Олімпіадні завдання 2012-2013

Listening Comprehension Test for 8th

Form Students

Text

Girl on the Titanic Make sure you know the following words:

a lookout – спостерігач, людина на вахті , engine – двигун, steward – стюард,

life jacket – рятувальний жилет, lifeboat – рятувальна шлюпка

Ruth Becker was twelve years old in March 1912 when she travelled from India to

England with her little brother, Richard, aged one, her sister, Marion, aged four, and their

mother. They were on their way home to the USA.

After travelling by boat through the Suez Canal and across the Mediterranean Sea, they

arrived in England. They planned to cross the Atlantic Ocean to the USA in a famous new ship,

the Titanic.

The Titanic was the biggest and most modern ship in the world, and this was its first

voyage. It was as long as three football fields and eleven storeys high. The newspapers said the

Titanic was like a palace. They also said it could not sink.

When the Titanic left England, the weather was good. For the first four days the

passengers enjoyed life on the ship. Then, on Sunday, April 14, the weather turned cold. The

northern part of the Atlantic is near the Arctic Circle, so there were icebergs in the water. At

11.40 p.m. a lookout saw a big iceberg 500 metes ahead. An officer tried to turn the ship, but it

was going too fast, and the Titanic hit the iceberg.

At first nobody was worried. Just after midnight, Ruth and her mother woke up. There

was a strange silence because the ship’s engines had stopped. Ruth’s mother got up and spoke to

a steward outside her cabin. He said, “Don’t worry. It’s only a small problem”.

She went to bed, but some time later a steward knocked on their door and said, “Put your

life jackets on and go up to the lifeboat deck”.

“Do we have time to dress?” she asked. “No, Madam, you have time for nothing. The

ship is sinking”.

Ruth and her mother woke the two younger children. They put coats over their

nightclothes and ran up the stairs to the lifeboats. There were not enough lifeboats, so the captain

said, “Women and children first.” Man had to say goodbye to their families and stay on the ship.

It was very cold, so Mrs. Becker sent Ruth back to their cabin for warm blankets. When

Ruth returned, officers were putting her little brother and sister into a boat. Ruth’s mother got

into a boat with them, but an officer stopped Ruth and said, “Sorry. It’s full”. He lowered the

boat into the sea, and Ruth was left on the ship.

Ruth mother shouted, “Ruth! Get on the next lifeboat!” A few minutes later, Ruth was in

another lifeboat. But more than 1,500 people were still on the ship.

Then the great ship broke into two halves. The front half sank below the water, and two

minutes later the other half sank. Hundreds of people were in the water, crying for help. But

nobody could help them because the lifeboats were dangerously full.

About three hours later, Ruth saw a light from another ship. When the ship got to them, Ruth was

so cold that she could not move. Men pulled her onto the ship and gave her a hot drink.

Then Ruth ran all over the ship, looking for her mother and her brother and sister. She

watched as other lifeboats came in. Hours later she found them. All three of them were safe.

In the end, 705 people were saved. But many were not as lucky as Ruth. More than 1,500

people died in the freezing water. And Ruth Becker? She lived a long life. She finished school

and went to university, became a teacher, had tree children, and lived to the age of 90.


Form Students Girl on the Titanic

Task 1. Put (+) if the statement is true, and (-) if the statement is false.

1) The story about Ruth Becker is true.

2) The newspapers said the Titanic was too big.

3) When the steward knocked on the door, he said the problem was with the ship’s engine.

4) When they left their cabin, they didn’t have enough time to get fully dressed.

5) There were too few life jackets

6) After she was safe, Ruth looked for her family.

7) Most of the passengers got away in lifeboats.

8) All the men had to stay on the ship.

9) The Titanic sunk because it was the biggest ship in the world.

10) The tragedy happened on the night of 14th

April, 1912

Task 2. Circle the right answer A, B, C, or D

11. Ruth Becker was...

A. English B. American C. Indian D. German

12. Ruth and her family .... in England.

A. lived B. got on the Titanic C. began their long Journey D. finished their long journey

13. Before March 1912 the Titanic...

A. didn’t make a voyage B. was not built C. was not in the news D. made a voyage

14. The Titanic hit..

A. a bad storm B. a large piece of ice C. the Arctic Circle D. a rock

15 .Just after midnight, the steward told Ruth’s mother..

