1 Dear David,
Thanks for your letter. It was great to hear from you.
I really like my school. Most of the teachers are quite relaxed and friendly. As for the sports facilities, they are so much better than at my previous school. There are clay and grass tennis courts, and best of all — an Olympic-sized swimming pool!
I haven’t joined any school clubs yet because I’m trying to work out which ones I can fit into my schedule. I have to do swimming practice most days.
Who was your first basketball match against? What position did you play? Most importantly, did your team win?
I have to go now as I’ve got a swimming lesson this evening. Hope to hear from you soon.
Best wishes,
Tom Childhood obesity is a serious problem. Therefore, some people say that schools should ban the sale of junk food. In my opinion, schools should be allowed to sell junk food because this is not the main reason that children are getting fat.
To begin with, if you stop children from eating junk food in schools, this does not mean that they will stop eating junk food altogether. They could buy it from a shop, for instance.
In addition, junk food only causes weight gain if too much of it is eaten. Therefore, it is better for schools and parents to educate children about healthy eating so that they learn to make the correct food choices early in life.
On the other hand, some say that many children are not mature enough to make sensible choices for themselves and therefore it is better if junk food is banned in schools. They believe that if children learn to appreciate a healthy diet at school, they will develop good habits for the rest of their lives. This may be true, but it is human nature to want what we are told we can’t have, so banning junk food in schools may only encourage many children to eat it out of school!
All things considered, it seems to me that banning junk food in schools is not a good idea because children could still get junk food out of school. It is better to encourage children to make healthy food choices for themselves 2 Dear Mrs Sampson,
Thank you for your letter. My journey back home was fine. My plane was on time and I chatted with a really nice girl who was sitting next to me. I had a wonderful time in
England. I felt that I learnt a lot of English and really improved my accent, too. As for what I enjoyed most, I really loved the day I went to London with you and Mr Sampson. I enjoyed all of my English classes, too!
It’s great that you’ve got a puppy! Is it a male or a female? Have you chosen a name for it yet? What kind of dog is it?
Thanks again for having me. Write back soon.
Love,
Anna The Internet is an extremely useful tool that has become an important part of our lives. In particular, it has made searching for information much easier and faster than it used to be. However, some people say that finding information in this way can make life more difficult, too.
On the one hand, using the Internet to find information has several advantages. Firstly, the fact that the Internet enables us to find information quickly saves time. Students can do research for school projects without going to the library as they did in the past, for example. Also, we can all find out travel information, read the news and do many other things via the Internet without having to leave our homes. Also, the Internet can be very educational as a huge amount of information is available on any topic.
On the other hand, finding information on the Internet can have some disadvantages. One major problem is that information found on websites is not always accurate.
Secondly, the fact that there is so much information on the Internet means that it is sometimes difficult to find what you are looking for. Also, due to the wide variety of information on the Net, it can be very easy to get distracted from what you are supposed to be doing.
In conclusion, there are both advantages and disadvantages of finding information on the Internet. On the whole, I believe that the Internet is a very useful tool for our modern lives, but it should be used wisely 3 Dear Mark,
Thanks for your letter. I can’t wait for your visit! Don’t worry about getting to my house from the airport — if my dad isn’t working he will come and pick you up and if he is, I will come and meet you and we will catch a bus to my house. As for a gift for my parents, what about something traditionally English, such as some shortbread biscuits or a nice box of English tea? Also, don’t forget to pack some warm clothes. Moscow can still be quite cold in spring!
How are your grandparents going to celebrate their wedding anniversary? Have you bought them a gift? Do you get along with your grandparents? Well, I have to go now. See you next month!
Best wishes,
Alex Nowadays, it seems that pressure to gain more qualifications to get better jobs has encouraged many people to take up distance learning, by post or, more commonly, via the Internet. In my view, however, there are still more benefits to learning in a traditional classroom environment.
On the whole, despite the increase in its popularity, I do not believe that distance learning is better than traditional classroom learning. Firstly, students have to be very dedicated and self-motivated to study by themselves and many students would find this difficult.
Also, some people need more support in their studies than a tutor can give online or by post. Others may miss the interaction with fellow students that always occurs in a traditional classroom.
On the other hand, distance learning has some positive aspects. Firstly, it can be done in the privacy of one’s own home. This allows people to fit their studying around their work schedules and the demands of home life. Secondly, it allows students to work without distractions from others and at their own pace. However, I still feel that most students would benefit more from having the input of a teacher and other students in a traditional classroom.
To sum up, while distance learning is a good solution to help many people, whom have very little time to spare, gain more qualifications, in my opinion it is not better than traditional classroom learning 4 Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to apply for the position of part-time waiter which was advertised in this week’s edition of The Inquirer.
I am 18 years old and I am in my first year at university. I already have experience working as a waiter, having spent the past three summers working at the Hilton Hotel as a breakfast waiter.
I consider myself to be hard-working, efficient and cheerful. I enjoy dealing with people and I think I am very good with the public.
I enclose two letters of recommendation from my previous employers. I would be very grateful if you consider my application. I am available for interview any weekday morning.
I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Brown Most people prefer to stay in a hotel while on holiday since it provides them with good meals, comfortable furnishings, housekeeping services etc. Nevertheless, some people prefer to camp in the great outdoors.
Personally, however, I would favour staying in a hotel.
First of all, I believe that hotels are better because after a busy and tiring year people need to go on holiday to relax. At a hotel you don’t have to worry about preparing meals since they can be cooked for you there.
Moreover, there is no need to clean up after yourself since housekeeping services are provided. In addition to this, it’s great to have a comfortable bed to sleep in at night.
On the other hand, outdoor enthusiasts say that it is better to go camping. They believe it’s the only way to experience nature; the fresh air, forests and wildlife.
However, you can experience all this without having to camp outside. Hotels are often near beautiful countryside locations or national parks. Besides, it’s uncomfortable to sleep on hard ground, surrounded by mosquitoes and who knows what else outside your thin nylon tent!
To sum up, while camping allows you to experience nature, I believe that staying in a hotel room is more favourable. You can experience all that nature has to offer during the day, if you wish, and return to a comfortable hotel room at night 5 Dear Julie,
It was great to hear from you. You asked me about the
food we eat in Russia. Well, at home we eat many different kinds of meat and potato dishes. We also eat a lot of salads, such as cabbage salad, pickled vegetables and different kinds of soups.
A traditional Russian dish is Borsch, a kind of beetroot soup. In my family, we eat this with a spoonful of sour cream in it. It’s really delicious!
Although many people still eat a lot of traditional foods, I think that we are all eating more fast food and readymade food these days because we lead busier lives than in the past.
So where are you going with your friends this summer? What are you going to do there? What kind of accommodation will you stay in?
Write back soon.
Love,
Ivan Today, many households own more than one car. As a result, there are too many cars in our towns and cities, particularly in the centre. This causes several problems such as increased air pollution, which affects peoples’ health, and can cause delays due to traffic jams. Fortunately, there are a number of possible ways to deal with this problem.
One way to decrease the number of cars on the roads would be to improve public transport and encourage people to use it. If towns and cities invested in a new cheap, fast and efficient underground or tram service, for example, or provided more bus routes, people would definitely use them. This would ease the traffic problem and make it easier for people to get around, too.
Another possible solution would be to make driving less attractive by introducing expensive parking charges. This would definitely encourage people to leave their cars at home and catch public transport instead.
Finally, ‘park-and-ride’ schemes could be set up whereby drivers can leave their cars at an out-of-town car park and then catch a bus into the town or city centre. This kind of scheme would be very easy to set up and would provide a long-term solution to the problem of traffic congestion.
To sum up, there are a number of possible ways to deal with the problem of too many cars on our roads. However, I believe that in order to reduce the amount of traffic, all of these ideas need to be put into practice, not just one 6 Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my strong dissatisfaction with the service I received at your restaurant.
Last Friday, four friends and I had dinner at the restaurant to celebrate my birthday. I had heard good reports from other people about the food and I was expecting a wonderful evening. Unfortunately, I got the exact opposite.
After we were seated, we had to wait for more than half an hour until a waiter came to take our order. It then took an hour for our first course to arrive. When it came, the food was undercooked and cold.
Naturally we complained, but the staff refused to replace our meals or apologise and were generally very rude.
As you can imagine, I was very upset and my birthday was ruined. I feel I am entitled to a full refund, in addition to a written apology from the local manager.
I’m looking forward to receiving your prompt reply.
Yours faithfully,
Claire Sanders Russian is one of the most widely spoken languages in Eurasia and therefore an important language to learn.
Although it is considered to be difficult, I believe there are things students can do to help themselves learn it more effectively.
Firstly, in my opinion, as when learning any language, an excellent way for foreigners to improve their Russian is for them to find a pen-friend. By doing this, they will be able to build on and practise the language skills they have learnt in class. In addition, it would be very beneficial for foreigners to travel to Russia for a few weeks’ holiday or even to stay with a pen-friend’s family. This way, they will pick up commonly used phrases and learn how to use them in a natural way. What’s more, watching films and TV programmes, listening to music and reading magazines and leaflets in Russian would also help.
No doubt, there are certain things foreigners will find difficult about my language. For one thing, it may be hard for them to learn the complicated Russian grammar rules. Furthermore, foreigners may have trouble with the pronunciation of the Russian alphabet as some Russian vowel sounds don’t have equivalents in other languages.
To overcome these challenges, I suggest that foreigners take lessons with a good teacher in order to build a solid foundation in the language.
In conclusion, I don’t believe that learning Russian is any more difficult than learning another language. Students will need to take a course to learn the rules, grammar structures and proper pronunciation. Also, it would be a good idea for them to practise with native speakers, read and listen to Russian as much as they can and eventually travel to Russia to be immersed in the language 7 Dear Steve,
Great to hear from you! I can hardly believe it either that we are finishing school soon.
I plan to go to university immediately after my summer break. At the moment, I am preparing to take the very difficult entrance exams. I hope to study Computer Science at Moscow State University. I would like to be a software designer someday and work at a top IT (Information Technology) company. Higher education is considered very important in Russia, so most students work hard to get into one of the many excellent higher education institutions.
I’m sure your gap year will be fantastic! Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal? What sort of things will you be doing at the orphanage? How long will you be in Nepal?
Hope to hear from you soon.
Take care,
Victor Recently, more and more young people have been choosing to eat only vegetarian food because they think it is better for their health. However, many nutritionists say that following a vegetarian diet exclusively is not such a healthy option.
On the one hand, there are several advantages to being a vegetarian.
Firstly, a vegetarian diet can provide more vitamins, minerals and fibre than a meat-based diet. In addition, vegetables contain fewer calories than meat.
This means that vegetarians are often fitter and slimmer than meat-eaters. Furthermore, vegetables are much cheaper than meat. Lastly, as meat contains a lot of fat it is known to increase the risk of heart disease.
On the other hand, being a vegetarian is not without its disadvantages. For a start, vegetables contain less protein, which is important for building muscle and giving us energy. Also, some important nutrients are found in meat and fish. Therefore, sometimes vegetarians need to replace these by taking supplements, such as vitamin pills, which can be expensive.
To sum up, although there are some drawbacks to being a vegetarian, I feel that on the whole it is not an unhealthy way to live. However, eating meat ensures that a person gets all the proteins, vitamins and minerals they need 8 Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to inquire about the summer English language course offered by your college. I am interested in attending the course and would like some more information about it.
Firstly, I would like to know the cost of the course and if there are any additional costs for textbooks or other materials. I would also like to know when the course begins and when it finishes. Finally, could you please tell me if accommodation is provided for students or if it is necessary for students to find their own?
I’m looking forward to receiving this information. Thank you in advance.
Yours faithfully,
Igor Petrov Technology has become part of our lives and many families have computer and video games in their homes.
While many parents are becoming increasingly concerned that these games have a harmful effect, I believe that they can often be beneficial and so children should be allowed to play them.
In my opinion, children can definitely benefit from playing video games.
Firstly, allowing children to play video games is a good way of keeping them occupied in the safety of their own home. Also, not all games are violent and some are, in fact, educational. In addition, some psychologists argue that it is better for young people to release any aggressive feelings they have by playing a video game rather than in real life.
On the other hand, some parents believe that there are several disadvantages to playing video games. Firstly, they say that if the game is violent, then the children will adopt the same behaviour and act in a similar way in real life. Secondly, they feel that as children spend so many hours playing these games, they often don’t have enough time to do their homework and their performance at school suffers. However, if parents make sure that the games are not too violent and that children don’t play the games for too long, then neither of these things should be a problem.
In conclusion, video games have both benefits and drawbacks. As long as parents keep an eye on what games are being played and for how long, I believe that they can be an enjoyable pastime for children 9 Dear Julia,
Thanks for your letter. You sound very busy.
I used to go to ballet classes three times a week, but now I have started modern dance classes instead. I only go once a week so I have more time to do other things now. In particular, I really enjoy reading novels and playing my guitar.
I don’t go out a lot in the week, but at weekends I usually meet up with my friends and we go to the cinema or just walk around the town.
How long will you be in Ireland? Have you been there before? I’ve heard that it’s a beautiful country. How many people are going on the trip?
Anyway, good luck in the competition and please send me a postcard from Ireland.
Love,
Anya More people are travelling abroad for their holidays these days. While some prefer to make their own arrangements, others choose to go on a package holiday where everything is arranged for you. In my opinion, it is more satisfying to plan your own holiday.
Firstly, you experience more freedom and independence if you arrange everything for yourself. This means that you can choose exactly where you want to stay and what you want to see. Also, you can take your time enjoying the sights as there is no schedule to restrict you. Furthermore, it is often much cheaper to make your own arrangements. You are able to choose the type of accommodation that suits your budget and how long you stay in a particular place. You can also eat quite inexpensively in local restaurants.
On the other hand, package holidays do have several benefits. For a start, they are easier and more relaxing as flights, hotels and sometimes entertainment are all organised for you. Additionally, there is usually a holiday representative to help you with any problems. However, as everything is programmed for you on a package holiday, you may not get the chance to learn as much about the local language and culture.
In conclusion, while package holidays may be more suitable for some people, I believe that arranging your own holiday is better on the whole. That way, you are able to decide on your own programme with very few restrictions, which makes the holiday a more fulfilling experience 10 Hi Harry,
Thanks for your letter. I can’t believe you have to catch two buses to get to school.
I actually live quite close to my school so I walk there with my two friends. I don’t really find the journey very tiring because it’s only a fifteen-minute walk. As for public transport in my town, well, there are plenty of buses, but most of them are quite old and dirty and there is usually a lot of traffic. There is a new metro system though that is fast and clean.
That’s a great idea to have an environment day! Did it go well? What kind of activities and events were there? What did you like best about the day?
Well, I have to go now but I hope to hear from you again soon.
Best wishes,
Dimitri Nowadays, many parents are choosing to pay for private education for their children because they believe that it is better than state education. However, do children always benefit from going to private schools?
Without a doubt, there are some advantages to sending children to private schools.
Firstly, private schools often have better facilities and a wider curriculum than state schools. For example, most have the latest computer technology and sports facilities and they are often able to offer different subjects such as dance and photography. Additionally, the teaching is usually of a high standard as private schools are able to attract good teachers. Also, there is pressure on students to do well at private schools because their parents are paying for their education. This may eventually mean that children get better qualifications.
On the other hand, there are several drawbacks to private education. First of all, it is very expensive and there may be some excellent state schools that are just as good. Secondly, some students may feel too pressured to do well in their studies at a private school.
They would possibly do better at a normal state school where they could study at their own pace in a more relaxed atmosphere.
In conclusion, private education may give some students better chances of success in life. However, parents should remember that private education can have some disadvantages and may not always be the best choice for their child 11 Dear Tom,
Thanks for your letter — it was great to hear from you!
You asked about my family. Well, there are five people in my immediate family. There’s my mum and dad, myself, my younger brother Jack who’s 13 and my younger sister Emily who’s 8. We often go to the park altogether at weekends and we fly kites or play football. In the evenings, we always eat together and then watch TV. As for my favourite relative, well, that’s easy! I love going to visit my grandma on Sunday afternoons — I like sitting in her beautiful garden chatting to her or helping her to bake a cake.
So where exactly did you go in Scotland? Did you go to Loch Ness and see the Loch Ness monster? What was the food like; did you try haggis?
Write again soon.
Love,
Diana Many people believe that it is cruel and unnecessary to keep animals in zoos as conditions in them are very different to those in the animals’ natural environments.
However, personally I do believe that there are some good reasons for keeping zoos open.
Firstly, many modern zoos spend a lot of time, money and energy trying to protect animal species. In fact, zoos’ breeding programmes are often the only hope for endangered species such as gorillas. In addition, zoos these days usually look after their animals very well and try to recreate the conditions in the animals’ natural environment. As animals are often in danger in the wild from loss of habitats and hunters, a zoo can be a safer environment than a natural habitat. Lastly, people who visit zoos usually leave with a better understanding of and respect for animals.
On the other hand, opponents of zoos argue that it is never good to keep an animal in an unnatural environment. They say that there are still some zoos in which animals are not well looked after. They may be kept in small, dirty cages and not given the correct food and medical treatment. However, I feel that these kinds of zoos are not very common.
To sum up, while it would be great if animals could all live in their natural environments, these days they face many dangers in the wild. Therefore, I believe that there are several very good reasons to keep animals in zoos 12 Hi Jack,
Thanks for your letter. At my school, we take exams twice a year — at Christmas and again in the spring.
