You and the editor of the magazine are discussing what problems to mention in the article,

what title for the article to choose, and when the article must be published.

CARD 5

I Read the story and answer your teacher’s questions.

across cultures             

THE FRIENDLY GAMES

The Commonwealth is a voluntary organization of 54 independent countries who all share a common history as part of Britain’s Imperial past. Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Barbados, Zimbabwe, Pakistan are the members of the Commonwealth. The head of the organisation is Queen Elizabeth II.

Today the Commonwealth works to advance democracy, human rights, social and economic development, and organises special programmes to help promote young people, science, health and other issues in its member countries.

The Olympic – style – Commonwealth Games are held every four years in a different member country.

The first event was held in 1930, in Canada. There were only eleven participating countries, and the sports included athletics, boxing, rowing, swimming and wrestling.

England has only hosted the Games twice: in London and in Manchester. The other countries where the Games were held are Australia, Jamaica, and Malaysia. The number of countries participating in the Games has grown to over 70. Without competition from the USA and the major European countries, Australia, Canada and the British countries (which compete separately) usually win the most medals.    

The Commonwealth Games have their own version of the Olympic torch ceremony. On Commonwealth Day (May 11th) in a Game year, athletes with a stick containing a message from the Queen, run through different Commonwealth countries until they reach the host nation. (1215)

 (1249)

II Read the text and say why Lake Baikal is one of the most popular attractions in our country. Say if you are proud of Russia and its capital, why.

The Pearl of Siberia                                                                                                          Speak  Out

Lake Baikal is the most ancient lake on earth. Lakes rarely live longer than a million years but the ‘Pearl of Siberia’, as it is often called, is more than 25 million years old! The lake holds one-fifth of the planet’s fresh water – and it is still clean!

Lake Baikal is one of the most beautiful places on earth. This wonder of the natural world is difficult to describe. The waters of the lake are amazingly transparent – and they change colours all the time. Lake Baikal is a living museum of water plants and animals. You can see many of them nowhere in the world.

The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains. The Baikal Mountains and the taiga are protected as a national park.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

As the winners of a contest, your class was rewarded a grant. Explain to a foreign journalist why you were given a grant, who was the grant given by, and what you are going to spend it on.

CARD 6

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

Shopping on the Internet                                                                Book of the Future

Shopping on the Internet, or shopping on-line is becoming more and more popular. More and more people are using the internet to buy things. Why do people use the Internet to shop? Some people say it is more convenient. They don't have to leave their homes to order something, and they can shop for anything they want at any time, day or night. Other people say they can find things for sale that they can't find in the stores near their homes. Still other people say they can find better prices on the Internet.

If you want to buy something on the Internet, you need a credit card. You have to type your credit card number and information on the website and send it to the store over the Internet. You have to be sure that the store will not use your information in the wrong way. You don't want someone to get your credit card number and charge something to your account. Of course, you always have to be careful with your credit card number, because people sometimes steal credit card numbers from stores and restaurants too.

For people who are too nervous to shop on-line, the Internet is a good place to go window-shopping. Window-shopping is when you go to a store and look at the things for sale, but don't plan to buy anything. Window-shopping is easy on the Internet. You can see what kinds of products are available and how much they cost. You can visit stores with branches near you, or you can visit stores that are only on the Internet. (1183)

II Read the text and prove that Paralympics Games have become more popular than ever.

Speak about the importance of sport in people’s lives.

                                                                                                                            SOON online magazine

Paralympics Games

Just a few weeks after the Olympic Games, it’s time for the Paralympics. They are the Olympic event for athletes with physical and mental disabilities.

The idea of Paralympics Games was born in 1948, when Sir Ludwig Guttmann organised a sports competition in England for World War II veterans with physical disabilities. Four years later, the event became international when participants from Holland joined in. In 1960 the Paralympics finally became an Olympic event. Four hundred athletes came to the first Paralympics Games in Rome in 1960. In Athens in 2004, more than 3800 athletes from all over the world competed in 19 different sports.

By the way, ‘para’ is a Greek word meaning ‘alongside/beside’. So the word Paralympics means ‘the Games parallel to the Olympic Games’.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You have just returned from an English-speaking country. Tell your friend about the places of interest you were able to see there, and which of them you were impressed by.

Card 7

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

THE FIRST WOMAN IN BUSINESS                                                   David Evance

At the start of the twentieth century the idea of women in business seemed crazy. In those days men held all the positions of power and made all the decisions about money. They believed that a woman` s place was at home, looking after her children, cooking for her family and managing the house. If a woman needed to work she could perhaps find a job in a shop or in a factory, but she had no chance of working as a businesswoman or a banker, or a lawyer.

Women` s fashions in the USA and Europe at that time supported their position in society. Fashionable women wore long dresses that almost touched the ground. This made it difficult for them to drive a car, ride a horse or even walk quickly.

But many women were not happy with their position in society, and they didn’t like the clothes they had to wear. One of those people was a French woman called Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel. When she went into business in 1910, she planned to change clothes that women wore. But over the next sixty years she did much more than that, as she became the richest and the most successful businesswoman.

Coco Chanel had no experience of business when she opened her first hat shop in Paris in 1910. She was only twenty-seven years old and she came from an ordinary family.  Many of Coco`s customers in her first shop were her young women friends. They loved the simple but beautiful hats and dresses that Coco made for them, and soon her shop started to do well. (1181)

II Read the text and say how football has changed in the course of time. Speak about the most popular sports in Britain.  

About Football                                                                                                    5minute ENGLISH

People have played games like football for thousands of years.

In ancient China they played a special game for the emperor's birthday. Soldiers kicked balls made of animal skin into a net between two posts. These posts were ten metres high.

In the Pacific Islands they played games using hands and feet. They used coconuts and oranges as balls.

In the Nineteenth Century football began to be played in English public schools. The public schools were very expensive private schools attended by the sons of the rich and powerful.

The headmasters of three schools - Rugby, Eton and Harrow – began to develop new versions of football. The game became less violent, less dangerous and easier to control. It became a game for young gentlemen.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You’re on an excursion abroad. You’ve got lost in a city. Ask a passer-by how you can get to the hotel you’re staying at; which is the fastest and the most convenient means of the city transport, how long it will take you to get to the hotel.

CARD 8

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

EDINBURGH    

                                                                            ESL reading

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland. It is the second-largest city in the nation with the population of 448,624. It is located in the east of the country, just seventy kilometres apart from Glasgow, the first largest city of Scotland. Though the two cities are equally famous, Edinburgh has long established itself as the more popular tourist destination and there are many reasons for this.

The city of Edinburgh is divided into two areas, the Old Town (its historical centre) and the New Town (the city’s main shopping and commercial area). The Old Town includes picturesque streets, monuments and many wonderful cathedrals and churches. The most famous landmark of Edinburgh is Edinburgh Castle. The castle is open to the public and includes a number of museums too.

