Выпускникам 9-х классов общеобразовательных школ предлагается учебное пособие для подготовки к устной части основного государственного экзамена (ОГЭ) по английскому языку. Издание включает: смысловые тексты по всем основным темам, лексика по основным темам, более 50 вариантов монолога, тексты для отработки чтения, более 50 диалогов — расспросов с шаблонами ответов.

Каждый вариант содержит развернутый пример ответа, который при необходимости можно сократить или адаптировать с учётом уровня подготовки и индивидуальных возможностей учащегося. По отдельным темам приведено несколько примеров заданий и ответов.

Основная цель данного пособия — помочь учащимся 9-х классов эффективно и в сжатые сроки подготовиться к экзамену по английскому языку в формате основного государственного экзамена (ОГЭ). Материал может быть полезен и учителям английского языка, так как содержит необходимые ресурсы для организации учебной работы.

Желаем успеха!

1. Friends and Friendship

My best friend

My friend Liam is a really interesting person. He has always been curious about the world around him. Since childhood, he loved exploring nature and learning about animals. Every weekend, Liam goes hiking in the nearby hills. He says it helps him relax and think clearly. Despite his busy schedule, he always finds time for his hobbies. Liam is also passionate about photography. He captures amazing landscapes and shares them on social media. His pictures often receive a lot of likes and comments.

People admire his ability to find beauty in everyday scenes. Besides being creative, Liam is very thoughtful. He often volunteers at the local animal shelter. In his spare time, he reads books about history and cultures. That’s why he knows so many fascinating facts.

Liam dreams of traveling to different countries someday. He plans to write a blog about his adventures. Even when things get tough, he stays optimistic. His positive attitude inspires everyone around him. I feel lucky to have such a supportive and caring friend.

• be curious about — интересоваться чем-то — I am curious about different cultures and traditions.

• since childhood — с детства — Since childhood, I have loved reading adventure books.

• explore nature — исследовать природу — We often explore nature during our summer holidays.

• go hiking — ходить в поход — On weekends, we usually go hiking in the forest.

• nearby hills — близлежащие холмы — We climbed the nearby hills to enjoy the view.

• think clearly — ясно мыслить — After a walk, I can think clearly and make better decisions.

• despite — несмотря на — Despite the rain, we continued our trip.

• schedule — расписание — I try to follow my study schedule every day.

• be passionate about — увлекаться чем-то — She is passionate about photography and art.

• capture amazing landscapes — запечатлеть потрясающие пейзажи — He used his camera to capture amazing landscapes during the trip.

• share something on social media — поделиться чем-то в соцсетях — Many teenagers like to share photos on social media.

• receive — получать — I received a thoughtful gift from my best friend.

• admire — восхищаться — I admire people who never give up.

• ability — способность — Her ability to learn languages is impressive.

• everyday scene — повседневная сцена — The artist painted an everyday scene of village life.

• besides — кроме того — Besides studying, I also work part-time.

• thoughtful — заботливый, внимательный — He gave me a thoughtful present for my birthday.

• volunteer — быть волонтёром — She decided to volunteer at a local charity.

• local — местный — We visited a local museum last weekend.

• animal shelter — приют для животных — My sister helps at the local animal shelter.

• spare time — свободное время — I read books in my spare time.

• fascinating — увлекательный — The documentary about space was fascinating.

• things get tough — когда становится трудно — He always stays calm when things get tough.

• stay optimistic — оставаться оптимистом — It’s important to stay optimistic about the future.

• attitude — отношение — Her positive attitude inspires everyone around her.

• inspire — вдохновлять — Great teachers inspire their students to achieve more.

• supportive — поддерживающий — My family is always supportive of my choices.

• caring — заботливый — She is a very caring person who helps others.

Why is friendship important?

Friendship is a vital part of life for many reasons. First, friends provide support during difficult times. They listen to our problems and offer helpful advice. This support makes us feel valued and understood. Additionally, having friends boosts happiness. We share laughter and joy with them, enriching our lives.

Friends also encourage us to grow as individuals. They motivate us to try new things and step out of our comfort zones. Through these experiences, we learn more about who we are. Furthermore, friendship helps improve our social skills. We learn to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts.

Friendships can create a sense of belonging. Being part of a group of friends makes us feel connected to something larger. This connection can reduce feelings of loneliness. Moreover, friends celebrate our achievements. They cheer us on and share in our success, boosting our confidence.

On another note, good friends can influence our habits positively. They can inspire healthier lifestyle choices, like exercising or studying. Spending time with friends also reduces stress. Relaxing with friends helps us unwind and recharge.

Lastly, friendship teaches us about empathy and understanding. We learn to see the world from others’ perspectives. This skill is valuable in all areas of life. In conclusion, friendships enrich our lives in many ways, making them an essential part of our well-being.

• friendship — дружба — True friendship makes life brighter.

• vital part of life — жизненно важная часть жизни — Friendship is a vital part of life for everyone.

• for many reasons — по многим причинам — I love my best friend for many reasons.

• provide support — обеспечивать поддержку — Good friends always provide support during hard times.

• during difficult times — в трудные времена — She stood by me during difficult times.

• offer helpful advice — давать полезный совет — My friend can always offer helpful advice.

• additionally — кроме того — Additionally, friendship brings a lot of joy.

• boost happiness — повышать счастье — Spending time with friends can boost happiness.

• we share laughter and joy — мы делимся смехом и радостью — With my friends, we share laughter and joy every day.

• laughter ['lɑ:ftə] — смех — Her laughter is very contagious.

• enrich — обогащать — True friends enrich our lives in many ways.

• encourage — поддерживать, воодушевлять — Friends encourage us to reach our goals.

• step out of our comfort zone — выйти из зоны комфорта — Good friends inspire us to step out of our comfort zone.

• through this experience — через этот опыт — Through this experience, I learned the value of trust.

• furthermore — более того — Furthermore, friendship helps us grow as individuals.

• improve our social skills — улучшать социальные навыки — Friendship helps us improve our social skills.

• communicate effectively — эффективно общаться — Friends teach us how to communicate effectively.

• resolve a conflict — решать конфликт — Sometimes we must resolve a conflict to keep friendship strong.

• create a sense of belonging — создавать чувство принадлежности — Friends create a sense of belonging and unity.

• connected to something larger — связанный с чем-то большим — Friendship makes us feel connected to something larger than ourselves.

• connection — связь — We have a strong emotional connection.

• reduce feeling of loneliness — уменьшать чувство одиночества — Friendship helps reduce the feeling of loneliness.

• moreover — более того — Moreover, good friends inspire us to be better.

• celebrate an achievement — праздновать достижение — True friends celebrate an achievement with you.

• cheer on — поддерживать, подбадривать — My friends always cheer me on before exams.

• share in one’s success — разделять чей-то успех — Friends happily share in one’s success.

• boost confidence — повышать уверенность — Encouragement from friends can boost confidence.

• on another note — с другой стороны — On another note, friendship also teaches responsibility.

• influence a habit — влиять на привычку — Friends can influence a habit, both good and bad.

• inspire — вдохновлять — My best friend inspires me to never give up.

• healthy lifestyle choice — выбор здорового образа жизни — Friends can inspire a healthy lifestyle choice.

• reduce stress — снижать стресс — Spending time with friends helps reduce stress.

• unwind and recharge — расслабиться и восстановить силы — We meet on weekends to unwind and recharge.

• lastly — наконец — Lastly, friendship gives us unforgettable memories.

• teach us empathy — учить нас сочувствию — Friends teach us empathy and kindness.

• from other’s perspectives — с точки зрения других — Friendship helps us see things from other’s perspectives.

• skill — навык — Good communication is a valuable skill we practice in friendship.

• valuable — ценный — Having loyal friends is the most valuable gift.

• area — сфера, область — In every area of life, friendship is important.

• in conclusion — в заключение — In conclusion, friendship is essential for well-being.

• essential part — важная часть — Friendship is an essential part of happiness.

• well-being — благополучие — Strong friendships improve our emotional well-being.

Sample #1

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about your best friend. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• the reasons people need friends;

• when you and your friend met;

• what you like doing together;

• what your attitude to friendship is.

You have to talk continuously

Today I am going to give a talk about my best friend.

To my mind, people need friends to share good and bad times with. Friends listen and give support when someone is feeling sad or happy. Having friends means you have someone to do fun activities with. Friends can also help each other grow by sharing advice and experiences.

Well, my friend and I have known each other for five years. His name is Vlad. We met at school and quickly became close. We have a lot in common and we never argue. Our friendship is very special, and I hope it lasts a lifetime.

You know, my friend and I enjoy playing basketball in the park. We often go for walks and explore new places in our city. Watching movies together is another activity we love, especially comedies. Sometimes, we cook meals and try new recipes in the kitchen. Playing board games is also a favorite pastime for us.

I have to admit, my attitude to friendship is good, of course. Friendship teaches us to trust, be responsible and share. I can’t imagine my life without my friends and I am really happy I have them.

That’s all I wanted to say about my best friend. Thank you for listening.

Sample #2

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about friendship. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• if it is easier to find or to lose a good friend;

• how people become friends;

• how often you invite friends to your place;

• what your best friend is like

You have to talk continuously.

Today I am going to give a talk about friendship.

In my opinion, it is easier to lose a good friend than to find one. One mistake or misunderstanding can destroy your friendship quickly. Besides, sometimes people move to different cities, and their friendship slowly fades. On the other hand, finding and keeping a real friend requires effort, honesty, and care.

I believe, people usually become friends when they spend time together and find common interests. They start talking, sharing ideas, and helping each other and eventually become friends. For example, classmates, colleagues, or neighbours often become friends because they see each other every day.

Well, from time to time, I invite my friends to come over, especially on holidays or special occasions. We cook or order something delicious, talk about our plans, and just enjoy each other’s company. It always creates a warm and friendly atmosphere.

My best friend is really fun to be around. He’s open-minded, talkative, and has a great sense of humour. We can discuss anything and laugh for hours. I like that he never judges anyone and always stays positive.

That’s all I wanted to say about friendship. Thank you for listening.

Vocabulary Bank

• friend — друг — My friend always listens to me carefully.

• best friend — лучший друг — My best friend knows all my secrets.

• friendship — дружба — True friendship makes life happier.

• loyal — верный — A loyal friend never betrays you.

• honest — честный — An honest friend tells the truth even if it is hard.

• caring — заботливый — She is a caring person who always helps others.

• cheerful — весёлый — My cheerful friend can make me laugh anytime.

• reliable — надёжный — He is a reliable friend I can always count on.

• kind — добрый — A kind friend is ready to help without asking.

• understanding — понимающий — An understanding friend accepts your feelings.

• respectful — уважающий — A respectful friend listens to your opinion.

• spend time together — проводить время вместе — We spend time together at weekends.

• share secrets — делиться секретами — I can share secrets with my best friend.

• play games — играть в игры — We often play computer games together.

• watch films — смотреть фильмы — Sometimes we watch films with popcorn at my house.

• go for a walk — ходить гулять — I like to go for a walk with my friends in the park.

• do homework together — делать домашнее задание вместе — We sometimes do homework together after school.

• celebrate birthdays — отмечать дни рождения — We always celebrate birthdays with fun and cake.

• travel — путешествовать — I want to travel with my friends next summer.

• take photos — фотографироваться — We like to take funny photos together.

• chat online — переписываться онлайн — We chat online every evening.

• make memories — создавать воспоминания — With friends, you can always make great memories.

• laugh together — смеяться вместе — We laugh together until our stomachs hurt.

• support — поддержка — Friends give us support when we feel sad.

• trust — доверие — Trust is the foundation of every strong friendship.

• loyalty — верность — Loyalty makes friendship stable and reliable.

• honesty — честность — Honesty helps friends solve problems without lies.

• understanding — понимание — Good friends show understanding in difficult situations.

• respect — уважение — Friendship teaches us respect for other people’s opinions.