Some of my friends like taking exams because, they say, it gives them a chance to show what they can do, but personally I don’t like them at all. I find they make me feel a bit stressed out! I try to play basketball, however, a few times a week during exam time. I find this really relaxes me a lot and helps me to cope with the pressure.
I also try to get plenty of sleep. So, it’s your best friend’s birthday this weekend! How is he going to celebrate it? How old will he be? Are you going to buy him a nice gift?
Good luck with your exams. Write back soon.
Best wishes,
Gary Most people who enjoy extreme sports are young people who enjoy the excitement of these thrilling activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping and sky surfing. Some people claim, however, that these sports are too dangerous. In my opinion, people should be allowed to take part in these activities if they are properly trained before and if they follow safety instructions.
Firstly, I believe that extreme sports are usually safe because these activities are well organised by properly trained instructors. Participants have to wear correct clothing, check their equipment and be trained before they are allowed to participate in an extreme sport like sky surfing. In addition, extreme sports can be beneficial to people’s health. Taking part in them can help people to relax and let off steam. They could even help people to overcome their fears of taking risks.
On the other hand, opponents of extreme sports say that there is always the risk of something going wrong while participating in an extreme sport. If a rope snapped while bungee jumping, for example, a participant would be seriously injured or even die. As mentioned before, however, I feel that the risk is not very high, because organisers of extreme sports take safety very seriously.
To sum up, while extreme sports carry a low risk of injury, I believe that they are safe to take part in if the participants carefully follow all the instructions. They can even benefit the participants mentally 13 Hi David,
Thanks for your letter. You asked me about pocket money. Well, I do get some pocket money, but like your parents, mine don’t have a lot of extra money so they can’t give me very much.
I think it’s good for parents to give their children some money if they can afford it, because it teaches them about managing money. Some teens here in Russia have part-time jobs in the evenings or at weekends, but it’s often quite difficult to find work.
Personally, I don’t want to work because I’m too busy with my schoolwork, but it would be nice to have some extra money!
So, what musical instrument are you learning to play? Are you taking lessons? Can you read music?
Well, I have to go now. Write again soon!
Best wishes,
Alexandra Since the first commercial flight over fifty years ago, aeroplanes have helped billions of people around the world to travel to their destinations. But is travelling by plane always the best option?
On the one hand, there are several clear advantages of air travel. The main advantage of travelling by plane is that it is quicker than any other means of transport. One can travel from one continent to another in just a few hours. Also, it is safe. There are fewer accidents in the air than on land or at sea. Moreover, a lot of passengers tend to enjoy the whole flying experience; the reclinable seats, airline feature films and being served food and drink.
However, travelling by plane does have its disadvantages.
Firstly, the tickets are usually quite expensive and so not everyone can afford them. Secondly, travelling by plane is not always very comfortable. Passengers have to sit in small seats for long periods of time. In addition, planes can’t fly travellers to their exact location and airports are usually far from city centres. Finally, there are the frequent problems of missing luggage, cancelled flights and long check-in queues which can make passengers’ journeys take much longer than they should.
To conclude, despite the disadvantages, I do believe that air travel is often the best way to get to a particular destination. In fact, for destinations that are very far away, it is the only realistic way to get there 14 Hi Sally,
Thanks for your letter and I hope you’re well! Your environment group sounds great.
We have a big problem in my neighbourhood; there are no green spaces at all. Also, it’s quite a busy area so there’s a lot of pollution from cars and factories. I think that I help the environment in a few ways; I always turn off lights when I’m not in a room and I try not to waste water. I also recycle newspapers and plastic. I think we can save the planet but we have to educate everybody and we all have to work together.
The surprise party sounds like good fun! Where are you going to have the party? Are you going to invite lots of people? Do you think Anna suspects anything?
Write back soon.
Lots of love,
Laura Starting your own business often seems like an attractive alternative to being an employee. In my opinion, however, it brings a lot of risk and responsibility and is sometimes not worth the time and effort.
Firstly, you usually have many more responsibilities when you run your own business. You may have to work long hours because you are ultimately responsible for getting the work finished on time. It can also be extremely risky to start your own business. For one thing, many new businesses fail in the first one or two years. Also, the costs of starting up your business can be very high. Installing computers, printers and other office equipment is very expensive and you have to pay your employees each month.
On the other hand, it is true that owning your own business can be very satisfying. You are in charge, after all, and have the freedom to make all your own decisions.
You can decide on the hours that you work, and how much you pay your staff. Moreover, if all goes well, you will have the chance of making a large profit, too.
In conclusion, I believe that while starting a business can be the right decision for many people, it is quite risky and brings a lot of responsibility. Personally, I would prefer to be an employee 15 Dear Alex,
Thanks for your letter. It was great to hear from you!
I love listening to rock music, too! Sometimes I listen to techno with my friends, as well. One of my friends is a big fan!
As for TV, I have to say that our house is the same as yours! The TV is on a lot, especially after school. We generally watch TV as a family in the evenings for about two hours. We usually like to watch soap operas or comedy programmes.
Were there a lot of people at the festival? What type of music was played? Did any famous bands play at the festival?
Write soon.
Best wishes,
Dina Many people say that they would love to become famous — perhaps a singer, actor or TV presenter. Of course, in many ways the life of a famous person is fantastic, but there are definitely some negative aspects of the celebrity lifestyle, too.
There are some obvious advantages to being a famous celebrity.
Firstly, a celebrity’s lifestyle usually brings many great opportunities. A famous singer, for example, travels all over the world, stays in luxury hotels and meets interesting people. In addition, famous people earn a lot more money than most people and can afford things such as large houses, designer clothes and luxury holidays. Finally, famous people are living their dreams, which must be very satisfying.
On the other hand, there are some clear disadvantages to being famous. First of all, you are recognised everywhere you go. You can no longer go for a walk in your neighbourhood or pop to the shops without being followed and photographed by the media or even by fans. Even worse, the media often print unpleasant or untrue stories about you in newspapers and magazines.
Lastly, some famous people find that fame and money do not bring them happiness. Eventually, their stressful celebrity lifestyles cause them to have problems such as depression or even worse.
To sum up, while a celebrity lifestyle can be easier and more fun than a normal lifestyle in many ways, it can be very stressful. Personally, I would not really like to be famous! 16 Dear Sir,
I recently stayed at your bed and breakfast and had a very nice time.
Unfortunately, however, when I got home I realised that I didn’t have my diary and that I must have left it in my room.
I think that I left the diary in the top drawer of the bedside table on the right-hand side of my bed. I was staying in room 12. The diary is quite large and it is pink with a yellow flowery pattern on it.
I would be extremely grateful if you could send my diary back to me at the above address if you find it. I would be happy to send you a cheque to cover the postage costs.
Thank you in advance.
Yours faithfully,
Mary Waters Everyone has a special place they have fond memories of, somewhere that remains dear to them. For me, that place is Long Sault in Ontario, Canada. It’s my favourite spot in the world because that’s where I spent many happy summers as a child.
Long Sault is a beautiful area made up of eleven islands connected by bridges. These islands were formed after the flooding of the St Lawrence River in the 1950s.
Around these picturesque islands with their tall, green grass and the occasional wooded area, are pretty sandy beaches and areas of rock from where travellers can fish or swim. There is so much to do there; hiking for outdoor enthusiasts, bird watching, camping, kayaking, golf and even goose feeding.
I have so many fond memories of Long Sault. My cousins and I spent many mornings there looking under colourful rocks for crayfish and crabs. That’s the place where I hooked my first worm, caught my first fish and climbed my first tree. In the evenings, my uncle would always make a campfire and we’d barbecue whatever we had managed to catch during the day.
Even though I’m currently living nowhere near Long Sault, I will never forget the place which gave me so many unforgettable memories. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I feel like I am experiencing those moments again 17 Dear Becky,
Thanks for your letter. How are you?
It was interesting to hear about homes in Great Britain.
We’ve just moved to a bigger flat, so now my sister and I have our own bedrooms. It’s great — I have enough space for all my belongings now. Most people in Russian towns and cities live in apartment blocks and unfortunately, often the apartments can be a little small for a family. I think I would rather live in the countryside than the town. It’s a lot quieter, there isn’t a lot of traffic or pollution and people are usually friendlier than in towns and cities.
Did you have a nice time staying with your uncle in Wales? Did you get up early to help milk the cows? Does your uncle have any other animals?
Write back soon.
Love,
Maxim Everyone agrees that teenagers should do some form of physical activity to stay healthy, but are sports the answer? In my opinion the answers is yes; all teenagers should take part in sports.
In the first place, doing sports has many health benefits.
For example, sports help teenagers stay physically fit and control their weight. Furthermore, sports help teens to increase their overall strength and coordination. In addition to the physical benefits of sports, there are also many psychological benefits. For instance, team sports teach social skills, teamwork skills and respect for authority, not to mention the fact that sports help increase one’s confidence. This often results in improved academic performance.
On the other hand, some argue that sports are not for everyone and that other activities have similar benefits.
Simply walking to school instead of catching a bus would keep a teen quite fit, for example, and taking part in a reading club would help improve social skills and confidence. Moreover, sports can create stress for some teens by putting pressure on them to be as good as their teammates. Not all sports are competitive team sports, however, and teenagers should be able to find one that suits them.
To conclude, I believe that sports should have a place in every teenager’s life. Besides the obvious physical benefits, teenagers develop important skills and build self-esteem through sports. Young people should all learn how to take care of their bodies and minds so that they continue doing this throughout their lives 18 Dear Monica,
It was great to hear from you! I’m sure you’ll have lots of fun at the wedding.
What about giving a traditional gift made of silver that the couple can keep forever? Or some money, which is what Russians usually give? A traditional Russian wedding is a huge celebration that can last several days. It starts with the groom picking up the bride at her home. The couple usually has a church ceremony followed by a civil one. There is usually lots of dancing, food and drink at the reception afterwards.
Weddings are great but my favourite Russian celebration is New Year’s Eve because of all the gifts and parties.
Your creative writing course sounds very interesting! What made you decide to take the course? Is it expensive? What do you write about?
Write soon.
Love,
Irene Mark Twain once said that ‘clothes make the man’, but is this really true? Nowadays, appearance and dress are very important to many school pupils, but many of them have to wear a uniform when they are at school. In my view, school uniforms are a good idea because they help avoid some potential problems.
To begin with, school uniforms help to reduce the amount of peer pressure that young people experience at school. If everyone has to wear the same clothes, noone can be teased or bullied because they are not wearing the latest fashions. Also, pupils can concentrate more on learning because they are no longer so worried about how they look. Furthermore, it is usually cheaper for parents if their children have to wear a uniform because they don’t have to buy lots of expensive fashionable outfits. Finally, wearing a uniform helps give pupils a sense of identity.
Opponents of this view argue that school uniforms prevent pupils from expressing their individuality through their clothes. However, there are many other ways in which students can express themselves — through taking part in school clubs and activities such as sports teams or the school newspaper, for example.
To sum up, in my opinion clothes do not make the man. Therefore, I believe that it is a good idea for school pupils to wear a school uniform because it promotes equality and a sense of belonging 19 Dear Jamie,
Thanks for your letter. Enjoy your new computer!
I don’t have my own computer, but I often go to an Internet café near my house. I usually do research on the Internet there for my school work. I also send a lot of emails to friends and family. Also, when I have free time, I like to play some of the online games with my friends at the café. We have a great time! I would love to have an MP3 player, so I could download my favourite music from the Internet to listen to whenever I wanted.
I’m sorry to hear about your arm. Get well soon. How did it happen? Are you wearing a cast? How long will it take to get better?
Hope to hear from you soon.
Best wishes,
Sergey Which is a better place to live, the city or the country?
Well, in my opinion, there are pros and cons of both, but personally I would much rather live in the city.
First of all, there is a wider range of jobs and careers available in the city than in the country. Very often, cities also have better education and health services. In addition, a variety of different kinds of people and cultures are usually represented in a city, which creates a very interesting environment. Moreover, big cities have better entertainment facilities such as shops, cinemas, theatres, galleries and sports centres. Lastly, public transport is better in the city than in the country, which makes it easier to get around.
On the other hand, many argue that city life can be very stressful. Also, they say that people in the country are friendlier and take better care of each other. This may be true, but it is usually not too hard to make good friends in a city. Also, there are many ways to deal with stress in a city, such as enjoying a relaxing walk in a park or going to a concert, a leisure centre or an outdoor festival.
All in all, I would prefer to live in a city because I believe that cities offer more opportunities and a far more interesting lifestyle than living in the country. It is often said that ‘variety is the spice of life’ and variety can definitely be found in cities 20 Dear Mr Burns,
Our school is holding its Careers Day on 21st May this year and we would very much like you to come to the school and give a talk.
The Careers Day is an opportunity for students to learn about different career opportunities. As you are a successful businessman, we would appreciate hearing about what makes a business successful and what careers and types of businesses you think will be most important in the future. The talk would be about half an hour long and would take place in the school gym at about 11 am.
I would be grateful if you could let me know whether you are able to accept our invitation as soon as possible. You can contact me at the above number.
I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Ivan Nikitin It is often said that children are the key to the future and this is certainly true with regards to the environment.
Fortunately, there are many ways to teach young people how to care for the environment.
To begin with, schools need to get more involved in environmental education. They could organise environment days, for example. These encourage students to think about different environmental issues and how they can get involved. Another way schools can educate students is by starting different programmes such as recycling and composting projects. As a result, students will grow up understanding how good habits make a difference in solving environmental problems.
Communities and families can also get involved in educating children about the environment. Local councils could organise events such as tree-planting or littercollecting days, for example. Consequently, young people would not only learn about these issues, but see the results of their actions, too. Finally, parents need to set good examples by being environmentally-friendly at home. They should recycle and save water and electricity, for instance. In this way, children will probably continue with the same habits when they have houses of their own.
All things considered, communities, families and schools can all successfully encourage children to care for the environment. By doing so, they can help to make sure that future generations will protect the planet
МИНИСТЕРСТВО ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ И НАУКИ РФ
ФБГОУ ВПО «ОРЕНБУРГСКИЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ ПЕДАГОГИЧЕСКИЙ УНИВЕРСИТЕТ»
ИНСТИТУТ ПОВЫШЕНИЯ КВАЛИФИКАЦИИ И ПРОФЕССИОНАЛЬНОЙ ПЕРЕПОДГОТОВКИ РАБОТНИКОВ ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ
ВЫПУСКНАЯ РАБОТА
Формирование стратегий выполнения текстовых заданий
в формате ЕГЭ по английскому языку
(на примере раздела «Чтение»)
Выполнила:
Сергеева Анастасия Ивановна, учитель английского языка, МАОУ «Михайловская СОШ»
Руководитель: Репина Надежда Анатольевна, доцент, кандидат педагогических наук
Оренбург, 2015
Содержание
Пояснительная записка ………………………………………………………………………1-13
Комплекс упражнений ……………………………………………………………………….14-50
Список использованных источников ……………………………………………………..51
Приложение ………………………………………………………………………………………52-57
Пояснительная записка
В хорошо известном документе Совета Европы «Общеевропейские компетенции владения иностранным языком: изучение, преподавание, оценка» компетенция определяется как сумма знаний, умений и личностных качеств, которые позволяют человеку совершать различные действия. Единый государственный экзамен (ЕГЭ) по английскому языку позволяет установить уровень освоения участниками федерального государственного стандарта среднего (полного) общего образования в области иноязычной коммуникативной компетенции. Предполагается, что учащиеся общеобразовательных школ должны достигнуть уровень В1 иноязычной коммуникативной компетенции (общеевропейская терминология), а учащиеся школ с углубленным изучением иностранного языка, гимназий и лицеев – уровня В2.
Актуальность темы
•Перспектива перехода ЕГЭ по английскому языку в разряд обязательных;
Чтение является составной частью ЕГЭ. В связи с этим чтение занимает существенное место в современных учебно-методических комплексах по английскому языку на всех этапах обучения. Раздел «Чтение» – объемный вид деятельности в ЕГЭ, который оценивает умение читать. Чтение – трудный вид речевой деятельности.
Проблема в том, что анализ результатов подготовки к ЕГЭ показывает, что 50% учащихся трудно дается выполнение раздела «Чтение», в частности поисковое. Следовательно, необходимо приучать учащихся работать с текстами на более высоком уровне. Все вышесказанное определило тему работы: «Формирование стратегий выполнения текстовых заданий в формате ЕГЭ по английскому языку (на примере раздела «Чтение»)».
Объект исследования: подготовка учащихся общеобразовательной школы к сдаче Единого государственного экзамена.
Предмет исследования: подготовка к сдаче раздела ЕГЭ «Чтение».
Цель данной работы – теоретически обосновать виды чтения и разработать систему упражнений, способствующую наиболее эффективной подготовке учащихся к успешному выполнению заданий ЕГЭ по разделу «Чтение».
Основными задачами работы являются:
-
охарактеризовать виды чтения как вида речевой деятельности;
-
разработать систему упражнений для работы с текстами;
-
разработать методические рекомендации по развитию навыков чтения.
Спецификация контрольных измерительных материалов для проведения единого государственного экзамена по английскому языку
1. Назначение экзаменационной работы
Контрольные измерительные материалы позволяют установить уровень освоения выпускниками Федерального компонента государственного образовательного стандарта основного общего и среднего (полного) общего образования.
Результаты единого государственного экзамена по иностранному языку признаются общеобразовательными учреждениями, в которых реализуются образовательные программы среднего (полного) общего образования, как результаты государственной (итоговой) аттестации, а образовательными учреждениями среднего профессионального образования и образовательными учреждениями высшего профессионального образования — как результаты вступительных испытаний по иностранному языку.
