Методическая разработка Устная часть ОГЭ — диалог

Методическая разработка
Устная часть ОГЭ
Задание 2 (Диалог)
Составил: учитель МБОУ «Лицей № 87 имени Л.И. Новиковой»
Комшина М.В.
2016
2.1.1 School
1. How many lessons do you usually have?
We study six days a week, six or seven lessons a day. The schedule is rather complicated. We study many different subjects: Russian, English, Literature, History, Geography, Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Computer science, PT and others.
2. What subjects do you find the most difficult? All subjects are important and they must be paid much attention to. But still I don’t like exact sciences. It is difficult for me to understand all those formulas and definitions. It takes me much time and effort to study such subjects as Physics, Chemistry and Maths.
3. What is your favourite week day? Why do you like it?
My favourite week day is Thursday because on this day I have such lessons as Literature, History, English. I am good at them. They are my cup of tea.
4. What sports facilities do you have in your school?
Our school has sports facilities such as a stadium, two gymnasiums, a sportsground, a football pitch, a basketball field and a skating rink. All facilities are well-equipped. Many pupils are fond of sports and have a good opportunity to go in for different sports there.
5. Do you think school uniform is necessary? Why?
I think students should wear a school uniform. Firstly, dress code makes all the students look the same regardless of social class or financial situation and makes students more disciplined. Secondly, uniform policy helps to increase self-esteem and promotes a feeling of community spirit within school.
Thirdly, School uniform makes you feel more responsible about studying.
6. What do you recommend your friend do to improve your English?
Learning a foreign language is not an easy matter. It is a long and slow process that takes much time and effort. I am sure, success in foreign language learning is connected not only with person’s natural talent, but work hard as well. When studying English you should develop such skills as listening, speaking, writing, reading and aspects like grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling and intonation.
There are different ways to study and improve your English.
Firstly, you should work hard at school and do homework regularly.
Secondly, you could do language courses.
Besides, you should read books and watch films in the original.
It’s a good idea to listen to English songs.
It is important to study the language through the internet.
Moreover, you can communicate with foreign friends through e-mails and by Skype.
Another solution would be to travel abroad and speak to local people because “Practice makes perfect!”.2.1.2 Modern film industry
1. How often do you go to the cinema?
I am not a cinema goer. But if an interesting film is on, I do my best to watch it.
2. What kinds of films do you like most?
There are different kinds of films such as comedy, suspense, crime, romantic, science fiction, horror, historical, western, adventure and others. Most of all, I like watching detective stories, because they have interesting story lines and unusual endings. They arouse the reader’s curiosity and keep them in suspense. Detective stories develop critical thinking skills and allow you to exercise your brain and to test your observation skills. Also I wouldn’t mind watching adventure stories because they are exciting. Especially I like to watch about characters who go through dangers to complete their mission.
3. Why do you think many people prefer watching films at home?
People have busy schedules and hectic lifestyles. That’s why they have little spare time. As a result, they prefer watching films at home because it is convenient and cheap.
4. What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy watching an interesting film on TV, DVD or the Internet.
5. How can films in English help students improve their English?
Films in English can help students improve their English because they develop your listening skills, intonation, pronunciation, vocabulary, your knowledge of culture and traditions of a foreign country. Practice in listening to a foreign speech makes your English perfect.
6. What film would you recommend your friend see and why?
I would recommend my friend to watch the film “Avatar “by James Cameron. The film won three Oscars in 2010. It’s a fantasy story. It takes place on the planet Avatar. The film is about invasion. The people of the planet Earth try to invade the people of the planet Avatar and make them slaves. But the people from the planet Avatar happen to win in the war and preserve their culture. The plot is gripping. The characters are well-developed. The acting is brilliant and convincing. Technically, the film was revolutionary because of its combination of live filming and computer-generated images and locations and its use of 3D. The film is full of stunning special effects. I think it is exciting and imaginative. It’s well worth seeing.
2.1.3 Reading habits
2. What kind of books do you like to read?
I am sure that reading is an essential part of our life. We use them for finding information, education and pleasure( or entertainment).
Reading fires imagination, helps us improve vocabulary and teaches to focus.
Books help us understand ourselves and the people around us.
Besides, they can help us to explore new ideas and expand our outlook.
Books develop our mind and critical/ analytical thinking. They make us think.
Reading is one of the cheapest forms of entertainment and a healthy means of escapism.
Reading helps relax and forget about problems.
And I think that reading is a perfect way to spend free time and not to be bored.
People read different genres of literature. It depends on taste and character. There are different genres of literature: adventure, science fiction, biographies, prose, novels, thrillers, drama, detective stories, love and short stories, historical novels etc.