• care — забота — Friends show care by helping each other.

• empathy — сочувствие — Empathy makes us feel less lonely.

• companionship — товарищество — Companionship brings joy to everyday life.

• bond — узы, связь — Shared experiences create a strong bond between friends.

• connection — связь, контакт — Friendship gives us a deep emotional connection.

• sense of belonging — чувство принадлежности — Friends give us a sense of belonging to a group.

• confidence — уверенность — True friendship boosts our confidence.

• happiness — счастье — Friendship adds happiness to life.

• well-being — благополучие — Strong friendships improve our emotional well-being.

• reduce stress — снижать стресс — Talking to friends helps reduce stress.

• share joy — делиться радостью — We share joy when something good happens.

• cheer up — подбадривать — Friends cheer us up when we are upset.

• encourage — поддерживать, воодушевлять — Friends encourage us to reach our goals.

• inspire — вдохновлять — A good friend can inspire us to be better.

• teach life lessons — учить жизненным урокам — Friendship can teach us important life lessons.

• help in difficult times — помогать в трудные времена — True friends help in difficult times.

• share experiences — делиться опытом — We share experiences and learn from each other.

• celebrate together — праздновать вместе — Friends celebrate together both small and big successes.

• create memories — создавать воспоминания — Friendship helps us create memories that last forever.

• emotional anchor — эмоциональная опора — True friends are an emotional anchor during storms of life.

• safe space — безопасное пространство — Friendship creates a safe space where you can be yourself.

• mutual trust — взаимное доверие — Mutual trust makes friendship strong and lasting.

• shared laughter — общий смех — Shared laughter is one of the best parts of friendship.

• shoulder to cry on — «плечо, чтобы поплакать» — A real friend is always a shoulder to cry on.

• boost of confidence — заряд уверенности — Friends give us a boost of confidence before exams or interviews.

• emotional well-being — эмоциональное благополучие — Good friendships improve our emotional well-being.

• life lessons — жизненные уроки — Through friendship, we learn valuable life lessons.

• moral support — моральная поддержка — She gave me moral support when I felt hopeless.

• sense of unity — чувство единства — Friendship brings a sense of unity and belonging.

• shared adventures — совместные приключения — Friends turn simple walks into shared adventures.

• trustworthy companion — надёжный спутник — A trustworthy companion is a treasure in life.

• reduce loneliness — уменьшать одиночество — Talking to friends helps reduce loneliness.

• positive influence — положительное влияние — Friends can have a positive influence on our habits.

• motivation to grow — мотивация развиваться — Good friends give us motivation to grow and improve.

• celebrate victories — праздновать победы — We celebrate victories together, big or small.

• unconditional support — безусловная поддержка — Unconditional support makes friendship priceless.

• personal growth — личностный рост — Friendship encourages personal growth through challenges.

• comfort in silence — уютное молчание — With true friends, even silence feels like comfort.

• inspire optimism — вдохновлять на оптимизм — Friends inspire optimism when things get tough.

• valuable memories — ценные воспоминания — Time with friends creates valuable memories.

• open communication — открытое общение — Open communication helps avoid conflicts in friendship.

• empathy in action — сочувствие в действии — Empathy in action is what makes a real friend special.

• source of joy — источник радости — Friendship is a constant source of joy.

• long-lasting bond — прочная связь — A long-lasting bond between friends is rare but precious.

2. Our family

My family is an important part of my life. We live in a cozy house in the suburbs. My parents, my younger sister, and I make up our household. My dad works as an engineer, and my mom is a teacher. They have always been supportive and caring, teaching us valuable lessons about life.

My sister is ten years younger than me. She is a cheerful and energetic girl, always eager to learn new things. We enjoy playing games together or watching movies on weekends.

Our extended family includes my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. We often gather for family celebrations, enjoying delicious meals and sharing stories. These gatherings create strong bonds and wonderful memories.

Having such a close-knit family helps me feel secure and loved. We always support each other and remain connected despite our busy lives. This unity and love are what make my family truly special to me.

• cozy — уютный — We spent a cozy evening at home, drinking tea and talking.

• in the suburbs — в пригороде — My grandparents live in the suburbs, where it is quieter and greener.

• make up one’s household — составлять хозяйство — Five people make up our household, including my parents, my brother, and me.

• supportive — поддерживающий — My family is very supportive when I face difficulties.

• teach a lesson — преподать урок — Parents sometimes teach a lesson by showing the consequences of bad behavior.

• valuable — ценный — I learned a valuable skill from my father: how to stay patient.

• be eager to — очень хотеть, стремиться — Children are usually eager to spend time with their grandparents.

• cheerful — весёлый, жизнерадостный — My cousin has a cheerful character, and he always makes us laugh.

• extended family — большая семья (с дальними родственниками) — Our extended family gathers at New Year to celebrate together.

• nuclear family — нуклеарная семья (только родители и дети) — Nowadays, many people live in a nuclear family without grandparents.

• include — включать — The family dinner usually includes traditional dishes.

• gather — собираться — Every summer we gather at our grandparents’ house.

• gathering — собрание, встреча — The wedding was a big family gathering.

• create strong bonds — создавать крепкие связи — Shared traditions create strong bonds between family members.

• close-knit family — сплочённая семья — We are a close-knit family, and we always help one another.

• secure — безопасный, надёжный — Children feel secure when they grow up in a loving family.

• despite — несмотря на — Despite small arguments, we remain a close family.

• unity — единство — Family unity is very important during difficult times.

Sample #1

You are going to give a talk about your family traditions. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not 2 minutes — 10—12 sentences.

Remember to say:

• if you have got many relatives;

• if you get along with your relatives;

• what traditions you have in your family;

• what your attitude to spending time with your family is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about my family traditions.

Well, I come from an extended family. I have a few aunts, uncles and a lot of cousins. I really love it since every time we meet up, we have lots of fun.

I have to admit, I get along with my relatives. Of course, sometimes we may have occasional disagreements, however, we respect each other’s opinions and support one another through thick and thin.

Frankly speaking, we have a few traditions in our family that we keep. The favourite one is probably celebrating the New Year. Every year we gather at our grandparents’ place, make festive New Year dishes like the Olivier salad or the Honey cake. We exchange presents, sing popular songs, watch fireworks and just have a good time.

My attitude to spending time with my family is great, of course. It doesn’t matter what we do, it always feels like home and it feels safe. These are people who know you and love you the way you are. It’s always a joy to catch up, enjoy good food together, and simply be in each other’s company.

To sum up, I’d like to say that it is really important to keep family traditions because they strengthen family bonds, create lasting memories and connect family members across generations.

That’s all I wanted to say about my family traditions. Thank you for listening.

Sample #2

You are going to give a talk about your family. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not 2 minutes — 10—12 sentences.

Remember to say:

• how you spend time with your family;

• when you give each other presents;

• if it important to help your parents with household chores;

• if you can say that your parents are your friends; why?/why not?

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about my family.

You know, we try to spend as much time together as possible, especially at weekends. Sometimes we go to the countryside or have picnics in the park. In the evenings, we usually talk, share news, or watch TV. In summer we always travel somewhere.

In my family, of course, we usually give each other presents on birthdays and New Year’s Eve. These are the most important celebrations for us. We also exchange small gifts on other holidays like Women’s Day or Father’s Day. It’s always a pleasant moment when everyone opens their presents and smiles.

I believe helping parents with household chores is very important. It teaches young people discipline and responsibility. Besides, it’s a good way to thank parents for everything they do for us.

I would say that my parents are both my mentors and my friends. They always give me good advice and support my decisions. I admire their wisdom and kindness. Our relationship is based on love, trust, and mutual respect.

That’s all I wanted to say about my family. Thank you for listening.

Sample #3

You are going to give a talk about family relations. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not 2 minutes — 10—12 sentences.

Remember to say:

• what the most common family problems are;

• if you always understand your parents; Do they understand you?

• how often you quarrel with your parents and why;

• what you think of your parents.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about family relations.

In my opinion, common family problems include misunderstandings, financial difficulties, and generation gaps. People often have different opinions about rules, studies, or free time. It’s important to discuss these issues calmly and try to find a compromise.

I have to admit that sometimes I feel like my parents don’t really understand me, especially when it comes to modern things like social media or fashion. But I know they care about me and just want the best. We try to listen to each other and avoid arguments. Even if we disagree, we always make peace.

Honestly, I don’t quarrel with my parents very often, but it happens sometimes. We usually argue about school, housework, or how much time I spend on my phone. Besides, we may argue about my studies or going out with friends. They worry too much, and I want to be more independent.

I think my parents are wonderful people who always support me. They work hard to make our family happy and comfortable. They are kind, patient, and understanding, even when I make mistakes. I’m really grateful to have them in my life.

That’s all I wanted to say about family relations. Thank you for listening.

Sample #4

You are going to give a talk about family. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not 2 minutes — 10—12 sentences.

Remember to say:

• what you think the main role of the family is;

• what the most important family events are and why;

• whether you would like to have 4 or 5 brothers or sisters /why;

• what government should do to help young families.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about family.

I’m convinced that the main role of the family is to provide emotional and moral support to all its members. A family shapes a person’s character and helps them develop important values such as honesty and respect. Without family, it’s much harder to feel truly happy and confident.

I believe the most important family events are those that bring people together, such as anniversaries, weddings, and traditional holidays. They remind us of our roots and help us keep family traditions alive. During these occasions, people show love, gratitude, and respect for one another.

Frankly speaking, no, I wouldn’t like to have so many brothers and sisters. I think it would be too noisy and difficult for parents to take care of everyone. It’s also hard to have enough personal space in a big family. I prefer having one or two siblings so that we can stay close and help each other.

I think, the government should support young families by giving them financial help and affordable housing. It’s often difficult for young couples to buy a flat or raise children without assistance. The government could also provide free education and healthcare for kids.

That’s all I wanted to say about family relations. Thank you for listening.

Vocabulary Bank

• parents — родители — My parents always help me when I need advice.

• mother / mom / mum — мама — My mom is a very caring person.

• father / dad — папа — My dad works in an office.

• sibling — брат или сестра — I have two siblings: one brother and one sister.

• brother — брат — My brother is older than me.

• sister — сестра — My sister studies at university.

• twins — близнецы — My cousins are twins, and they look the same.

• grandparents — бабушка и дедушка — My grandparents live in the village.

• grandmother / grandma — бабушка — My grandma tells me fairy tales.

• grandfather / grandpa — дедушка — My grandpa goes fishing every weekend.

• uncle — дядя — My uncle is a teacher.

• aunt — тётя — My aunt lives in another city.

• cousin — двоюродный брат / сестра — My cousin often visits us in summer.

• nephew — племянник — My nephew is very active.

• niece — племянница — My niece likes painting.

• husband — муж — Her husband is very kind.

• wife — жена — My uncle’s wife is a doctor.

• children / kids — дети — They have three children.

• son — сын — Their son goes to school.

• daughter — дочь — Their daughter is five years old.

• close family — близкая семья — We are a close family and always support each other.

• extended family — большая семья — Our extended family meets during holidays.

• nuclear family — нуклеарная семья (только родители и дети) — Most people live in a nuclear family today.

• single-parent family — неполная семья — He grew up in a single-parent family.

• large family — большая семья — She comes from a large family with five siblings.

• generation — поколение — Different generations sometimes have different views.

• ancestor — предок — I want to know more about my ancestors.

• descendant — потомок — We are the descendants of our grandparents.

• family tree — семейное древо — I drew my family tree for school.

• relatives — родственники — We invited all our relatives to the wedding.

• grow up — расти, взрослеть — I grew up in a small family.

• get along with — ладить — I get along with my sister very well.

• argue — ссориться — Teenagers often argue with their parents.

• quarrel — ругаться — They sometimes quarrel about small things.

• make peace — мириться — After the fight, they quickly made peace.

• respect — уважать — Children should respect their parents.