2. Документы, определяющие содержание экзаменационной работы
1. Федеральный компонент государственных стандартов основного общего и среднего (полного) общего образования, базовый и профильный уровень (приказ Минобразования России от 05.03.2004 № 1089).
2. Примерные программы по иностранным языкам // Новые государственные стандарты по иностранному языку. 2-11 классы / Образование в документах и комментариях. М.: АСТ: Астрель, 2004.
3. Программы общеобразовательных учреждений. Английский язык для 10-11 классов школ с углубленным изучением иностранных языков. М.: Просвещение, 2003.
4. Программы для общеобразовательных учреждений. Немецкий язык для общеобразовательных школ с углубленным изучением немецкого языка. М.: Просвещение: МАРТ, 2004.
5. Программы общеобразовательных учреждений. Французский язык для 1-11 классов школ с углубленным изучением иностранных языков. М.: Просвещение, 2001.
6. Программы общеобразовательных учреждений. Испанский язык для 5-11 классов школ с углубленным изучением иностранных языков. М.: Просвещение, 2005.
При разработке КИМ также учитываются:
7. Общеевропейские компетенции владения иностранным языком: Изучение, преподавание, оценка. МГЛУ, 2003.
3. Подходы к отбору содержания, разработке структуры КИМ ЕГЭ
Целью единого государственного экзамена по иностранному языку является определение уровня иноязычной коммуникативной компетенции экзаменуемого. Основное внимание при этом уделяется речевой компетенции, т.е. коммуникативным умениям в разных видах речевой деятельности: аудировании, чтении, письме, а также языковой компетенции, т.е. языковым знаниям и навыкам. Социокультурные знания и умения проверяются опосредованно в разделе «Чтение».
Следовательно, КИМ ЕГЭ по иностранным языкам содержит разделы «Аудирование», «Чтение», «Грамматика и лексика» и «Письмо». При этом следует иметь в виду, что раздел «Чтение» имеет в качестве объектов контроля умения в соответствующих видах речевой деятельности, эти умения обеспечиваются необходимым уровнем развития языковой компетенции экзаменуемых. Успешное выполнение заданий на контроль рецептивных видов речевой деятельности обеспечивается знанием лексических единиц, морфологических форм и синтаксических конструкций и навыками их узнавания/распознавания.
4. Структура КИМ ЕГЭ
При подготовке к ЕГЭ по английскому языку в разделе «Чтение» следует заранее ознакомить учащихся с форматом данной части экзаменационной работы. Рекомендуемое время выполнения данного раздела – 30 минут. Максимальный результат -20 баллов. Раздел «Чтение» состоит из трех заданий. Каждое задание проверяет тот или иной вид чтения: понимание основного содержания текста, понимание структурно-смысловых связей текста, детальное понимание текста.
Задание базового уровня (10) – задание на контроль умений просмотрового чтения, направленного на понимание основного содержания прочитанного материала. Максимальный балл -7. Задание повышенного уровня(11)- задание на контроль понимания структурно-смысловых связей текста. Максимальный балл -6. Задания высокого уровня (12-18) направлено на контроль изучающего чтения, требующего детального понимания прочитанного. Максимальный балл -7.
Кодификатор
элементов содержания и требований к уровню подготовки выпускников
образовательных организаций для проведения единого государственного
экзамена по АНГЛИЙСКОМУ ЯЗЫКУ
Кодификатор элементов содержания и требований к уровню подготовки выпускников образовательных организаций для проведения единого государственного экзамена по английскому языку (далее – кодификатор) является одним из документов, определяющих структуру и содержание КИМ ЕГЭ. Он составлен на основе Федерального компонента государственных стандартов основного общего и среднего (полного) общего образования по иностранному языку (базовый и профильный уровни) (приказ Минобразования России от 05.03.2004 № 1089).
В кодификатор не включены элементы содержания, выделенные курсивом в разделе «Обязательный минимум содержания основных образовательных программ» стандарта: данное содержание подлежит изучению, но не включается в раздел «Требования к уровню подготовки выпускников» стандарта, т.е. не является объектом контроля.
1. Перечень элементов содержания, проверяемых на едином
государственном экзамене по английскому языку
|
Раздел |
Элементы содержания, проверяемые на ЕГЭ |
|
2 |
Чтение |
|
2.1 |
Понимание основного содержания сообщений, несложных публикаций научно-познавательного характера, отрывков из произведений художественной литературы |
|
2.2 |
Полное и точное понимание информации прагматических текстов, публикаций научно-популярного характера, отрывков из произведений художественной литературы |
|
2.3 |
Выборочное понимание необходимой/интересующей информации из текста статьи, проспекта |
|
2.4 |
Понимание структурно-смысловых связей текста |
2. Перечень требований к уровню подготовки выпускников, достижение которых проверяется на едином государственном экзамене по английскому языку
|
Код требования |
Знания, умения и навыки, проверяемые на ЕГЭ |
|
2.3.1 |
Читать аутентичные тексты различных стилей (публицистические, художественные, научно-популярные, прагматические) с использованием различных стратегий/видов чтения в соответствии с коммуникативной задачей |
|
2.3.2 |
Использовать ознакомительное чтение в целях понимания основного содержания сообщений, интервью, репортажей, публикаций научно-познавательного характера, отрывков из произведений художественной литературы |
|
2.3.3 |
Использовать просмотровое/поисковое чтение в целях извлечения необходимой/запрашиваемой информации из текста статьи, проспекта |
|
2.3.4 |
использовать изучающее чтение в целях полного понимания информации прагматических текстов, публикаций научно- познавательного характера, отрывков из произведений художественной литературы |
|
2.3.5 |
Отделять главную информацию от второстепенной, выявлять наиболее значимые факты |
|
2.3.6 |
Определять свое отношение к прочитанному |
|
2.3.7П |
Определять временную и причинно-следственную взаимосвязь событий, прогнозировать развитие/результат излагаемых фактов/событий, обобщать описываемые факты/явления |
|
2.3.8П |
Определять замысел автора; оценивать важность/новизну информации; понимать смысл текста и его проблематику, используя элементы анализа текста |
Стратегии подготовки к разделу «Чтение»
Для успешной сдачи экзамена необходимо отработать стратегии выполнения всех трех типов заданий. Это поможет избежать потери времени на экзамене и поможет сконцентрировать внимание на важных моментах каждого задания. При подготовке рекомендуется выполнять задание, опираясь на пошаговые инструкции. Данные рекомендации к каждому типу заданий предлагаю использовать учащимся при выполнении работы.
В первом задании (10) надо установить соответствие между заголовком, темой или кратким утверждением и небольшим текстом. В задании предлагаются семь коротких текстов, отмеченных цифрами 1-7 и восемь заголовков , отмеченных буквами А-Н. Один заголовок — лишний. За каждое правильно установленное соответствие дается 1 балл, максимально 7- баллов. Проверяются умения понимать основную идею (содержание) высказывания, отделять главное от второстепенного, игнорировать избыточную информацию и незнакомые слова, не мешающие пониманию основного содержания.
До чтения текстов следует:
-
Внимательно прочитать инструкцию.
-
Прочитать заголовки (темы или краткие утверждения) и попытаться определить:
-
что их объединяет (тема, проблема, ситуация, ключевое слово и т.д.)
-
чем они отличаются друг от друга: проблемой, отношением к проблеме и т.д.
-
В процессе изучения заголовков подчеркивать в них ключевые слова, делать другие пометки, помогающие понять их смысл и отличия.
-
Глядя на заголовки, попытаться предвосхитить основное содержание текста, подобрать слова/словосочетания, которые необходимы для раскрытия данной темы/ проблемы/ ситуации.
Во время второго прочтения последовательно просматривать каждый из предложенных текстов, игнорируя незнакомые слова и выражения, не углубляясь в детальное понимание.
-
После беглого просмотра каждого текста подобрать к нему один или несколько заголовков, предложенных в задании.
-
По мере прочтения каждого текста отмечать все возможные варианты ответа рядом с текстом.
-
Делать нужные исправления по ходу чтения, т.к. некоторые варианты предыдущих ответов будут отпадать методом исключения
-
При возникших затруднениях с определением соответствия текста заголовку (теме, краткому утверждению), прочитать текст и попытаться сформулировать его основную идею самостоятельно, затем выбрать наиболее близкую по содержанию из оставшихся вариантов ответа и отметить ее.
Во время второго прочтения
-
Обратить особое внимание на тексты, где изначально были выбраны несколько возможных соответствий.
-
Обосновать самому себе выбор того или иного соответствия с опорой на текст.
-
Проверить правильность других выбранных соответствий.
После прочтения
-
Записать окончательный вариант ответа в таблицу после задания.
-
Определить лишний заголовок (тему, краткое утверждение)
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Еще раз проверить точность записи всех ответов.
Во втором задании (11) задании дается текст с шестью пропусками, обозначенными буквами (A-F), и семь фрагментов предложений для заполнения пропусков, обозначенных цифрами (1-7). Один фрагмент предложения — лишний. Надо установить соответствие между частью текста и пропущенным фрагментом предложения. За каждое правильно установленное соответствие дается 1 балл. Максимально — 6 баллов.
Во время первого прочтения
-
Заранее ознакомиться с форматом задания и с требованиями по заполнению бланков для данного задания.
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Бегло просмотреть весь текст (без выделенных фрагментов), попытаться определить его тему и основное содержание.
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Прочитать выделенные фрагменты и определить структурные особенности начала фрагмента (с точки зрения использования грамматических и лексических норм сочетаемости), если таковые имеются.
Во время второго прочтения:
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Читать текст последовательно, обращая особое внимание на последнее слово или выражение перед каждым пропуском; Если это слово или выражение требует определенного согласования или управления (использование герундия, инфинитива, предлога, союза и т.д.), надо искать соответствующее начало в выделенном фрагменте.
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Если одна и та же грамматическая структура используется в начале нескольких выделенных фрагментов, учитывать смысловое содержание предложения с пропуском. а также предыдущих и последующих предложений.
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По ходу чтения отмечать все возможные варианты соответствий, указывая нужные буквы рядом с цифрой пропуска или нужные цифры рядом с буквами, обозначающими выделенные фрагменты,
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Делать нужные исправления по ходу чтения, т.к. после каждого заполненного пробела неясные варианты ответов будут определяться точнее, отпадать методом исключения.
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Обратить особое внимание на про пуски , где изначально были выбраны несколько возможных соответствий. Обосновать для себя выбор того или иного соответствия с учетом грамматических и лексических норм сочетаемости, принятых в английском языке и/или с опорой на содержание текста.
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Проверить обоснованность других выбранных соответствий.
После прочтения
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Записать окончательный вариант ответа в таблицу после задания.
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Определить лишний фрагмент.
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Еще раз проверить точность записи всех ответов.
В третьем задании (12-18) части раздела чтения предлагаются семь тестовых заданий (12-18). К каждому заданию предлагается четыре варианта ответа, обозначенных цифрами (1-4), из которых только один является правильным. Как правило, это либо начало предложения, к которому предлагается четыре возможных варианта окончания, либо вопрос, к которому дается четыре варианта ответа. Для каждого задания (12-18) надо выбрать один правильный ответ из четырех предложенных. За каждый правильно выбранный ответ дается 1 балл; максимально — 7 баллов.
До чтения текста
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Заранее ознакомиться с форматом задания и с требованиями по заполнению бланков ответа для данного задания.
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Прочитать только вопросы или начала предложений без предложенных вариантов ответа, чтобы определить примерное содержание текста, а также характер запрашиваемой информации:
3. Прочитать варианты предлагаемых ответов в тех случаях, когда без них неясна суть запрашиваемой информации.
Во время первого прочтения
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Выполнять задание последовательно. Помнить, что последовательность тестовых вопросов связана с последовательностью развития сюжета текста.
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С каждым вопросом работать по предлагаемой схеме:
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прочитать текстовое задание целиком (начало предложения или вопрос и все варианты ответа);
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определить суть запрашиваемой информации, т.е. понять, что лежит в основе запрашиваемой информации: слово, словосочетание, предложение, абзац и или весь текст;
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найти место, где запрашиваемая информация дается в тексте;
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понять, чем предлагаемые варианты ответов отличаются друг от друга;
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отбросить очевидно неверные варианты и определить наиболее вероятный ответ;
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доказать, что остальные варианты неверны или что в тексте нет информации, предлагаемой в , а также на различия между явно и неявно выраженной информацией.
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Если не можете осознанно выбрать ни один из предложенных вариантов, не понимаете сути вопроса, все равно не оставляйте задание без ответа. Выбирайте ответ интуитивно.
После прочтения
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Убедиться в правильности выбора ответа в каждом тестовом задании.
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Зафиксировать результаты выполнения задания на черновике так, чтобы их можно было легко перенести в бланк ответа.
При регулярном выполнении заданий по чтению с учетом данных стратегий данные алгоритмы выполнения заданий способны стать тем руководством к действию, которое позволит эффективно выполнить задание.
II Комплекс упражнений.
Тренировочные упражнения
№1
№ 2
№ 3
№ 4
№ 5
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Понимание основного содержания текста
№1
Установите соответствие между заголовками 1–8 и текстами A–G. Запишите свои ответы в таблицу. Используйте каждую цифру только один раз. В задании есть один лишний заголовок.
1. Places to stay in
2. Arts and culture
3. New country image
4. Going out
5. Different landscapes
6. Transport system
7. National languages
8. Eating out
A. Belgium has always had a lot more than the faceless administrative buildings that you can see in the outskirts of its capital, Brussels. A number of beautiful historic cities and Brussels itself offer impressive architecture, lively nightlife, first-rate restaurants and numerous other attractions for visitors. Today, the old-fashioned idea of ‘boring Belgium’ has been well and truly forgotten, as more and more people discover its very individual charms for themselves.
B. Nature in Belgium is varied. The rivers and hills of the Ardennes in the southeast contrast sharply with the rolling plains which make up much of the northern and western countryside. The most notable features are the great forest near the frontier with Germany and Luxembourg and the wide, sandy beaches of the northern coast.
C. It is easy both to enter and to travel around pocket- sized Belgium which is divided into the Dutchspeaking north and the French-speaking south. Officially the Belgians speak Dutch, French and German. Dutch is slightly more widely spoken than French, and German is spoken the least. The Belgians, living in the north, will often prefer to answer visitors in English rather than French, even if the visitor’s French is good.
D. Belgium has a wide range of hotels from 5-star luxury to small family pensions and inns. In some regions of the country, farm holidays are available. There visitors can (for a small cost) participate in the daily work of the farm. There are plenty of opportunities to rent furnished villas, flats, rooms, or bungalows for a holiday period. These holiday houses and flats are comfortable and well-equipped.
E. The Belgian style of cooking is similar to French, based on meat and seafood. Each region in Belgium has its own special dish. Butter, cream, beer and wine are generously used in cooking. The Belgians are keen on their food, and the country is very well supplied with excellent restaurants to suit all budgets. The perfect evening out here involves a delicious meal, and the restaurants and cafes are busy at all times of the week.
F. As well as being one of the best cities in the world for eating out (both for its high quality and range), Brussels has a very active and varied nightlife. It has 10 theatres which produce plays in both Dutch and French. There are also dozens of cinemas, numerous discos and many night-time cafes in Brussels. Elsewhere, the nightlife choices depend on the size of the town, but there is no shortage of fun to be had in any of the major cities.
G. There is a good system of underground trains, trams and buses in all the major towns and cities. In addition, Belgium’s waterways offer a pleasant way to enjoy the country. Visitors can take a one-hour cruise around the canals of Bruges (sometimes described as the Venice of the North) or an extended cruise along the rivers and canals linking the major cities of Belgium and the Netherlands.
№ 2
Установите соответствие между заголовками 1–8 и текстами A–G. Запишите свои ответы в таблицу. Используйте каждую цифру только один раз. В задании есть один лишний заголовок.
1. Places to stay in
2. Public transport
3. Cultural differences
4. Nightlife
5. Camping holidays
6. Contacts with neighbours
7. Different landscapes
8. Eating out
A. Sweden is a land of contrast, from the Danish influence of the southwest to the Laplanders wandering freely with their reindeer in the wild Arctic north. And while Sweden in cities is stylish and modern, the countryside offers many simpler pleasures for those who look for peace and calm. The land and its people have an air of reserved calm, and still the world’s best-selling pop group Abba, which used to attract crowds of hysterical fans, come from Sweden.
B. Historically, Sweden has an interesting story. Its dealings with the outside world began, in fact, during Viking times, when in addition to the well- known surprise attacks of the nearby lands, there was much trading around the Baltic, mostly in furs and weapons. Swedish connections with the other Scandinavian countries, Norway and Denmark, have been strong since the Middle Ages. The monarchies of all three are still closely linked.
C. Sweden’s scenery has a gentler charm than that of neighbouring Norway’s rocky coast. Much of Sweden is forested, and there are thousands lakes, notably large pools near the capital, Stockholm. The lakeside resort in the centre of Sweden is popular with Scandinavians, but most visitors prefer first the Baltic islands. The largest island, Gotland, with its ruined medieval churches, is a particular attraction.
D. Sweden boasts a good range of hotels, covering the full spectrum of prices and standards. Many of them offer discounts in summer and at weekends during the winter. In addition, working farms throughout Sweden offer accommodation, either in the main farmhouse or in a cottage nearby. Forest cabins and chalets are also available throughout the country, generally set in beautiful surroundings, near lakes, in quiet forest glades or on an island in some remote place.