A. the problem wasn’t serious. C. to put on her jacket.

B. to wake the children. D. to go to sleep

16. What did they have to do very quickly?

A. leave their cabin B get dressed C. pack their suitcases D. wake up

17. Before they could all get in a lifeboat, Ruth and her family...

A. became separated C. said goodbye to each other

B. fell into the water D. fell asleep.

18. After three hours, Ruth...

A. was warm B. saw a ship C cried for help D. was in the same boat

19. No one in Ruth’s family...

A. put a life jacket on B. was in the other ship C. died D. was cold

20. Ruth Becker died...

A. when she was 80. B. when the Titanic sank.

C. after a long full life. D. just after she finished school.

Writing Comprehension Test For 8th

Form Students

Is fashion as silly as it looks?

One thing I do understand about fashion is that it’s expensive. If you are a fashionable

woman, of course, it costs you more and it’s harder work – hair or skirts have to be longer or

shorter, for example. For some reason men do not have the problem of short trousers one year

and long ones the next.

But is fashion really as silly as it seems? Cathy Elston is a fashion designer and illustrator

who has taught fashion design. I asked her what she thought.

Cathy does not think the fashion to be silly. She also believes that clothes help us to say

what kind of people we are and that they make the world interesting. People enjoy this – and that

is a good thing.

“Clothes provide us with an environment of moving color and form; not only that, people

enjoy thinking about what to wear. Without fashion what would people wear? Uniforms would

take away our freedom of choice and I do not believe the world would be a happier place if we

all dressed the same.

Cathy thinks that fashions now give us more choice than there has ever been before, and

she says: “Changing attitudes give us the freedom to wear whatever we like.”

Perhaps she is right, and it is not always a choice between looking silly and looking old-

fashioned. Maybe it is possible to have men’s and women’s clothes that are comfortable and

sensible but that also look good.

Write an essay using the following prompts:

- People are often defined by what they have. What people wear,

where they live, and how they show off can sometimes accurately

reveal their character and personality. Do you think these are true

statements?

- Can they be applied to you?

- Do you think there is a better way to evaluate a person’s character?

How can we do it?

Speaking Comprehension for 8 Form Students

1. What extreme sport would you most like to try?

* Describe the sport, including, including the equipment required, uniform and rules.

* Why is it considered an extreme sport?

* What dangers can exist when somebody does an extreme sports?

2. You are the owner of a pet store, and you have been asked to speak about the importance of

having pets.

* Explane how to choose the right pet for you

* What benefits do pets offer their owners?

* What responsibilities do owners have to their pets?

3. Books have a positive influence on many people's lives.

* What childhood books influenced you the most?

* What do you think are important elements of a good story?

* If you could be any character from literature, who would you be and why?

4. Describe your dream house and why you want to live there.

* What does it look like?

* Where is it located?

* What things does it have?

5. What is the most important quality a friend can have?

* Why is this quality so important?

* Do your closest friends have this quality? Do you?

* How can you work to improve on this quality?

6. Imagine you are transported to another or fantasy world.

* What does your fantasy world look like?

* What makes it strange and interesting?

* How does it differ from our world?

7. What activities do you find enjoyable when you are by yourself?

* Why is this activity so enjoyable to you?

* How often do you spend time by yourself? Do you feel it is important to have time

alone? Why?

* Have you ever been afraid to spend time by yourself?

8. Discuss your favorite actor or actress.

* What plays, films or television shows have you seen this person in?

* Explain why they are your favourite actor or actress.

* Compare this person with another actor or actress and explain your choice ..

9. Choose a favorite holiday.

* Explain why you like this holiday so much.

* Tell a story from your life that illustrates what this holiday means to you.

* Explain how your family’s traditions are typical, or not, for Ukraine.

10. Do you like to keep pets?

* What kinds of animals are best as pets? Why?

* Are there some animals that should not be kept as pets?

* Why do you think so many people like to keep pets?

11. You can choose to have one supernatural ability or gift.

* What do you choose?