• support — поддерживать — My parents always support me in my studies.

• rely on — полагаться на — I can rely on my family when I have problems.

• trust — доверять — I trust my brother with my secrets.

• care about — заботиться о — My family cares about me a lot.

• take care of — ухаживать — She takes care of her little brother.

• protect — защищать — Parents always protect their children.

• share — делиться — We share everything in our family.

• forgive — прощать — Family members forgive each other easily.

• love — любить — I love my family very much.

• family tradition — семейная традиция — We have a family tradition to celebrate birthdays together.

• family values — семейные ценности — Family values are important for raising children.

• household chores — домашние дела — We divide household chores in my family.

• do the washing-up — мыть посуду — I usually do the washing-up after dinner.

• do the laundry — стирать бельё — My mom does the laundry twice a week.

• clean the house — убирать дом — We clean the house every Saturday.

• cook meals — готовить еду — My father often cooks meals on weekends.

• help with homework — помогать с домашним заданием — My parents help me with homework when I need it.

• spend time together — проводить время вместе — We like to spend time together in the evenings.

• family dinner — семейный ужин — Every Sunday we have a big family dinner.

• celebration — празднование — We had a big celebration for my grandmother’s birthday.

• holiday gathering — семейный праздник — We always have a holiday gathering at New Year.

• weekend activity — занятие на выходных — Our weekend activity is walking in the park together.

• family trip — семейная поездка — Last summer we went on a family trip to the sea.

• to visit relatives — навещать родственников — We often visit relatives in the countryside.

• caring — заботливый — My mom is very caring.

• supportive — поддерживающий — My parents are always supportive.

• strict — строгий — My father is strict but fair.

• generous — щедрый — My aunt is very generous with gifts.

• kind — добрый — My grandma is a kind woman.

• hard-working — трудолюбивый — My dad is hard-working and never lazy.

• responsible — ответственный — My brother is responsible and always does his tasks.

• patient — терпеливый — My mother is very patient with children.

• funny — смешной — My cousin is funny and tells good jokes.

• friendly — дружелюбный — My family is friendly to everyone.

• to be proud of — гордиться — My parents are proud of my success at school.

• to look after — присматривать — I look after my little sister when my parents are busy.

• to be close to — быть близким с — I am very close to my grandmother.

• to be part of — быть частью — I feel happy to be part of my family.

• to keep in touch — поддерживать связь — We keep in touch with relatives by phone.

• to celebrate together — праздновать вместе — We celebrate all important holidays together.

• to give advice — давать совет — My parents always give me good advice.

• to solve problems — решать проблемы — In my family we solve problems by talking.

• to spend holidays — проводить праздники — We spend holidays with our grandparents.

• to enjoy company — наслаждаться компанией — I enjoy the company of my cousins.

• marriage — брак — Their marriage is very strong.

• wedding — свадьба — We went to my cousin’s wedding last year.

• divorce — развод — Divorce can be hard for children.

• get married — пожениться — My parents got married twenty years ago.

• have children — завести детей — They want to have children in the future.

• raise / bring up children — воспитывать детей — It is not easy to raise children.

• adopt a child — усыновить / удочерить ребёнка — They decided to adopt a child.

• move house — переехать — My family moved house last year.

• live together — жить вместе — We live together with our grandparents.

• live separately — жить отдельно — My uncle lives separately from us.

• family background — семейное происхождение — She comes from a strong family background.

• household — домашнее хозяйство — There are five people in our household.

• generation gap — разница поколений — There is sometimes a generation gap between parents and children.

• role model — образец для подражания — My father is my role model.

• upbringing — воспитание — He had a strict upbringing.

• family bond — семейная связь — Strong family bonds help in hard times.

• family reunion — семейное собрание — We had a family reunion last summer.

• family support — поддержка семьи — Family support is important for success.

• only child — единственный ребёнок — I am an only child, so I don’t have siblings.

• stepmother / stepfather — мачеха / отчим — Her stepfather is very kind to her.

3. School Holidays

Level A1-A2

School holidays are a favorite time for students. They don’t have to go to school and can relax or try new things. Most countries have school holidays in summer and winter, but some also have breaks in spring and fall.

During summer holidays, many children enjoy going to the beach, swimming, or playing sports. It’s a great time for family trips. Some families visit interesting places like museums or amusement parks. Others might go camping in nature. Summer holidays can be long, sometimes lasting for six to eight weeks.

Winter holidays are usually shorter, but they are fun too. In places with snow, children may build snowmen, go sledding, or have snowball fights. Many people celebrate Christmas or other holidays with friends and family. They may exchange gifts, sing songs, and enjoy special meals.

Spring and fall breaks, often just a week long, offer a chance to relax between school terms. Some students use this time to catch up on homework or read books. Others may play with friends or visit grandparents.

Not all children go on trips during the holidays. Some prefer to stay at home, watching movies or playing video games. Others might take part in local clubs or activities, like art classes or sports teams.

No matter how children spend their holidays, this time is important for rest and fun. It helps them return to school feeling refreshed and ready to learn. Holidays offer a chance to explore, discover new interests, and create happy memories with family and friends.

• amusement park — парк развлечений — We spent the whole day at the amusement park riding roller coasters.

• go camping — пойти в поход с палаткой — In summer, we usually go camping near the lake.

• go sledding — кататься на санках — Children love to go sledding in winter.

• have snowball fights — играть в снежки — We had fun having snowball fights during the holidays.

• exchange gifts — обмениваться подарками — On New Year’s Eve, we exchange gifts with our family.

• spring break / autumn break — весенние / осенние каникулы — During spring break we went on a family trip.

• school term — учебный семестр — The new school term starts in September.

• catch up on homework — наверстать домашнюю работу — I used the holidays to catch up on homework.

• take part in — принимать участие — Many students take part in school competitions.

• no matter how — неважно, как; несмотря на то, что — No matter how difficult it was, we finished the project.

• refreshed — отдохнувший, обновлённый — After the holidays, I felt refreshed and ready for school.

• offer a chance — предлагать возможность — Vacations offer a chance to relax and spend time with family.

• explore — исследовать — We explored a new city during our summer trip.

• discover — открывать, узнавать — Travelling helps us discover new cultures and traditions.

Level B1-B2

School holidays are a much-anticipated time for students and teachers alike. They provide a break from regular routines and offer opportunities for rest, relaxation, and adventure. During these periods, schools close for a certain number of weeks, allowing students to spend their time away from academic pressures and classroom learning.

In many countries, school holidays are scheduled around major national or cultural events. Typically, the longest break occurs during the summer months, lasting between six and eight weeks. This extended vacation is often used by families to travel, explore new places, or visit relatives. Many children attend summer camps during this time, where they can learn new skills, make friends, and enjoy outdoor activities.

Winter break is another common holiday period, often coinciding with Christmas and New Year celebrations. It usually lasts about two to three weeks. This time is often filled with festive activities, family gatherings, and enjoying winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, especially in regions with cold climates.

Shorter breaks, like spring and autumn holidays, typically last one to two weeks. These times offer a chance for students to rest and prepare for upcoming exams. Many families use this time for short trips or local outings, offering a change of scenery without the need for extensive travel planning.

School holidays also provide an opportunity for students to pursue hobbies and interests outside of school. Whether it’s learning a musical instrument, engaging in sports, or participating in art projects, these breaks give students the freedom to explore their passions. For some, it is also a time for extra tutoring or catching up on studies to better prepare for the next term.

Overall, school holidays are a valuable time for growth and rejuvenation, allowing students to return to school with refreshed minds and renewed energy.

• much-anticipated — долгожданный — The summer holidays are the most much-anticipated time for students.

• break from — перерыв от — Holidays give us a break from school and homework.

• regular routine — обычный распорядок — A holiday is a chance to escape the regular routine.

• offer an opportunity — предоставлять возможность — Vacations offer an opportunity to travel or relax.

• certain number of — определённое количество — Students get a certain number of weeks off each year.

• allow — позволять — The long holidays allow us to spend time with family.

• away from — вдали от — Children enjoy being away from academic pressure.

• academic pressure — учебное давление — Breaks help reduce academic pressure and stress.

• scheduled — запланированный — The next scheduled holiday is autumn break.

• major event — важное событие — New Year is a major event in our country.

• typically — обычно — Spring break typically lasts one week.

• occur — происходить — The break usually occurs in March.

• extended vacation — продолжительные каникулы — Summer is an extended vacation lasting several weeks.

• explore new places — исследовать новые места — We explored new places during our trip abroad.

• relatives — родственники — Holidays are often spent visiting relatives.

• attend — посещать — Many children attend summer camp in July.

• summer camp — летний лагерь — At summer camp, you can learn new skills and make friends.

• learn a new skill — освоить новый навык — I want to learn a new skill during the holidays.

• make friends — заводить друзей — It is easy to make friends when you travel.

• common — распространённый, общий — It is common for families to travel during summer break.

• coincide with — совпадать с — My birthday coincides with autumn break.

• last — длиться — The winter holidays usually last two weeks.

• be filled with — быть наполненным — Summer is filled with travel, games, and fun.

• festive — праздничный — The city was in a festive mood during the holidays.

• family gathering — семейное собрание — We had a big family gathering on New Year’s Eve.

• region — регион, область — Different regions celebrate holidays in their own way.

• prepare for — готовиться к — Some students use spring break to prepare for exams.

• upcoming exam — предстоящий экзамен — I need to study for my upcoming exam during the break.

• local outing — местная прогулка / выезд — We had a local outing to the park during the weekend.

• change of scenery — смена обстановки — A holiday gives you a refreshing change of scenery.

• without the need — без необходимости — You can relax without the need for travel planning.

• extensive travel planning — длительное планирование поездки — Sometimes we prefer short trips to avoid extensive travel planning.

• pursue hobbies and interests — заниматься хобби и интересами — Breaks give us time to pursue hobbies and interests.

• whether — будь то — Whether you travel or stay home, holidays are enjoyable.

• engage in — заниматься чем-то — Children like to engage in sports during holidays.

• participate in — принимать участие в — Many students participate in holiday activities at school.

• explore one’s passion — развивать свою страсть / интерес — Holidays are the best time to explore one’s passion.

• extra tutoring — дополнительные занятия с репетитором — Some students attend extra tutoring during breaks.

• catch up on studies — наверстать учёбу — Holidays give a chance to catch up on studies.

• overall — в целом — Overall, holidays are valuable for health and learning.

• valuable time — ценное время — Holidays are valuable time for family and friends.

• growth — рост, развитие — Breaks give us opportunities for personal growth.

• rejuvenation [rɪʤu: və’neɪʃn] — восстановление сил — Holidays bring relaxation and rejuvenation.

• refreshed mind — отдохнувший ум — After a holiday, I return to school with a refreshed mind.

• renewed energy — обновлённая энергия — Holidays give us renewed energy for the next school term.

Sample #1

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about your school holidays. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• when you have school holidays;

• which school break you think should be extended and why;

• what activities you enjoy during your school holidays;

• what your attitude to school holidays is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about my school holidays.

Well, we have holidays for times a year: a week off in October, two weeks off in January, a week off in April and three months off in summer. Some schools in Russia have a week off every six weeks.

Frankly speaking, I would make spring holidays longer. First of all, because it’s almost the end of the school year and everyone is tired, so you need more time to recharge your batteries. The second reason is that I love spring. It would be great to have a few extra days to enjoy spring sunshine and nature waking up after long winter.

You know, I enjoy lots of things. It depends on the weather, of course. In summer I love cycling, walking with friends, playing basketball. In winter I enjoy skiing and skating. If I am at home, I like playing computer games, reading, watching movies.

Sure thing, my attitude to school holiday is good. It’s a great opportunity to hang out with friends, enjoy your hobbies and catch up on sleep.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about my school holiday. Thank you for listening.

Vocabulary Bank

• holiday / vacation — каникулы, отпуск — School holidays are my favorite time of the year.