E. Living in a tent or caravan with your family or friends at weekends and on holiday is extremely popular in Sweden and there is a fantastic variety of special places. Most are located on a lakeside or by the sea with free bathing facilities close at hand. There are over 600 campsites in the country. It is often possible to rent boats or bicycles, play mini-golf or tennis, ride a horse or relax in a sauna. It is also possible to camp in areas away from other houses.
F. Swedes like plain meals, simply prepared from the freshest ingredients. As a country with a sea coast and many freshwater lakes, fish dishes are found on all hotel or restaurant menus. Top-class restaurants in Sweden are usually fairly expensive, but even the smallest towns have reasonably priced self-service restaurants and grill bars. Many restaurants all over Sweden offer a special dish of the day at a reduced price that includes main course, salad, soft drink and coffee.
G. Stockholm has a variety of pubs, cafes, clubs, restaurants, cinemas and theatres but in the country evenings tend to be very calm and peaceful. From August to June the Royal Ballet performs in Stockholm. Music and theatre productions take place in many cities during the summer in the open air. Outside Stockholm in the 18th-century palace there are performances of 18th-century opera very popular with tourists.
№ 3
Установите соответствие между заголовками 1–8 и текстами A–G. Запишите свои ответы в таблицу. Используйте каждую цифру только один раз. В задании есть один лишний заголовок.
1. Education
2. Way of life
3. Public transport
4. Geography
5. Places to stay in
6. Favourite food
7. Hot spots for kids
8. Nightlife
A. Denmark, a small kingdom in northern Europe, has a lot of interesting places for tourists with children. For example, Legoland, a theme park, has become the largest tourist attraction in Denmark outside its capital Copenhagen. And Copenhagen itself is world famous for its Tivoli Gardens amusement park, which opened in 1843 in the heart of the city. The park offers ballet and circus performances, restaurants, concerts, and fireworks displays.
B. Denmark is the smallest Scandinavian country, consisting of the Jutland peninsula, north of Germany, and over 400 islands of various sizes, some inhabited and linked to the mainland by ferry or bridge. Throughout the country, low hills provide a constant change of attractive views; there are also cool and shady forests of beech trees, large areas of open land covered with rough grass, a beautiful lake district, sand dunes and white cliffs on the coast.
C. More than four-fifths of all Danes live in towns. The main cities represent a combination of medieval buildings, such as castles and cathedrals, and modern office buildings and homes. Denmark’s high standard of living and wide-ranging social services guarantee that the cities have no poor districts. Most people in the cities live in flats. But in the suburbs many also live in single-family houses.
D. Denmark’s fine beaches attract many visitors, and there are hotels and pensions in all major seaside resorts. Besides, excellent inns are to be found all over the country. Some are small and only serve local travellers, but others are adapted to the tourist and have established reputations for both international dishes and local specialities. There are also private rooms to let, usually for one night, and chalets all over Denmark.
E. There is a wide selection of places to go out in the evening, particularly in Copenhagen. Jazz and dance clubs in the capital city are top quality and world-famous performers appear regularly. There are numerous cafes, beer gardens and speciality beer bars. Entertainment available includes opera at the recently opened opera house in Copenhagen, ballet and theatre at a number of places in the larger cities, and live music of all kinds.
F. Most Danes eat four meals a day — breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a late-evening supper. Breakfast generally consists of cereal, cheese, or eggs. Dinner, which includes fish or meat, is usually the only hot meal. A traditional Danish dinner consists of roast duckling stuffed with apples, served with red cabbage and boiled potatoes. The other Danish meals consist mostly of sandwiches.
G. Almost all adult Danes can read and write. Danish law requires children to attend nine years of school. Primary school consists of the first seven grades, and secondary school lasts from three to five years. A five-year secondary school student can enter a university. Denmark has three universities. The University of Copenhagen is the oldest and largest. It was founded in 1479 and has about 24,000 students.
№ 4
These people are interested in doing part-time courses. Read these adverts about part-time courses and choose a suitable course for each person.
A. Sue
Sue’s an engineer and she works for an American company. At the moment she’s managing a project in London. She loves working abroad and she’d like to work in South America or Asia one day. She hardly ever meets people that aren’t connected with her job. She wants to meet new people, use her mind and discuss ideas. She’s looking for an interesting evening course where she can do these things.
B. Jackie
Jackie loves music and wants to work in music industry when she leaves school. She plays the violin very well and has lessons once a week. Now she wants to learn to play the guitar or the piano. She isn’t going out or getting much exercise at the moment because she’s studying for her exams. She isn’t happy about this because she’s usually quite an active person.
С. Danilo
Danilo is from Italy but he’s living in London at the moment. He’s working as a waiter in an Italian restaurant. He’d like to go to university in England and he’s trying to find out about courses. He likes travelling and he’s interested in talking to people from different countries. In his free time he goes to the cinema a lot and one day he’d like to work in the film industry.
1. Bring out the writer in you!
Learn how to write articles, short stories, novels.
Our professional team of writers can teach you everything you need to know. Don’t delay! Fill in the form and send it to us.
2. Current affairs — what is behind those headlines?
Do you know what’s happening in the world at the moment? This course gives you all information and chance to discuss it in small, friendly groups. You can make friends from different countries.
3. Film studies
This course is for anyone who loves film. We will look at the work of Hitchcock, Fellini, Tarantino and others.
4. Guitar and violin lessons
I’m a patient, experienced professional musician and I’m looking for students — beginners are welcome!
Lessons at students’ homes.
5. Information technology evening courses
No computer skills? No problem! Come to our introductory courses!
№ 5
These people want to find a coffee shop or a nice place to eat. Decide which cafe would be the most suitable for them. Here are descriptions of five cafes in town. Decide which cafe would be the most suitable for the people above.
1. Ann works for a travel agency in a small seaside resort. Every morning she has a big breakfast, as she only has a one hour lunch break. Sometimes there’s even extra work to do at lunchtime. There are a few cafes around her office, but they all serve traditional British food. She prefers unusual and quite strong flavours.
2. Mrs Black is a retired 75-year-old History teacher. She is proud of her British origin and is looking for a traditional place to spend her empty afternoons in. She doesn’t like crowded or noisy coffee shops.
3. Mr Ridle and Mr Radison are two businessmen who always work long hours. They have to deal with sales reps coming from all over Europe. At the end of a long meeting they like having a quick but high- quality meal with them.
4. Keith is a personal trainer in a sports centre. At the moment he’s much more interested in travelling. Unfortunately he is allergic to some food. He can’t stand meat, but he loves eating lots of other types of dishes, particularly eggs.
a. The Hidden place
The most unspoilt place in town. Delicious homemade cakes and proper tea and coffee for anybody who enjoys taking their time. Try next door if you’re in a hurry! Pets welcomed. Cheap prices.
b. At Eddie’s
This is more of all you can eat salad bar! The ideal place where you can enjoy all vegan food including French fries, hash-brown nuggets and omlettes! Parking places available.
c. Food Paradise
We are a small family owned restaurant and coffee shop located in the city centre. We offer the biggest variety in authentic Mexican food. All dishes are for very reasonable prices.
d. Coffee Shop «Bella Italia»
Forget expensive luxury Italian restaurants. We offer classic Italian cooking at coffee shop prices. Self-service area and five tables always reserved for nearby companies. Closed Sat-Sun.
е. Cafe Antalya
Popular Turkish cafe on the coast. If you are fed up with the usual tomato and cheese sandwich, try our Adana Kebab, a spicy hot, grilled meat specialty. For a quick snack, sweet syrupy pasties and strong black coffee await you! Good prices and outdoor seating available.
№ 6
These people want to buy a CD. These are descriptions of some CDs. Decide which CD would be the most suitable for the following people.
1. Peter is an English teacher. He has travelled a lot, and he likes to listen to foreign music, especially from India and other Asian countries. He is quite fond of folk music.
2. Karen is a high school student who enjoys listening to the newest pop songs to practice her English. She likes to sing along with the music while she listens. She especially enjoys listening to music sung in English by groups of attractive young men who can dance.
3. Bob is retired. He likes to listen to music from his youth because it reminds him of when he used to play the piano in a band at university. He doesn’t like music with a lot of singing because it’s difficult to hear the instruments well.
4. Mick is a high school student who plays the violin. He likes listening to well-known orchestras playing classical music and hopes to play in one of them some day.
A. The Singer was 111 For lovers of classical music who don’t like opera-style singing, the famous New York City Opera Orchestra has made this unusual CD. Listeners can hear some of the most famous opera melodies of all time with one important difference: there is no singing at all.
B. The Golden Age of Jazz 1960
Here is a great disc for lovers of music from this important year in the history of jazz. There is very little singing on this CD, just lots of fantastic playing by some of the greatest musicians of the time.
C. Get up and Dance
This collection of newly recorded updated versions of pop songs from your parents’ generation will have you singing and dancing all night! Some of these songs are sure to be hits again for the second time.
D. China and its Music
China is an enormous country with many different languages, traditions and music. Fifteen unusual songs will give you an idea of the variety of traditional music that can be found in this beautiful, interesting country.
E. Music Video Gold
This CD has thirteen songs from the most popular music videos of this year. The words to all of the songs are also included for your maximum enjoyment. As a special bonus, you can also hear all of the songs without singing if you’d like to sing and pretend you are your favourite pop star!
№ 7
Read the newspaper advertisements and choose who can live there:
a) a tourist
b) a student
c) a couple
d) a family with child
1. ______
A separate flat facing the river, on the second floor, central heating, hot water, a bathroom, a big kitchen, a living room with large windows, a bedroom. All the rooms are furnished. The rent is 100 pounds a month.
2. ______
The Victoria is a large and comfortable hotel in the center of Oxford. There are double rooms and single ones. All the bedrooms have television, telephone and central heating. There are two restaurants, a coffee shop and a bar. The hotel has a lift and a car park.
3. ________
A separate room on the fifth floor for a single man, with furniture and a bathroom. There is a desk, a sofa, a TV set and a bookcase. The telephone is in the hall. There is no lift. The room is small but warm and cosy. The rent is only 50 pounds a month.
4. ________
A two-bedroom apartment facing a park on the tenth floor, a big living room, furnished. There is small kitchen with modern equipment. A swimming pool and a laundry are in the basement. The rent is 150 pounds a month.
№ 8
Friendship
Read the text and give the title to the parts of the text:
a. Who else can be real friends?
b. Why do friendships end?
c. What is friendship?
d. What should a friend be like?
1. ____ The famous 4th century philosopher Aristotle once said,
‘Without friends nobody would want to live’. Friendship is indeed universal and one of the most important human emotions. Friendship is important for everybody. According to scientists, people who have lots of friends get ill less often, looking younger and are more willing to work. Children who have lots of friends become more generous and do better at school, while old people who have lots of friends age less.
2. _______First of all, a friend must be honest and loyal. Then they
must be able to listen and participate, not only in their friend’s joy, but in their suffering, too. Also, they must have the same interests and opinions as their friends. Friends are the important part of your life. And the best friend must keep secret and you can rely on him or her. Usually real friendship becomes stronger with age.
3. _______A friendship can end for many different reasons. One im
portant reason is trust. If you tell a secret to your friend and they don’t keep it, you might fall out and the friendship could end. Jealousy and envy are other causes. In fact, a jealous or envious friend is not a real friend!
4. ________Animals can be great friends. For many people the com
panionship of a dog or a cat is very important. There is even a therapy ‘Pet Therapy’, that uses contact with animals to help people with physical and psychological problems.
№ 9
Read the text and give the title to the parts of the text:
a. the problems of driving
b. the second capital
c. traffic in the city
d. business centre
e. cultural centre
1. ____Everyone knows something about New York- the Statue
of Liberty, the skyscrapers, the beautiful shops on Fifth Avenue, and many theatres of Broadway. This is America’s cultural capital, and her biggest city, with a population of nearly eight million. In the summer it is hot and in winter it can be very cold, but there are hundreds of things to do and see all the year round.
2. ____There are five parts in New York: Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens and Richmond. Only one of them, the Bronx, is not on an island. Manhattan, the smallest island in New York, is the real centre of the city. When people say ‘New York City’ they usually mean Manhattan. Most of the interesting shops, buildings and museums are here, and Manhattan is the scene of New York’s busy night life.
3. ____Wall Street in Manhattan is the financial heart of the USA
and the most important banking centre in the world. It is a street of skyscrapers. Five million people work here every day.
4. _____Like every big city, New York has its own traffic system.
Traffic jams can be terrible, and it’s usually quickest to go by subway. It goes to almost every corner of Manhattan. But be careful at night, it’s better not to go by subway. There are more than 30,000 taxis in New York. They are easy to see because they are bright yellow.
5. If you really have to drive in New York, remember that
nearly all the east-west streets and most of the north-south streets are one way only. This can be difficult for the visitor who doesn’t know his way. Try to get a map that shows the directions of the traffic, and good luck!
№ 10
The people are planning to take up a new activity. Decide which class would be the most suitable for them. There are descriptions of six classes.
1. Susan is a waitress and works a lot of hours at different times of the day and evening. She’d like to be able to do something creative in her own time.
2. Peter works with computers and feels he needs to do something that will keep him fit. He isn’t sure what to do so he’d like to be able to try an activity before making a final decision.
3. Robert wants to take up an activity that will give him plenty of contact with other people. He is confident and enjoys performing.
4. Hannah has a busy and stressful job and wants to find a way of relaxing that she can also do at home. She wants to look better and feel better.
A. Art Scene
You don’t have to be Picasso to learn to draw and paint in a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Our evening course includes trips to art galleries and visits by local artists.
B. Pen to Paper
To help you become a first-class writer, we offer you a home-study course. We have excellent tutors who will guide you through the course and show you how to make the most of your ability. Write and study when and where you want. It couldn’t be easier.
C. Mind and Body
Try yoga to help you deal with life’s worries! It can also help improve the way you look and develop concentration. Best of all, once you’ve learned the basics, it’s something you can do anywhere.
D. Salsa for Beginners
Dancing is great exercise! Find out if it’s for you with our free ‘Salsa for Beginners’. Spend an hour having fun in a lively class. We’re sure you’ll want to book straight onto one of our courses after that!
E. What’s cooking?
Would you like to create fantastic meals and dinner parties for your friends, or do you simply have trouble making an omelette? If the answer is ‘yes’ to either of these questions, why not try one of our Friday evening cooking classes? You’ll always have ideas for the weekend!
F. On Stage
If you’d like something new and interesting to do, why not join the Talking Theatre Group? We work hard but we have a lot of fun too! We put on two shows a year for local people, which are always very popular!
№ 11
Put the parts of the text into right order
.
A. This modern festival started in California in the United States in the 1960s because some black people wanted to celebrate their original history and culture in their new country. Some Africans in the USA, especially those living in white areas, want their children to value their African-American history. Kwanzaa is not a religious festival, but a festival that celebrates several important ideas and principles like unity, cooperation and creativity, for example.
B. As Kwanzaa becomes popular, it is also becoming more commercialized. There are now Kwanzaa cards, books on Kwanzaa, poetry and recipes. Parents are buying more expensive gifts for their children. Now there is also ’Nia Umoja’ a kind old man, rather like Father Christmas,
who attracts children to the festival. Kwanzaa is an interesting balance of African and modern American influence.
C. Kwanzaa is a modern festival celebrated by African Americans. It comes from traditional African agricultural festivals. In fact, the name ‘Kwanzaa’ comes from the Swahili word for the first fruit. African Americans also use a Swahili greeting, ‘What’s new?’ during their festival of Kwanzaa.
D. The festival lasts for seven days, from December 26. People light candles, give gifts, and talk about one special principle every day, on each day. On each night there is a dance, and on the final night there is a big feast.
№ 12
Put the parts of the text into right order.
Meals in Britain
A. ‘Tea means two things. It is a drink and a meal! Some people have afternoon tea, with sandwiches, cakes, and, of course, a cup of tea. Cream teas are popular. You have scones (a kind of cake) with cream and jam.
B. A traditional English breakfast is a very big meal — sausages, bacon, eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms… But nowadays many people just have cereal with milk and sugar or toast with marmalade, jam or honey.
Marmalade and jam are not the same. Marmalade is made from oranges and jam is made from other fruit. The traditional breakfast drink is tea, which people have with cold milk. Some people have coffee, often instant coffee, which is made with hot water. Many visitors to Britain find this coffee disgusting.
C. British like food from other countries too, especially Italian, French, Chinese, and Indian. People often get take-away meals. You buy the food at the restaurant and then bring it home to eat. Eating in Britain is quite international.
D. On Sundays many families have a traditional lunch. They have roast meat, either beef, lamb, chicken or pork, with potatoes, vegetables and gravy. Gravy is a sauce made from the meat juices.
E. For many people lunch is a quick meal. In cities there are a lot of sandwich bars, where office workers can choose the kind of bread they want — brown, white or a roll — and then all sorts of salad and meat or fish to go in the sandwich. Pubs often serve good, cheap food, both hot and cold. School children can have a hot meal at school, but many just take a snack from home.
F. The evening meal is the main meal of the day for many people. They usually have it quite early, between 6 and 8 p.m., and often the whole family eats together.
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Понимание структурно-смысловых связей в тексте
№ 1
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Fire Crews Hunt Escaped Hamster
Eight firefighters have been called in to help find an escaped hamster. Two crews used a chocolate-covered camera and a vacuum cleaner A ____ , called Fudgie, at the home of a six-year-old girl in Dunbar, Scotland.