* Why will you choose this? Will you use it to help others, for personal gain, or for both?

* How do you think others will treat you because of your gift?

12. You are at a computer club waiting to use a computer. Someone who was not waiting takes

your computer and starts playing a game.

* What would you do? Why?

* Have you ever been in a situation like this? What did you do?

* Do you think that it is important to wait in line and respect others who are waiting?

13 Imagine that you are lost in the woods.

* What five things would you like to have with you in your rucksack?

* If you could have one other person with you, who would you choose and why?

* What is the first thing you would do once you got out of the woods? ..

14. You meet up with a friend who you haven’t seen for several years.

* Tell him\ her about the events in your family and in your school that have happened

since you last saw him\ her.

* Tell your friend how your goals have changed. What do you want to become?

* Invite your friend to an event that is coming up in the near future where he\she can see

some of your other old friends.

15. Ukrainian teenages often have responsibilities at school and at home.

* What are some of your responsibilities at home? At shool?

* Discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of working hard at school and

at home.

* How does age affect your responsibilities?

16. A pen pal from the United States decides to visit you in Ukraine.

* How can you help him or her prepare for this trip?

* What Ukrainian dishes will you make to give your friends a taste of Ukrainian food?

* Where will you take him or her in your town? What other towns would you like to visit

with your friend?

17. Tell us about the greatest teacher you have ever had.

* Why did you choose him or her?

* How did he or she influence your life?

* How can you use what he or she taught you to help others?

18. How important are experiences, such as traveling or meeting people from different cultures,

in our education?

* Do you feel that there is enough experience in your education?

* What do you feel has been your most important experience so far in your life?

* Is there anything you wish you have done, but didn’t? What is it? Why didn’t you do it?

19. Do you think exercise should be an important part of every person’s life?

* Do you play any sports? Dance? Go jogging? Do you like exercise?

* Can you see any difference in the people around you who do or do not exersise?

* What are the benefits of regular exercise?

20. Your school is having a competition in which students are designing a new school uniform.

* What colors and styles would you choose?

* Why do you think your design should be chosen?

* What are the advantages and disadvantages of school uniforms?


Form Students Text

The Giver (by Lois Lowry)

Anthem: хвалебна пісня, гімн

Hatchery: інкубаторна станція

Distraught: що збожеволів (від горя)

Jonas was careful about language. Not like his friend, Asher, who talked too

fast and mixed things up, scrambling words and phrases until they were barely

recognizable and often very funny.

Jones grinned, remembering the morning that Asher had dashed into the

classroom, late as usual, arriving breathlessly in the middle of the chanting of the

morning anthem. When the class took their seats at the conclusion of the patriotic

hymn, Asher remained standing to make his public apology as was required.

“I apologize for inconveniencing my learning community.” Asher ran

through the standard apology phrase rapidly, still catching his breath. The

instructor and class waited patiently for his explanation. The students had all been

grinning, because they had listened to Asher’s explanations so many times before.

“I left home at the correct time but when I was riding along near the

hatchery, the crew was separating some salmon. I guess I just got distraught,

watching them.”

“I apologize to my classmates,” Asher concluded. He smoothed his rumpled

tunic and sat down.

“We accept your apology, Asher.” The class recited the standard response in

unison. Many of the students were biting their lips to keep from laughing.

“I accept your apology, Asher,” the instructor said. He was smiling. “And I

thank you, because once again you have provided an opportunity for a lesson in

language. “Distraught” is too strong an adjective to describe salmon-viewing.” He

turned and wrote “distraught” on the instructional board. Beside it he wrote

“distracted.”

Jonas, nearing his home now, smiled at the recollection. Thinking still, as he

wheeled his bike into its narrow port beside the door, he realized that frightened

was the wrong word to describe his feelings, now that December was almost here.

It was too strong an adjective.