• break — перерыв — We had a short break in autumn.

• spring break — весенние каникулы — During spring break, I went to the countryside.

• summer holidays — летние каникулы — Summer holidays usually last three months.

• winter holidays — зимние каникулы — Winter holidays are filled with snow and fun.

• autumn break — осенние каникулы — Autumn break is usually one week long.

• extended vacation — длинные каникулы — Summer is the longest extended vacation for students.

• spare time — свободное время — I like to read in my spare time.

• relax — отдыхать — Holidays are the best time to relax.

• unwind — расслабиться — I unwind by listening to music.

• recharge — восстановить силы — Holidays help students recharge their energy.

• rest — отдыхать — I rested a lot during my holidays.

• travel — путешествовать — We traveled to another country last summer.

• go abroad — поехать за границу — They went abroad for the winter holidays.

• explore new places — исследовать новые места — We explored new places in our region.

• discover — открывать — I discovered a new hobby during the holidays.

• go camping — ходить в поход — We went camping in the forest.

• go hiking — ходить в горы, на пешую прогулку — I like to go hiking in the nearby hills.

• go fishing — пойти на рыбалку — My father and I went fishing during the weekend.

• go swimming — плавать — We went swimming in the lake every day.

• go sledding — кататься на санках — Children love to go sledding in winter.

• ski — кататься на лыжах — We skied in the mountains during winter break.

• skate — кататься на коньках — I learned to skate last winter holiday.

• have snowball fights — играть в снежки — We had snowball fights with my friends.

• build a snowman — лепить снеговика — We built a big snowman in the yard.

• visit relatives — навещать родственников — We visited our relatives during spring break.

• attend a summer camp — поехать в летний лагерь — Many children attend summer camp in July.

• make friends — заводить друзей — I made new friends at summer camp.

• take photos — фотографировать — We took many photos on holiday.

• watch films — смотреть фильмы — I watched interesting films during the holidays.

• play computer games — играть в компьютерные игры — My brother played computer games all holidays.

• read books — читать книги — I read three books during winter break.

• catch up on homework — наверстать домашние задания — I used the break to catch up on homework.

• prepare for exams — готовиться к экзаменам — Some students prepare for exams during holidays.

• take part in activities — принимать участие в занятиях — We took part in sports activities at camp.

• join a club — вступить в клуб — She joined a dance club during summer holidays.

• pursue hobbies — заниматься хобби — Holidays are a good time to pursue hobbies.

• learn a new skill — освоить новый навык — He learned a new skill — playing guitar.

• do sports — заниматься спортом — I did sports every day during the break.

• ride a bike — кататься на велосипеде — We rode bikes around the village.

• have a picnic — устроить пикник — We had a picnic near the river.

• go to the park — ходить в парк — I often go to the park with friends.

• visit museums — посещать музеи — We visited museums during our trip to Moscow.

• go on an excursion — поехать на экскурсию — We went on an excursion to a castle.

• go shopping — ходить по магазинам — She went shopping with her friends during the holidays.

• spend time with family — проводить время с семьёй — I like to spend time with family on holidays.

• celebrate holidays — отмечать праздники — We celebrated New Year during the winter break.

• exchange gifts — обмениваться подарками — We exchanged gifts on New Year’s Eve.

• enjoy festive atmosphere — наслаждаться праздничной атмосферой — We enjoyed the festive atmosphere in the city.

• create memories — создавать воспоминания — Holidays are the best time to create memories.

4. Travelling

Level A1-A2

Traveling is popular for many reasons. Firstly, it allows people to explore new places and experience different cultures. Seeing famous landmarks, tasting new foods, and meeting people from around the world can be exciting and educational. It helps people understand and appreciate diversity.

Secondly, traveling provides a break from daily routines. People travel to relax and unwind, whether by lounging on a beach, hiking in the mountains, or enjoying a city’s nightlife. This change of scenery can be refreshing and can improve mental health.

Traveling also offers opportunities for adventure. Some people love the thrill of trying new activities like scuba diving, skiing, or hiking. These experiences often create lasting memories and stories to share with others.

Moreover, traveling can be a great way to learn. Visiting historical sites, museums, and galleries can teach people about history and art. Travel can also improve language skills and boost confidence in communicating with others.

Finally, social media has made travel more popular. Many people enjoy sharing their travel experiences online. This inspires others to visit new destinations.

In conclusion, traveling is popular because it offers adventure, relaxation, cultural understanding, and learning opportunities. It’s an exciting way to explore the world, make memories, and connect with others. Whether for leisure or learning, travel enriches lives in many ways.

• for many reasons — по многим причинам — People love travelling for many reasons.

• firstly, secondly, thirdly — во-первых, во-вторых, в-третьих — Firstly, travelling is fun; secondly, it is educational; thirdly, it inspires us.

• allow — позволять — Travelling allows people to see the world.

• explore new places — исследовать новые места — I want to explore new places during my summer holidays.

• experience different cultures — познакомиться с разными культурами — Travelling helps us experience different cultures.

• famous landmark — известная достопримечательность — The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris.

• taste new food — пробовать новую еду — In Italy, we tasted new food like authentic pasta and pizza.

• from around the world — со всего мира — Tourists from around the world visit Moscow every year.

• exciting — захватывающий, увлекательный — It was an exciting trip to the mountains.

• educational — познавательный — Visiting museums is both fun and educational.

• appreciate diversity — ценить разнообразие — Travelling teaches us to appreciate diversity.

• provide a break from — давать отдых от — A holiday provides a break from school and work.

• unwind — расслабиться — People go on vacation to unwind and recharge.

• whether — будь то — Travelling is fun, whether you go alone or with friends.

• lounge on a beach — отдыхать на пляже — We lounged on a beach all afternoon in Spain.

• hike — ходить в поход, на прогулку — We hiked in the nearby mountains.

• city’s nightlife — ночная жизнь города — Tourists enjoy exploring a city’s nightlife.

• change of scenery — смена обстановки — A trip gives you a refreshing change of scenery.

• refreshing — освежающий — The mountain air was refreshing.

• improve mental health — улучшить психическое здоровье — Holidays can improve mental health and reduce stress.

• opportunity — возможность — Travelling abroad gives you an opportunity to meet new people.

• adventure — приключение — Our trip to the jungle was a real adventure.

• thrill — острые ощущения — Scuba diving gave me the thrill of a lifetime.

• scuba diving — дайвинг — We went scuba diving in the Red Sea.

• create lasting memories — создавать долгие воспоминания — Travelling helps create lasting memories with friends.

• share with others — делиться с другими — I shared my travel stories with others.

• a great way to learn — отличный способ учиться — Travelling is a great way to learn about history.

• historical site — историческое место — The Colosseum is a famous historical site in Rome.

• improve language skill — улучшить знание языка — Living abroad helps you improve language skills.

• boost confidence in communication with — повысить уверенность в общении с — Travelling boosts confidence in communication with strangers.

• share one’s travel experience online — делиться своим путешествием онлайн — Many people share their travel experience online through blogs.

• inspire — вдохновлять — Travelling can inspire new ideas and dreams.

• destination — пункт назначения — Paris is a popular tourist destination.

• in conclusion — в заключение — In conclusion, travelling is one of the best life experiences.

• it’s an exciting way to — это захватывающий способ (что-то делать) — It’s an exciting way to learn about the world.

• leisure — досуг — Travelling is one of the most popular forms of leisure.

• enrich — обогащать — Travelling enriches our lives with new experiences.

Level B1-B2

Traveling enjoys widespread popularity for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it offers an opportunity to explore new places and experience different cultures. People love to discover the unique traditions, languages, and cuisines that each destination has to offer. This cultural exchange broadens one’s perspective and enriches personal knowledge, making travel an educational experience.

Secondly, traveling provides a sense of adventure. Many individuals seek the thrill of discovering unknown territories, whether it’s hiking through mountains, diving in coral reefs, or simply navigating through bustling city streets. This sense of adventure is exciting and invigorating, offering a break from routine life.

Moreover, traveling allows people to relax and recharge. Taking a break from the daily grind is essential for mental health. Whether it’s lounging on a serene beach, meditating amidst nature, or enjoying a quiet countryside, these experiences help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

In addition, traveling helps in building and strengthening relationships. It provides quality time with family and friends, creating shared memories that last a lifetime. Even traveling solo can foster new friendships with fellow travelers and locals.

Finally, today’s technology makes planning and booking trips easier than ever, increasing accessibility. Travel-related apps and websites simplify the process, offering various options to suit different budgets and preferences.

In summary, traveling is popular because it offers education, adventure, relaxation, social connections, and convenience.

• enjoy — наслаждаться — I enjoy travelling to new countries and meeting people.

• widespread popularity — широкая популярность — Travelling has gained widespread popularity in recent years.

• compelling reason — убедительная причина — One compelling reason to travel is to learn about new cultures.

• unique — уникальный — Every country has its own unique traditions.

• cuisine — кухня (национальная еда) — Italian cuisine is famous for its pasta and pizza.

• broaden one’s perspective — расширять кругозор — Travelling helps to broaden one’s perspective on life.

• educational experience — познавательный опыт — Visiting museums abroad is always an educational experience.

• bustling city streets — шумные городские улицы — We walked along the bustling city streets of New York.

• invigorating — бодрящий — A walk in the mountains can be invigorating.

• recharge — восстановить силы — Holidays give us a chance to recharge after hard work.

• daily grind — ежедневная рутина — Travelling is a way to escape the daily grind.

• essential — необходимый — A passport is essential for international travel.

• lounge on a serene beach — отдыхать на спокойном пляже — We lounged on a serene beach in Greece.

• amidst nature — посреди природы — Camping amidst nature is a refreshing experience.

• strengthen — укреплять — Travelling together can strengthen friendships and family bonds.

• accessibility — доступность — The accessibility of cheap flights has made travelling easier.

• app — приложение — I use a travel app to book hotels and flights.

• simplify — упрощать — Modern technology helps to simplify travel planning.

• convenience — удобство — Online booking offers great convenience for travellers.

Sample #1

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about travelling. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences)

Remember to say:

• why people are interested in travelling;

• what form of transportation is the most suitable for travel, in your opinion;

• where in Russia you would like to go;

• what your attitude to travelling is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about travelling.

In my opinion, people like travelling because it helps them discover new places and cultures. Moreover, they can try different food, meet interesting people, and learn new things about the world. In addition, travelling helps people relax and forget about their daily problems. Overall, it is the best way to get inspiration and gain new experiences.

I think the best means of transport for travelling is the train because it is comfortable and safe. Unlike cars or buses, you can walk around, read, or enjoy the view from the window. Moreover, trains are usually more environmentally friendly and convenient for long distances.

Frankly speaking, I would like to visit Saint Petersburg, because it is one of the most beautiful and cultural cities in Russia. It is famous for its stunning architecture, rivers, and bridges. Moreover, I would love to see the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace, which are world-known landmarks. I believe visiting Saint Petersburg would be an unforgettable experience.

Of course, my attitude to travelling is absolutely positive. I love travelling! It doesn’t matter where I go. Each trip offers unique memories and an opportunity to learn and try something new.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about travelling. Thank you for listening.

Sample #2

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about travelling. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences)

Remember to say:

• what makes travelling enjoyable for most people;

• how people like spending their time when they travel;

• where you would like to travel in the future, and why;

• what your attitude to travelling is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about travelling.

I think people love travelling because it’s fun and full of adventures. You can see beautiful sights, take amazing photos, and learn something new every day. Travelling also helps people feel free and inspired.

I believe, while travelling, people like visiting sights and learning about the history of the places they go to. Many tourists enjoy trying local food and some prefer relaxing on the beach or exploring nature. Besides, people love attending local festivals and museums to learn more about the country they are visiting.

To tell you the truth, one place I’d like to visit is Japan. The country is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms, which I would love to see in person. I am also interested in Japanese culture, especially their traditional temples and tea ceremonies. Trying different types of sushi and ramen would be a great adventure for my taste buds. Finally, I want to experience the exciting city life in Tokyo, with its bright lights and interesting shops.