The New Town was first developed in the late 1700s. In its centre is Georges Street, and the city’s two main shopping areas Princes Street and Queens Street. The city contains many museum, public parks, markets, cafes, bars restaurants and has something really special to offer all its visitors.

Every year Edinburgh hosts a number of major festivals, none more famous than the Edinburgh International Festival, which takes place from August to early September. The festival attracts performers and audiences from all over the world and offers a mixture of theatre, films, music and comedy amongst other things. (1162)

II Read the text and speak about Teenagers` Problems

If You Have Problems  

As the old saying goes, you choose your friends, but you can't choose your family. This is great if everyone gets on but you feel unhappy when things go wrong. Most of us have to face family conflicts at least once or twice in our lives. You live with parents who don't understand you; you don` t have enough help from the people around you? The trick is to remember that you're not alone...

If you are trying to deal with any of these things or any of the other family situation that's stressing you out, you could try talking it through with someone you trust. This could be one of your friends, a social worker or a teacher.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You’re doing the shopping in one of European cities. Now you’re in the department of ready-made clothes. You’d like to buy some new things for summer wear. Ask a shop assistant for advice about the clothes you’re going to buy: if they fit you, if you should buy them. Ask her how much the clothes cost.

CARD 9

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

znatok.ua

II Read the text and say what kinds of newspapers and magazines there are in the USA.

Speak about newspapers and magazines you and the members of your family read.

American Newspapers                                                                                                 ESL reading

The first American newspaper was published in Boston in 1690. Now lots of magazines and newspapers are published in the USA. They bring the world of events into people’s homes.

Magazines and newspapers can be divided into two large groups - mass and specialized. Mass magazines and newspapers are intended for large groups of people, living in different places and having many different interests. Among them are newspapers and magazines for teachers, for cat lovers, for stamp collectors. In fact, there is a magazine and a newspaper to fit any interest.

Most U.S. cities today have only one newspaper publisher. In more than 170 American cities, a single publisher produces both a morning and an evening newspaper. But some cities (fewer than 30) have different owners.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You’re going to give a talk about one of the English-speaking country. Ask your teacher for advice: what to speak about, how you can make your report more interesting, how long you are allowed to speak at the lesson.

CARD 10

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

                                                                                                                                     B B Cnews

A Teenage Businessman        

When most 14-year-old boys are playing football or computer games after school, James Kenyon from Manchester is running his own successful business. “I’ve heard of a company in Scotland selling homemade bath products and thought it was a good idea.

My dad said I could do that, so I decided to take a chance,” James explains. That was two and a half years ago.

James started selling bath products to his friends and neighbours, but soon he began working for two local shopkeepers. Since he started his own soap company, selling homemade soap, bath salt and other bath products, James has earned over & 4,500.

James is proud of his success in business but he thinks there are more important things in his life. “I’ve learnt lots and I’m really enjoying it, but my school work always comes first.

James` s parents are proud of their son, they think that he plans everything really well – he does homework and he can focus on the business in his spare time. James says his parents have been a big support.

In 2006 James became a finalist in the Enterprising Young Brit Award. James is just one of an extraordinary group of enterprising young British businessmen who have innovative ideas and enthusiasm for business. Age and experience is certainly no obstacle to their success; their ambition and energy inspires them to create their money-making ideas. (1119)

II Read the text and say what Americans prefer for breakfast, if it is healthy food.  Speak about healthy habits.

Big Eaters                                                                                                                     ESL reading

Americans, in general, are big eaters and one of the greatest pleasures of the day is sitting down to a hearty breakfast. Most neighbourhood diners and cafeterias offer breakfast specials. Some can be as simple as buttered toast with coffee. Others can almost be equivalent to a full course meal which can provide enough calories for the entire day. This kind of breakfast may start with a glass of orange or tomato juice and then proceed to two eggs with toast, jam, butter and coffee. The menu shows that the eggs are served "any way you like them." This means they can be prepared scrambled, boiled, poached or fried. For those who can't eat eggs, there is a wide variety of other choices. Corn flakes with bananas, waffles with butter, pancakes with maple syrup and French toast are all good alternatives.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You’re talking to your foreign friend on the phone. He/She says he/she is going to Moscow soon. He/She wants you to meet him/her at the airport. Ask him/her when he/she is arriving, and what the number of the flight is. Ask what he/she’d like to see in Moscow and where to go.

CARD 11

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

Black Taxis, Red Buses                                                           Encyclopaedia Britannica

London has five airports in or near the city. The most important airport is Heathrow; it situated twenty four kilometres from the city centre. The city has eight big train stations, too. You can catch a train from London to Paris or Brussels now. Many people live outside London and come into the city for work every day. Children know about King’s Cross station because it is the train station in Harry Porter books.

In the UK people drive their own cars, that` s why the traffic is heavy on the roads. Drivers in the UK drive on the left side of the road! As there are a lot of cars in London, journey can take a very long time at the wrong time of day. But the city is famous for its black taxis and red buses. You can see some of London` s red buses today, and there are other buses, too. London’s taxi driver have to remember 25000 streets in London. Before they can start driving people, they study maps and drive round the city for about two years; have to answer difficult questions about the best ways across London.

You can move across London by the Underground. Londoners also call these underground trains ‘the Tube’. The London Underground is the oldest in the world. People first used it in 1863. Now it is about 410 kilometres long. There are three hundred stations, and some of them are nearly sixty metres under the streets.

You can, of course, walk around London! No cars or buses can go across London newest bridge. (1173)

II Read the text and say where people prefer to travel and why. Say if you like travelling, why/why not.

Travelling

Have you ever had the desire to see the world and see what was out there? While some people prefer to stay in the comfort of their own home, others are looking forward to travelling and can't wait to explore the world. Exotic places call to them. "Come visit me and I will show you my mysteries," they say.

Every year millions of people pack their suitcases or put on backpacks and flock to visit the seven continents of the world. They wander through the castles and museums of Europe, and the cities and natural wonders of North and South America. Some visit the vast exotic cultures of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Why do people want to explore the world? It gives them a better perspective about the earth and the people living on it. It opens their minds, it gives them a feeling of accomplishment, and it makes them feel alive

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You’re visiting your foreign friend. Both of you want to join a sports club. Discuss what sport you’d like to take up and why. Choose the most convenient days to go to the sports club.

1CARD 12

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

                                                   O` Henry

LOVE   FOR   АRT

Joe and Delia both loved art. Joe came to New York to study painting; Delia left a little town for New York to study music. Joe and Delia met at the friend` s studio, and a year later they got married. Joe and Delia were very happy, but one day they found that they had no money. Delia decided to give music lessons, and a few days later she came home very pleased with herself. “Joe, dear”, she said. “I have found a pupil.  The family is rich, they` ll pay me five dollars a lesson!”  However, Joe was not happy about that. He didn’t want his wife to work, he wanted her to study and be a famous pianist.