Form Students The Giver (by Lois Lowry)


1. Jonas was not as careful about language as Asher.

2. Asher arrived after the chanting of the morning anthem.

3. Asher was required to make a public apology.

4. The class rarely heard Asher’s explanations.

5. Asher was late because he stopped at the hatchery.

6. The crew was separating trout.

7. Many students bit their lips to keep from laughing at Asher.

8. The class recited the standard response together.

9. Asher had provided an opportunity for a lesson in tardiness.

10. Jonas realized that “distracted” was too strong a word to describe how he feels.


11. Jonas was more ____ about language than Asher.

A .careless B. careful C. thoughtful D. understanding

12. Asher talked fast and ...

A. confused himself B. made no sense.

C. said the wrong words D. forgot what he was saying

13. Asher had ____ into the classroom.

A. sprinted B. walked C. dashed D. waltzed

14. How did the Instructor and class wait for Asher’s explanation?

A. patiently B. attentively C. quietly D. expectantly

15. Asher left home...

A. early B. after breakfast C. late D. on time

16. He said he became ____ at the hatchery.

A. distracted B. disturbed C. discouraged D. distraught

17. What was Asher wearing?

A. a suit B. a tunic C. a turtleneck D. a T-shirt

18. After Asher’s apology the instructor was ...

A. happy B. sad C. crying D. giggling

19. Asher had used too strong ...

A. a sound B. a smell C. a word D an adverb

20. What word should he have used?

A. distracted B. distraught C. discouraged D. disturbed

Writing Comprehension Test for 9th

Form Students

Why study when you can surf? ( by John Clare)

What impact has the Government’s huge investment in school computers had on

educational standards? Very little, according to a study commissioned by the Department for

Education. As I reported it could find “no consistent relationship” between computer use and

pupil achievement in any subject at any age.

The day after the report appeared, I had a phone call from Peter Whittaker, the

headmaster of Hall Green, a comprehensive in Birmingham. He said he was astonished by the

finding, which was the opposite of his own experience. So he invited me to see everything ‘first

hand”.

In some respects, Hall Green is an average school. In others, it is most unusual. its results

make it one of the most successful comprehensives in Birmingham: boys and girls do equally

well. Mr. Whittaker is a dedicated and independent-minded head.

To test Mr. Whittaker’s conviction that computers have helped raise standards, I asked to

sit in on lessons in which the machines were being used.

The first was an English class. The topic was Shakespeare. John Kennedy, the head of

English, had spent an hour selecting websites. They included one on the Globe theatre and

another on Scottish witchcraft. The children’s task was to look through them and transfer the bits

they found interesting into their computer folders. Most spent the 35 minute lesson scrolling

aimlessly through the sites, passing occasionally at the pictures. At the end, I asked the teacher

what the pupils had learnt about Shakespeare. I was given an answer; “It is a way of making

Shakespeare more accessible”.

Next was a lesson in Information and Communication Technology. The pupils were

designing web pages, which meant writing something – typically about cars, pop stars or sport –

and illustrating it with pictures downloaded from the internet. Although it was their fifth lesson

on the subject, few had written more than a poorly spelt paragraph or two, and some nothing at

all. As one explained: “It took me so much time looking for the pictures. Mr. Whittaker said:

“Computers motivate the children. also, when they get a job, they’ll have to be able to do these

things.”

I visited five lessons. In all five lessons the subject had become subservient to the

technology. Far from motivating the children, it distracted them. Small wonder, then, that

computers- despite the & 2 billion spent on them – have done so little to raise educational

standards.

Some educators argue that every child in every school should have access to

computers. Others believe that the value of computers in the classroom is overrated

and that computers may actually interfere with the learning process.

- Which point of view do you agree with? Why?

- How important are computers in the classroom?

- What are the advantages and disadvantages of having computers in

schools?

Speaking Comprehension Test for 9th

Form Students

1. Imagine you are in charge of giving five billion dollars to any one country in the world. What

country would you give add to, and why does this country deserve it?

* How has this country demonstrated a need for the money?

* What criteria did you use to make your decision?

*How could you ensure that the money would not be wasted?

2. In the age of computers and instant information, we are constantly exposed to the latest news

and information.

* What influences your choices when selecting what contents to view?

* How should people sort and filter the information they take in?

* What are the positives and negatives of such constant exposure?

3. The proverb,”The more languages you speak, the more of a person you are,” is often heard in

our language classrooms. What does this saying mean to you?

* Do you agree with this proverb?

* Do you know any examples of people who embody this statement?

* How does knowing more than one language enrich your life?