Most of all I like reading detective stories, because they have interesting story lines and unusual endings. I wouldn’t mind reading adventure stories. Especially I like to read about characters who go through dangers to complete their mission. But I dislike modern poetry. I find it too complicated. Sometimes I fail to understand what poets mean.
2. Who is your favourite writer?
A.S. Pushkin is the most prominent Russian writer and poet, born in Moscow in 1799. He made a great contribution to the development of Russian literature. He wrote a lot of wonderful novels and beautiful poems, for example “Ruslan and Lyudmila”, “The Prisoner of the Caucasus”, “The Robber Brothers”, “The Fountain of Bakhchisarai” and “The Gypsis”. Then he wrote his marterpiece “Eugene Onegin”, a novel in verse. It became the linguistic and literary standard. Pushkin wrote other long poems, including “Bronze Horseman”, the finest collection of lyrics in Russian Literature. He created a number of masterpieces in drama and prose. “Little Tragedies”, “The Stone Guest”, historical drama such as “Boris Godunov”, “Tales of the Late I.P, Belkin”, “Dubrovsky”, “The Captain Daughter” are very important in his prose works. He provided the standards for Russian literature of the 19th century. He set a pattern for language, subject matter and narrative techniques. He was called “the Sun of Russian literature”. He combined brilliant talent with civil courage and moral integrity. His name is associated with our love for the Motherland, and the best in our life. He portrayed Russian life, the Russian intellect, the Russian soul, the life of the Russian land in all epochs, the Russian people. I am proud of him.
4. How often do you borrow books from the library?
I sometimes borrow books from the library because libraries offer plenty of benefits to readers as they are cheap and convenient.
1. They lend books, magazines, CDs, DVDs and other items for free.
2. The information that people find from books at public libraries is true and in depth.
3. Library members must return books by the due date.
4. Libraries are useful for those who do not have access to the Internet, cannot afford to purchase books and magazines, need material that no individual can be expected to have, or require professional assistance with their research.
To sum up, the library is not only a place where people can borrow books. It is also a place where they can study or work, learn something new, think, relax, read a newspaper and meet like-minded people.
5. Why do you think teenagers are reading less and less now?
Finding time for reading can be difficult for people with busy schedules and hectic lifestyles. Unlike reading, watching a movie does not involve a major investment of time. Besides, watching a film is easier because you do not have to use your imagination. Nowadays teenagers are reading less and less because of the development of technology. They spend time watching TV, surfing the Internet, using mobile phones, playing computer games.
6. How can reading English books help students improve their English?
Reading books can help students improve their English because while reading they expand their vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation. They are used to working with a dictionary. They improve such skills as reading (skimming, scanning and reading in detail). Besides, they learn about English culture and traditions.
7. What book would you recommend to your friend who wants to read something for pleasure and why?
I would like to recommend my friend to read the book “Robinson Crusoe” by Daniel Defoe. The novel was written in 1719. The novel is praise to human labor and the triumph of man over nature. It is not only a book of fiction, an account of adventures, a biography and an educational pamphlet. It is a study of a man, a great work showing man in relation to nature and civilization as well as in relation to labour and private property.
Because of a shipwreck Robinson Crusoe finds himself on the desert island alone. He has to survive in difficult situations. Defoe shows the development of his hero. At the beginning of the story we see an inexperienced youth, a rather frivolous boy, who then becomes a strong-willed man. He spends many years on the desert island but happens to stay alive. His guiding principle in life become “never say die”, and “in trouble to be troubled is to have your troubles doubled”. He has confidence in himself and in man. He believes that it is within the power of man to overcome all difficulties. He is an enthusiastic worker and always hopes for the best.
The plot is very exciting and gripping. The characters are also well-developed. The theme of courage and optimism is strong throughout.
All in all, “Robinson Crusoe” is an excellent book that I think is very well written .I couldn’t put it down from the very first page! / From the beginning, I couldn’t stop reading it. The book is worth reading.
2.2.1 Shopping and shopping centers
1. Who usually does the shopping in your family?
My parents work too hard, so they do not have enough time to do the shopping during a week. On Sundays we go to a supermarket and buy food for the whole week.
2. What can you buy in your nearest shopping center?
There are a lot of selling places in our city: department stores, supermarkets, corner shops, shopping centers, and street markets. I prefer going to a big shopping center not far from my home where there are a lot of shops and a food court. There are clothes shops, shoe shops, Boutiques, a florist's, Greengrocer’s, Butcher’s, Fishmonger’s, a chemist's/ pharmacy, Grocer’s , Stationery shop , an optician's, a jeweler’s , DIY shop , Bookshops , Toyshop , Newsagent’s, Baker’s, Florist’s and others.
All in all, you can buy clothes, footwear, jewelry, electronics, food and others.