A week later Delia brought home 15 dollars for three lessons. To her surprise Joe put four five-dollar bills on the table too. He said that he had sold one of his pictures.

One Saturday evening Delia came home late, she looked very tired and her right hand was banged. Delia said: “My pupil’s family invited me to dinner after the lesson and the girl spilled some hot sauce on my hand. She was very sorry about that. “At what time did you burn your hand, Delia?” Joe asked her.  “About five. The iron…I mean the sauce...”   “Darling,” Joe took her hand in his. “Where are you working?” And she told him the truth. Delia couldn’t find any pupils and as she wanted Joe to study painting, she had to work in a laundry. “How did you know I wasn’t giving music lessons?” she asked.  “I sent up these bandages this afternoon for a girl who had burnt her hand with an iron. I am working in the machine room of the same laundry.” (1228)

II Read the text and say how this school is different from most other schools. Speak about your school. Say what you’d like to change in it and why.

FREE SCHOOL                                                                                                      English Textbook

At White Lion Street Free School there is no punishment for missing classes. But many kids spend more time here than other children spend in their schools. This school is open in the evenings and at weekends. The kids complain if holidays last longer than two weeks. There are no compulsory lessons. Each child has one adult who follows his progress through school. Together they decide what he needs to learn next, and the child does this in his own time. Sometimes kids work on their own, sometimes with an adult, sometimes in a group.

A lot happens outside school. The teachers think you can’t learn everything in one building. They visit local factories, markets, shops, fire and police stations.

Now there are very few Free Schools in England.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You’d like to do a course of a foreign language. Your friend thinks it` a waste of time as there are interpreters who can help you if necessary.

You don` t agree with him/her. Try to persuade your friend that foreign languages are very important today.

CARD 13

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

                                                                                                              Eddie Ogan

The Rich Family in Church

I'll never forget Easter of 1946. I was 14, my little sister Ocy was 12, and my elder sister Darlene was 16. We lived at home with our mother; our dad had died five years before, leaving Mom with three school kids to raise and no money.

A month before Easter the pastor of our church asked everyone to save money and help a poor family.

When we got home, we talked about what we could do. We decided to buy 50 pounds of potatoes and live on them for a month.  When we thought that if we kept our electric lights turned out as much as possible and didn't listen to the radio, we'd save money on that month's electric bill. Darlene got as many house and yard cleaning jobs as possible, and both of us babysat for everyone we could.

Every day we counted the money to see how much we had saved. At night we'd sit in the dark and talk about how the poor family was going to enjoy having the money the church would give them.

The day before Easter, Ocy and I walked to the grocery store and the manager gave us three $20 bills and one $10 bill for all our change. We had never had so much money before.

We could hardly wait to get to church. When the pastor was taking money, Mom gave him a $10 bill, and each of us, kids, $20.

As we walked home after church, we sang all the way. Later that afternoon the minister drove up in his car. Mom went to the door and then came back with an envelope in her hand. She opened the envelope and out fell a bunch of money. There were three $20 bills, one $10 and seventeen $1 bills. (1219)

II Read the text and say what languages are spoken in Great Britain. Say if it’s important to learn a foreign language, why/why not.  Speak about your foreign language lessons at school.

What Languages do the British Speak?                                                English Learning Magazine

English is the official language of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and it` s a first language for the majority of its citizens. However, visitors to the UK are often surprised that they have difficulties in understanding the language. In Britain every part of the country has its own way of speaking English. Most people in Britain can guess where someone comes from by the way they speak, either their accent or by words they use.

People in Wales speak a different language completely. About 25% of people there still speak their native Celtic language called Welsh. In some regions of Scotland Gaelic is used as a first

language. All over Scotland the accent is strong, some words are different but overall it is not difficult to understand. In Northern Ireland about 7% of people are bilingual and speak English and Irish Gaelic.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin a conversation.

You’re taking an interview from a foreign singer. Ask him when and why he became a musician;  

what are his further plans.

CARD 14

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

                                                                                                                                                 Encyclopaedia Britannica

                                                   FOOTBALL  IN  ENGLAND            

Football is the most popular game in England – you understand it if you come to one of the important matches. Rich and poor, young and old, one can see them all there, shouting and cheering for one side or the other. Football matches are also watched by millions of people on TV.

One of the most surprising things about football in England to a stranger is the greatest knowledge of the game. Even the smallest boy can tell you the names of players in most of the important teams; he has photographs of them and knows the results of large number of matches. He will tell you, who he expects will win such and such a match, and his opinion is usually as good as of men three or four times older.

Most schools in England take football seriously –much more seriously than nearly all European schools. In England, it is believed that education is not only a matter of filling a boy’s mind with facts in the classroom: education also means character training; and one of the best ways of training character is by means of games, especially team games, where the boy has to learn to work with others for his team, instead of working selfishly for himself alone.

The school therefore arranges games and matches for its pupils. Football is a good team game, it is good exercise for the body, it needs skill and a quick brain, it is popular and it is cheap: as a result, it is a schools` favourite game. (1137)

II Read the text and say which facts are for reading book and which are against it. Say if the  technological progress is important to people.

The Book or the Computer?

The death of the book has been predicted for centuries. Cinema, radio and television have all been presented as the murderers of books and reading. With the development of computing and the Internet books were replaced by electronic media. Who wants to use a twenty-volume encyclopaedia if you can take the necessary information from a small CD-ROM? It is, of course, the greatest revolution! But no one will lie in bed reading a novel from CD-ROM. Reading and the books, magazines and newspapers are still important in our lives. They continue to teach us lessons, amuse and broaden our minds.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

Discuss with your foreign friend what is necessary to become successful: a good education, a lucky marriage, a special talent for something.  Give your opinion and ask about your friend’s opinion of this problem.

CARD 15

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

                ENGLISH LEARNING MAGAZINE

                                        April Fools Day                          

What is April Fools Day and what is its origin? It is commonly believed that in medieval France New Year was celebrated on April 1st. Then in 1562 Pope Gregory introduced a new calendar for the Christian world, changing New Year to January 1st. With no modern communications, news travelled slowly and new ideas were often questioned. Many people didn’t hear of the change, others chose to ignore it, while some merely forgot. These people were called fools. Invitations to non-existent ‘New Year’ parties were sent and other practical jokes were played. The jokes became a tradition then.

The custom eventually spread to England and Scotland, and it was later transported across the Atlantic Ocean to America. April Fools Day has now developed into an international festival of fun, with different nationalities celebrating the date in a special way.

In France and Italy, if someone plays a trick on you, you are ‘the fish of April’. Children stick paper fish to their friends` backs, and chocolate fish are found in the shops.