4. You decide to write a history book

* What time period do you decide to focus on?

* What area of the world do you write about?

* Do you think history books are important for understanding today’s world?

5. If you had a time machine, what time would you like to travel to and why?

* What would you do there?

* What people would you like to meet?

* What kinds of things would you see?

6. What if you could be president of Ukraine for one day? What would you do?

* Who would you meet?

*Where would you go?

* What issue would you want to deal with?

7. Describe your dream job

* What would you do?

* Where would you work?

* Who would be your colleagues?

8. You are leaving home for university and your future roommate calls you

* Tell him\her about yourself

* Try to come up with some rules for the hostel room\apartment while you are living

with each other

* Explain the chores that you will do and what you would prefer not to do.

Try to establish a schedule of housework

9. You find a magical mirror that can show you anything in the world

* What do you want to see?

* Why do you want to see it?

* What will you do with this information?

10. You are a famous artist. You have just completed your best painting

* What does your painting look like?

*What does this painting convey to others?

* What does this painting tell others about you?

11. Do you agree that every person has the right to dress and act how he or she wants to?

* When you see someone in unusual clothes do you laugh at them?

* If somebody speaks in an unusual way do you make jokes about that person?

* Has anyone ever made a joke about your clothes or behavior? How did you feel?

12. Imagine you are a superhero in a comic book, like Superman or Spiderman. What kind of

hero would you want to be?

* What special power would you want to have?

* How would you use this power, to help others or for personal gain?

* How might your everyday life as a superhero differ from your real life?.

13. You are a star athlete. Talk about what sport you play.

* If you play on a team, what team do you play for and what position do you have?

* How did you get famous in this sport? How long have you been playing?

* What kind of training do you have? How often? How long?

14. Today many countries in the world place a lot of importance on learning English in schools.

* What do you think are the reasons for this attention?

* Will English help you in your life? How will you use English after you finish school?

* Will it be important to help you communicate or work with people? How?

15. Today many students in schools have mobile phones. Many of them do not always turn their

phones off before going to their lessons.

* Is it necessary for pupils to have mobile phones? Why do you think so?

* Do mobile phones interrupt teachers and students? How about text messages?

* Should teachers be able to take phones from students? In which cases should they?

16. If you had to move to a new planet and could only take three things what would you bring?

* What food would you want with you?

* What would you take to hunt with?

- * How would these items help you in your new surroundings?

17. Social networking sites (like Facebook) are becoming more and more popular.

* Do you see social networking as a positive or negative thing? Why?

* If all social networking sites were shut down forever, how would your life be affected?

* In what way do social networks affect communication between people?

18. Discuss your favorite actor or actress.

* What plays, films or television shows have you see this person in?

* Explain why they are your favorite actor or actress

* Compare this person with another actor or actress and explain your choice.

19. Your school is going to start a new club after school. Your director has asked you for advice

* What kind of club do you think the students would benefit from the most?

* What would your role be in organizing this club?

*Do you think that students could run this club by themselves or do you think you need

teachers or other adults to help ?

20. Mahatma Gandhi said, “The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the

strong”.

* What is your opinion of this statement?

* Is there a time when you have forgiven someone even though it was difficult?

* Do you regret your decision? Why or why not?


Form Students

Global Warming to Kill Off a Million Species (by Paul Brown)

The changing climate over the next 50 years is expected to drive a quarter of land animals

and plants into extinction, according to the first comprehensive study into the effect of higher

temperatures on the natural world. The scale of the disaster facing the planet shocked those

involved in the research. They estimate that more than 1 million species will be lost by 2050.

The results are described as “terrifying” by Chris Thomas, professor of conservation

biology at Leeds University, who is lead author of the research from four continents published

last week in the magazine Nature. Much of that loss – more than one in 10 of all plants and

animals, is already irreversible because of the extra global warming gases already discharged

into the atmosphere. But the scientists say that action to curb greenhouse gases now could save

many more. It took two years for the largest global collaboration of experts to make the first

major assessment of the effect of climate change on six biologically rich regions of the world

taking in 20% of the land surface. The research in Europe, Australia, Central and South America,

and South Africa, showed that species living in mountainous areas had a greater chance of

survival because they could move uphill to get cooler.