The girl’s mother said: ‘We came down for breakfast and discovered Fudgie had opened the top lid of her cage and had made her way into the kitchen and we think she has gone В ____ .’
The fire crews spent five hours trying to recover the pet after it ran down a hole in the kitchen floor. But, the hamster still refused С ____ .
In the search for Fudgie, the firefighters took the family cooker and gas pipes apart. They also dropped a mini-camera coated with chocolate under the floorboards. They then hoped to take out the hamster using a vacuum cleaner. Despite all their efforts, they failed to find Fudgie.
In the end, the firefighters put another camera down the hole D ____ , connected to the screen of the family home computer, to see if Fudgie appeared. Besides, the girl and her parents regularly dropped food E ____ .
At last, after eight days the hamster returned to her cage safe and sound. She crawled from the hole in the kitchen floor early in the morning. It was the girl’s father who first found Fudgie F ____ .
The girl said that day it was like Christmas morning for her. Her parents added that they too felt extremely happy when Fudgie had finally returned.
1. through a small hole in the floor
2. through the hole for the hamster
3. and locked the runaway hamster
4. to come out of the hole
5. to look after the pet
6. to try and locate the missing hamster
7. and left it under the floorboards
№ 2
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If you eat very quickly, it may be enough to increase your risk of being overweight, research suggests.
Osaka University scientists looked at the eating habits of 3,000 people. Just about half of them told researchers that theyA ______ . Compared with those who did not eat quickly, fast-eating men were 84% more likely to be overweight, and women were 100% more likely to В ______ .
Japanese scientists said that there were a number of reasons why eating fast С ______ . They said it could prevent the work of a signalling system which tells your brain to stop eating because your stomach is full. They said: ‘If you eat quickly you basically fill your stomach before the system has a chance to react, so you D _____ .
The researchers also explained that a mechanism that helps make us fat today, developed with evolution and helped people get more food in the periods when they were short of it. The scientists added that the habit of eating fast could be received from one’s parents genes or E ______ .
They said that, if possible, children should be taught to F ______ , and allowed to stop when they felt full up at mealtimes. ‘The advice of our grandmothers about chewing everything 20 times might be true — if you take a bit more time eating, it could have a positive influence on your weight.
1. just overfill your stomach
2. could be bad for your weight
3. have a habit of eating quickly
4. linked to obesity
5. eat as slowly as possible
6. put on weight
7. learned at a very early age
№ 3
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Hi-Tech Brings Families Together
Technology is helping families stay in touch like never before, says a report carried out in the US.
Instead of driving people apart, mobile phones and the Internet are A ______ . The research looked at the differences in technology use between families with children and single adults. It found that traditional families have more hi-tech gadgets in their home В ______ . Several mobile phones were found in 89% of families and 66% had a high-speed Internet connection. The research also found that 58% of families have more С ______ .
Many people use their mobile phone to keep in touch and communicate with parents and children. Seventy percent of couples, D ______ , use it every day to chat or say hello. In addition, it was found that 42% of parents contact their children via their mobile every day.
The growing use of mobile phones, computers and the Internet means that families no longer gather round the TV to spend time together. 25% of those who took part in the report said they now spend less time E ______ . Only 58% of 18—29 year olds said they watched TV every day. Instead the research found that 52% of Internet users who live with their families go online F ______ several times a week and 51% of parents browse the web with their children.
Some analysts have worried that new technologies hurt families, but we see that technology allows for new kinds of connectedness built around cell phones and the Internet/ said the report.
1. than any other group
2. watching television
3. in the company of someone else
4. than two computers in the home
5. communicated with their families
6. helping them communicate
7. owning a mobile
№ 4
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The Power of ‘Hello’
I work at a company where there are hundreds of employees. I know most of them and almost all of them know me. It is all based on one simple principle: I believe every single person deserves to be acknowledged, A ______ .
When I was about 10 years old, I was walking down the street with my mother. She stopped to speak to Mr. Lee. I knew I could see Mr. Lee any time around the neighborhood, В ______ .
After we passed Mr. Lee, my mother said something that has stuck with me from that day until now. She said, ‘You let that be the last time you ever walk by somebody and not open up your mouth to speak, because even a dog can wag its tail С______ . That phrase sounds simple, but it has been a guidepost for me and the foundation of who I am. I started to see that when I spoke to someone, they spoke back. And that felt good. It is not just something I believe in — D ______ . I believe that every person deserves to feel someone acknowledges their presence, no matter how unimportant they may be.
At work, I always used to say ‘hello’ to the founder of the company and ask him how our business was doing. But I was also speaking to the people in the cafe, and asked how their children were doing. I remembered after a few years of passing by the founder, I had the courage to ask him for a meeting. We had a great talk.
At a certain point, I asked him E ______ . He said, ‘If you want to, you can get all the way to this seat.’ I have become vice president, but that has not changed the way I approach people. I speak to everyone I see, no matter where I am. I have learned that speaking to people creates a pathway into their world, F ______ .
1. it has become a way of life.
2. when it passes you on the street.
3. when you see him and talk to him.
4. and it lets them come into mine, too.
5. so I did not pay any attention to him.
6. however small or simple the greeting is.
7. how far he thought I could go in his company.
№ 5
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Friendship and Love
A strong friendship takes a significant amount of time to develop. It will not just magically mature overnight. A friendship involves committing oneself to help another person A ______ . I believe that, nothing can replace a true friend, not material objects, or money, and definitely not a boy.
I met this guy a couple summers ago who I ended up spending almost all of my free time with. His parents did not approve of our dating because of our age difference, В ______ . He had told me the day we met that he had joined the air force and would leave for overseas that coming October. After three months had past, the time came when he had to leave. This left me feeling completely alone.
I turned to my friends for support, but to my surprise, С ______ . I had spent so much time with this guy and so little time with them, that they did not feel sorry for me when he left. For so long they had become the only constant in my life, and I had taken them for granted over something D ______ .When my boyfriend came back, our relationship changed. I tried to fix all the aspects in my life that had gone so wrong in the previous six months.
This experience taught me that true friendships will only survive if one puts forth effort to make them last. Keeping friends close will guarantee that E ______ . When a relationship falls apart, a friend will always do everything in their power to make everything less painful. As for me, I try to keep my friends as close as I can. I know they will always support me in whatever I do, and to them, I F ______ .
1. but we did anyway.
2. whenever a need arises.
3. they did not really care.
4. whenever they need your help.
5. could not guarantee would even last.
6. am eternally grateful’for a second chance.
7. someone will always have a shoulder to cry
№ 6
№ 7
№ 8
№ 9
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Полное понимание информации в тексте
№ 1
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Why did schoolchildren like the new teacher, Mr. Sampson?
1) They liked his appearance.
2) He often went for a walk with them.
3) He organized competitions for them.
4) They enjoyed listening to his stories.
A School Story
It happened at my private school thirty odd years ago, and I still can’t explain it. I came to that school in September and among the boys who arrived on the same day was one whom I took to. I will call him McLeod. The school was a large one: there must have been from 120 to 130 boys there as a rule, and so a considerable staff of masters was required. One term a new master made his appearance. His name was Sampson. He was a tall, well-built, pale, black-bearded man. I think we liked him. He had travelled a good deal, and had stories which amused us on our school walks, so that there was some competition among us to get a chance to listen to him.
Well, the first odd thing that happened was this. Sampson was doing Latin grammar with us. One of his favourite methods was to make us construct sentences out of our own heads to illustrate the rules he was trying to teach us. Now, on this occasion he ordered us each to make a sentence bringing in the verb memlnij ‘I remember.’ Well, most of us made up some ordinary sentence such as ‘I remember my father, ’ but the boy I mentioned — McLeod — was evidently thinking of something more interesting than that. Finally, very quickly he wrote a couple of lines on his paper, and showed it up with the rest. The phrase was “Remember the lake among the four oaks.” Later McLeod told me that it had just come into his head. When Sampson read it he got up and went to the man- tel-piece and stopped quite a long time without saying anything looking really embarrassed. Then he wanted to know why McLeod had put it down, and where his family lived, and if there was such a lake there, and things like that.
There was one other incident of the same kind. We were told to make a conditional sentence, expressing a future consequence. We did it and showed up our bits of paper, and Sampson began looking through them. All at once he got up, made some odd sort of noise in his throat, and rushed out. I noticed that he hadn’t taken any of the papers with him, so we went to look at them on his desk. The top paper on the desk was written in red ink — which no one used — and it wasn’t in anyone’s handwriting who was in the class. I questioned everyone myself! Then I thought of counting the bits of paper: there were seventeen of them on the desk, and sixteen boys in the form. I put the extra paper in my bag and kept it. The phrase on it was simple and harmless enough: ‘If you don’t come to me, I’ll come to you.’ That same afternoon I took it out of my bag — I know for certain it was the same bit of paper, for I made a fingermark on it — and there was no single piece of writing on it!
The next day Sampson was in school again, much as usual. That night the third and last incident in my story happened. We — McLeod and I — slept in a bedroom the windows of which looked out at the main building of the school. Sampson slept in the main building on the first floor. At an hour which I can’t remember exactly, but some time between one and two, I was woken up by somebody shaking me. I saw McLeod in the light of the moon which was looking right into our windows. ‘Come,’ he said, — ‘come, there’s someone getting in through Sampson’s window. About five minutes before I woke you, I found myself looking out of this window here, and there was a man sitting on Sampson’s window-sill, and looking in.’ ‘What sort of man? Is anyone from the senior class going to play a trick on him? Or was it a burglar?!’ McLeod seemed unwilling to answer. ‘I don’t know,’ he said, ‘but I can tell you one thing — he was as thin as a rail, and water was running down his hair and clothing and/ he said, looking round and whispering as if he hardly liked to hear himself, ‘I’m not at all sure that he was alive.’ Naturally I came and looked, and naturally there was no one there.
And next day Mr. Sampson was gone: not to be found, and I believe no trace of him has ever come to light since. Neither McLeod nor I ever mentioned what we had seen to anyone. We seemed unable to speak about it. We both felt strange horror which neither could explain.
№ 2
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The first time Sally travelled by train was when she
1) had to move to her aunt Alice.
2) had a summer vacation at school.
3) went to Pittsburgh for the first time in her life.
4) visited her aunt Alice together with aunt Winnie.
First Train Trip
I must have been about eight when I made my first train trip. I think I was in second grade at that time. It was midsummer, hot and wet in central Kansas, and time for my aunt Winnie’s annual vacation from the store, where she worked as a clerk six days a week. She invited me to join her on a trip to Pittsburgh, fifty miles away, to see her sister, my aunt Alice. ‘Sally, would you like to go there by train or by car?’ aunt Winnie asked. ‘Oh, please, by train, aunt Winnie, dear! We’ve been there by car three times already!’
Alice was one of my favourite relatives and I was delighted to be invited to her house. As I was the youngest niece in Mother’s big family, the aunties all tended to spoil me and Alice was no exception. She kept a boarding house for college students, a two-storey, brown brick building with comfortable, nicely decorated rooms at the corner of 1200 Kearney Avenue. She was also a world-class cook, which kept her boarding house full of young people. It seemed to me that their life was so exciting and joyful.
Since I’d never ridden a train before, I became more and more excited as the magic day drew near. I kept questioning Mother about train travel, but she just said, ‘Wait. You’ll see.’ For an eight-year-old, waiting was really difficult, but finally the big day arrived. Mother had helped me pack the night before, and my little suitcase was full with summer sundresses, shorts and blouses, underwear and pyjamas. I was reading Billy Whiskers, a fantastic story about a goat that once made a train trip to New York, and I had put that in as well. It was almost midnight when I could go to bed at last.
We arrived at the station early, purchased our tickets and found our car. I was fascinated by the face-to-face seats so some passengers could ride backwards. Why would anyone, I thought, want to see where they’d been? I only wanted to see what lay ahead for me.
Finally, the conductor shouted, ‘All aboard!’ to the people on the platform. They climbed into the cars, the engineer blew the whistle and clanged the bell, and we pulled out of the station.
This train stopped at every town between my home in Solomon and Pittsburgh. It was known as the ‘milk train’ because at one time it had delivered goods as well as passengers to these villages. I looked eagerly at the signs at each station. I’d been through all these towns by car, but this was different. The shaky ride of the coaches, the soft brown plush seats, the smells of the engine drifting back down the track and in through the open windows made this trip far more exotic.
The conductor, with his black uniform and shiny hat, the twinkling signals that told the engineer when to stop and go, thrilled me. To an adult, the trip must have seemed painfully slow, but I enjoyed every minute.
Aunt Winnie had packed a lunch for us to eat along the way as there was no dining car in the train. I was dying to know just what was in that big shopping bag she carried, but she, too, said, ‘Wait. You’ll see.’ Midway, Aunt Winnie pulled down her shopping bag from the luggage rack above our seats. My eyes widened as she opened it and began to take out its contents. I had expected lunch- meat sandwiches, but instead there was a container of fried chicken, two hardboiled eggs, bread and butter wrapped in waxed paper, crisp radishes and slim green onions from Winnie’s garden, as well as rosy sliced tomatoes. She had brought paper plates, paper cups and some of the ‘everyday’ silverware. A large bottle of cold tea was well wrapped in a dishtowel; the ice had melted, but it was still chilly. I cautiously balanced my plate on my knees and ate, wiping my lips and fingers with a large paper napkin. This was living!
When we had cleaned our plates, Aunt Winnie looked into the bag one more time. The best treat of all appeared — homemade chocolate cakes! Another cup of cold tea washed these down and then we carefully returned the remains of the food and silverware to the bag, which Aunt Winnie put into the corner by her feet.
‘Almost there,’ said my aunt, looking out of the window at the scenery passing by. And sure enough, as we pulled into the Pittsburgh station we immediately caught sight of aunt Alice, waiting for us, a smile like the sun lighting up her face, arms wide open. We got off the train and she led us past the taxi rank and the bus stop to her car that was parked near the station. And all the way to her home she was asking about my impressions of my first train trip and I could hardly find the words to express all the thrill and excitement that filled me.
№ 3
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Why is the collage of photographs more important for Kathy than the other wedding presents?
1) It reminds Kathy of her wedding.
2) Kathy didn’t like the other wedding presents.
3) It was the most expensive present.
4) Kathy’s sister made it for her.
Sisters
‘Dear Kathy! Chance made us sisters, hearts made us friends.’ This quote is at the center of a collage of photographs — covering our twenty-something years — that now hangs in my office. My sister, Susie, made it for me as a wedding present. It probably cost very little to make (she is a starving college student, after all), but it means more to me than any of the more ‘traditional’ wedding presents my husband and I received from family and friends last June. Whenever I look at the collage, it reminds me of my sister and what a true friend she is.
Susie and I weren’t always close friends. Far from it, in fact. We shared a room for nearly fifteen years when we were younger, and at the time I thought I couldn’t have asked for a worse roommate. She was always around! If we argued and I wanted to go to my room to be alone, she’d follow me right in. If I told her to go away, she’d say right back, ‘It’s my room, too! And I can be here if I want to.’ I’d consult my mother and she usually agreed with Susie. I suppose being three years younger has its benefits.
When we were kids, she’d ‘borrow’ my dolls without asking. (And no toy was safe in her hands.) When we got older, Susie quit borrowing my toys and started borrowing my clothes. That was the final straw. I couldn’t take it anymore. I begged my parents to let me have a room of my own — preferably one with a lock on the door. The answer was always a resounding ‘no.’ ‘Please?!’ I’d beg. My parents would just shake their heads. They didn’t agree with each other on much, but for some reason they had a united front on this issue.
To crown it all, she had this habit of doing everything I did. Choirs, rock bands, sports teams, dance studios: There was no place where I was safe. ‘She looks up to you,’ my mom would say. I didn’t care. I just wanted a piece of my life that didn’t involve my little sister. When I complained to my mother, she’d just smile and say, ‘One day you’ll want her around.’ Sure.
It’s strange how mothers have this habit of being right about everything. When I was sixteen and my sister was thirteen, we went through a series of life-chang- ing events together that would forever change our relationship. First, my parents announced that they were divorcing. My dad packed up and moved to an apartment in New Hampshire — more than a half hour drive away from our cozy house in Massachusetts. He bought me my first car and I often went with Susie to his place when we missed him a lot. During those trips we started discussing our troubles and making plans about how to reunite the family again. But a year later, our father met his future second wife and moved again; this time to Indiana. This meant we could only see him once or twice a year, as opposed to once every few weeks. That was hard.
Yet those few months changed my relationship with my sister forever. We started having more heart-to-heart talks as opposed to silly fights. Over time, she became my most cherished friend. It’s not uncommon for us to have three-hour-long telephone conversations about everything or about nothing—just laughing over memories from childhood or high school.
She’s the only person who’s been through all of the tough stuff that I’ve been through, and the only person who truly understands me. Susie and I have shared so much. She’s been my roommate, my friend, and my partner in crime. We’ve done plays together, gone to amusement parks, sang, and taken long road trips together. We’ve laughed until our sides hurt, and wiped away each others’ tears.
Even though distance separates us now, we’re closer than ever. Sisters share a special bond. They’ve seen all of your most embarrassing moments. They know your deepest, darkest secrets. Most importantly, they love you unconditionally. I’m lucky to be able to say that my little sister is my best friend. I only wish everyone could be so fortunate.