Today, Americans and the British play small tricks on friends and strangers on April 1st. A common trick is to point to a friend’s shoe and say ‘Your shoelace is untied.’ When they look down, they are laughed at. Schoolchildren might tell a friend that school has been cancelled. Once, a British short film was shown on April Fools Day about spaghetti farmers and how they harvest their crop from spaghetti trees! (1200)

II Read the text and say which of the English-speaking countries have a plant as an emblem, and which – an animal. Speak about one of the English-speaking country and its capital.

National Symbols                                                                                            BBC Learning English

Countries often have national symbols or emblems. Britain is usually shown as a lion or a bulldog. The USA has an eagle as its symbol. Australia uses a kangaroo.

Countries have their own national colours, too. These are usually the colours of their national flag. The patriotic colours in Britain and the USA are red, white and blue.

Different parts of Britain have their own emblems, too. They are all plants: a red rose in England, a thistle in Scotland, a shamrock in Northern Ireland and a leek in Wales. Each country has its own colour. They are used, for example, for football or rugby teams: white in England, blue in Scotland, red in Wales and green in Northern Ireland.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You foreign friend often goes to MacDonald’s. Tell him/her that the food people eat there isn’t healthy, give your reasons.  Give him/her advice about the healthy eating.

CARD 16

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

CNNnews

INDIANS: THE NATIVE AMERICANS

Long before the early settlers came to America, the land was inhabited by tribes and nations of people known to us today as Indians. When Columbus came to America, he thought he had landed in India. For this reason the natives were called Indians although they knew themselves by a variety of other names. 

There were many different tribes of American Indians, and each spoke its own language. Some were friendly, others were fearsome. Some belonged to the mountains, others lived across the Great Plains and still others inhabited the woodlands of the eastern forests. Some of the tribes developed high level civilization. They left many beautiful things made by their own hands. The oral traditions of these great people gave birth to fantastic legends about the origins of the earth and the Gods which defended and protected them.

When the early European settlers came to America, there was at first an exchange of cultures. The Indians gave the colonists and pioneers corn and potatoes in exchange for guns and horses. The Indians taught the settlers about traditional medicines made from herbs and plants. Unfortunately, the exchange was not fair. The western settlers brought with them smallpox and other diseases formerly unknown to the New World.

Later, with colonial expansion, conflicts began and the Indians found themselves fighting for the land which they had always believed would be their own.

Today of all the minorities who exist in America, they are in many ways among the poorest and most neglected.  (1268)

II Read the text and say what the environmental organisations usually do. Say why it is very important to protect the environment.

Environmentally Friendly                                                                                           FirstScience

There are several groups in Britain which try to protect the environment. The most famous group is Greenpeace, which campaigns in many countries around the world. They have campaigned against hunting whales, pollution in the North Sea, nuclear power, and many other issues.

Another important environmental group is Friends of the Earth. They campaigned against global warming, the destruction of the rain forest, and the hole in the ozone layer.

There are many other groups which are worried about the environment. The oldest is the National Trust which was set up in 1895 to protect parks, buildings and monuments in Britain.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

Your foreign friend thinks that computers are harmful.  You don` t agree with him. Prove that he/she is wrong. Give a few examples to show that computers can be very helpful.

CARD 17

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE                                                   BBC Learning Tnglish

About one hundred years ago many educated people learned and spoke French when they met people from other countries. Today most people speak English when they meet foreigners. It has become the new international language. There are more people who speak English as a second language than people who speak English as a first language. Why is this?

There are many reasons why English has become so popular. One of them is that English has become the language of business. Another important reason is that popular American culture (like movies, music, and McDonald's) has quickly spread throughout the world. It has brought its language with it.

Is it good that English has spread to all parts of the world so quickly? I don't know. It's important to have a language that the people of the earth have in common. Our world has become very global and we need to communicate with one another. On the other hand, English is a fairly complicated language to learn and it brings its culture with it. Do we really need that?

Scientists have already tried to create an artificial language that isn't too difficult and doesn't include any one group's culture. It is called Esperanto. But it hasn't become popular. But maybe the popularity of English won't last that long either. Who knows? There are more people in the world who speak Chinese than any other language. Maybe someday Chinese will be the new international language. (1176)

II Read the text and say why Queen Boadecia and Robert the Bruce became national heroes. Speak about a person or people you admire.

National Heroes

All countries have their national heroes and heroines. We usually learn about these people through out our history lessons at school. Heroes and heroines are often leaders who fought against a more powerful enemy. The earliest leader in British history was Queen Boadicea, who led a rebellion against the Romans. There is a statue of her on Westminster Bridge in London.

In Scotland, the most famous leader is Robert the Bruce. He defeated the English in one of the many wars between England and Scotland which took place before two countries were united.

Not all national heroes and heroines are leaders. Some are inventors, explores or pioneers in particular field.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You’ve invited your foreign guests to a school party which your classmates are planning to celebrate Moscow City Day. Discuss with your teacher when and how to organise the party.

CARD 18

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

                                                                                                                                Inventions That Changed the World

                                                              FLIGHT              

For many centuries people watched birds and dreamed that they could fly. We cannot fly like birds: we don` t have enough strength in our arms to move wings up and down. We also really need the power of an engine to drive up forward. Many people died learning these lessons, before controlled flight became possible.

The first flying machine which could carry a human being was built in the in Spain in 875.  Reports tell us that the inventor flew some distance, but the landing was hard: the man hurt his back badly and was never able to fly again.

It was possible that the news of his flight reached England, carried there by men returning from war in the Middle East. Whether this is true or not, in 1010 a man called Oliver jumped off a church roof in Mulmesbury. This time we know the distance of his flight - 125 steps.

In the last years of the 15th century, the Italian Leonardo da Vinci studied the flight of birds and made a number of drawings of flying machines. His early machines tried to copy the movement of birds` wings, which he didn’t fully understand. But less than 10 years before his death in 1519, he drew a machine with wings that didn’t move. One of the machines was built and it did fly.

In 15 36 in France, Denis Bolor returned to the idea of moving wings. He tried to fly using wings that were moved up and down. The idea didn` t work and he fell to his death. (1122)

II Read the text and say how many bank holidays there are in all the countries of the UK.

Speak about holidays in Russia.

What are 'bank' holidays?

British bank holidays are Public Holidays and have been recognized since 1871. The name Bank Holiday comes from the time when banks were shut and so no trading could take place.

There are currently eight permanent bank and public holidays in England, Wales and Scotland and 10 in Northern Ireland. These include Christmas Day and Good Friday, which in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are common law holidays (they are not specified by law as bank holidays but have become customary holidays because they are celebrated by everybody.

Even though banks are still closed on these days many shops today now remain open. Shops, museums and other public attractions, such as historic houses and sports centres, may close on certain public holidays, particularly Christmas Day.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

In October you’re going to England. Speak to your foreign friend, who lives there, and ask him/her what the weather is usually like there in October; how often it changes. Ask your friend to recommend you what clothes to take with you.