Naturally, I have a very positive outlook on traveling. I absolutely love it! It lets you explore different cultures and meet interesting people. Plus, it breaks the routine, making life more exciting and fun.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about travelling. Thank you for listening.

Sample #3

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about travelling. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences)

Remember to say:

• what makes travelling in Russia enjoyable for people;

• which means of transport people use the most in Russia when they travel, and why;

• if there are any places in Russia that you would like to see in the future;

• what your attitude to travelling is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about travelling.

I guess, people like travelling in Russia because the country is large and offers many fascinating places to explore. From the beautiful cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg to the natural wonders of Lake Baikal and the Caucasus Mountains, there is something for everyone. Moreover, travelling around Russia helps people learn more about its history and traditions. Many tourists enjoy visiting the Kremlin and Red Square in Moscow, the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg, or the Golden Ring towns such as Suzdal and Vladimir. In addition, Russian hospitality and delicious local food make every trip special. That’s why travelling in Russia is both exciting and educational.

In my opinion, the most popular means of transport for travelling in Russia is the train, because the country is very large and has an extensive railway network. It allows people to travel comfortably between cities and enjoy beautiful views from the window. Moreover, trains are often cheaper and more convenient than planes for long distances.

Frankly speaking, I would love to visit Lake Baikal in Russia. It is the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, with stunning blue waters. The area around Baikal offers beautiful views and opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. In winter, the lake freezes over, creating a magical landscape perfect for ice skating and photography.

I have to admit, I think travelling is great. Honestly, I am a real foody, so to me travelling brings inspiration, new tastes and smells. Every trip is a new adventure.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about travelling. Thank you for listening.

Sample #4

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about travelling. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences)

Remember to say:

• which time of year is ideal for travelling, in your view;

• whether you think travelling is easier today than in the past and why;

• whether there is a country or continent you would like to explore;

• what your attitude to travelling is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about travelling.

Hmmm… Let me think… In my opinion, the best season for travelling is summer, because the weather is warm and the days are long. It is easier to explore new places, spend time outdoors, and enjoy nature. Moreover, most tourist attractions and festivals take place in summer, which makes travelling even more interesting. That’s why I prefer travelling during this season.

Sure thing, traveling is much easier now than centuries ago. We have modern transportation like planes, trains, and cars, making journeys faster and more comfortable. Technology allows us to book tickets and hotels online quickly. With the internet, we can find maps and information about destinations easily. Communication is simpler too, as we can use phones and apps to stay in touch while traveling.

Frankly speaking, I would love to visit Latin America because of its rich culture and history. Countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Peru have amazing ancient sites and beautiful landscapes. The food in Latin America is delicious, with unique flavors and dishes to try. I am also excited to experience the music and dance, which are such an important part of the culture there.

Well, yes, I believe travelling is something really fantastic. I am a huge fan of history, so travelling lets me feel the vibe of those distant ages when I visit different historical sites.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about travelling. Thank you for listening.

Vocabulary Bank

• plane — самолёт — We travelled to Spain by plane.

• train — поезд — The train to Moscow takes four hours.

• bus — автобус — We went to the city by bus.

• car — машина — Travelling by car gives you more freedom.

• bicycle — велосипед — He went to school by bicycle.

• motorbike — мотоцикл — They travelled across Asia on a motorbike.

• ship — корабль — We crossed the sea by ship.

• ferry — паром — The ferry connects two islands.

• tram — трамвай — Trams are common in many European cities.

• underground / subway — метро — We took the underground to avoid traffic.

• on foot — пешком — We explored the old town on foot.

• taxi / cab — такси — We took a taxi to the airport.

• flight — авиарейс — The flight was delayed because of bad weather.

• boarding pass — посадочный талон — You need a boarding pass to get on the plane.

• luggage / baggage — багаж — She carried heavy luggage during the trip.

• journey — поездка, путешествие — The journey took three days.

• trip — поездка — We had a weekend trip to Paris.

• tour — тур, экскурсия — We booked a guided tour of the city.

• cruise — круиз — They went on a cruise in the Mediterranean.

• expedition — экспедиция — The expedition to the Arctic was dangerous.

• backpacking — путешествие с рюкзаком — Backpacking is popular among students.

• road trip — автопутешествие — We went on a road trip across Europe.

• package holiday — турпакет — We bought a package holiday to Turkey.

• business trip — командировка — He often goes on business trips.

• sightseeing tour — экскурсионная поездка — We joined a sightseeing tour of London.

• adventure travel — приключенческое путешествие — Adventure travel is for people who love challenges.

• cultural tourism — культурный туризм — Cultural tourism helps people learn about traditions.

• eco-tourism — экотуризм — Eco-tourism supports nature and local culture.

• domestic travel — внутренний туризм — Domestic travel is becoming more popular.

• international travel — международные путешествия — International travel requires a passport and visa.

• go sightseeing — осматривать достопримечательности — We went sightseeing in Rome.

• visit museums — посещать музеи — We visited museums during our trip to Paris.

• explore new places — исследовать новые места — She likes to explore new places while travelling.

• taste local cuisine — пробовать местную кухню — We tasted local cuisine in Italy.

• take photos — фотографировать — Tourists love to take photos of famous landmarks.

• go hiking — ходить в поход — We went hiking in the mountains.

• go camping — ходить в поход с палаткой — They went camping in the forest.

• go swimming — купаться — We went swimming in the lake.

• go diving / scuba diving — заниматься дайвингом — He went scuba diving in the Red Sea.

• go skiing — кататься на лыжах — We went skiing in the Alps.

• go shopping — ходить по магазинам — Tourists often go shopping in big cities.

• attend festivals — посещать фестивали — We attended a music festival in summer.

• join a guided tour — пойти на экскурсию с гидом — We joined a guided tour of the castle.

• visit historical sites — посещать исторические места — We visited historical sites in Greece.

• enjoy nightlife — наслаждаться ночной жизнью — Tourists enjoy the nightlife in Barcelona.

• destination — пункт назначения — Paris is a popular travel destination.

• landmark — достопримечательность — The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark.

• local traditions — местные традиции — We learned about local traditions in Japan.

• souvenir — сувенир — I bought a souvenir from London.

• map — карта — We used a map to find the hotel.

• guidebook — путеводитель — The guidebook was very helpful.

• passport — паспорт — You must have a passport for international travel.

• visa — виза — He applied for a visa to visit the USA.

• customs — таможня — We showed our luggage at customs.

• border — граница — We crossed the border by car.

• accommodation — жильё — We booked accommodation online.

• hotel — отель — They stayed in a five-star hotel.

• hostel — хостел — Students often stay in hostels when travelling.

• airport — аэропорт — The airport was crowded with tourists.

• ticket — билет — I bought a ticket for the train.

• adventure — приключение — Travelling is always an adventure.

• memories — воспоминания — Travelling creates wonderful memories.

• experience — опыт, впечатления — She had an amazing experience in Italy.

• comfort — комфорт — The hotel offered comfort and convenience.

• convenience — удобство — Online booking adds convenience to travelling.

• opportunity — возможность — Travelling abroad gives an opportunity to learn languages.

• relaxation — отдых — Holidays are a time for relaxation.

5. Reading

Why is reading popular?

Level A1-A2

Reading is popular because it is fun and helps people learn new things. Many people enjoy reading because it can make them feel like they are in another world. Books, magazines, and online articles can take you on adventures, teach you new skills, or tell exciting stories.

Reading also helps to relax the mind. It is a good way to relax after a busy day or to take a break from school or work. People can choose what to read based on what they like, such as fiction, mystery, science, or history.

Reading is also important for growing your vocabulary and improving language skills. It helps you understand words better and learn how to use them in sentences. People of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy reading, making it a popular hobby for many. Whether you are alone or with friends, reading is a wonderful way to spend your time.

• article — статья — I read an interesting article about space travel.

• new skill — новый навык — During the summer, I learned a new skill — painting.

• relax the mind — расслабить ум — Reading before bed helps relax the mind.

• fiction — художественная литература — She prefers fiction to non-fiction books.

• mystery — детектив, загадка — I enjoy reading mystery novels in my free time.

• science — наука — Science books can be both educational and exciting.

• grow one’s vocabulary — расширять словарный запас — Reading in English helps me grow my vocabulary.

• improve language skills — улучшать языковые навыки — Watching films with subtitles can improve language skills.

• background — 1) фон, обстановка; 2) происхождение — 1) He read against the background of quiet music. 2) She comes from a cultural background that values reading.

• whether — ли, будь то — I don’t know whether to read a novel or a magazine today.

Level A2-B1

Reading is popular for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a wonderful escape from everyday life. When you read a book, you can immerse yourself in different worlds and experience adventures that you may not find in reality. This ability to transport yourself through stories makes reading an exciting and enjoyable activity.

Secondly, reading is an excellent way to learn and gain knowledge. Whether you are interested in science, history, or fantasy, books offer information and insights into various topics, helping to expand your understanding of the world.

Moreover, reading improves language skills, including vocabulary, comprehension, and writing. By reading regularly, people can enhance their ability to express thoughts clearly and understand complex ideas.

Lastly, reading can be a calming and relaxing activity. It offers a quiet moment in a busy world, allowing people to unwind and reduce stress. Because of these benefits, reading remains a cherished and popular pastime for many.

• for several reasons — по нескольким причинам — Reading is important for several reasons.

• escape from everyday life — уйти от повседневной жизни — Books help us escape from everyday life.

• immerse oneself — погружаться — She loves to immerse herself in fantasy stories.

• excellent — отличный — Reading is an excellent way to relax.

• gain knowledge — получать знания — Through books, we can gain knowledge about history and science.

• insight into various topics — понимание разных тем — Articles give us insight into various topics.

• expand understanding — расширять понимание — Reading foreign literature helps expand understanding of cultures.

• moreover — более того — Reading is fun; moreover, it is educational.

• vocabulary — словарный запас — Reading in English helps me grow my vocabulary.

• comprehension — понимание (текста) — Regular reading improves text comprehension.

• enhance — улучшать, усиливать — Reading enhances our imagination and creativity.

• express thoughts clearly — ясно выражать мысли — Books teach us to express thoughts clearly.

• complex — сложный — He likes reading complex novels with deep ideas.

• unwind [ʌn’waɪnd] — расслабиться — She reads poetry in the evening to unwind.

• reduce stress — снижать стресс — Reading before sleep can reduce stress.

• benefit — польза, выгода — One benefit of reading is better memory.

• remain — оставаться — Reading will always remain an important part of education.

• cherished — любимый, ценный — For me, reading is a cherished habit.

• popular pastime — популярное времяпрепровождение — Reading is still a popular pastime around the world.

My favorite book

Level A1-A2

Harry Potter is one of my favorite books because it tells a magical story about a young wizard named Harry. Harry lives with his mean aunt and uncle until he receives a letter inviting him to attend Hogwarts, a school for wizards. At Hogwarts, Harry makes great friends like Ron and Hermione, and together they go on exciting adventures. They learn spells and discover secrets about the magical world.

The story of Harry Potter is very exciting because it is full of mystery and surprises. Every chapter brings new challenges and fun experiences. Harry is brave and kind, which makes him a hero that many readers admire. The book teaches important lessons about friendship, courage, and doing the right thing. It captures the imagination and shows a world where magic can be real. That’s why Harry Potter remains a favorite for many people, including me.

• wizard — волшебник — The wizard cast a powerful spell.

• mean — злой — In the story, the mean giant tried to scare the villagers.

• attend — посещать — The young wizard had to attend a special magic school.

• go on an exciting adventure — отправиться в увлекательное приключение — The heroes went on an exciting adventure through the forest.

• spell — заклинание — She learned a new spell from her magic book.

• mystery — тайна, загадка — The detective solved the mystery in the last chapter.