Professor Thomas said: “When scientists set about research they hope to come up with

definite results, but what we found we wish we had not. It was far, far worse than we thought,

and what we have discovered may even be an underestimate.”

Among the more startling findings of the scientists was that of 24 species of butterfly

studied in Australia, all but three would disappear in much of the current range, and half would

become extinct.

In South Africa, major conservation areas such as Kruger National Park risked losing up

to 60% of the species under their protection, while of 300 South African plant species studied,

more than one third were expected to die out, including the national flower, the King Protea.

In the Cerrado region of Brazil which covers one fifth of the country, a study of 163 tree

species showed that up to 70 would become extinct. Many of the plants and trees that exist in

this savannah occur nowhere else in the world. In Europe, the continent least affected by climate

change, survival rates were better.

Studies in Mexico Chihuahuan desert confirmed that on flatter land extinction was more

likely because a small change in climate would require migrations over vast distances for

survival. One third of 1,870 species examined would be in trouble.

So many species are already destined for extinction because it takes at least 25 years for

greenhouse effect – or the trapping of the sun’s rays by the carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous

oxide – to have its full effect on the planet. The continuous discharge of more greenhouse gasses,

particularly by the United States and European nations, is making matters worse. The research

says that, if mankind continues to burn oil, coal, and gas at the current rate, up to one third of all

life forms will be doomed by 2050.


Form Students

Global Warming to Kill Off a Million Species (by Paul Brown)


1. Professor Thomas thinks the research may be worse than predicted.

2. Brazil will not be affected by the loss of species.

3. The greenhouse effect is necessary to keep plants and animals alive.

4. 40% of all land animals will become extinct by 2050.

5. The loss of plants and animals is primarily due to global warming gases.

6. It is already too late to save some species.

7. Europe will lose the most plant and animal species.

8. Professor Thomas indicated that he and the other scientists were happy about their

findings.

9. Flatter land will experience higher extinction rates.

10. The national flower of South Africa is predicated to become extinct.


11. Why is the loss of more than 10% of all plants and animals described as irreversible?

A. It is impossible to prevent the greenhouse effect.

B. The gases that will kill these species have already been discharged into atmosphere.

C. It took two years for the scientists to make their assessment.

D. The species are already gone.

12. Why do species living in mountainous areas have a greater chance of survival?

A. The air is cooler

B. They can move to where the air is cooler.

C. There are fewer species in mountainous areas.

D. Mountains will protect the animals from predators.

13. Which sentence best describes how Professor Thomas feels about the results of the research?

A. He is disappointed C. He is lethargic

B. He is optimistic D. He is satisfied

14. What will happen to the national flower of South Africa?

A. It will be conserved in the Kruger National Park.

B. It will be protected.

C. It will become extinct.

D. It will grow in South America.

15. What is the greenhouse effect?

A. The continuous discharge of greenhouse gasses.

B. The trapping of the sun’s rays by carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous gas.

C. The burning of oil, coal and gas.

D. The increase of global temperature.

Listening Comprehension Test for 10

th Form Students

16. Why is Europe expected to have greater survival rates?

A. The continent is less affected by changes in climate.

B. There are fewer species of plants and animals.

C. Europeans are working to decrease greenhouse gases.

D. European animals will move to Asia.

17. What contributes to the greenhouse effect?

A. The loss of plant species

B. Climate change

C. The melting of the polar ice caps.

D. The burning of oil, coal and gas.

18. What best describes the main idea of the article?

A. Many butterflies will soon become extinct.

B. Global sea levels will soon rise because of climate change.

C. Our planet will lose many species of land animals and plants.

D. Plants and animals in the water face extinction.

19. What do scientists predict will happen to species in flat areas?

A. They will be forced to migrate.

B. They will adapt to the climate change.

C. They will be safe from climate change.

D. They will live in mountainous areas.

20. The loss of more than 1 in 10 of all plants and animals is ...

A. irreversible C. unexpected

B. reversible D. impossible


Form Students

A Not-So-Plane Jane from Spain (by Jennifer Orodones)

When Paz Vega got the call that she’d won a starring role in a big-budget Hollywood

movie, she thought the gods must be crazy. “It was shocking,” she says. “it seemed impossible.”