CARD 19

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

                                                             ENGLISH LEARNING MAGAZINE

PART-TIME JOBS FOR TEENAGERS

Part-time jobs for American students are very popular and usually begin during their high school days. Besides working in fast food restaurants and small cafeterias, a very popular job for a teenager in America is baby-sitting. This has its greatest appeal among teenage girls and a good baby sitter can earn quite a bit if she is reliable, responsible and mature.

It is not necessarily an easy job and requires both social skills and general competence. Such a job often involves working on Friday and Saturday nights when many married couples like to spend the night going to a movie or the theatre.

Other part-time jobs which are popular especially among young boys is managing a paper route or mowing the lawns of people in one's neighbourhood. These jobs also require a sense of responsibility and can be a source of good income for a high school student. Young boys who run paper routes are required to get up early in the morning to deliver the daily news regardless of the weather. This job has no holidays and requires the newspaper to be delivered every day without exception. In America there are no newspaper holidays.

Part-time jobs for high schools students in America are often seen as an opportunity to teach young people about work responsibility and respect for others. The young people learn how to become part of the adult world and to share in the making of society. (1148)

II Read the text and say how the British spend their holidays. Say how you usually spend your winter and summer holidays.

The British on Holiday

Schools close for the summer in the UK about the middle of July and open again at the beginning of September, so most families go on holiday in July and in August.

Many families go to the Mediterranean to get two weeks of the sun. The most popular destination in Europe is Spain. Outside Europe, Florida in the USA is the top destination.

Many families stay in the UK for their summer holidays. Popular seaside resorts are Scarborough and Blackpool, some places in Devon and Cornwell.

But even if the sun shines, the sea never gets very warm. A new alternative is to go to a leisure complex like Centre Parcs , which has heated swimming pools under a big glass dome and many indoor and outdoor activities like cycling, horse riding and archery.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

Your friend is in a bad mood. Ask him/her why he/she feels upset, and if you can help him/her.

Give him/her advice how to cope with the situation.

CARD 20

I Read the article and answer your teacher’s questions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Loss of the Titanic

The great ship, Titanic, sailed for New York from Southampton on April 10th, 1912. She was carrying 1316 passengers and a crew of 891. Even by modern standards, the 66,000 ton Titanic was a colossal ship. At that time, however, she was not only the largest ship that had ever been built, but was regarded as unsinkable, for she had sixteen watertight compartments. Even if two of these were flooded, she would still be able to float. The tragic sinking of this great liner will always be remembered, for she went down on her first voyage with heavy loss of life.

Four days after setting out, while the Titanic was sailing across the icy waters of the North Atlantic, a huge iceberg was suddenly spotted by a look-out. After the alarms had been given, the great ship turned sharply to avoid a direct collision. The Titanic turned just in time, narrowly missing the immense wall of ice which rose over 100 feet out of the water beside her. Suddenly, there was a slight trembling sound from below, and the captain went down to see what had happened. The noise had been so faint that no one thought that the ship had been damaged. Below, the captain realized to his horror that the Titanic was sinking rapidly, for five of her sixteen watertight compartments had already been flooded. The order to abandon ship was given and hundreds of people plunged into the icy water. As there were not enough life-boats for everybody, 1500 lives were lost. (1186)

II Read the text and say why Michael likes his job.

Say where you would like to work in the future, what you are going to do to realize your ambitions.

The Weather Forecaster

When he was ten years old, Michael Fish decided to become a meteorologist and set up a weather station in his back garden. Now he is the famous BBC weatherman. Being a weather forecaster on television is hard work! He works 12-hour and must prepare between 10 and 14 broadcasts. But Michael loves his work. He says that not two days are ever the same and there is always some interesting weather happening somewhere on the planet.

Michael knows he helps people, especially in winter. He insists that warning people of bad weather in winter is a very important job and he can help to save people’s lives.

III Speak to your teacher. You begin the conversation.

You and your friend are going to prepare a project about one of the English-speaking countries.

Discuss what country you are going to speak about, what is necessary to do in order to make the project interesting; what each of you is going to prepare for the presentation.

                                                         Диалог №1.

--- Hello!

---Good afternoon, you are speaking to “Preparatory English Courses”. How can I help you?

--- I’d like to get some information about your courses. You see, I’m going to enter the university and I have to improve my English. Can you answer my questions?

---Sure! What would you like to know?

---Well, first: how can I enroll on the courses?

---Oh, it’s easy. You should come to us from 9a.m. to 6p.m., room 10. And don’t forget your passport!

---Sorry, but I don’t know where the courses are situated.

---It is in the centre, Pushkin Street,4. It’s not far from the underground station Pushkinskaya.

---I see. How long does the course last?

---From one month to six months, it depends on the level of your English. A Preparatory course for entering a higher school usually lasts one month, twice a week, three hours in the evening.

---It suits me OK. And how much does it cost?

---It costs two thousand  roubles.

---Do I have to buy any special books for the study?

---No, our courses provide the students with all the materials they need.

---Thank you very much. I’ll come tomorrow. Bye!

---Thank you for your call. Bye!

                                                          Диалог №2.

---Helen, I am so glad you are here, in my city! Do you like it?

---Oh, Christine, I love it so much, everything is so beautiful!

---Yes, I like it too. I have an idea. Are you free at the weekend?

---Yes, I am. Why?

---It would be great to walk in the centre of the city, to do the sights.

---I’ll be happy! And I could buy some Russian souvenirs for my foreign friends, couldn’t I?

---Of course, you’ll do it! Where exactly would you like to go?

---I think, we’ll visit the Tretiyakov Gallery and walk in the centre. When shall we meet?

---Let’s meet at 10 in the morning, near the underground station.

---OK. Why do you want to go to the Tretiakov Gallery?

---I’ve heard so much about it! They say it’s just great and unforgettable!

---Yes, it really is. So, see you on Saturday at 10! Bye!

---Bye, so long!

                                                          Диалог №3.

---Hello, John, haven’t seen you for ages! How are you doing?

---Fine, thanks, and you?

---Terrific, I’m so glad to see you in my city! So, we’ve decided to go on an excursion. But where shall we go? Have you got any ideas about it?

---Well, I’m sure we’ll have a great time wherever we’ll go. But first of all we should go to Red Square, then if you don’t mind we’ll go to the Historical Museum. How do you like my plan?

---It’s great, I absolutely agree with this plan. But I think we should also walk along Arbat, I like it so much and you’ll love it too, I’m sure.

---Yes, I like this idea. When shall we meet?

---Let’s meet at 10 in the morning. How about inviting some of our friends?

---Let’s call Pete and Sam, it’ll be great to spend some time with them, they are so smart and funny.

---OK. So, see you tomorrow!

---Bye!