3. How often do you usually go shopping? I go shopping quiet often. I go from store to store looking for goods of better quality and lower price. For me shopping is a hobby and a great pastime; I love shops and can spend hours in large shopping centers. I can be called "shopaholic" because I sometimes buy things which I do not need and it is like an addiction.
4. Why are shopping centers so popular nowadays? Shopping centers are very popular nowadays because there is a great assortment of various goods in one building and this is very convenient. Department stores are composed of many departments. There are also escalators in the shopping center that help customers to get to different floors. There is a cinema nearby. If you are tired you can go to the cafe for a cup of coffee. I can spend hours in large shopping centers. It’s a great pastime.
5. Why do some people hate shopping?
Some people hate shopping because they find it boring and time-consuming. Moreover, there are crowds of people in the supermarkets.
6. What time would you recommend that busy people should go shopping?
I would recommend that busy people should go shopping in the evening, because there are not so many people as in the morning or in the afternoon.
2.2.2 Spending free time
1. How much free time do you have on week days?
I don’t have much leisure (free) time as I have to study hard at school. The curriculum is rather complicated and I need much time to do my lessons. More than that, this year I am especially busy because of my exams. Every day I have to do my homework, revise the material fir exams on my own and what’s more I attend some extra classes. In addition, I usually have to help my parents about the house. These are all sorts of cleaning, washing, going shopping .2. How do you and your friends usually spend free time?
After a hard work we should have a rest. As they say “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
There are many interesting things that have educational value and provide entertainment for teenagers. Leisure activities help young people to become healthier and more sociable.
First of all, I think we must do sports such as swimming, jogging, skateboarding, bike riding, BMX, playing football, hockey and so on. Sport helps us to keep fit. As for me I am a good at basketball. Then I prefer watching TV. Listening to music and playing the guitar. My favourite singer is (Dima Bilan). Next I am fond of playing computer games, e-mail texting, chatting with my friends in the Internet and reading.
3. Who do you prefer to spend your free time with?
I prefer spending my free time with my friends, because we have the similar interests and attitude to life. It’s a great fun!
4. What after school activities do you take part in?
After lessons I take part in various extra-curricular activities like subject circles and Student’s Scientific Society, sports competitions, school trips, excursions and concerts.
5. Do you think everyone should find some time for doing sports? Why?
I think everyone should find some time for doing sports because sports make people strong and healthy, give pleasure, develop a strong will, a quick reaction, character and stamina and keeps people fit.
6. What hobby would you do if you had more time?
If I had more spare time I would take up photography because it’s exciting to take photos and remember positive moments of life.
7. What are your Sunday afternoons like?
On Sundays I get up later than usual. Then my family and I have breakfast. I adore my mum’s pancakes, cookies and salads. After that I do my homework, watch TV, read a book or help my mum about the house. Next I meet my friends and we go to the cinema, sport club or just walk in the park. Sometimes I either visit my grandparents or relatives or they come to our place. We like to be together as we are a really friendly family.
2.2.3 Spending holidays
1. What is your favourite season?
There are four season in the year: winter, spring, summer and autumn but my favourite season is summer, because the weather is warm and schoolchildren have the longest holidays.
2. Where do you usually spend your summer holidays?
In summer holidays I like to go away from the city and spend more time in the air. I enjoy swimming and sunbathing. The Crimea is my destination.
3. What do you like to do during your winter holidays?
During my winter holidays I like skiing and skating. Besides, we celebrate New Year’s Day. We visit our relatives, exchange good wishes and presents and have a great time.
4. How often do you and your family travel?
I like spending my holidays travelling because seeing is believing and travelling is the most important activity. We usually travel in summer.
5. What type of transport do you find the most convenient? Why?
There are different types of transport. Air transport is quicker than other means of transport. But there can be delays and cancellations. Moreover, turbulence can also spoil the flight. Besides, there are occasionally terrorist threats. Finally, air travel is the most expensive.
Travelling by train is one of the most popular means of travelling. First of all, it is cheaper than travelling by air. Besides, modern trains are very comfortable.
Travelling by sea is very exciting. But, of course, if you are sea-sick, travelling by ship is not a good idea.
A lot people travel by car because it is rather convenient. They don’t have to buy tickets and carry heavy luggage. They can stop wherever they wish and spend as much time as they like at any place.
As for me, I like travelling by coach. In my opinion, it’s the best way to explore different tows, cities both in our country and abroad.
6. What place in your country would you recommend a foreign tourist to visit? Why?
I would recommend a foreign tourist to visit Saint Petersburg. There are so many things to see and do in Saint Petersburg, Russia’s second largest city. It’s a beautiful city and great value for money. Here are a lot of places you can stay during your visit: The Winter Palace, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, State Russian Museum, Peter and Paul Fortress and others. You will admire historical buildings such as spectacular castles, churches, fountains and royal palaces. You will enjoy masterpieces of Russian elegant architecture, dramatic scenery, breathtaking views, cultural melting pot and lively night life. You will try different delicious food at restaurants, go touring, take long trips in parks, walk along bustling streets, embankments, bridges and squares. You will learn about Russian culture and traditions.