Vega, an onyx-haired actress from Spain, spoke hardly a word in English. But that wasn’t a deal

breaker for James L Brooks, who was making a comedy called “Spanglish”, his first film in eight

years. Vega plays Flor, housekeeper to a privileged, mixed-up family headed by Adam Sandler

and Tea Leoni. “When I got here they gave me my schedule for the next two months, and I

started to cry,” she says. “I was not sure if I could do it.” And English wasn’t Vega’s only

problem. She had to be coached on her Spanish, too – she could deliver her lines like a Mexican.

Brooks, a director who is notoriously hard to please, initially hoped to find an actress

with Mexican roots, but says that Vega simply nailed the part in the five-hour audition. “Flor’s

face just has to entice us,” Brook says. “We have to feel like we know what she’s saying, without

really knowing what she is saying.” Vega says she is still hitting the books hard. Ultimately, she

would like to eliminate her Spanish accent entirely. “I don’t want to play only Latin women,”

she says. “I want to have roles in English.” That could take a while. In the meantime, don’t be

surprised if some “Spanglish” fans start brushing up on their Spanish.

Different languages are spoken throughout the world everyday. There are

many people in the world who can understand or speak more than one language.

There are also many people who can speak only their native language.

- Why do you think some people do not want to learn another language?

- Do you think it is important to understand more than just your native

language? Explain

- How would the world be different if more people were multilingual?


Form Students

1. Social networking sites like vKontakte and Facebook are seemingly all over the place. Do you

see this as a good thing or bad thing? Why?

*If all social networking sites were shut down forever, how would it affect your life?

* Aside from socializing with friends, what other users do social networking sites have?

* How can social networking sites be used as an agent of social change in Ukraine?

2. Many people think that parents are the most important role models.

* Are your parents your role models? If not, who are your role models?

* What qualities do you feel are important in a good role model?

* What responsibilities do role models have?

3. Some people argue that a film is never as good as its book version

* Do you agree with this statement?

* What differences generally exist between books and their film adaptations?

* If you could make any book into film, which would you choose and why?

4. A resent study suggests that half of Europe's teenagers use the Internet without parental

supervision.

* Do you believe that teenagers should be able to use the Internet without supervision?

* What are some potential problems with unsupervised internet use?

* What measures should teenagers take to protect themselves against these threats?

5. If you could live in any time period in Ukraine:

* When would you choose to live?

* Where in the country would you want to live?

* What would you want to be doing in that time period?

6 “People behave differently when they wear different clothes.”

.* Do you agree or disagree with the above statement?

* What kinds of different clothes do you wear, and does it influence your behavior?

* How can someone’s appearance affect the way people judge them?.

7. Holidays are an important time to spend with friends and family.

* What is your favorite holiday?

* How do you celebrate this holiday?

* What traditions do you and your family and friends have?

8. Eating organic food (food grown without chemicals) has become very popular.

* Why do people prefer organic food to inorganic food?

* How have supermarkets and fast food restaurants responded to this trend?

* Do you think this trend will last? Why or why not?

9. You are going on a trip to another country for two weeks. How would you plan your trip?

* Where would you go? With whom would you go? Why?

* Would you travel more for adventure, to learn, or to see historical sites?

* What kind of preparations would you make? Describe one day in your itinerary?

10. Some people argue that the content of mainstream media such as TV, movies, video games,

and the Internet has a negative influence on young people.

* Do you think that mainstream media negatively influences young people?

* What are some positive and negative aspects of the content of these media?

* If there are negative effects, what can we do to combat them?

11. Because of increasing globalization, many cultures have started to lose some of their own

traditions while gaining those of others.

* What do you think about this phenomenon?

* How important are your cultural traditions to you? What are the disadvantages of losing

your own cultural traditions?

* What are the advantages of knowing the culture and traditions of others?

12. Do you think the “traditional” roles of men and women are changing in Ukraine?

* How have men’s roles changed? What new roles do they have?

* How about women? What’s changed with them?

* Do you think these roles should change to meet the needs of present times? Why?