                                                     Диалог №4.

---Good morning, Mr. Green! I know that you are an editor of our school environmental journal. My teacher asked me to write an article about the environment. You know how to keep it clean and so on. Could you help me, please?

---Good morning, Vika. I’ll help you if I can. What would you like to know?

---The first question is: which environmental problem should I write about? There are so many…

---You can choose anything you like best: the greenhouse effect, how to keep the countryside beauty, how to save endangered animals, how to keep the right balance between humans and nature, how to save rainforests…

---Oh, the last one is interesting for me! I’ve read so much about rainforests and their importance for the atmosphere of our planet.

---Then you’ll do it easily.

---One more question if you don’t mind. What title for the article will be the best?

---Try to create something that catches an eye, something bright and laconic.

---Maybe, “We’ll die without them”?

---It’ll be great.

---When should I hand my article in?

---It’ll be great if you finish it in two-week time.

---I’ll do it! Thank you so much for your help!

---Welcome!

                                                          Диалог №5.

---Hi! We’ve won the contest! We are the winners!

---Congratulations! It’s great! What kind of contest was it?

---“The Best Class of the Year”!

---Then some questions for you if you don’t mind.

---OK, what would you like to know?

---What did you do to win the contest?

---First: The pupils of our class didn’t get any bad marks during last year. Second: Wу made a historical museum in our school. Third: We made a lot of presentations for minor pupils and helped them to study. Fourth: We kept the area around our school clean and beautiful.

---Did you get any grant for your victory?

---Yes, fifty thousand! We are happy!

---How are you planning to spend the money?

---We are going to travel to ancient Russian cities and buy some video equipment for the school library.

---Well done, your plans are great! Good luck and congratulations!

                                                     Диалог к билету №6.

---Hello, Helen! I’m so glad to see you again! How are you?

---I’m fine, thank you, and you?

---I’m fine too. Where have you been? Haven’t seen you for ages!

---You know, I’ve just returned from Great Britain!

---Have you? It’s great.  I’ve always wanted to visit this country. How did you like it there?

---Oh, everything was terrific.

---What cities did you visit?

---I was only in London. There I did the sights every day and visited the National Gallery.

---I am sure it was wonderful. What impressed you most of all?

---The Tower of London, of course.

---Why?

--- You can feel history there. As you know, it was not only the kings’ palace, but also a prison and even a zoo! I spent there the whole day walking and admiring, it’s so old! Next summer I’m going to Scotland. It would be great to go there together. How do you like this idea?

---Oh, I like it a lot. We’ll talk about it later, shall we? Bye!

---Bye, it was nice to meet you!

                                                            Диалог к билету №7.

---Excuse me, could you help me?

---Yes, how can I help you?

---I think I am lost. How can I get to the Grand Hotel?

---Oh, let me see. The hotel you need is in the centre of the city, isn’t it?

---Yes, it is. What kind of transport can I use?

---You can get there by bus or by taxi.

---How long will it take?

---It’ll take you 15 minutes by bus or 5 minutes if you go by taxi.

---Well, I’ll take a taxi, I’m in a hurry. Where can I catch a taxi?

---Over there, not far from the traffic lights.

---Thank you so much, you were very helpful!

---You are welcome. Good luck!

                                                     Диалог к билету №8.

---Hello, could you help me, please?

---Sure, how can I help you?

---I am looking for a light dress for my summer holiday.

---OK, we have a great choice of summer dresses here. What colour dress would you like?

---Something light, yellow or pink or peach. What colour will suit me?

---I’m sure pink will suit you very well. What size do you wear?

---Size 10.

---Here is a nice pink dress, size 10.

---Oh, I like it a lot. Can I try it on? Where is the fitting room, please?

---It’s over there. How does it feel?

---It’s great! I love it! How much does it cost?

---Twenty five dollars.

---Well, it isn’t very expensive. I’ll take it. How can I pay?

---You can pay cash or by card. We accept Master and Visa.

---I’ll pay by card then. Here you are.

---Thank you. Come again! You are always welcome!

---Thank you, I will.

                                                      Диалог №9.

---Good morning, Mrs. Green. Could you help me, please?

---Good morning, Vika. How can I help you?

---I am going to make a report about Great Britain. But I’ve found it a little difficult. Could you help me to choose the theme for my report? There are so many interesting things to speak about!

---Well, it depends on your interests and tastes. As I know you’ve always been interested in the history of this country. So you can make a report  about it beginning with the Roman times.

---You are right, it’s very interesting for me. But how to prepare it? Where should I take the materials on this subject?

---You can surf the Internet, the books from the library and also I can give you some historical films.

---Thank you so much. How much time do I have to get ready?

---The report should be prepared by the end of the month.

---OK, I’ve got enough time. I’m sure I’ll manage it successfully.

---Yes, you will. Good luck!

---Good bye, Mrs. Green. Thank you very much.

---Welcome. Bye.

                                                         Диалог №10.

Hello! Could I speak to Vika? Please?

---Yes? It’s Vika here. Is that Helen?

---Yes, It’ me! So nice to hear you again! How are you?

---I’m fine, thank you and how are you?

--- I’m great! You know, why? I am coming to Moscow soon!

---Really? When are you arriving?

---Next Friday. Could you meet me at Sheremetyevo Airport, please?

---Certainly, I’ll meet you. What’s your flight number?

---It’s 5234. I want to see you so much!

---Yes, me too! By the way, what sightseeing would you like to do in Moscow?

--- First,  Red Square and the Kremlin, then, of course, Poklonnaya Hill.

---Well, it’s great! And what places would you like to visit? I’d recommend to visit The Museum of Fine Arts and The Tretiakov Gallery.

---Yes, sure! And the Bolshoi Theatre!

---OK, I’ll meet be waiting for you! Bye!

---See you soon! Bye!

                                                     Диалог №11.

---Ok, Helen, so we are going to join some sport club and to do sports. Of course, it’ll be great but I’m not sure what sport to choose.

---I think we should do swimming.

---Why not fencing for example? It’s terrific, I’m sure!

---Oh, no, it’s dangerous! Swimming is very good for health, for lungs, for muscles, for the whole body. We’ll be strong, healthy and attractive!

---Yes, you are right. What days of the week are convenient for you?

---Tuesday and Thursday. Are they good for you? I’m not going to swim alone!

---Well, it’s OK for me. So, we shall do swimming on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week.

---Great! See you next Tuesday then. Bye!

---Bye!

                                                           Диалог №12.

---Hi, Helen! How are you?

---Fine, thanks, and you?

---Great! I’m going to enroll on some preparatory English courses. Would you like to join me? It’ll be great to attend the course together!

---No, thanks. I am not going to study English. It isn’t necessary for me.

---But why?

---It takes so much time and efforts. If you need to translate something, you can always do it with the help of a translator or an interpreter. And then you will have to pay!