2.2.4 Ecological problems
1. Where would you like to live: in a big city or in the country?
There are advantages of living in the big city.
1. Life is easier because there are many amenities , modern facilities and a well-developed infrastructure (developed transport system, sewerage system, information, sports, shopping malls,etc.)
2. City provides a wide choice of entertainment and possibilities: clubs, restaurants, cafes, discos, theaters, museums, art galleries, cinemas and parks.
3. People have more chances to receive a good education and build a successful career due to competitive job market.
4. There is a variety of social activities and events.
5. There is a wide choice of public transport and good roads.
6. Accommodation is convenient with central heating, running water, gas, electricity, TV, telephone, the Internet.
But there are some disadvantages of living in a big city.
1. Overpopulation
2. Pollution levels are dangerously high.
3. Diseases
4. Crime rates in cities are high.
5. Residents face stress in a rush, noise, crowds, traffic jams, long commutes and the invasion of their personal space may turn their lives into complete chaos.
6. The cost of living is high, the life is expensive.
7. Public transport is crowded and dirty.
8. There is a problem of anonymity.
9. People suffer from urban climate and garbage
10. People lose touch with land, rhythms of nature
All in all, I prefer living in a big city to living in the country because I like city standards. City offers great opportunities, city life is full of bustle and variety and you need never feel bored. However, I enjoy the peace and fresh air of the country and in the summer I usually go to my countryside house where I have a good time with my friends.
2. What are the advantages of living in the country?
There are some advantages of living in the country.
1. Life is quieter, healthier and safer. (Slower pace of life.) You can enjoy silence and the beauty of nature.
2. People are friendly and calm, because there is less stress.
3. You can breathe clean air, there are no noisy crowds. The level of pollution is not so high.
4. The life is cheaper.
5. The traffic is not so heavy.
6. Crime rates in the country are lower than in urban area.
To sum up: Life in the country is quieter, healthier and safer.
However, there are some disadvantages of living in the country.
1. The country doesn’t offer many amenities and modern facilities
2. there is no choice of entertainment
3. there are no chances to receive good education and build a successful career, there is a problem of unemployment.
4. there are no social activities and events
5. The roads are terrible.
To sum up: life in the countryside is rather hard. Working and living conditions are difficult, social and cultural life is not full of entertainment, the problem of unemployment in the countryside is very crucial today.
But today, many city dwellers choose to leave crowded cities and return to a slower pace of life, where thanks to the development of distance education and the growth of transportation system, they will be able to have the city standards of life combined with pleasures of life in the village.
3. What is the main ecological problem in the place where you live?
Nowadays we can notice such main environmental problems as the global warming, ice melting, greenhouse effect, massive deforestation, acid rain, ozone depletion, upsetting of oxygen balance, water shortage, damage to wildlife (many animals are in danger of extinction) and exhausting of natural resources.
The reason of ecological problems is technical progress which improves people’s lives but at the same time it causes numerous problems in nature damaging. Through the daily activities people pollute water, land and air (by industrial byproducts, chemical fertilizers, pesticides and radioactive substances) and cut off the vast forests. All these problems cause destruction of ecological balance of the planet and natural disasters. All these influence our climate in the wrong way. The war on nature is a kind of suicide. There are such natural disasters as draughts, rainfalls, avalanches, earthquakes, floods, forest fires, landslides, volcanic eruptions, windstorms, cyclones, hurricanes, tsunami and others.
The main ecological problems in our city is pollution of the air, water, land (by industrial byproducts, chemical fertilizers, pesticides and radioactive substances)
The main Natural Disasters are Forest fires - the burning of a forest, sometimes accidental in times of extreme heat.
Environmental protection is of primary importance today.
4. Do you and your friends care about ecological problems? Why?
My friends and I care about ecological problems because the consequences of damaging the environment (ecological problems) are threatening. The result of human activities: industrialization, overpopulation, movement of people, mismanagement of the world resources, climate change are dangerous. The health and life of humanity depends on the environment. If we are unable to learn the environment carefully and protect it from damage caused by human activities, very soon we’ll have no world to live in.
5. Have you ever taken part in any ecological projects at school?
I’ve taken part in “A clean Day”. We cleaned the river, planted trees, collected litter.
6. What would you recommend to a person who wants to improve the ecological situation in his or her hometown?
You can help protect environment by learning about and practicing the 3 Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle.
You should reduce amount of water we use, energy consumption, burning of oil and coal , rubbish, use of cars, paper consumption, excessive packaging.