№ 4
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William Shakespeare
On April 23, 1564 William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon. His mother was the daughter of a farmer. His father was a glove-maker. William attended a grammar school in Stratford and had quite a good education. There he learned to love reading.
While he was a teenager, he married a woman some years older than himself. He had three children: the eldest is the daughter and then twins – a son and another girl. In 1587 William went to work in London leaving his family at home. Some people say that the reason was his love of poetry and theatre.
In London Shakespeare began to write plays and become an important member of a well-known acting company. Most of his plays were performed in the new Globe Theatre built on the bank of the river Thames. In 1613 he stopped writing and went to live in Stratford when he died in 1616. His plays are well-known and still acted not only in England but in the whole world.
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Write down the words and phrases used in the text
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worker, farmer 3. 2 children, 3 children
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listening, reading 4. cinema, theatre
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Complete the sentences according to the text
1.Shakespeare was born…
a) on April 22 b) on April 23 c) on August 23
2. Shakespeare’s father was…
a) a glove-maker b) a clock-maker c) a shoe-maker
3. At school William learned to love…
a) dancing b) reading c) singing
4. Shakespeare went to work in…
a) New York b) Cardiff c) London
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Write down if the sentences are true to the text or false
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Shakespeare had twin daughters.
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In 1587 Shakespeare went to work in London.
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The Globe Theatre was built on the bank of the river Clyde.
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Shakespeare’s plays are staged only in Britain
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Answer the questions on the text
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Where was W. Shakespeare born?
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What school did W. Shakespeare attend in Stratford?
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What did Shakespeare do in London?
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Where and when did Shakespeare die?
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Put the sentences in the order they are used in the text
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Most of his plays were staged in the Globe Theatre.
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He married a woman some years older than himself.
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William had quite a good education.
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He stopped writing and went to live in Stratford.
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№ 5
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A Sad Story
Three men came to New York for their holidays. Their names were Tom, Pete and Andy. They came to a hotel and asked for a room. The friends got a room on the forty-fifth floor.
They went sightseeing, visited the picture gallery and looked into some shops. In the evening they came back to the hotel from the cinema.
The servant in the hotel told them: “ I’m sorry, gentlemen, the lift doesn’t work. If you don’t want to go up to your room, you can sleep here, in the hall. I’ll bring you the bed linen.”
“ No, no”, said the men, “ we shan’t sleep in the hall. We shall go up to our room.” Then Tom said to his friends:” It’s not easy to go up to the forty-fifth floor. I know what we shall do. I shall tell you a lot of jokes. Andy will sing us songs and Pete will tell us an interesting story”.
The three friends went up to their room. They listened to Tom’s jokes, then Andy sang songs. When they came to the thirty-fifth floor, Tom said to Pete: “ Now we shall listen to your long and interesting story.”
“ Yes”, answered Pete, “but my story is short and very sad. I have no key with me. It is on the table in the hall.”
Reading- Comprehension Test №2
I. Choose the phrases which were used in the text
1. three men, four men 3. Theatre, cinema
2. New York, London 4. Funny stories, jokes
II. Choose the sentences which were used in the text
1. A)The friends got a room on the thirty-fifth floor.
B) The friends got a room on the forty-fifth floor.
2 A) They looked into some shops.
B) They looked into some supermarkets.
3. A) We shall go up to our room.
B) We shall sleep in the hall.
4. A) Andy told interesting stories.
B) Andy sang songs.
III. Complete the sentences according to the text
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Three men came to…
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The friends got a room on the…
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Tom will..
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Pete has left the key…
IV. Write down if the sentences are true to the text or false
1. Three men came to a restaurant.
2. Three men visited a picture gallery.
3. They came back from the cinema in the afternoon.
4. Pete will sing songs.
V. Answer the questions on the text
1. Where did three men come to?
2. Why did they go up to their room on foot?
3. Who told jokes?
4. What was Peter’s story?
№ 6
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Festival Fun!
Summer time is a time for festival in Britain. Join us as we go to three fabulous festivals.
Notting Hill Carnival
The Notting Hill Carnival takes place in the Notting Hill area of London on the last weekend in August. It is a huge multicultural arts festival and is the largest street festival in Europe. Groups come from all over the world to take part. There’s music, dancing, street theatre and decorated floats. Up to 1.5 million people come to the festival and there’s something for everyone to see and do.
Glastonbury Festival
It’s the world’s biggest open air music festival. The festival covers 1,000 acres of farmland in south-west England. It takes place in June and lasts four days. About 700 acts are played on over 80 stages. There is continual music from 9 o’clock in the morning until 6 o’clock the next morning. Last year 190,000 people attended the festival and paid 200 for a ticket. Hundreds of famous names have performed at Glastonbury. It also supports charities such as Greenpeace, WaterAid and others. The festival is famous for its rain! In 1997,1998 and 2005 it rained, every day, and the festival-goers danced in the mud.
Eisteddford
Eisteddfod, a celebration of Welsh music and poetry, is the biggest cultural event in Wales and it takes place in the first week of August. There are competitions for all the best singers, choirs and poets. The Gorsedd of the Bards, an association of the best poets, writers, musicians and artists in Wales, selects the winners. The members of the Gorsedd are called druids and they wear long colourful robes. All the events are in Welsh, but there are headphones with English language translations for anyone who doesn’t understand Welsh!
1. Where does the Notting Hill Carnival take place?
a. in suburbs of London
b. in one of the parts of London
c. in the centre of London
2. Who usually attends this festival?
a. only Londoners
b. British people
c. different people
3. When does Glastonbury host its music event?
a. at the beginning of summer
b. in the middle of summer
c. at the end of summer
4. What does this festival support?
a. some handicrafts
b. environmental projects
c. foreign people
5. What is Eisteddfod?
a. it’s only a music festival
b. it’s a folk festival
c. it’s a poetry competition
6. In what language are the events at Eisteddfod?
a. in English
b. in Scottish
c. in Welsh
№ 7
Read the text. Say if the following statements are true (T) or false (F).
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is located between Southern Ontario (Canada) and New York State (USA). The first inhabitants who settled in the Niagara Falls region were the Iroquois. They worked as farmers and trades along the banks of the Niagara River. When the first Europeans set foot in the area, they also settled there. The 19th century brought the most important developments to the area. The Village of Manchester (Niagara Falls) became an important centre for manufacturing companies during the early years of the industrial development. Tourists started to arrive in the 1820s and they still visit this after almost two centuries.
The most comfortable way to visit Niagara Falls is a boat trip on the world famous Maid of the Mist. This historical boat tour takes millions of tourists to the Falls from the Canadian to the American side every year. Don’t miss two other important attractions: the White Water Walk, an amazing tour through a deep narrow gorge and the Journey Behind the Falls, a self-guided tour which takes you to an observation platform at the base of the Falls in a lift. You can then go on a short journey through some tunnels which lead you behind the Falls.
After a day of exciting adventure, visit Niagara Square with all its shops, cinemas and boutiques. There are lots of restaurants that serve locally grown products and regional cuisine. At night, experience local clubs with live music and entertainment. Don’t forget the fireworks over the Falls every Friday and Sunday!
Read the text below to decide if each sentence is correct (True) or incorrect (False)._____________________________________________
1. This information is to help tourists who want to spend a holiday in Canada.
True False
2. You can see the Falls only on board a boat.
True False
3. The first people who made their home there were Europeans.
True False
4. You can taste only local food.
True False
5. You can have a fun at night.
True False
№ 8
Read the text. Say if the following statements are true (T) or false (F).
Mexico City
Many people travelling to Mexico pass through Mexico City, but most of them never actually visit Mexico’s capital city. If you asked those people why, they would probably say something about the air. Mexico City is very big, and air pollution is always a problem in big cities. But a lot of its inhabitants say that air pollution is less of problem than in the past.
The historic centre was built on what used to be an island in an ancient lake. It’s the oldest part of the city and includes the Zocalo, the largest public square in the Americans. There is an enormous Mexican flag in the centre of the square.
The best way to see the most sights in the shortest time is to take the ‘Turibus’, a red, two-level bus similar to the double-decker buses in London, except that the top level has no roof. This means that you see the city better, but it also means that you need to wear lots of sun cream. A daily ticket allows you unlimited rides.
The amazing National Museum of Anthropology is located in the Chapultepec Park. It’s perhaps the most famous of the city’s museums and also one of the biggest. Other sights in the park include an amusement park, a forest with beautiful old trees and a large zoo with giant pandas.
Plaza Garibaldi always has street musicians playing traditional Mexican music. There’s also birria, a spicy goat meat soup sold at self- service restaurants in a large building just off the square.
Let’s go to this exciting, beautiful city.
Read the text below to decide if each sentence is correct (True) or incorrect (False)._____________________________________________
1. Most travelers to Mexico spend a lot of time in Mexico City.
True False
2. Mexico City is the capital of Mexico.
True False
3. Air pollution is a problem in Mexico City.
True False
4. The centre of Mexico City used to be under water.
True False
5. The Zocalo is the biggest public square in the world.
True False
6. The Turibus is an efficient and convenient way to see the major sights.
True False
7. Birria is a type of Mexican music.
True False
№ 9
Прочитайте текст, ответьте на вопросы после текста
Pret A Manger
In the 1980s Julian Metcalfe and Sinclair Beecham spent a lot of time walking around London looking for a good, fast lunch. They never found one. So in 1986 they opened their own sandwich shop, Pret a Manger.
Today there are 150 Pret a Mangers in the UK and Hong Kong. Why have they become successful? Firstly, the food. Every night a van delivers fresh ingredients to the Pret a Manger stores. Early in the morning the chefs check the ingredients carefully, and then they make fresh sandwiches for the day. And these days it isn’t only sandwiches. Pret a Manger sells many different types of food; it even includes sushi on the menu. Quality and care is important for the company. For people who want to know exactly what they are eating, its website gives information about each dish. For example, if you want to know how many calories are in a ham and cheese sandwich, you can find out.
Pret a Manger also does good things for the community. At the end of the day, charities take any extra unwanted food and give it to homeless people.
McDonald’s owns 33% of the company, and this is one reason why people all over the world now know this trade name.
1. When did the first Pret a Manger open?
a. 1980 b. 1986 c. 1990
2. How is the food made?
a. in a factory
b. by chefs in the sandwich shops every day
c. by chefs the night before
3. What does Pret a Manger sell?
a. only sandwiches
b. only sandwiches and sushi
c. sandwiches, sushi and other types of food
4. How can you find information about the calories in each dish?
a. look on the website
b. ask the Pret a Manger workers
c. write to owners
5. What happens to the food that isn’t eaten?
a. they throw it away
b. it is recycled
c. charities take it
№ 10
Прочитайте текст, ответьте на вопросы после текста
Going to the Theatre
Many big towns in England have professional theatres now. There are about 200 professional theatres in Great Britain but London is the centre of theatrical activity. There are over thirty important theatres in the West End. The Royal Opera House at Covent Garden is the home of opera and ballet.
Some theatres stage ‘classics’ and serious drama. A lot of English people are fond of light comedy and musicals. They are very popular in England.
The evening performances begin at 7.30 or 8.00 p.m. There is a rush hour at this time in the West End. A lot of people come out of nearby underground stations, taxis and private cars drop theatre-goers outside the entrance to each theatre. There is another rush hour when the performances are over.
It is certainly not easy to book a seat for a good play in London though the seats are not cheap. That is why some people prefer matinees (they start at 1-3 p.m.), but you will never see famous stars in these performances.
Complete the sentences based on the text.
1. There are over 200 professional theatres in Britain but London is
a________________.
2. The Royal Opera House is a_________.
3. A lot of English people are fond of________.
4. There is a rush hour in the West End_______.
5. It is not easy to book a seat for a good play in London, though___.
6. Some people prefer matinees but______.
a. not very serious performances.
b. theatrical center.
c. the tickets are very expensive.
d. after the working day.
e. they can’t see famous actors there.
f. place where you can see ballet and opera performances.
№ 11
Read the text. Say if the following statements are true (T) or false (F).
The Exercise craze
Old and young, men and women are jogging, dancing, jumping up and down, bending and stretching. Exercise is in fashion. Everybody wants to be fit, feel good, look slim, and stay young.
It started with jogging. Millions of Americans put on their new coloured sports shoes and fashionable jogging suits and ran through the parks or along the streets for half an hour a day. Then the joggers got the marathon craze. Popular marathons are now held everywhere. Lots of people want to see if they can run 42 kms and do it faster than everyone else. The big city marathons, in London and New York, are important sporting events. Television cameras and newspapers report them in detail. Some remarkable people take part in the marathons: seventy-five year old grandfathers and nine year old grandchildren, and even disabled in wheelchairs.
But marathons are not for everyone. Some prefer to get fit at home. For them, there ’s a big choice of books, cassettes and video programmers with music and instructions. Sometimes the action is more like dancing than exercises. That’s why one big company calls it ‘Dancercise’.
Taking exercise is only one part of keeping fit. You’ve got to get slim too. Books and magazines about slimming are bestsellers and these days.
Say if the following statements are true (T) or false (F).
1. Everybody is doing excercise, old and young, men and women.___
2. Millions of Americans ran through the parks or along the streets.
3. The big city marathons, in London and New York, are important
sporting events.___
4. Everyone takes part in marathons.____
5. People cannot get fit at home.____
№ 12
Read the text. Say if the following statements are true (T) or false (F).
Most British and American state schools provide their students with the option to eat lunch at school, but do they provide them with the option to eat well? Jamie Oliver is one of Britain’s most popular stars. He’s a young cook whose TV and cookery programmes are watched by
millions. In his last TV series, he tried to make British school dinner both eatable and healthy. He showed just how poor many school diets were. Many of them contained too many fats and carbohydrates and not enough vitamins. His campaign to get tastier and healthier school meals called Feed me better has caused politicians to take the problem seriously and promise to improve the quality of food on school dinner plates. Obesity is on the increase in all western countries. The biggest causes are bad diet and people being less active than they were in the past. Some people allege that schools also make the problem worse because they allow the sale of fizzy drinks and sugary snacks in school tuck shops and vending machines. Other people believe that advertising is to blame. UK politicians are promoting a voluntary agreement to stop junk food advertising at times when younger children watch the television.
1. Most teens don’t have healthy food at school______
2. Jamie Oliver is a famous school teacher._______
3. J. Oliver’s aim is to change meal at schools.______
4. Teens are getting fatter in western countries._______
5. School canteens don’t serve fast food.______
6. Adverts teach teens to eat fast food.______
№ 13
Read the text. Say if the following statements are true (T) or false (F).
The pack of biscuits
One night there was a woman at the airport who had to wait for several hours before catching her next flight. While she waited she bought a book and a pack of biscuits to spend the time. She looked for a place to sit and waited. She was deep into her book, when suddenly she realized that there was a young man sitting next to her who was stretching his hand, with no concern whatsoever, and grabbing the pack of cookies lying between them. He started to eat them one by one. Not wanting to make a fuss about it she decided to ignore him. The woman, slightly bothered, ate the cookies and watched the clock, while the young and shameless thief of biscuits was also finishing them. The woman started to get really angry at this point and thought, “If I wasn’t such a good and educated person, I would have given this daring man a black eye by now.” Every time she ate a biscuit, he had one too. The dialogue between their eyes continued and when only one biscuit was left, she wondered what was he going to do. Softly and with a nervous smile, the young man grabbed the last biscuit and broke it in two. He offered one half to the woman while he ate the other half. Briskly she took the biscuit and thought, “What an insolent man! How uneducated! He didn’t even thank me!” She had never met anybody so fresh and sighed relieved to hear her flight announced. She grabbed her bags and went towards the boarding gate refusing to look back to where that insolent thief was. After boarding the plane and nicely seated, she looked for her book, which was nearly finished by now. While looking into her bag she was totally surprised to find her pack of biscuits nearly intact. «If my biscuits are here», she thought feeling terribly, «those others were his and he tried to share them with me. Too
late to apologize to the young man». She realized with pain, that it was her who had been insolent, uneducated and a thief, and not him!
Read the story and say if the statements are true (T), false (F) or not mentioned (NM).
1. A young woman at the airport had to wait for several hours before catching her next flight.
2. She bought a book and a pack of cookies.
3. She was reading the book, when suddenly she realized that a young man was eating her biscuits.
4. The woman and the man didn’t want to talk to each other.
5. The man shared the last cookie with the woman.
|
6. The woman apologized to the young man. |
|
|
Match the word and the translation. |
|
|
1. flight |
а. нетронутый |
|
2. realize |
b. осознавать |
|
3. fuss |
с. нахальный |
|
4. daring |
d. почти |
|
5. briskly |
e. высокомерный, наглый |
|
6. insolent |
f. живо, оживленно |
|
7. nearly |
g. полёт |
|
8.intact |
h. суета, шум |
№ 14
Прочитайте текст, ответьте на вопросы после текста
The shoebox
A man and woman had been married for more than 60 years. They had shared everything. They had talked about everything. They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little: old woman had a shoebox in the top of her closet that she had cautioned her husband never to open or ask her about.
For all of these years, he had never thought about the box, but one day the little old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover.
In trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoebox and took it to his wife’s bedside. She agreed that it was time that he should know what was in the box. When he opened it, he found two knitted dolls and a stack of money totaling $95,000.
He asked her about the contents.
‘When we were to be married,’ she said, ‘ my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should just keep quiet and knit a doll.’
The little old man was so moved; he had to fight back tears. Only two precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two times in all those years of living and loving. He almost burst with happiness.