---Yes, why not? You must always pay for someone’s job.

---I don’t agree with you. You will depend on the translator’s working hours and his quality. I am sure nowadays each educate person should know English. It’s an international language, the language of business, the language of computers. You will need it when you travel. You won’t be able to take an interpreter with you in your travelling You’ll also need it in your future career.

---OK, I’ll think about it. Maybe you are right. All the same, thank you for your advice.

---You are always welcome. Bye! I have to go now.

---Bye, see you later!

                                                      Диалог №13.

---Hi, Michael! I’m so happy to see you! Could you give an interview for “The Times”, please?

---Yes, sure, but I’ve got only 5 minutes. You know, I’m very busy.

---Thank you so much. Just  some questions for our readers. First: when did you begin your career of a singer?

---Well, I began singing at the age of 5, and my career of a singer began when I was 16.

---Why did you choose this kind of art?

---I can’t live without singing; it makes me happy and full.

---What are your plans for future?

---Next month I’m going to perform on the stage of Metropolitan Opera and later I’m going on a tour around the world. You know everybody likes my music!

---Oh, yes, it’s true! We love you so much! Thank you!

---Now I have to go, a lot of work.

---It’s a pity, but thank you again! Good luck!

---Bye, hope to see you at my concerts!

---Sure, I’ll come! Bye!

                                                           Диалог №14.

---Hi, Helen! How are you?

---Fine, thanks, and you?

---Fine, but…

---What’s the problem? Is something wrong?

---No, everything is OK. As you know, I’m 15 now and it’s high time to decide what career to choose, to think thoroughly about your future life. Everybody wants to be successful. What to do? It’s a difficult question!

---Oh, yes, I agree, it’s hard to predict your future!

---Should I get married successfully or should I get higher education or should I just have a talent for something? I really need your advice!

---Well, as I think, you can’t be successful without higher education. Then you’ll have a good, prestigious job. But also I am sure; a person can’t be successful and happy without a family. As I think, a family is an important part of our life. Do you agree with me?

---Yes, you are absolutely right here.

---OK, then I’ll get higher education and afterwards I’ll get married. I dream about two children or maybe three.

---And now you should just do your homework and study well if you want your dreams to become true!

                                                      Диалог №15.

---Hi, Helen!

---Hi, Vika! Would you like to join me?

---Where are you going?

---To MacDonald’s! Let’s go there together! It’ll be great!

---To MacDonald’s? Oh, no, I’m not going there!

---Oh dear, but why?

---Don’t you know that fast food is unhealthy?

---Is it? Well, I don’t agree with you! Fast food is so tasty: cheeseburgers, hamburgers, chicken macnughets…I love them so much!

---You shouldn’t! There is so much fat in them that you’ll put on weight pretty soon.

---I am not afraid of it! I go to gym!

---But you won’t be able to do sports if you eat food like this. It’ll be harmful for your health!

---Sorry to hear that. What should I eat then?

---You should eat more vegetables and fruit. Of course, don’t forget about proteins in meat and fish. And don’t fry food, just boil it and that’s all.

---Thanks for your advice. I’ll think about it later. Bye!

---Bye!

                                                     Диалог№16.

---Hi, Helen! Glad to see you! Look, I'm going to the computer club to play «Counter Strike»! You can join me!

---Oh, no, I'm not going to play computer games!

---But why? We'll have a lot of fun!

---Don't you know that computers are bad for our health?

---I don't agree with you. Of course, if you play computer games from morning till evening, it'll be very harmful for your health. But we can't live without computers nowadays!

---I don't understand you. Why can't we live without them? There are lots of hobbies around us besides computer games!

---I'm not speaking about computer games now, I am speaking about the information you can get from the Internet. You can even buy things in the Internet, and it's very helpful, you save your time. And time is money in our fast-changing world.

---OK, now I understand what you mean. Well maybe I should buy a computer then?

---Yes, and do it as soon as possible. I'll help you to choose the best one!

---Thanks a lot! Now I have to go, lots of work. Bye!

---Bye, see you!

                                                      Диалог№17.

---Good morning, Mr. Green. Could you help me, please?

---Sure, what would you like to know?

---I’m going to hold a meeting, dedicated to the Day of the City. I’ve got some questions. Could you give me some advice?

---Yes, of course.

---When is it better to hold the meeting?

---You’d better do it at the end of the month.

---But how to organize it?

---First, you should send the invitation cards, then you should think of the agenda of the meeting: what to say, choose the people to speak, choose the topics to speak about, you should treat your guests with something tasty, and so on.

---Oh, I see. Then I’ll choose some people to organize the meeting, the speech, the meals the chairs and the tables for our guests.

---That’s right. You’ve understood the idea of the organization quite well. Good of you. Good luck!

---Thank you so much for your help, Mr. Green.

                                                          Диалог №18.

---Hi, Helen! How are you?

---I’m fine, thanks, and you?

---I’m OK. You know what? I am going to come to Great Britain!

---Really? It’s terrific! When are you coming?

---In October. I need your advice. Can you answer some questions, please?

---Sure I will help you if I can. What would you like to know?

---What’s the weather like in London in October?

---It depends. Sometimes it rains, sometimes it’s just cloudy and windy, but it isn’t usually cold in October. Sorry to say, it’s rarely sunny here in October.

---It’s a pity. How often does the weather change?

---When it starts raining in October, it means it’s going to rain for some days. But let’s hope for the better.

---I see. What clothes would you recommend to take with me?

---Yes, it’s important. They say, there is no bad weather, there are bad clothes. You’ll have to take comfortable shoes, a couple of sweaters, warm socks. And one more thing. Don’t forget to take an umbrella!

---Thank you so much. See you in London! Bye!

---You are always welcome. Bye!

                                                     Диалог №19.

---Hi, Helen! How are you?

---Hi, Christine. I am OK, but...

---Why are you so sad, Helen?

---I think I am absolutely unhappy.

---Oh, dear, what's happened?

---You know, I've got «2» for my History test. Now I don't know what to do! I was going to enroll at the Historical Department of the University and now I've got «2» in History...I can't believe it! What have I done wrong?

---Don't worry, you still have some time to change the situation?

---But how?

---Look, I've got a wonderful book that can help you. There are a lot of tests on History and there are answers to them, so you check you knowledge yourself.

---But the teacher! He is angry with me, I am afraid!

---Don't be afraid, just talk to him politely explain him your problem. He'll understand you, I'm sure, and will help you.

---Thank you for your advice. I'll talk to him tomorrow then.

---Now let's go to my place, I'll give you the book!

---Yes, let's go!

                                                     Диалог №20.

---Good morning, Mr. Green. Could you help us, please?

---Yes, sure, what would you like to know?

---You see, our task is to prepare a project about Great Britain. What should we do? I don’t understand it quite right…

---Well, first we should choose what to speak about.