You should reuse old tins, shoe boxes, jars and bottles, writing paper,fruit/vegetable peelings, water, old towels, sheets and clothes.
You should recycle glass, aluminum, paper and plastic.
2.3.1 School events
1. How many classes do you usually have a day?
Every day I have 6 or 7 classes.
2. What sports facilities do you have in your school?
In my school we have such sports facilities as a stadium, two gymnasiums, a skating rink, a sports ground and a football pitch.
3. What clubs and societies can you attend in your school?
In my school we can attend a lot of extracurricular activities like subject circles, Student’s Scientific Society, sport clubs, drama and others.
4. What school events like concerts and performances do you usually have during the school year?
During the school year we usually have different events such as concerts and performances devoted to different holidays and celebrations, for example the 1st of September, Teacher’s Day, New Year’s day, The Lyceum’s Day, Women’s Day, Victory day, The final Bell and others.
5. Do you enjoy taking part in these school events? Why?
I really enjoy taking part in these school events because children can show their talents and enjoy the community.
6. What event would you recommend organizing in your school and why?
I would recommend organizing … because…..
2.3.2 Sports
1. How many lessons of PE (Physical Education lessons) do you have a week?
I have three lessons of PE a week.
2. What sports facilities do you have in your school?
In our school we have different sports facilities such as a stadium, a sports ground, a football pitch, a skating rink and two gyms.
3. What sport do you do regularly?
My favourite sport is swimming and I go to the swimming pool twice a week. Besides, I like playing football with my friends. In summer I regularly go cycling and in winter I often ski and skate. Moreover, I go to the fitness club and train in the gum.
4. What winter sports are popular with you and your friends?
In winter I enjoy skiing and skating.
5. Would you like to do any extreme sports? Why? or why not?
I would like to go in for extreme sports such as snowboarding, BMX riding and parkour, because extreme sports bring challenge, adventure and excitement, help people overcome themselves, give adrenalin, conquer experiences and emotions, confront fears and find out your limits but extreme sports are dangerous for health.
6. What would you recommend to a teenager who wants to be healthy and fit?
If you want to be healthy and fit, you should follow a healthy lifestyle.
Firstly , you should do sports and physical exercises regularly, because sport makes people strong and healthy, develops a strong will, character and keeps fit.
Secondly, you should follow a healthy diet. It’s a good idea to eat nourishing food rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein and carbohydrates. You should avoid eating food rich in sugar and saturated fat.
Besides, you should avoid bad habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol and taking drugs.
Moreover, I suggest that you stop sunbathing or watching TV too much.
2.3.3 Daily routines
1. When do you get up on week days?
I get up at 6 a.m on week days.
2. What do you prefer to eat for breakfast in the morning?
In the morning I eat some cereal and drink a cup of tea.
3. How long does it take you to get to school?
My school is not far from my house .That’s why it takes me about a quarter of an hour to get to school on foot.
4. What is your favourite part of the day: morning, afternoon or evening? Why do you like it?
My favourite part of the day is morning because I am fond of studying at school and communicating with my classmates.
5. What do you do to help your parents about the house?
I always wash the dishes, clean my room walk and feed my dog pet and water flowers. I sometimes cook dinner and vacuum the carpet.
6. What would you recommend to teenagers who are often late for school?
I would recommend to teenagers who are often late for school to get up earlier and be more organized.
2.4.1 Using mobile phones
1. How old are you?
I am about fourteen years old.
2. When did you get your first mobile phone?
I got my first mobile phone on my tenth birthday.
3. What do you usually use your mobile phone for?
Firstly, I use my mobile phone as a great means of communication with parents and friends because in case of emergency we can contact our parents to let them know that we are OK or to ask for help.
Mobile phones give us an opportunity to keep in touch with people in any place and in any time.
Secondly, they are convenient because they are rather compact, handy and easy to carry around.
Besides, they allow us to send messages, which are very cheap.
Moreover, modern mobile phones are multifunctional: they provide access to the Internet, have various games, cameras, memory sticks, etc.
We can listen to music, interact with TV programmes, play games, check an e-mail and what else.
In conclusion, mobile phones make communication easier and faster, allow access to information and entertainment and enrich the daily experiences in many ways.
4. How do you feel when you forget your mobile phone at home?
When I forget my mobile phone at home I feel lonely.
5. Do you think it is right that mobile phones are not allowed at some schools?
I think it’s right that mobile phones are not allowed at some schools.
Firstly, they can be serious destruction in classrooms. It is not possible for teachers and students to focus on classwork if there are constant interruptions from mobile phone ringing.
Secondly, students cannot listen to the teacher and concentrate fully on their work if they are sending messages or playing games.
In addition, some students can use mobile phones with text messaging capabilities to cheat on tests, which, of course, is not honest and bad for the development of their critical thinking.