‘Honey,’ he said, ‘that explains the dolls, but what about all of this money? Where did it come from?’
‘Oh,’ she said, ‘that’s the money I made from selling the dolls.’
____________________Answer the questions.____________________
1. How long had a man and a woman been married?
2. Who had a little secret?
3. What kind of secret it was?
4. Why did the man take down the shoebox and take it to his wife’s bedside?
5. What was in the box?
6. What secret did grandmother tell me the woman?
7. Do you think the woman often got angry with her husband? Why?
№ 15
Список использованной литературы:
-
Ваулина Ю., УМК «Spotlight-9»(Ю.Ваулина, В.Эванс),Просвещение, 2010.
-
Вербицкая М.В., ЕГЭ-2013. Английский язык: тематические и типовые экзаменационные варианты: 25 вариантов / Под ред. М.В. Вербицкой. — М.: Издательство «Национальное образование», 2012. — + CD. — (ЕГЭ-2013. ФИПИ-школе)
-
Вербицкая М.В., ЕГЭ-2013. Английский язык: актив-тренинг : выполнение заданий А, В, С / Под ред. М.В. Вербицкой. — М.: Издательство «Национальное образование», 2012. — (ЕГЭ-2013. ФИПИ-школе)
-
Вербицкая М.В., ЕГЭ-2013 Английский язык + CD / ФИПИ автор-составитель: М.В. Вербицкая– М.: Астрель, 2012
-
Клековкина Е., Учебное пособие для подготовки к ЕГЭ по английскому языку. Malcolm Mann, Steve Taylore Knowles,Елена Клековкина. Macmillan. 2010
-
Клековкина Е., Сборник тестов для подготовки к ЕГЭ по англ.яз.E.Klekovkina, Malcolm Mann, Steve Taylore-Knowles. Macmillan. 2010
-
Соловова Е.Н., Методика обучения иностранным языкам. Базовый курс. Е.Н. Соловова. 2008
-
Соловова Е.Н., State Exam.Maximiser. Подготовка к Экзаменам. Е.Н.Соловова,И.Е. Солокова.Longnan. 2007
-
Трубанева Н.Н., ГИА-2013 Экзамен в новой форме. Английский язык. 9 класс/ ФИПИ авторы- составители: Трубанева Н.Н., Бабушис Е.Е., Спичко Н.А. — М.: Астрель, 2012
-
www.reshuege.ru, сайт «Решу ЕГЭ»
-
www.fipi.ru, сайт «Федеральный институт педагогических измерений».
Приложение № 1
Что делать с незнакомыми словами?
Приготовьтесь к тому, что вам будут встречаться незнакомые слова, и это хорошо. Если новых слов вы в книге не обнаружили, значит, вам лучше взять книгу, посложнее уровнем или на другую тему.
Смотреть в словаре желательно только те слова, без значения которых не понятен общий смысл предложения или отрывок текста. Если же заглядывать в словарь за каждым незнакомым словом, то чтение из удовольствия превратится в пытку.
Читая бумажную книгу с простым карандашом в руках, подчеркивайте незнакомые слова. Лишь после прочтения определенного количества страниц выписывайте их в тетрадь, блокнот-словарик, карточки и смотрите значения в толковом словаре на английском.
Обязательно обратите внимание на примеры употребления в конкретных предложениях и идиомы с этим словом.
Когда Вы выписываете незнакомое слово или идиому, то обязательно записывайте всё предложение, чтобы запомнить слово в контексте.
Определите части речи и члены предложения в нем, чтобы запомнить, какие, слова и в какой последовательности употребляются с тем или иным словом.
Приложение №2
Ключи
ГЛАВА II
Task 1
4 — В 3-C
Task 2
2 — a 3-d 4 — b
Task 3
2 — E 3-B 4 — A
Task 4
2 — D 3-F 4 — C
2-A 1 — e 1 — D
1-B
Task 5
З-В 4-D
Task 6
3-a 4-b 5-b 6-c
Task 7
3-F 4 -T 5-T
Task 8
2-T 3-F 4-F 5-F 6-T 7-
Task 9
3-c 4-a 5-c
Task 10
3-d 4 -c 5-a
Task 11
3-b 4-a
Task 12
3-d 4-b
Task 13
3 -e 4-a 5 -f 6-b
Task 14
1 — e 2 — c 3-a 4-h 5-f 6-d 7-g 8-b
Task 15
1 — c 2 -e 3 — b 4-d 5-a
Task 16
l-b 2-f 3-a 4-d 5-c 6-e
Task 17
1 — c 2 -a 3-d 4-b
1-C 2 -A
l-b 2 -c
1-F 2-F
1 -F
l-b 2 -b
l-b 2 -e
1 — c 2 — d
1 — c 2 — a
1 — c 2 — d
1-T
2 — T
1-T
2 — F
1 — c
2 — a
1-B
2 — E
I. 1NM
2 T
II. 1-g
2 — b
3 — h
Task 18
З-Т 4-F
Task 19
З-Т 4-Т
Task 20
3-d 4-b
Task 21
3 — A 4 — F
Task 22
3T 4
4 — c 5 — f 6 — e 7
Task 23
5 — F
5 — F 6-T
5-D 6-C
M 5 T 6 F
d 8 — a
1. for 60 years
2. a woman
3. an old woman had a shoebox in the top of her closet
4. the little old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover.
5. two knitted dolls and $95,000
6. the secret of a happy marriage / She told that if the woman ever got angry with her husband, she should just keep quiet and knit a doll.’
7. Yes, she made $95,000 from selling the dolls.
[Key: 1. easily learned, 2. really valuable, 3. rarely beaten, 4. quickly growing, 5. surprisingly successful, 6. sadly disappearing, 7. extremely dangerous]
[Key: 1. working out, 2. top, 3. basics, 4. online, 5. rapidly, 6. explosion, 7. phenomenon, 8. hit, 9. dominated, 10. got the better of, 11. circles, 12. die out, 13. pastimes, 14. dated from, 15. unique, 16. average]
[Key: 1. got the better of, 2. unique, 3. online, 4. basics, 5. average, 6. hit]
[Key: 1. A, 2. G, 3. F, 4. E, 5. C, 6. D]
[Key: 1. F, 2. B, 3. A, 4. C, 5. G, 6. E, 7 D]
[Key: a. 4, b. 6, c. 5, d. 2, e. 1, f. 3]
[Key: 1. C, 2. B, 3. G, 4. E, 5. A, 6. D]
46
Раздел 1. АУДИРОВАНИЕ
Вы услышите 6 высказываний. Установите соответствие между высказываниями каждого говорящего A—F и утверждениями, данными в списке 1—7. Используйте каждое утверждение, обозначенное соответствующей цифрой, только один раз. В задании есть одно лишнее утверждение. Вы услышите запись дважды. Занесите свои ответы в таблицу.
2
Вы услышите диалог. Определите, какие из приведённых утверждений А—G соответствуют содержанию текста (1 — True), какие не соответствуют (2 — False) и о чём в тексте не сказано, то есть на основании текста нельзя дать ни положительного, ни отрицательного ответа (3 — Not stated). Занесите номер выбранного вами варианта ответа в таблицу. Вы услышите запись дважды.
A The customer is worried about getting spare parts for the computer.
B The salesperson says there are no stocks at the Head Office in London.
C The customer has to bring the computer back to the Head Office in the event of a fault.
D The customer is satisfied with other firms’ speedy service.
E The annual charge for the service increases every year.
F The customer asks about the sort of paper for the printer.
G The customer says they’ve had only one printer up to now.
Утверждение
Соответствие диалогу
Вы услышите часть интервью с актёром, который сыграл роль капитана Барбосса в фильмах «Пираты Карибского Моря». В заданиях 3—9 запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2 или 3, соответствующую выбранному Вами варианту ответа. Вы услышите запись дважды.
3
Geoffrey Rush believes that the reason why he comes back is
1) the money he gets.
2) the popularity he enjoys.
3) the teamwork.
Ответ: .
4
Geoffrey Rush says that improvisation
1) is not allowed in their work.
2) is what Johnny Depp usually does.
3) usually becomes part of the script.
Ответ: .
5
One of the most predictable pirate clichés is
1) wearing an eye patch.
2) having a pet monkey.
3) using a peg leg to survive.
Ответ: .
6
While talking with Terry Rossio, Geoffrey Rush came up with the idea of
1) hiding money in a peg leg.
2) drinking alcohol out of a peg leg.
3) having a weapon in a peg leg.
Ответ: .
7
Penelope Cruz
1) met her match in the film.
2) made the actors work harder.
3) sharpened the actors’ wits.
Ответ: .
8
Geoffrey Rush is sure that in the fifth film
1) Barbossa’s wish to have more power will increase.
2) Barbossa will lose his power.
3) Barbossa will turn into James Cameron.
Ответ: .
9
In the fifth film Terry Rossio might explore
1) new aspects of the pirate world.
2) situations that are pirate-driven.
3) things that aren’t connected with piracy.
Ответ: .
Раздел 2. ЧТЕНИЕ
10
Установите соответствие между заголовками 1—8 и текстами A—G. Занесите свои ответы в таблицу. Используйте каждую цифру только один раз. В задании один заголовок лишний.
1. Hazardous Waste
2. Invisible Threat
3. Primary Reason
4. Possible Solutions
5. Global Destruction
6. Disastrous Growth
7. Water Shortage
8. Quick Change
A. Acid rain moves easily, affecting locations far beyond those that let out the pollution. As a result, this global pollution issue causes great debates between countries that fight over polluting each other’s environments. The problem is that acid rain, one of the most important environmental problems of all, cannot be seen. Some scientists think that human production is primarily responsible, while others cite natural causes as well.
B. Air pollution has many disastrous effects that need to be curbed. In order to accomplish this, governments, scientists and environmentalists are using or testing a variety of methods aimed at reducing pollution. There are two main types of pollution control. Input controls are usually more effective than output controls. Output controls are also more expensive, making them less desirable to tax payers and polluting industries.
C. Global warming is called the greenhouse effect because the gases that are gathering above the earth make the planet comparable to a greenhouse. By trapping heat, the greenhouse effect is warming the planet and threatening the environment. Current fears stem largely from the fact that global warming is occurring at such a rapid pace. Models are predicting that over the next century the global temperature will rise by several degrees.
D. Individuals often throw out goods without realizing that they could be dangerous for the environment. No matter where people put these materials, there is always a chance that they could find their way into the ground and eventually into our bodies. Special research is necessary to provide data on the effects of every chemical as well as to learn how combinations of these chemicals affect human health.
E. Only a few factors combine to create the problem of ozone layer depletion. The production and emission of CFCs, chlorofluorocarbons, is by far the leading cause. Many countries have called for the end of CFC production. However, those industries that do use CFCs do not want to discontinue usage of this highly valuable industrial chemical. So it’s important to make people realize the disaster CFCs cause in the stratosphere.
F. Unlike some environmental issues, rainforest depletion has fortunately received significant public and media attention. According to some estimates, 50 million acres of rain forest are cut down every year. Every year, Brazil chops down an area of forest the size of the state of Nebraska. In Indonesia, Zaire, Papua-New Guinea, Malaysia, Burma, the Philippines, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, and Venezuela, rain forests that were once great have been lost.
G. The world’s population has been booming for years. The population is now threatening to reach the stage where there are simply too many people for the planet to support. Greater populations pollute and consume more, ruining the environment and creating or intensifying a variety of problems. Also, with the food supply limited, the increase in population will make shortages in many parts of the world even worse.
11
Прочитайте текст и заполните пропуски A—F частями предложений, обозначенными цифрами 1—7. Одна из частей в списке 1—7 лишняя. Занесите цифру, обозначающую соответствующую часть предложения, в таблицу.
On 25 October 1881, a little boy was born in Malaga, Spain. It was a difficult birth and to help him breathe, cigar smoke was blown into his nose! But despite being the youngest ever smoker, this baby grew up to be one of the 20th century’s greatest painters — Pablo Picasso.
Picasso showed his truly exceptional talent from a very young age. His first word was lapiz (Spanish for pencil) and he learned to draw before he could talk.
He was the only son in the family and very good-looking, A ____________. He hated school and often refused to go unless his doting parents allowed him to take one of his father’s pet pigeons with him!
Apart from pigeons, his great love was art, and when in 1891 his father, who was an amateur artist, got a job as a drawing teacher at a college, Pablo went with him to the college. He often watched his father painting and sometimes was allowed to help. One evening his father was painting a picture of their pigeons B ____________. He returned to find that Pablo had completed the picture, and it was so amazingly beautiful and lifelike that he gave his son his own palette and brushes and never painted again. Pablo was just 13.
From then onwards there was no stopping him. Many people realized that he was a genius but he disappointed those C ____________. He was always breaking the rules of artistic tradition and shocked the public with his strange and powerful pictures. He is probably best known for his ‘Cubist’ pictures, D ____________. His paintings of people were often made up of triangles and squares with their features in the wrong place. His work changed our ideas about art E ____________. Guernica, which he painted in 1937, records the bombing of that little Basque town during the Spanish Civil War, and is undoubtedly one of the masterpieces of modern painting.
Picasso died of heart failure during an attack of influenza in 1973. The artist created over 6,000 paintings, drawings and sculptures. Today a ‘Picasso’ costs several million pounds, F ____________.
- which used only simple geometric shapes
- so he was thoroughly spoilt
- which is not surprising
- that is why he was very hard-working
- when he had to leave the room
- who wanted him to become a traditional painter
- that is why to millions of people modern art means the work of Picasso
Прочитайте текст и выполните задания 12—18. В каждом задании запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному Вами варианту ответа.
After graduating from medical school, Eugene Alford built a lucrative career as an ear, nose, and throat specialist and a facial plastic surgeon at Methodist Hospital. In the summers, he and his wife Mary, a dentist and former paediatric nurse, would join a church-sponsored medical mission to Honduras, where he operated on the needy in a rural clinic.
At home, Alford treated many prominent Houston residents, but he also waived his fee for less fortunate patients. Carolyn Thomas, for instance, went to see him with a large gauze bandage over a cavity in her face. She had been shot by her boyfriend, who had also killed her mother. The bullet had blown away Thomas’s nose, upper jaw, and right eye. Reconstruction would have cost a million dollars, but Alford, his medical team, and his hospital did it for free.
Whenever Alford needed to relax after a particularly gruelling period of work, he’d drive to his ranch in Bellville and lose himself in farm chores. He didn’t make it out there as often as he would have liked. As a plastic surgeon at Methodist Hospital, he had performed 800 operations over the previous year and was booked solid for months ahead.
So on a chilly Sunday a few days after Christmas, Alford headed out through the pine bush, intending to clear a trail for deer hunting. As he cut through underbrush in the south pasture, Alford brought the tractor to a halt in front of a dead white oak standing in his path. He nudged the trunk with the tractor’s front-end loader, expecting the tree to topple neatly to the ground. Instead the top half of the oak swayed towards him. In seconds, more than a ton of hardwood slammed down on him, crushing his spine.
Pinned to the steering wheel, Alford could barely breathe. He tried to hit the brakes, but his legs failed to respond. When he found he could move his hands, he turned off the ignition, then with great effort pulled his cell phone from his shirt pocket and called his wife on speed dial. ‘Mary,’ he gasped, ‘a tree fell on me. I’m going to die.’ ‘Don’t quit!’ she shouted. ‘We’re coming to get you!’ Alford was still conscious when his neighbours Kevin and Snuffy, alerted by Mary, hauled the tree off him. A rescue helicopter touched down minutes later, and Alford advised the paramedics on which drugs to administer to him. Then he blacked out.
He was flown to the trauma unit at Medical Centre in Houston, then quickly transferred to Methodist. The operation was successful, but the patient was still in danger. After almost two weeks in the ICU, Alford awoke, and his condition improved enough for him to be taken to a rehabilitation unit, where he began physical therapy and learned to use a wheelchair. In February 2008, six weeks after the accident, Alford returned to his 100-year-old home in Houston. At first, he was so weak that he could sit up only when strapped into a wheelchair.
Before the accident, Alford had been a solidly built six-footer and was used to being in charge. Now, entirely dependent on others, he fell into despair. ‘If it weren’t for my wife and kids, I would have killed myself,’ he says. But then the love started pouring in. Alford’s brother maintained a blog to provide updates about Alford’s recovery. Over the next three months, he received 40,000 messages from colleagues, former patients, acquaintances, even strangers. The outpouring raised his spirits. It also gave Mary a new perspective on him. For years, Alford’s schedule of 15-hour days hadn’t left him much time for her and the kids. ‘I’d just about decided you liked work more than us,’ Mary told him one day over lunch. ‘But now I realize you didn’t want to leave the hospital because there were so many folks that needed you. You couldn’t just abandon them.’
The couple refurbished their house with ramps, a wheelchair-accessible bathroom, and an elevator. They bought an extended-cab pickup truck and fitted it with a wheelchair hoist, a swivelling driver’s seat, and hand controls so Alford could drive himself.
But Alford’s goal was to make such adjustments temporary. After a month of physical therapy, he graduated from an electric to a manual wheelchair. The daily workouts built strength in his back and abdominal muscles, improving his ability to hold himself upright. Soon he was able to stand with the aid of a tubular steel frame; seated in his chair, he could now draw his legs toward his chest.
In May, Alford began the next phase of treatment. By putting a paralyzed patient through his paces, therapists hoped to grow new neuromuscular connections. After three months of this routine, Alford’s coordination had improved markedly. He felt ready to pick up a scalpel again, with the hospital’s approval. Alford still goes for four hours of rehab every morning and spends his evenings stretching and riding a motorized stationary bike to keep muscle spasms at bay. But in the hours between, he sees patients or performs surgeries — as many as five a week.