---OK, let’s speak about the history of Great Britain.

---But why the history? Wouldn’t it be very difficult for us?

---I’ve got a lot of materials on this theme. Moreover, it’s good if you want to understand the modern position of the country in the world.

---Yes, it’s true. But what should I do? Will you help me?

---Of course, I will! It’ll be nice if you find all the materials for the task and then I’ll prepare a speech. Afterwards you’d better ask your classmates to decorate the meeting hall and organize some sandwiches and soft drinks. I will also write invitation cards. Is it OK?

---It’s great, I’ll do everything, and it’ll be great!

---It’ll be terrific! But now let’s get down to business.

---OK, see you soon!

---Bye!

Билеты предоставлены Федеральной службой

по надзору в сфере образования и науки

ПРИМЕРНЫЕ ЭКЗАМЕНАЦИОННЫЕ БИЛЕТЫ

ДЛЯ ПРОВЕДЕНИЯ УСТНОЙ ИТОГОВОЙ АТТЕСТАЦИИ

ВЫПУСКНИКОВ IX КЛАССОВ ОБЩЕОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНЫХ

УЧРЕЖДЕНИЙ В 2005/06 УЧЕБНОМ ГОДУ

Объяснительная записка

Согласно Закону Российской Федерации «Об образовании» государственная (итоговая) аттестация учащихся по завершении основного общего образования является обязательной. Государственная (итоговая) аттестация выпускников IX классов общеобразовательных учреждений проводится в форме устных и письменных экзаменов.

Форма проведения экзаменов по выбору может быть различной: по билетам, собеседование, защита реферата, комплексный анализ текста (по русскому языку). В первом случае выпускник отвечает на вопросы, сформулированные в билетах, выполняет предложенные практические задания (решение задачи, разбор предложения, лабораторная работа, демонстрация опытов).

Выпускник, избравший собеседование как одну из форм устного экзамена, по предложению аттестационной комиссии дает без подготовки развернутый ответ по одной из ключевых тем курса или отвечает на вопросы обобщающего характера по темам, изученным в соответствии с учебной программой. Собеседование целесообразно проводить с выпускниками, имеющими отличные знания по предмету, проявившими интерес к научным исследованиям в избранной области знаний и обладающими аналитическими способностями.

Защита реферата предполагает предварительный выбор выпускником интересующей его темы работы с учетом рекомендаций учителя-предметника, последующее глубокое изучение избранной для реферата проблемы, изложение выводов по теме реферата. Не позднее чем за неделю до экзамена реферат представляется выпускником на рецензию учителю-предметнику. Аттестационная комиссия на экзамене знакомится с рецензией на представленную работу и выставляет оценку выпускнику после защиты реферата.

Выпускник, избравший комплексный анализ текста как одну из форм устного экзамена по русскому языку, характеризует тип, стиль подобранного учителем текста, определяет его тему, главную мысль, комментирует имеющиеся в нем орфограммы и пунктограммы.

Учащийся для экзамена по выбору может избрать любой предмет, изучавшийся в IX классе. На экзаменах по выбору по всем учебным предметам проверяется соответствие знаний выпускников требованиям государственных образовательных программ, глубина и прочность полученных знаний, практическое их применение.

В предложенный материал по всем учебным предметам можно внести изменения, дополнить его, исходя из местных условий, другими вопросами и заданиями, а также разработать свои с последующим обсуждением и утверждением на методическом совете. При корректировке примерных билетов по истории России и обществознанию желательно внести вопросы, связанные с российской государственной символикой (герб, флаг, гимн).

«Вестник образования» № 4; февраль 2006.

ИНОСТРАННЫЙ ЯЗЫК

На экзамене по иностранному языку проверяется практическое владение учащимися устной речью в стандартных ситуациях общения в рамках изученных тем и умение читать иностранный текст с извлечением основной или полной информации из прочитанного.

Экзаменационный билет состоит из двух разделов: первый – чтение текста и его обсуждение (с опорой на текст), второй – устная беседа с экзаменатором на одну из перечисленных ниже тем.

Тексты для чтения, объемы которых составляют не менее 1500 печатных знаков, подбираются учителем из адаптированной художественной и научно-популярной литературы.

Тематика бесед

1. Говорят, что школьные годы – счастливая пора. А ты можешь сказать, что ты был счастлив в школе? Почему?

2. Если ты хочешь продолжить свое образование, куда ты пойдешь учиться? Аргументируй свой выбор.

3. Выбрать профессию нелегко. Как ты думаешь, что может помочь тебе сделать правильный выбор?

4. Существуют разные возможности познания мира (средства массовой информации, книги, путешествия, посещение музеев, встречи с интересными людьми и т.д.). Какие из них предпочитаешь ты?

5. Путешествие – один из способов узнать другие страны. Чем привлекает туристов Россия? Что бы ты показал своим зарубежным друзьям?

6. Каждая страна имеет свои особенности. С чем ассоциируется у тебя страна изучаемого языка и ее жители?

7. Каждая страна гордится своими достижениями и успехами. Какими достижениями своей страны гордишься ты?

8. О ком из людей, прославивших нашу страну, ты рассказал бы своим зарубежным друзьям? Кем из знаменитых людей страны изучаемого языка ты восхищаешься? Что сделало их знаменитыми?

9. Что бы ты рассказал своим зарубежным сверстникам о традиционных русских праздниках? Что ты знаешь о праздниках в странах изучаемого языка?

10. Ты собираешься провести месяц в семье твоего зарубежного друга. Как ты думаешь, что этой семье будет интересно узнать о тебе?

11. Читательские интересы у людей разные. А что любишь читать ты?

12. Сейчас много говорят о телевидении, находят как положительные, так и отрицательные стороны. А что думаешь ты?

13. Чем наиболее часто занимаются в свободное время подростки в разных странах (в США, Великобритании, Германии, Франции, Испании)? А что привлекает тебя? Почему?

14. Молодежь любит разные музыкальные стили. Какие из них популярны сейчас? Какой стиль ближе всего тебе? Почему?

15. Какие традиционные виды спорта страны изучаемого языка ты знаешь? Популярны ли они в России? Какими видами спорта интересуются в твоей семье?

16. Одни люди занимаются спортом, другие предпочитают смотреть спортивные соревнования. Так что же лучше – заниматься или смотреть?

17. Что означает «здоровый образ жизни»? А как ты заботишься о своем здоровье?

18. Проблемы экологии необычайно важны сегодня. Что ты и окружающие тебя люди могут сделать, чтобы защитить планету?

19. Когда человек взрослеет, у него могут появляться проблемы. А у тебя есть проблемы с друзьями, родителями или другими окружающими тебя людьми? Как ты справляешься с ними?

20. Изучение иностранных языков становится все более популярным в России. Почему люди в нашей стране изучают иностранные языки?