Moreover, the classroom should not be used as a place to show off possessions.
To sum up, although mobile s in school can be beneficial to a certain extent, it seems to me that they are an unnecessary distraction, especially in class.
6. In what places would you recommend people switch off or turn down their mobile phones? Why?
I recommend people to switch off or turn down their mobile phones at schools, in the theatre, at the concert because they can be serious destruction.
2.4.2 Using the internet and spending time on line
1. How old are you?
I am about fourteen years old.
2. How much time do you spend on the Internet every day?
I spend much time on the Internet every day.
How much time a day do you spend surfing the Internet ?
I usually spend three hours a day surfing the Internet.
3. What do you use the Internet for?
1) The Internet is very useful, because Internet users have easy, instant access to a vast amount of up-to-date information and publish their ideas to a large audience.
In addition, the Internet has made it possible for us to communicate with people all over the world cheaply and quickly, which opens people up to other cultures and languages.
What is more, the Internet has become a major source of leisure and entertainment.
Other services are also available through the Internet such as booking tickets or buying things.
The Internet is a wonderful tool to use for homework assignments.
To sum up, I use the Internet for information, communication, education and entertainment.
2) I use the Internet to get necessary information, to share my new photos and to find out the latest news, but from time to time, I use it to chat with my friends.
4. What do you do in Information technology or Computer Studies lessons?
In Information technology or Computer Studies lessons we learn keyboard and computer skills.
5. Why are computer skills useful for everyone?
Computer skills are useful for everyone because they help students at school and later in their working and everyday lives.
6. What would you recommend to a person who spends too much time on the Internet?
I would recommend this person not to be too hooked on technology; otherwise he will be antisocial, square-eyed coach potato unable to communicate face-to face and having problems at school and work.
7. Why is the Internet important in your life?
For the people who live in the modern society the Internet has become an essential part of their life and we simply cannot imagine our world without it. As for me, it is the greatest source of new information.
8. How can the Internet help you improve your English?
I often watch different films in the English language on the Net. In addition, I can chat with native speakers and people who are learning this language through the special websites. I like it very much.
9. Some people say that the Internet can be harmful for users. Do you agree with it? Why? Why not?
I partly agree with them. If we use it too much, we can really harm our eyesight. On the other hand, it is an important part of our life. I believe, it is an interesting invention of humanity.
2.4.3 English language learning
1. What is your favourite school subject?
My favourite subject at school is English.
2. When did you start learning English?
I started learning English when I was in the 1st form.
3. What do you do in your English lessons?
In our English lessons we developed such skills as listening, reading, writing and speaking. We developed such aspects as vocabulary, grammar, spelling and pronunciation. Moreover, we learnt about culture and traditions of English-speaking countries.
4. Do you find learning English easy or difficult? Why?
Learning a foreign language is not an easy matter. It is a long and slow process that takes much time and effort.
5. What other foreign language would you like to learn? Why?
I would like to learn German because I am interested in the culture and traditions of Germany and want to travel there.
6. What would you recommend a person do to improve his or her English?
Firstly, you must attend school English lessons and do homework thoroughly. You should work hard to develop such very peculiar skills as listening, speaking, writing, reading and aspects like grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling, transcription and intonation.
Thirdly, you can go to an evening class three nights a week.
Besides, you can spend a month in Great Britain living with an English family and communicate with native speakers in English.
Moreover, you can buy a “teach yourself” pack with a book and CDs.
Also, you can find a private teacher to teach me twice a week.
Finally, outside the classroom you can listen to English songs; communicate with foreign friends through e-mails and by Skype. Moreover, you can play computer games in English and watch films and read books in the original.
I am sure, success in foreign language learning is connected not only with person’s natural talent, and you must work hard. I I’m sure you will be a success.
2.5.1 TV and TV programmes1. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy watching TV because it is exciting.
2. How often do you go to the cinema or to the theatre?
I am not a cinema or theater goer. I don’t often go there.
3. How much time do you usually watch TV every day?
Every day I watch TV about an hour.
4. What TV programmes are popular in your family?
All member of my family enjoy watching TV according to their taste.
My mother prefers talk-shows, music concerts and feature films.
Her favourite TV programme is “Who wants to become a millionaire?” It is a game show where the player is asked different questions. The questions are always very interesting and expand outlook. This programme is clever and informative.
My father is fond of the News. News deals with political and social problems of modern society. Their aim is to give analysis of the problems and show different viewpoints. They are concerned with the country’s national events, the most topical political problems of the day.
My grandmother is a coach potato. She is fond of soap operas.
My brother prefers the programme “The club of merry and ingenious people”, because this enjoyable and clever show game entertains and helps to relax. This programme is very amusing and full of humour.