• chapter — глава — I read three chapters of the novel before bed.

• admire — восхищаться — Children admire brave and kind characters in stories.

• courage — смелость, храбрость — It takes courage to fight for what is right.

• do the right thing — поступить правильно — The hero always tries to do the right thing.

• capture the imagination — захватывать воображение — The fantasy story captured the imagination of millions of readers.

• remain — оставаться — This book will remain one of my favourites forever.

• including — включая — The collection contains many stories, including mysteries and adventures.

Level A2-B1

One of my favorite books is «The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes» by Arthur Conan Doyle. This collection of stories follows the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson as they solve intriguing mysteries in London. Holmes is known for his incredible powers of observation and deduction, which allow him to unravel even the most complex cases.

What I love most about Sherlock Holmes is his unique character. He is logical, intelligent, and often unconventional in his methods. His ability to notice details that others overlook and connect clues in unexpected ways makes each story engaging and suspenseful. Dr. Watson, who narrates the stories, provides a perfect balance with his warmth and admiration for Holmes.

The stories explore various themes such as justice, morality, and the human psyche. Each adventure is distinct, filled with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The Victorian-era setting adds charm and richness to the atmosphere, making the stories even more captivating.

Ultimately, «The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes» offers not only thrilling mysteries but also insights into the detective’s complex mind. This combination of intrigue and character depth is why this book holds a special place in my heart.

• follow — следовать, идти за — Millions of readers follow the adventures of this detective.

• brilliant detective — блестящий детектив — Sherlock Holmes is a brilliant detective known worldwide.

• loyal friend — преданный друг — Every hero needs a loyal friend to support him.

• solve an intriguing mystery — раскрыть увлекательную тайну — The detective managed to solve an intriguing mystery.

• be known for — быть известным чем-то — This writer is known for creating suspenseful plots.

• power — сила, могущество — The power of logic can reveal the truth.

• observation — наблюдательность — His sharp observation helped him notice the smallest details.

• deduction — дедукция, умозаключение — Holmes used deduction to explain the crime.

• allow — позволять — Good memory allows detectives to connect facts quickly.

• unravel — распутывать — The inspector tried to unravel the complex case.

• complex case — сложное дело — The police called him to work on a complex case.

• unconventional — нестандартный — He often used unconventional methods to catch criminals.

• ability — способность — His ability to notice details impressed everyone.

• notice details — замечать детали — Only an attentive person can notice details others overlook.

• overlook — упустить из виду — The police overlooked a very important clue.

• clue — улика — One small clue helped solve the whole case.

• expected — ожидаемый — The ending was different from what readers expected.

• engaging — увлекательный — It was an engaging story full of secrets.

• suspenseful — напряжённый, полный интриги — The novel was suspenseful and kept readers guessing.

• narrate a story — рассказывать историю — Dr. Watson narrates a story about Holmes’s adventures.

• warmth — тепло — His loyal friend treated him with warmth and respect.

• admiration — восхищение — The public showed admiration for the detective’s skills.

• explore — исследовать, изучать — Detective novels explore justice and morality.

• justice — справедливость — The detective always fought for justice.

• morality — мораль, нравственность — Detective stories often raise questions of morality.

• human psyche ['saɪkɪ] — человеческая психика — Writers explore the human psyche in crime fiction.

• distinct — отчётливый, особенный — Holmes had a distinct style of solving cases.

• be filled with — быть наполненным — The story was filled with twists and turns.

• twists and turns — повороты сюжета — The novel had many unexpected twists and turns.

• keep smb on the edge of their seats — держать в напряжении — The suspense kept readers on the edge of their seats.

• Victorian-era setting — обстановка викторианской эпохи — The Victorian-era setting added charm to the stories.

• add charm — добавлять очарования — London fog added charm to the mystery.

• richness — богатство (сюжета, языка) — The richness of the narrative amazed the readers.

• captivating — захватывающий — It was a captivating detective novel.

• ultimately — в конечном счёте — Ultimately, truth always comes to light.

• thrilling — захватывающий, волнующий — The case turned into a thrilling adventure.

• insight into — понимание, взгляд на — The novel gave an insight into human psychology.

• depth — глубина — His characters had emotional depth.

• hold a special place in one’s heart — занимать особое место в сердце — These detective stories hold a special place in my heart.

My favorite writer

Level A1-A2

J.K. Rowling is my favorite writer because she created the magical world of Harry Potter. Her books have inspired millions of readers around the world. Rowling’s writing style is simple yet captivating, making it easy for people of all ages to enjoy her stories.

She is very talented in creating memorable characters like Harry, Hermione, and Ron who feel like real friends. The Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where much of the story takes place, is filled with exciting details that spark the imagination.

What I admire most about J.K. Rowling is her journey as a writer. She faced many challenges before becoming successful, but she never gave up on her dreams. Her story encourages people to believe in themselves and chase their dreams no matter how difficult it might seem. Rowling’s creativity and perseverance make her an inspiring writer and a great role model.

• inspire — вдохновлять — Good teachers can inspire students to love learning.

• captivating — захватывающий — It was a captivating story that kept everyone interested.

• memorable — запоминающийся — Our school trip to London was a memorable experience.

• take place — происходить, иметь место — The concert will take place next Saturday.

• spark the imagination — зажечь воображение — Fairy tales spark the imagination of children.

• admire — восхищаться — I admire people who never give up on their dreams.

• face — сталкиваться с — She had to face many challenges before she succeeded.

• give up on — отказаться от, перестать верить в — He never gave up on his dream of becoming a doctor.

• encourage — поощрять, поддерживать — Parents should encourage children to be creative.

• chase one’s dream — преследовать свою мечту — She moved to another country to chase her dream.

• creativity — креативность, творческий подход — Art classes help develop children’s creativity.

• perseverance — настойчивость, упорство — With hard work and perseverance, you can achieve anything.

• role model — образец для подражания — My elder brother is my role model because he is hardworking and kind.

Level A2-B1

Fyodor Dostoevsky is my favorite writer because his novels explore deep and meaningful themes. He is well-known for writing about the complexities of human nature and the struggles of life. Dostoevsky’s stories often explore topics like morality, faith, and the human psyche.

One of his most famous novels, «Crime and Punishment,» tells the story of a young man named Raskolnikov who is conflicted about committing a crime. The book delves into his thoughts and emotions, making readers reflect on the nature of good and evil. This novel, like many of Dostoevsky’s works, showcases his ability to create multi-dimensional characters who feel real and relatable.

Dostoevsky’s writing is both thought-provoking and challenging. He encourages readers to think deeply about life and the choices people make. His characters often face difficult situations, and he skillfully portrays their inner struggles and conflicts.

What makes Dostoevsky special to me is his profound understanding of the human condition. He writes with empathy and insight, inviting readers to explore the complexities of life. His novels, filled with intense emotions and philosophical questions, continue to captivate and inspire readers around the world. This depth and richness are why Dostoevsky remains my favorite writer.

• deep and meaningful themes — глубокие и значимые темы — The novel explores deep and meaningful themes of justice and morality.

• well-known for — хорошо известен чем-то — Dostoevsky is well-known for his psychological novels.

• complexity — сложность — The complexity of the characters makes the book unique.

• human nature — человеческая природа — Great writers often study human nature in their works.

• struggles of life — жизненные трудности — The story shows the struggles of life in the 19th century.

• Crime and Punishment — «Преступление и наказание» — «Crime and Punishment» is one of the most famous Russian novels.

• commit a crime — совершить преступление — The main character decides to commit a crime.

• delve into — углубляться в — The book delves into the psychology of guilt and redemption.

• thought — мысль — The author’s main thought is about responsibility for one’s actions.

• reflect on — размышлять о — The novel makes readers reflect on morality and justice.

• nature of good and evil — природа добра и зла — The writer examines the nature of good and evil in society.

• showcase — демонстрировать — The author showcases the conflict between morality and ambition.

• multi-dimensional — многогранный — The characters are multi-dimensional and feel real.

• relatable — близкий, понятный читателю — Even today, the hero’s inner struggle is relatable.

• thought-provoking — наводящий на размышления — It is a thought-provoking novel that challenges the reader.

• skillfully — умело — The writer skillfully portrays the complexity of human emotions.

• portray — изображать — The author portrays the poverty and despair of the time.

• inner struggle — внутренняя борьба — The main character suffers from an inner struggle between guilt and pride.

• profound — глубокий — The book gives a profound insight into human psychology.

• empathy — сочувствие — Readers feel empathy for the character despite his crime.

• insight — понимание, прозрение — The novel provides deep insight into human nature.

Sample #1

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about reading books. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• whether teenagers still read a lot / why or why not?;

• which kinds of books are your favourite to read;

• why many people choose e-books instead of printed books;

• what your attitude to reading is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about reading books.

I think, reading is not as popular with teenagers today as it used to be, because many young people prefer using smartphones, watching videos, or playing computer games. They often feel that reading takes too much time and requires more concentration. Moreover, social media and short online texts have replaced books for many teenagers. However, some young people still enjoy reading, especially when they find stories that reflect their interests or emotions.

To tell you the truth, I really enjoy reading adventure and fantasy books, because they take me to imaginary worlds and help me forget about everyday problems. For example, I like stories with brave heroes, unexpected twists, and exciting journeys. Moreover, such books develop my imagination and make me think creatively. That’s why I often choose fantasy or adventure novels when I have free time.

In my opinion, many people prefer e-books because they are easy to carry and store. You can keep hundreds of books on one device, which saves a lot of space. E-books are also convenient because you can buy and download them anytime without going to a shop. Besides, digital books often have useful features like adjustable font size, search tools, and built-in dictionaries.

Well, my attitude to reading is very positive. Reading helps people learn new things and improve their language skills. It can make you feel happier and less stressed by taking you into exciting stories. When people read, they can understand different cultures and ideas better. Plus, reading often can improve focus and memory over time.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about reading books. Thank you for listening.

Sample #2

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about reading books. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• who your favorite writer is;

• what you like reading about;

• what you usually do in literature lessons;

• how old you were when you learned how to read.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about reading books.

Honestly speaking, my favourite author is Alexander Pushkin. I admire his beautiful language and the way he combines romance, humour, and wisdom in his works. Pushkin is truly a classic of Russian literature.

Well, I like reading about different countries and cultures. Such books help me learn more about the world and understand people better. I also enjoy reading stories about friendship and real life.

In literature lessons, we usually read and discuss different books and poems. Our teacher explains the main ideas and helps us understand the characters. Sometimes we write essays or do creative projects about what we’ve read. Besides, we talk a lot about the heroes of the stories and their problems. We share our opinions and compare books with modern life. Sometimes we watch films based on famous novels, which makes lessons more interesting.

As far as I remember, I learned to read at the age of six, just before starting school. My teacher made the process interesting by using games and stories. At first, I read slowly, but I improved quickly with practice. Learning to read opened a new world for me.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about reading books. Thank you for listening.

Vocabulary Bank

• novel — роман — «War and Peace» is a very long novel.

• short story — рассказ — I like reading short stories before bed.

• poetry — поэзия — She enjoys modern poetry.

• fantasy — фэнтези — Harry Potter is a famous fantasy series.

• science fiction (sci-fi) — научная фантастика — Science fiction often explores life in space.

• detective story / crime fiction — детектив — He loves detective stories about brilliant detectives.

• mystery — мистический роман / загадка — This mystery novel kept me reading all night.

• thriller — триллер — Thrillers are exciting and full of suspense.

• romance — любовный роман — She prefers romance novels with happy endings.

• adventure story — приключенческая история — Children like adventure stories about pirates and treasure.

• historical novel — исторический роман — Historical novels give insight into past centuries.

• biography — биография — I am reading a biography of Steve Jobs.

• autobiography — автобиография — The writer’s autobiography was very inspiring.

• non-fiction — научно-популярная литература — Non-fiction books teach us facts about the world.