He’s eager to do more complex surgeries and plans to increase his workload. Walking remains uncertain. ‘I always tell him if I had a crystal ball, I’d be a millionaire,’ says Marcie Kern, one of his physical therapists. Still, the doctor considers himself a lucky man.
(Adapted from ‘His Own Medicine: a Doctor’s Story of Healing’ by Michael Haederle)
12
Eugene Alford
1) treated only prominent Houston residents.
2) did some charity work.
3) had fixed fees.
4) often visited his ranch in Bellville.
Ответ: .
13
In paragraph 3 ‘gruelling’ means
1) extremely boring.
2) quite exciting.
3) very tiring.
4) highly uncomfortable.
Ответ: .
14
As a result of the accident, the oak broke Alford’s
1) neck.
2) legs.
3) back.
4) chest.
Ответ: .
15
Before the accident, Alford
1) was in charge of the hospital.
2) liked his work more than his family.
3) worked 15 hours a week.
4) could not spend much time with his wife and children.
Ответ: .
16
To make Alford feel more comfortable
1) the family equipped their house with necessary facilities.
2) his 100-year-old house was redecorated.
3) the family bought a new house.
4) his old pickup truck was fitted with a wheelchair hoist.
Ответ: .
17
After physical therapy and daily workouts
1) Alford didn’t need a wheelchair.
2) Alford’s stamina came back.
3) Alford started to perform simple operations.
4) Alford’s coordination improved markedly.
Ответ: .
18
At present Alford
1) feels sorry for himself.
2) is planning to practise medicine as well as he used to.
3) is going to start walking.
4) wants to become a millionaire.
Ответ: .
Раздел 3. ГРАММАТИКА И ЛЕКСИКА
Прочитайте приведённый ниже текст. Преобразуйте, если необходимо, слова, напечатанные заглавными буквами в конце строк, обозначенных номерами 19—25, так, чтобы они грамматически соответствовали содержанию текстов. Заполните пропуски полученными словами. Каждый пропуск соответствует отдельному заданию из группы 19—25.
Обратите внимание, что по правилам ЕГЭ ответы нужно писать без пробелов и других знаков, например, правильный ответ ‘have done’ нужно будет записать как ‘havedone’, иначе ваш ответ не засчитается.
A Practical Joke
19
Mr. and Mrs. Parker were having a quite day at home. Their 18-year-old daughter was away in Wales with a friend.
STAY
20
Suddenly the phone .
RING
21
A hoarse voice told Mr. Parker that his daughter and that he had to pay a ransom of $2,000.
KIDNAP
22
He was also warned that if he , he would never see his daughter again. The voice then gave him instructions about where and when to hand over the money.
NOT PAY
23
Mr. Parker took the train to Wales. He went to the hotel and gave the briefcase with the money to a woman in a scarf and a raincoat.
ONE
24
At 11 p.m. the same evening, to his great relief, his daughter came back home. She looked than ever and could hardly stop herself from laughing when she handed him his briefcase with $2,000.
HAPPY
25
It turned out that she and her friend to play a practical joke.
DECIDE
Прочитайте приведённый ниже текст. Образуйте от слов, напечатанных заглавными буквами в конце строк, обозначенных номерами 26—31, однокоренные слова так, чтобы они грамматически и лексически соответствовали содержанию текста. Заполните пропуски полученными словами. Каждый пропуск соответствует отдельному заданию из группы 26—31.
Distance Learning
26
Many people have done research on how to improve the course work of distance learning and also the of how the material is being taught.
EVALUATE
27
One big concern is that people are cheating with distance learning classes. Many professors are now developing ways to keep distance learning courses from being .
MEANING
28
One way to improve them is to change the way they are taught.
CONTINUAL
29
Teachers are beginning to require classwork for the same course that they teach.
DIFFER
30
They also ask students to become more with their homework and the projects they have to complete.
ACTIVE
31
Moreover, students are given tests from a test bank. The test is made up I when they log into the test website. These are the same for students taking distant classes at school or at special courses.
REQUIRE
Прочитайте текст с пропусками, обозначенными номерами 32—38. Эти номера соответствуют заданиям 32—38, в которых представлены возможные варианты ответов. Запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2, 3 или 4, соответствующую выбранному Вами варианту ответа.
Machu Picchu
In a way, it’s wonderful that Machu Picchu can nowadays be visited on a day 32____ from Cuzco. Everyone probably should have a chance to see this remarkable place.
Like many travellers, I hoped to get a taste of Machu Picchu’s ‘lost in the clouds’ atmosphere by approaching the ruins on foot 33____ the Inca trail. I joined the obligatory tour group in Cuzco, then spent the next four days surrounded by others making the classic pilgrimage. Along the way, we crossed several breathtaking Andean passes, treading on original Inca paving stones, and passing several other fine ruins.
Our last 34____ stop was at an exquisitely beautiful site called Huinay Huayna, where dozens of impossibly steep terraces cascade into a deep green gorge backed by a high waterfall. My new-found travelling companions included five Argentines who 35____ my interest in exploring Huinay Huayna by moonlight.
The only problem was a slight difference in styles. Mine was more along the lines of silent and meditative contemplation; theirs involved a ritualistic circle chant, led by the charismatic lone male in the group whom I thereafter nicknamed the Warlock. Absenting myself from the circle that night, I made a mental note to 36____ my distance from them the next day at Machu Picchu.
Before dawn the following morning we climbed to the mountaintop Gateway of the Sun, hoping for the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu before the tour buses arrived. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate. With dozens of other disappointed trekkers, I shivered on the hilltop in chilly fog for two hours, waiting for a sunrise that never came, then trudged down the hill to Machu Picchu itself. As I 37____, the clouds started lifting, revealing the place to be every bit as spectacular as I could have hoped. By day’s end, my tour group had dispersed, apparently preferring a hot bath. I, however, felt I was just 38____ the surface.
32
1) travel
2) voyage
3) journey
4) trip
Ответ: .
33
1) with
2) via
3) across
4) over
Ответ: .
34
1) overall
2) overhead
3) overnight
4) overday
Ответ: .
35
1) captured
2) shared
3) kept
4) held
Ответ: .
36
1) keep
2) hold
3) take
4) use
Ответ: .
37
1) descended
2) ascended
3) attended
4) pretended
Ответ: .
38
1) reaching
2) touching
3) scratching
4) patching
Ответ: .
Ваш результат: пока 0.
Далее вы можете набрать еще 40 баллов. Автоматически это проверить нельзя, поэтому сделайте реалистичный прогноз о том, сколько бы вы смогли набрать баллов, и получите ваш итоговый результат ЕГЭ.
Если возник вопрос по ответу, в котором вы ошиблись, можете задать его в комментариях.
Раздел 4. ПИСЬМО
Для ответов на задания 39 и 40 используйте бланк ответов № 2. Черновые пометки можно делать прямо на листе с заданиями, или можно использовать отдельный черновик. При выполнении заданий 39 и 40 особое внимание обратите на то, что Ваши ответы будут оцениваться только по записям, сделанным в БЛАНКЕ ОТВЕТОВ № 2. Никакие записи черновика не будут учитываться экспертом. Обратите внимание также на необходимость соблюдения указанного объёма текста. Тексты недостаточного объёма, а также часть текста, превышающая требуемый объём, не оцениваются. Запишите сначала номер задания (39, 40), а затем ответ на него. Если одной стороны бланка недостаточно, Вы можете использовать другую его сторону.
You have received a letter from your English-speaking pen friend Susan who writes:
… Yesterday I borrowed a wonderful book from the library and I can’t put it down. Do you enjoy reading? Who is your favourite writer? What kind of books do you and your friends enjoy?
Write a letter to Susan.
In your letter
— answer her questions
— ask 3 questions about her exams
Write 100 — 140 words.
Remember the rules of letter writing.
За это задание вы можете получить 6 баллов максимум.
Comment on the following statement.
Lots of teenagers are keen on playing computer games. However, adults are sure that computer games teach us nothing and young people should avoid them.
Write 200 — 250 words.
— make an introduction (state the problem)
— express your personal opinion and give 2—3 reasons for your opinion
— express an opposing opinion and give 1—2 reasons for this opposing opinion
— explain why you don’t agree with the opposing opinion
— make a conclusion restating your position
За это задание вы можете получить 14 баллов максимум.
Раздел 5. ГОВОРЕНИЕ
— За 1,5 минуты нужно подготовиться и в следующие 1,5 минуты выразительно прочитать текст вслух — 1 балл.
— Составление 5 вопросов на основе ключевых слов. На подготовку отводится 1,5 минуты, затем каждый вопрос надо сформулировать в течение 20 секунд — 5 баллов.
— 3 фотографии. Нужно выбрать 1 и описать ее по предложенному тут же в задании плану за 3,5 минуты — 7 баллов.
— 2 картинки. Нужно сравнить их, описать сходства и различия, объяснить, почему выбранная тематика близка выпускнику, за 3,5 минуты — 7 баллов.
A. Culturally-Educated Traveller is a Must Today.
В. All-Inclusive Holiday Is Worth Trying.
С. Getting the Most out of the Dollar.
D. What Is the Best Way of Learning Languages.
E. School in the Past, a Fantastic Holiday Place at Present.
F. Staying in Touch While Travelling.
G. How to Stay Fit While Travelling.
Н. Learning Languages and Travelling Abroad.
1. When we are travelling abroad, we are missing those who are left at home. Before the Internet era every traveller couldn’t avoid the trap of nostalgia for home, relatives and friends. Nowadays the situation is quite different. You can easily tell the mother you’re still alive just by e-mail. Nearly each of us has a mobile, and for 20 dollars extra month, you can have all unlimited texting and e-mailing from the country that you’re visiting. If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, get a cell phone there. You can easily buy chips for each individual country and you can use that cell phone for years. It seems to be quite convenient and relatively affordable. Also, go online. Internet cafes are ubiquitous. You can track your travel route with bootsandall.com sites like that where you can actually map out where you’re going and send pictures to people.
2. Nearly all of us speak English more or less. But if you’re exploring even today’s modern world, don’t expect everybody to know English. So it may be nice from a cultural standpoint to learn a few words in the language spoken in the country that you are going to visit. It doesn’t mean that you have to be fluent in a language. You can pick yourself up some tapes, and while you’re going somewhere by bus or the underground or on foot, learn a little bit about this new language. You can also learn about language conversation on the Internet. And if you learn a little bit about the language before you go to a particular country, you’ll find out that this will give you a tremendous courtesy ability there. Just saying something in French, for instance, will be very helpful if you’re going to visit any French-speaking country.
3. Whether you’re a frequent flier who travels regularly for work or just an occasional vacationer, you don’t have to give up on all your health and fitness goals when you are on the road. Firstly, it is advisable to drink two 8-ounce glasses of water before boarding your plane. Secondly, some people say as well that if you keep drinking water on the plane, it will help to avoid dehydration. It’s also better to plan to arrive at your destination during the day so that when you get there you can take advantage of remaining daylight to do something active outside. That also helps lessen jet lag. Finally, wise people exercise at least every third day to keep their energy level up and perform at least a third of their typical aerobic routine.
4. What makes a person travel well? In an age when an international voyage is as easy as it is unsettling, people need a variety of skills to cope with the unknown. Simple country information is not enough. You should combine traditional security awareness, cross-cultural, and interpersonal skills in order to develop the right attitude and the right approach for a successful journey. It is about much more than security. It is also about being clear with yourself about who you are and what resources and limitations you bring with you. You should have a clear idea about how to operate successfully in our new and sometimes dangerous cross-cultural world. With a solid understanding of your strengths and weaknesses you can explore strategies for minimizing the risk and maximizing the gain in your travels.
5. The St. Eugene Mission was built in 1910 in the Canadian West for teaching and assimilating four Indian tribes — forcefully at times — into Western society. For 60 years about 5,000 students had been taught at the St. Eugene Mission. Then it was closed in 1970 after the Canadian government changed educational policies for First Nations children. Several former students wanted to erase painful memories of the place and pushed for the building to be destroyed. Instead, it became a resort: now the St. Eugene has a golf course, 25 rooms, four restaurants and plenty of nearby outdoor activities. One part luxury hotel, one part history lesson, the St. Eugene Mission Resort is set among the funky towns and ski resorts of southeast British Columbia. Summer rates for a standard room begin at about $134.
6. A trip to the United States has to be a top contender for European families this year. Notwithstanding higher prices for airfare and gasoline. The U.S. dollar’s continued slide (nearly 20% versus the Euro since April 2006 and more than 45% since 2004) makes a family vacation in the United States a bargain. Resorts and activities that once seemed out of reach are today a steal. Don’t forget to bring an extra suitcase. The savings on fall school shopping (or next year’s summer wear) may just cover the cost of a plane ticket!
7. The adventure of travelling is sometimes stressful. Booking flights and hotels is the very least of all that is involved — you also have excursions to plan such as sightseeing tours, hiking, biking, sailing, and dining out at unique restaurants. All of this must be planned in the native tongue of the country you have travelled to and paid for in their currency. Many times this represents a splitting headache to those travellers who do not want to feel like they are always planning and negotiating. Thankfully, there are such vacations where every meal is paid for, gratuity is included, excursions have been planned and paid for by the resort or cruise line and the traveller need only enjoy the ride or hike for that matter. Before spending all your travel money on your flights and hotel learn for free from one of our travel experts about planning an all-inclusive vacation. But you should learn how to customize such a vacation package and what to expect upon arrival.
Задание №6687.
Чтение. ЕГЭ по английскому
Установите соответствие между заголовками 1 — 8 и текстами A — G. Используйте каждую цифру только один раз. В задании один заголовок лишний.
1. Online community
2. Travel safety
3. Friend turned enemy
4. Social network safety
5. Unhelpful friends
6. Nature’s enemy
7. Online trouble
8. Helping the community
A. Have you ever had a friend who asks for favours all the time, but rarely gives them in return? They don’t think twice about asking you to do something for them, and whenever you bring up the problem, they brush it off as if it’s no big deal. Or they say that’s what friends are for, to help one another. It’s then that you realise they’re not much of a friend.
B. Joining a neighbourhood clean-up effort is an inspiring thing to do. It’s a direct way of making a difference in your world, and it helps improve your living standards. It’s also a great opportunity for getting to know the people who live near you, which might be useful when you’re in need, and vice versa. If your neighbourhood doesn’t do this sort of thing, now’s the time to start.
C. If you’ve ever had your identity stolen, you’re not alone. It happens to millions of people every year, and thieves gain millions of pounds from the activity. It often happens because a hacker has broken into our accounts by way of a computer virus we accidentally downloaded. If it happens to you, make sure you let your banks know to get your bank cards cancelled, and tell the police.
D. Belonging to a social network is a useful pastime. It gives us an opportunity to share our thoughts and news with a like-minded group of individuals all at once. We can even meet new people who either agree with our ideas or contribute to a constructive debate. It’s entertaining to read everyone’s posts, which are sometimes funny but can also be thought-provoking, or maybe even sad. It’s a useful experience nonetheless.
E. Whenever you go abroad, you must keep an eye on your belongings. You don’t want to become a victim of pick-pocketing. A useful tip is to place your money in your front pocket, as it’s less likely to be stolen there. It’s also wise to have your passport put away safely, or kept inside your jacket. Keep things zipped up, and never leave a bag unattended.
F. When we discard plastic items carelessly, an animal may find it and have an unfortunate incident. For example, the plastic rings that go round a six-pack of drinks cans can get stuck round a small animal’s neck. The animal might wear that piece of plastic for the rest of its life, or until someone comes along and removes it. We really should be mindful of where we throw things.
G. It’s a terrible feeling when you realise someone close to you is saying bad things about you behind your back. You feel humiliated and angry on learning the truth, that someone you trusted isn’t trustworthy at all. You confront them about it, and they deny ever saying anything. An argument may follow, but eventually you decide that this isn’t the kind of person you want to spend time with.
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G |
Решение:
Заголовок 5 (Unhelpful friends. — Бесполезные друзья) соответствует содержанию текста A: «Have you ever had a friend who asks for favours all the time, but rarely gives them in return?»
Заголовок 8 (Helping the community. — Помощь сообществу) соответствует содержанию текста B: «Joining a neighbourhood clean-up effort is an inspiring thing to do.»
Заголовок 7 (Online trouble. — Проблемы в сети) соответствует содержанию текста C: «It often happens because a hacker has broken into our accounts by way of a computer virus we accidentally downloaded.»
Заголовок 1 (Online community. — Интернет-сообщество) соответствует содержанию текста D: «Belonging to a social network is a useful pastime.»
Заголовок 2 (Travel safety. — Безопасность путешествия) соответствует содержанию текста E: «Whenever you go abroad, you must keep an eye on your belongings. You don’t want to become a victim of pick-pocketing.»
Заголовок 6 (Nature’s enemy. — Враг природы) соответствует содержанию текста F: «When we discard plastic items carelessly, an animal may find it and have an unfortunate incident.»
Заголовок 3 (Friend turned enemy. — Друг превратился в врага) соответствует содержанию текста G: «It’s a terrible feeling when you realise someone close to you is saying bad things about you behind your back.»
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Источник: Тесты для подготовки к ЕГЭ по английскому языку, 2019. Вербицкая М., Манн М., Тейлор-Ноулз С.
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