I always watch sports programmes such as football championships because I am keen on sport. That’s why I try not to miss important games that are shown on TV. I am especially interested in the European Football Cup. Watching such programs is the best time of spending free time.
Besides, I like feature films and educational programmes about nature, travelling, science and history. Sometimes I watch the discovery channel. They show interesting documentaries about everything-wildlife, culture and people’s inventions.
5. Do you prefer TV or the Internet? Why?
I prefer the Internet because it is multifunctional. You can not only watch TVprogrammes but also other different things such as play computer games, communicate with you relatives and friends, find necessary information, and what not.
6. What TV programme do you recommend your friend watch?
I would recommend my friend to watch the programme “Let them speak “. It is a talk- show. It is a daily programme. It is broadcast in the evening on channel I. This programme deals with social problems of modern society. This programme is of great entertainment value and provides useful topics for conversation. A popular talk-show host Andrei Malakhov presents this programme. In my opinion, he is very talented and works efficiently and that makes him popular. This programme is worth seeing.
2.5.2 Attitude to city/town/village
1. How long have you been living in your city, town or village?
I have been living in Nizhniy Novgorod since my birth.
2. What is the place where you live famous for?
Firstly, there is a well-known proverb “Petersburg is the head of Russia, Moscow is the heart, NN is the pocket" because of the Fair which is known all over the world. The merchants from different countries take part in annual fair.
Secondly, it is a beautiful place situated at the confluence of two Great Russian Rivers: the Volga and the Oka. The beauty of landscapes is magnificent.
Thirdly, it is an important industrial, commercial, cultural, historical and educational center. It is a great place to travel to as there is a lot to see and do there. There are magnificent buildings, historical monuments, wonderful parks, squares and gardens, a number of churches and cathedrals. There are 5 theatres which are popular with tourists and citizens. They are the Drama theatre, the Comedy theatre, the Puppet Theatre, the theatre of Young spectators, the Opera and Ballet theatre.There are a lot of clubs, cinemas, libraries, sports centers to spend your time and a wonderful Museum of fine Arts where a lot of masterpieces of art can be enjoyed and appreciated.
3. When was your city, town or village founded?
NN was founded in 1221 by Yuri Vsevodolovich.
4. What season is the best for visiting your city, town or village? Why?
The best season for visiting our city is summer and autumn due to warm weather. The beauty of landscapes is magnificent. The nature is beautiful.
5. What is your favourite place in your city, town or village? Why do you like it?
There are a lot of places of interest (tourist attractions) in NN: Minin Square, the monument to Minin, a patriot of Russian soil, the Chkalovskaya Staircase, the Kremlin - an ancient Russian fortress and a masterpiece of Russian architecture, Big Pokrovskaya Street.
6. What place in your hometown would you recommend visiting?
The most favourite place is the High -Volga Embankment from which people can get a beautiful view over the Volga, the river port and lots of sights as well.
2.5.3 Learning foreign languages
1. What foreign languages can you learn in your school?
In my school I can learn the English language.
2. How many English lessons a week do you have?
We have three English lessons a week.
3. For what reasons do people learn foreign languages nowadays?
Nowadays learning foreign languages is popular because
1. Progress in science and technology has led to an explosion of knowledge and has contributed to an overflow of information. The total knowledge of mankind is known to double every seven years. Foreign languages are needed as the main and the most efficient means of information exchange and communication between the people of our planet.
2. Foreign languages help to create cultural, economic, social, political relations between countries, tourism, education abroad etc. More and more people travel abroad and the knowledge of a foreign language helps them communicate. If you know a foreign language you can travel without being afraid not to understand people around you and not to be understood as well.
3. Another reason is business. Big companies usually prefer hiring employees who know at least one language at advanced level. So learning a foreign language or a few languages will help you find a good job.
4. The knowledge of foreign languages helps to make a person well-rounded.
5. Language is the main part of our culture. That’s why learning foreign languages you get to know different cultures and gain better appreciation of your own language and culture.
6. All kinds of specialists need foreign languages in their work to know all the news in their field.
7. Moreover, if you know a foreign language, you can watch films and read books in the original.
8. Last but not the least I’m sure a foreign language adds much to better understanding among peoples and promotes friendship in the world.
English is a global language and is useful and beneficial and gives a lot of opportunities. It is important for work, entertainment and travelling.
4. What is the most effective way to learn a foreign language, in your opinion?
There are different ways of learning a foreign language. But I am sure, success in foreign language learning is connected not only with person’s natural talent, and you must work hard, be independent and active .
5. Do you think English will be useful for you in the future and what way?
I’m sure English will be useful for me in the future because I will need the English language in my future career.
6. What language would you recommend your English speaking friend learn? Why?
I would recommend my English speaking friend to learn the Russian language in order to understand our culture and enjoy reading Pushkin’s poems and Dostoyevsky’s novels in the original.