• fairy tale — сказка — Children love fairy tales before going to sleep.

• to read aloud — читать вслух — The teacher asked us to read aloud.

• to skim — бегло просматривать — I skimmed the article to get the main idea.

• to immerse oneself in a book — погружаться в книгу — I like to immerse myself in novels on weekends.

• chapter — глава — I finished the first chapter last night.

• page-turner — книга, которую невозможно отложить — That thriller was a real page-turner.

• hard to put down — трудно отложить — The mystery novel was hard to put down.

• borrow a book — взять книгу (в библиотеке) — I borrowed a book from the school library.

• e-book — электронная книга — I often read e-books on my phone.

• audiobook — аудиокнига — Audiobooks are great when you travel.

• library — библиотека — The library is full of useful resources.

• bookshop / bookstore — книжный магазин — I bought a new novel at the bookstore.

• bookshelf — книжная полка — Her bookshelf is full of classics.

• collection — коллекция — He has a collection of old poetry books.

• author — автор — Tolstoy is a famous Russian author.

• reader — читатель — Every reader finds something personal in a book.

• escape from reality — уйти от реальности — Reading helps me escape from reality for a while.

• relax the mind — расслабить ум — Books relax the mind after a busy day.

• spark the imagination — зажечь воображение — Fairy tales spark the imagination of children.

• create emotions — вызывать эмоции — Books create emotions that stay with us for years.

• memorable — запоминающийся — The ending of the novel was very memorable.

• captivating — захватывающий — It was a captivating adventure story.

• engaging — увлекательный — The detective story was very engaging.

• thought-provoking — наводящий на размышления — The novel was thought-provoking and philosophical.

• cherished hobby — любимое занятие — Reading is my cherished hobby.

• popular pastime — популярное времяпрепровождение — Reading remains a popular pastime all over the world.

• enjoy — наслаждаться — I enjoy reading in the evenings.

• admire — восхищаться — I admire authors who write about deep themes.

• be inspired by — быть вдохновленным — I was inspired by the biography I read.

• adventure in one’s mind — приключение в воображении — Every book is an adventure in one’s mind.

• hold a special place in one’s heart — занимать особое место в сердце — This novel holds a special place in my heart.

• gain knowledge — получать знания — Books help us gain knowledge about the world.

• educational — образовательный — Reading is both relaxing and educational.

• improve language skills — улучшать языковые навыки — Reading in English improves language skills.

• grow one’s vocabulary — расширять словарный запас — Every new book helps me grow my vocabulary.

• comprehension — понимание — Reading improves text comprehension.

• express thoughts clearly — ясно выражать мысли — Books teach us to express thoughts clearly.

• enhance imagination — развивать воображение — Reading enhances imagination and creativity.

• broaden horizons — расширять кругозор — Books broaden horizons and open new perspectives.

• insight into human nature — понимание человеческой природы — Classics give us insight into human nature.

• reflect on life — размышлять о жизни — Literature makes us reflect on life’s meaning.

• inner world — внутренний мир — Books enrich our inner world.

• reduce stress — снижать стресс — Reading in the evening helps reduce stress.

• improve focus — улучшать концентрацию — Regular reading improves focus and attention.

• valuable skill — ценный навык — Reading develops a valuable skill for study and work.

• lifelong learning — обучение всю жизнь — Reading supports lifelong learning.

• remain important — оставаться важным — Books will remain important in the future.

6. Sports. Keeping Fit

Why is doing sports popular?

Level A1-A2

Doing sports is popular for many reasons. First, it helps people stay healthy. When you exercise, your body becomes stronger, and you feel better. People who do sports regularly often have more energy and do not get sick as easily.

Second, sports are a fun way to spend time. Many people enjoy playing games like soccer, basketball, or tennis with friends. These activities are not only good for the body but also make people happy. Playing sports can be exciting and challenging, which makes it enjoyable.

Third, sports bring people together. When you are on a team, you work with others to win games. This helps build friendships and teaches teamwork. People from different backgrounds can come together through sports, making it a social activity that connects communities.

Lastly, there are many different kinds of sports, so everyone can find something they like. Some people prefer team sports, while others enjoy individual activities like running or swimming. No matter the choice, doing sports helps improve skills and gives a sense of achievement.

In summary, sports are popular because they promote health, provide fun, build social connections, and offer a wide variety of options for everyone to enjoy.

• stay healthy — оставаться здоровым — People try to eat well and exercise to stay healthy.

• get sick — заболеть — If you don’t dress warmly in winter, you can get sick.

• bring together — объединять — Sport can bring together people of different ages.

• no matter the choice — независимо от выбора — No matter the choice, reading always gives you new knowledge.

• sense of achievement — чувство достижения — Finishing a long book gives me a real sense of achievement.

Level A2-B1

Doing sports is popular for a variety of reasons, and its benefits are appealing to many people. First and foremost, sports help individuals maintain good physical health. Regular physical activity strengthens the body, improves heart function, and boosts overall fitness. It reduces the risk of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Additionally, staying active through sports helps people manage their weight, build muscle, and increase flexibility.

Besides health benefits, sports are an enjoyable way to spend time. People often find pleasure and excitement in playing sports. Games and competitions can be thrilling, and achieving goals, like scoring in soccer or setting a personal best in running, brings satisfaction. The challenge that sports provide keeps them interesting, motivating people to improve their skills.

Social aspects also contribute to the popularity of sports. Playing on teams or in groups allows individuals to meet new people and form friendships. Sports build community spirit, bringing together families, friends, and even strangers. Collaborative sports teach important life skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. Moreover, there is a wide range of sports available, catering to different tastes and abilities. Some people prefer high-intensity activities like basketball or cycling, while others enjoy more relaxed sports such as swimming or walking. This variety ensures that everyone can find a sport they enjoy.

In conclusion, doing sports is popular because it promotes health, provides enjoyment, builds social bonds, and offers many choices to suit different preferences. These factors collectively make sports an integral part of many people’s lives.

• variety — разнообразие — A variety of activities can keep people motivated to exercise.

• benefit — польза — Regular workouts have many health benefits.

• appealing — привлекательный — Swimming is appealing because it is both fun and healthy.

• first and foremost — прежде всего — First and foremost, sport helps us stay healthy.

• individual — личность, индивидуальный — Every individual can choose the activity they like most.

• maintain good physical health — поддерживать хорошее физическое здоровье — Exercise helps maintain good physical health.

• strengthen ['streŋθ (ə) n] — укреплять — Yoga strengthens both the body and the mind.

• boost — повышать, усиливать — Running boosts your energy levels.

• reduce — снижать — Sport reduces stress and anxiety.

• chronic ['krɔnɪk] disease — хроническое заболевание — Exercise lowers the risk of chronic diseases.

• obesity [əʊ'bi:sɪti] — ожирение — Active children are less likely to suffer from obesity.

• diabetes [daɪə'bi:ti:z] — диабет — Sport can prevent diabetes by improving metabolism.

• heart disease — сердечное заболевание — Regular workouts decrease the risk of heart disease.

• additionally — кроме того — Additionally, sport improves sleep quality.

• manage weight — контролировать вес — Walking every day helps manage weight.

• increase flexibility — повышать гибкость — Stretching exercises increase flexibility.

• score — набирать очки / забивать гол — He scored the winning goal in the match.

• bring satisfaction — приносить удовлетворение — Achieving personal goals in sport brings satisfaction.

• contribute to — способствовать — Exercise contributes to better mental health.

• stranger — незнакомец — Sports events often bring together strangers who become friends.

• collaborative — совместный — Team sports encourage collaborative work.

• cater to — удовлетворять (потребности) — Fitness clubs cater to people of all ages.

• high-intensity — высокоинтенсивный — High-intensity training is effective for burning calories.

• ensure — обеспечивать, гарантировать — Good equipment ensures safe training.

• in conclusion — в заключение — In conclusion, sport is essential for a healthy life.

• promote — способствовать, продвигать — Governments should promote physical activity in schools.

• build social bonds — укреплять социальные связи — Playing football helps build social bonds between people.

• integral part — неотъемлемая часть — Sport is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle.

My favorite sport

My favorite sport is basketball. It is a team sport where two teams of five players each try to score points by throwing a ball through the opponent’s hoop. I like basketball because it is fast-paced and exciting. You have to run, jump, and think quickly.

The game is played on a rectangular court with a hoop at each end. The players dribble the ball, pass it to teammates, and try to shoot it into the hoop. Each basket is worth two or three points, depending on where the player stands when shooting. The team with the most points at the end wins.

Basketball helps me stay fit and healthy. It builds my strength and improves my coordination. I also enjoy playing with friends. We work together as a team, and it is fun to see our hard work pay off. My favorite basketball player is LeBron James. He is very talented and works hard to be the best. Watching professional games is inspiring, and I learn new skills to try during practice.

Playing basketball makes me happy. It is a great way to relieve stress and enjoy time with friends. I hope to continue playing for many years.

• score points — набирать очки — In basketball, you score points by getting the ball through the hoop.

• opponent — соперник — Our opponents played very well in the final match.

• through the hoop — через кольцо — He threw the ball through the hoop from a long distance.

• fast-paced — динамичный, быстрый — Basketball is a fast-paced game that requires quick reactions.

• rectangular court — прямоугольная площадка — Basketball is usually played on a rectangular court.

• dribble — вести мяч (в баскетболе) — You must dribble the ball while moving.

• shoot — бросать мяч — He shot the ball and scored three points.

• be worth — стоить (иметь ценность, количество очков) — A shot from behind the three-point line is worth three points.

• improve one’s coordination — улучшать координацию — Playing basketball improves one’s coordination and reflexes.

• inspiring — вдохновляющий — The team’s inspiring performance motivated young players.

• relieve stress — снимать стресс — Playing basketball with friends helps relieve stress.

My favorite sport is tennis. Tennis is a game played by two or four players. You play on a rectangular court with a net in the middle. The players use rackets to hit a small, yellow ball back and forth over the net.

I enjoy tennis because it is both fun and challenging. It requires quick thinking and fast movements. You need good hand-eye coordination to hit the ball correctly. Sometimes, the game is played indoors, but I prefer playing outside because I love the fresh air.

In tennis, each player tries to score points by hitting the ball where the opponent cannot return it. A match is usually played in sets, and you need to win six games to win a set. The player who wins the most sets wins the match.

Tennis is a great way to stay healthy and fit. It helps build strong muscles and improves balance. I also like that I can play tennis with a friend or join a club to meet new people.

My favorite tennis player is Serena Williams. She is strong and has won many championships. Watching her play inspires me to improve my skills. I always have a great time on the tennis court.

• rectangular court — прямоугольная площадка — Tennis is played on a rectangular court divided by a net.

• net — сетка — The ball must go over the net to stay in play.

• in the middle — посередине — The net stands in the middle of the court.

• racket — ракетка — Each player uses a racket to hit the ball.

• back-and-forth — туда-сюда, обмен ударами — The players hit the ball back-and-forth for several minutes.

• require — требовать — Tennis requires both physical strength and strategy.

• hand-eye coordination — координация глаз и рук — Badminton improves hand-eye coordination.

• set — сет (часть матча) — The match was decided in three sets.

• inspire — вдохновлять — Watching professional players can inspire young athletes to train harder.

My favorite sport is gymnastics. I like it because it is beautiful, strong, and creative at the same time. In gymnastics, athletes use their whole body to show balance, power, and flexibility. There are many types of gymnastics, such as artistic, rhythmic, and trampoline. My favorite type is artistic gymnastics, where people perform on the floor, beam, bars, or rings.

When I watch gymnasts, I am always surprised by their control and focus. They jump, spin, and flip in the air, but they still land with a smile. It looks easy, but I know it takes many years of training. Gymnasts usually start when they are very young, because the body needs to be strong and flexible.

I like gymnastics because it combines sport and art. It is not only about being strong but also about showing elegance and style. The music, the costumes, and the movements together make a beautiful performance.