2.5.4 Daily routines
1. What time do you usually go to bed in the evening?
I usually go to bed at 11 o’clock in the evening.
2. How much time do you spend doing your homework?
I spend four hours doing my homework because the curriculum is difficult and it takes much time and effort.
3. What sports do you do regularly?
Firstly, I do sport and physical exercises regularly, because sport makes people strong and healthy, gives pleasure, develops a strong will, a quick reaction, character, stamina and keeps people fit. I usually do morning exercises and go jogging. My favourite sport is swimming and I go to the swimming pool twice a week. At school we have physical training lessons three times a week. We play sports games such as football, volleyball and basketball, do various exercises and take part in sports competitions. In winter I ski and skate while in summer I like cycling. Moreover, I go to the fitness club and train at the gym.
4. What do you do to help your parents about the house?
I wash the dishes, cook dinner, clean my room, go shopping and dispose the garbage.
5. How do you spend your weekends?
On Sundays I get up later than usual. Then my family and I have breakfast. I adore my mum’s pancakes, cookies and salads. After that I do my homework, watch TV, read a book or help my mum about the house. Next I meet my friends and we go to the cinema, sport club or just walk in the park. Sometimes I either visit my grandparents or relatives or they come to our place. We like to be together as we are a really friendly family.
6. What would you like to change in your daily routines?
I would like to have more free time and communicate with my friends face-to face more often.
2.6.1 My school
1. What grade are you in?
I am in the 9th grade.
2. How many classes a day do you usually have?
Every day I have 6 lessons.
3. What sports facilities are there in your school?
In our school we have got a lot of sports facilities such as a stadium, two gymnasiums, a skating rink, a sports ground and a football pitch.
4. What is your school uniform like?
Our school has a dress code. Pupils wear a school uniform. Girls wear a school jacket and a skirt and boys wear trousers and a jacket. School uniform makes students look the same regardless of social class or financial situation and makes pupils more organized. Also, the uniform policy helps to increase self-esteem and promotes a feeling of community spirit within a school.
5. What school events do you have during your school year?
During our school year the social life is very rich. Students have all kinds of festivals and sports competitions, ecological days and school trips to historical places in our region.
6. What would you like to improve in your school?
There are some problems at school to be solved:
Firstly, the schedule is hard to carry and the curriculum in the main subjects is very complicated. That’s why studying subjects properly takes students a lot of time and effort and leaves little spare time.
Secondly, students learn much factual knowledge but few social skills.
Thirdly, there are discipline and violence problems, bullying and peer pressure.
2.6.2 Doing sports
1. How old are you?
I am nearly 14 years old.
2. How many times a week do you do sports?
I do sports quite often because sports help to keep fit and give pleasure.
3. What sport is the most popular with teenagers in your region?
In our region teenagers like sports. They are keen on football, hockey, volleyball, basketball, tennis, skating and skiing. The most popular summer sports and activities are swimming, hiking and cycling. Yoga, aerobics and body-building are popular too.
Some teenagers who want challenge, adventure and excitement are fond of extreme sports such as snowboarding, bungee jumping, BMX riding, parkour and others. Extreme sports help overcome themselves, get adrenalin, conquer new experiences and emotions, confront fears and find out your limits but extreme sports are dangerous for health.
4. What sports facilities are available in the place where you live?
Various sports facilities are available in our region such as stadiums, sports grounds, swimming pools, football pitches, tennis courts, skating rinks, badminton courts, gyms, sports centers and fitness clubs.
5. Why do you think it is important to keep fit?
The polluted and unhealthy world of today makes people realise the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The reason is that people suffer from a lot of diseases, but everybody wants to live a long healthy happy life, to look slim and young. So, healthy lifestyle is more popular nowadays.
So, keeping fit and going in for sport are very important and everyone should do something to stay healthy and feel happy.
6. What would you advise a person who wants to keep fit?
Firstly, I do sport and physical exercises regularly, because sport makes people strong and healthy, gives pleasure, develops a strong will, a quick reaction, character, stamina and keeps people fit. I usually do morning exercises and go jogging. My favourite sport is swimming and I go to the swimming pool twice a week. At school we have physical training lessons three times a week. We play sports games such as football, volleyball and basketball, do various exercises and take part in sports competitions. In winter I ski and skate while in summer I like cycling. Moreover, I go to the fitness club and train at the gym.
Secondly, I try to eat healthy nourishing food rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, protein and carbohydrates. However, I don’t eat food rich in sugar, salt, saturated fat and cholesterol.
Thirdly, I consume food in moderate amounts and drink a lot of water.
Bad habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol and taking drugs are completely off the map!
To add to this, I avoid sunbathing and watching TV too much.