Gymnastics also teaches important life skills. It gives discipline, confidence, and courage. Even if you are not a professional, you can practice gymnastics to stay healthy and fit. That is why gymnastics is my favorite sport.

• athlete — спортсмен — The athlete trained for months before the competition.

• whole — целый, весь — The whole team supported the gymnast during her routine.

• flexibility — гибкость — Flexibility is very important in gymnastics.

• trampoline — батут — The gymnast jumped high on the trampoline.

• beam — бревно — She performed a difficult routine on the balance beam.

• bars — брусья — He trained on the parallel bars every day.

• rings — кольца — The athlete showed great strength on the rings.

• spin — вращаться — The gymnast did a perfect spin in the air.

• courage — смелость — It takes courage to perform in front of thousands of people.

• land — приземляться — The gymnast managed to land without mistakes.

• performance — выступление — Her performance was the best in the competition.

• confidence — уверенность — Confidence helps athletes show their skills under pressure.

Sample #1

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about keeping fit. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• what makes sport important in teenagers’ lives nowadays;

• what young people do to stay healthy and fit apart from sport;

• how you usually spend your free time;

• what your attitude to doing sports is.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about keeping fit.

I believe, doing sport is very important for modern teenagers because it helps them stay healthy and strong. It also gives more energy and reduces stress from school. Sports teach teamwork and discipline, which are useful in life. Teenagers can make new friends while playing games together. Finally, sport keeps them away from bad habits and helps them spend time in a good way.

Well, young people can keep fit not only with sport but also by eating healthy food. They try to drink enough water and avoid too much fast food or sweets. Many teenagers like walking or cycling instead of taking a bus. Some of them also do simple exercises at home, like stretching or yoga. Sleeping well and having rest is another important way to stay fit and strong.

To tell you the truth, in my free time, I enjoy reading interesting books and listening to music. Sometimes I watch films or play games on the computer. I also like walking outside, especially when the weather is nice. Meeting friends and talking with them makes me happy. Free time helps me relax and forget about school stress.

I’m convinced doing sports activities is very important and beneficial. They help me stay healthy and fit, making daily life easier and more enjoyable. Sports activities are also a great way to make new friends and learn teamwork. Overall, I believe that staying active is essential for both physical and mental well-being.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about keeping fit. Thank you for listening.

Sample #2

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about sports. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• why so many young people are interested in sports these days;

• what kinds of sports clubs and teams are available at your school;

• what you usually do to stay in good shape;

• how you feel about sports.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about sports.

To my mind, many young people do sports nowadays because they want to stay healthy and energetic. Sports also help them reduce stress and improve their mood after a busy day. Another reason is that physical activities allow them to build confidence and make new friends. Overall, doing sports is seen as a good way to balance both physical and mental well-being.

As far as I can remember, in my school, there are several sports clubs that students can join. Boys usually take part in the football and basketball clubs, where they can train and play matches. Girls often attend the gymnastics studio, which focuses on strength, balance, and flexibility.

Well, to keep fit, I try to exercise regularly and follow a healthy routine. I usually go jogging in the park or do simple workouts at home. Eating balanced meals with enough fruit and vegetables also helps me stay strong. I make sure to get enough sleep because rest is important for good health.

Of course, I have a very positive attitude to doing sports activities because they are good for both body and mind. Sports help me stay energetic, reduce stress, and concentrate better on my studies. I also enjoy the social side of sports, as they give me the chance to meet new people and work as part of a team. In general, I believe sports are an important part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about sports. Thank you for listening.

Sample #3

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about keeping fit. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• why many people choose a healthy lifestyle these days;

• what your way of staying healthy and fit is;

• what sports are popular with teenagers in your area, and why;

• how important a healthy lifestyle is to you.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about keeping fit.

From my perspective, a healthy lifestyle is popular nowadays because people want to live longer and feel better. Many understand that good food and regular exercise prevent serious illnesses. Social media also influences this trend, as many bloggers and celebrities promote fitness and healthy habits. In addition, young people often choose sports and balanced diets to look good and have more energy.

Well, to keep fit, I try to do sports several times a week, such as running or swimming. I also eat healthy food with lots of vegetables and fruit. Drinking enough water and sleeping well are important for my energy. In addition, I avoid fast food and try to spend more time outdoors.

As far as I’m aware, in my region, many teenagers enjoy playing football because it is exciting and easy to play in teams. Basketball is also popular, especially in schools, where students join clubs and competitions. Some teenagers prefer individual sports like swimming or athletics to improve their health and strength. Recently, fitness training and cycling have also become trendy among young people.

I must admit, I have a positive attitude to a healthy lifestyle because it makes me feel strong and active. I believe that eating well and doing sports are important for both body and mind. For me, it is not only useful but also enjoyable to live in a healthy way.

That’s all I wanted to tell you about keeping fit. Thank you for listening.

Vocabulary Bank

• football / soccer — футбол — Football is the most popular sport in the world.

• basketball — баскетбол — Basketball is played on a rectangular court with a hoop.

• volleyball — волейбол — We often play volleyball on the beach.

• tennis — теннис — Tennis requires good hand-eye coordination.

• table tennis — настольный теннис — Table tennis is fast and exciting.

• badminton — бадминтон — Badminton is a common summer sport.

• swimming — плавание — Swimming is a great way to stay fit.

• athletics / track and field — лёгкая атлетика — Athletics includes running, jumping and throwing.

• running / jogging — бег / пробежка — Many people go jogging in the morning.

• cycling — езда на велосипеде — Cycling is popular both as sport and transport.

• gymnastics — гимнастика — Gymnastics improves flexibility and balance.

• skiing — лыжный спорт — Skiing is very popular in winter.

• ice skating — катание на коньках — Ice skating is fun in winter parks.

• boxing — бокс — Boxing requires strength and courage.

• martial arts — боевые искусства — Martial arts teach discipline and self-control.

• healthy lifestyle — здоровый образ жизни — Sport is part of a healthy lifestyle.

• stay healthy — оставаться здоровым — Regular training helps people stay healthy.

• keep fit — поддерживать форму — I go to the gym to keep fit.

• relieve stress — снимать стресс — Sport helps relieve stress after school or work.

• team spirit — командный дух — Playing football builds team spirit.

• competition — соревнование — Competitions motivate athletes to do their best.

• sense of achievement — чувство достижения — Winning a medal gives athletes a sense of achievement.

• popularity — популярность — Football enjoys worldwide popularity.

• entertainment — развлечение — Sport is not only healthy but also entertainment.

• inspire — вдохновлять — Famous athletes inspire young people to do sport.

• role model — образец для подражания — Olympic champions often become role models.

• bring people together — объединять людей — Sport can bring people together from different countries.

• improve mood — улучшать настроение — Sport helps improve mood and confidence.

• challenge — вызов — Sport gives people a challenge and helps them grow.

• enjoyment — удовольствие — Many people play sport for enjoyment, not just competition.

• do exercise — заниматься спортом — It’s important to do exercise three times a week.

• work out — тренироваться — I work out at the gym regularly.

• training — тренировка — Daily training is necessary for professional athletes.

• warm-up — разминка — A warm-up helps avoid injuries.

• stretching — растяжка — Stretching increases flexibility.

• balanced diet — сбалансированное питание — A balanced diet is essential for good health.

• manage weight — контролировать вес — Sport helps people manage their weight.

• strengthen muscles — укреплять мышцы — Push-ups strengthen arm muscles.

• improve stamina — улучшать выносливость — Running helps improve stamina.

• burn calories — сжигать калории — Swimming burns a lot of calories.

• boost energy — повышать уровень энергии — Exercise can boost energy for the whole day.

• build endurance — развивать выносливость — Cycling helps build endurance.

• improve coordination — улучшать координацию — Dancing improves coordination and balance.

• high-intensity training — высокоинтенсивная тренировка — High-intensity training is very effective for fitness.

• regular activity — регулярная активность — Regular activity is key to staying fit.

• rest and recovery — отдых и восстановление — Athletes need enough rest and recovery after training.

7. Animals

Saving Endangered Animals

Saving endangered animals is an important task for everyone. Many animals today are at risk of disappearing forever. There are several reasons why this is happening. One major reason is the loss of habitat. As cities grow and forests are cut down, animals lose their homes. Another reason is pollution, which harms the places where animals live. Climate change also plays a big role, affecting the weather patterns and making it hard for some animals to survive.

To save endangered animals, we can take some simple steps. First, we can try to protect their habitats. This means creating and maintaining national parks and wildlife reserves where animals can live safely. We can also support organizations that work to save these creatures. Many people volunteer or donate money to help.

Education is another key part of saving endangered species. By learning about the animals and the problems they face, we can make better choices in our daily lives. Schools can teach children about the importance of conservation and the role each person can play.

Reducing pollution and recycling can also help protect these animals. By making our planet cleaner, we create a safer environment for wildlife. Each small action, such as using less plastic, can make a big difference.

In conclusion, saving endangered animals requires effort from each of us. By protecting their habitats, supporting conservation efforts, and living more sustainably, we can help ensure that these animals do not vanish from the world. Together, we can make a positive impact and preserve nature for future generations.

• save — спасать — We must save endangered animals from extinction.

• endangered animals — вымирающие животные — Endangered animals need special protection from people.

• be at risk of — находиться под угрозой — Many species are at risk of disappearing forever.

• disappear — исчезать — Some creatures may disappear if we don’t protect their habitats.

• major reason — главная причина — The major reason for extinction is loss of habitat.

• loss of habitat — утрата среды обитания — Urbanization causes the loss of habitat for many animals.

• cut down — вырубать — When people cut down forests, animals lose their homes.

• pollution — загрязнение — Water pollution harms fish and other sea creatures.

• harm — причинять вред — Plastic waste harms turtles in the ocean.

• affect — влиять — Climate change affects the lives of many animals.

• weather pattern — погодные условия — Changing weather patterns make it harder for animals to survive.

• survive — выживать — Polar bears find it difficult to survive as ice melts.

• habitat — среда обитания — Protecting natural habitats is essential for conservation.

• creature — существо — Every creature has the right to live on our planet.

• face — сталкиваться с — Endangered animals face many dangers today.

• conservation — сохранение, охрана природы — Conservation projects help protect rare species.

• reduce — сокращать — We can reduce waste by recycling paper and plastic.

• recycling — переработка — Recycling helps reduce pollution and save resources.

• require — требовать, нуждаться в — Conservation requires money, effort, and international cooperation.

• effort — усилие — It takes effort to save endangered animals.

• sustainably — устойчиво, экологично — We should use natural resources sustainably.

• vanish — исчезнуть — Some rare species may vanish within a few decades.

• make a positive impact — оказывать положительное влияние — Even small actions can make a positive impact on the environment.

• generation — поколение — Our generation must protect nature for the future.

Sample #1

Task 3. You are going to give a talk about animals. You will have to start in 1.5 minutes and speak for not more than 2 minutes (10–12 sentences).

Remember to say:

• which wild animals can be found in your region;

• whether you think wild animals can be pets / why/why not;

• what the reasons are for building zoos in urban areas;

• what you think about zoos.

You have to talk continuously.

Today I’m going to give a talk about animals.

You know, in my region, there are several interesting wild animals. We often see deer in the forests, which are graceful and beautiful. Foxes, hares, elks and squirrels are also common and can sometimes be spotted near the fields or in the countryside.

I’m convinced that it is not a good idea to keep a wild animal as a pet because such animals belong in their natural environment. They need special conditions, space, and food that are difficult to provide at home. Wild animals can be dangerous and may harm people even if they seem calm. It is much better to protect them in nature or special wildlife centers instead of keeping them in houses.

Well, people build zoos in cities and towns to let people see animals from different parts of the world. Zoos help to educate visitors, especially children, about wildlife and nature. They also take part in protecting endangered species and breeding rare animals. Besides, zoos are popular places for family recreation and spending free time outdoors.

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