13. Imagine that you are a villain from your favorite book or movie. Give an apology to the hero

of the book or movie.

* What have you done wrong?

* What do you regret?

* How will you make amends?

14 The Internet and television have made the world a much smaller place, as virtually everyone

is aware of pop culture icons like David Beckham and Lady Gaga.

* Is it important to keep up with pop culture? Why or why not?

* If you stopped paying attention to pop culture, would you be able to participate in the

same kinds of conversation with your friends?

* Does pop culture create similar interests in people throughout the world regardless of

culture?...

15. You interact with teachers daily.

* What do you think of teaching as a profession? Is it important or not? Is it hard or easy?

* What position do teachers occupy in society?

* How do you think the profession of will change in your lifetime?

16. Some people say that they can't live without their mobile phone. Give example of an item

you can't live without.

* .Why is this so important to you?

* What was your life like before you had this item?

* What would you do if you lost it tomorrow?

17. It is said that learning more than one language allows you to "broaden your horizons", do you

agree or disagree?

* How has learning English affected your life?

* Are there any other languages you wish to speak? Why?

* How has learning English helped you understand your culture?

18. Discuss your favourite actor or actress.

* What plays, films or television shows have you seen this person in?

* Explain why they are your favourite actor or actress.

* Compare this person with another actor or actress and explain why your choice is best.

19. Do you think that money can buy happiness?

* When did money make your life easier?

* When did money make your life more difficult?

* There are some who say that it is impossible to be both rich and to have morals. Do you

agree or disagree? Explain

20. What is the most important quality a friend can have?

* Why is this quality so important?

* Do your closest friends have this quality? Do you?

* How can you work to improve on this quality?


Form Students Text

From “The Digital Divide” by Bill Thompson More than 600 million people worldwide have some sort of access to the Internet. That is an

astonishing number and reflects the rapid growth of the network since it was invented in the 1970s.

However, that still leaves about 5.5 billion people who do not use the Net and who have no access. Most

of these people live outside the developed Western countries. While over half of the United Kingdom

households are online, only 0.1 percent of homes in Bangladesh can claim the same.

Few politicians now talk about the digital divide as a major development issue, and there is a

growing sense that it is yesterday’s problem. As the cost of computers and network connectivity has come

down in the West, there is an unexplained assumption that the network is on its way to being generally

available to all who want it. This is not the case. The gap in the access to and use of the latest information

and communications technologies- computers, mobile phones, digital networks, even interactive

television- is wide as ever, and the consequences are being felt in all the poorer parts of the world.

It may seem inappropriate to consider access to technology in the same light as access to other

resources, like clean water, adequate health care, sufficient food, or educational opportunities, all of

which are thought to have priority in development plans.

However, it does not make sense to separate things out this way. If the growth of the Net in the

West has demonstrated anything it has shown how access to information and communication

opportunities has an impact on all aspects of life.

School children in London with net access from home have an advantage in going research for

homework, and a Punjab village with a working internet connection has an advantage in monitoring

weather patterns, knowing what the tides are doing or getting help with pest control.

Sometimes technology is part of the problem, not part of the solution. In the 1970s, many

developing countries were encouraged to base their farming on the heavy use of chemicals and machines.

But as the tractors broke down and the costs of pesticides rose, the result was famine and despair. The

same thing could happen with computers and networks, if we encourage dependency on technology that

cannot be maintained and does not meet real need.

This is less likely to happen if the computers are deployed sensitively, and if the impetus comes

from the local people who are solving the problems that matter to them. Two trends are particularly

promising. The first is that many developing countries are managing to leapfrog over the industrialized

world by using the latest technologies and missing all of the earlier stages.

Instead of installing a fixed-line telephone system, for example, a wireless mobile network can be

put in place far more cheaply and speedily. Instead of brick-like laptops being lugged around, super slim

models with long battery life can be used.

Second, we are seeing the development of appropriate technologies. The Simputer is the best

example of this so far-a powerful computer processor in an easy-to-use package available at low cost.

We can expect to see more-a mobile phone designed specifically for shared village use would be

the obvious next step.

While getting internet access to remote hill villages in the Andes or in India may not be as

important in itself as getting clean water or effective healthcare, the Net through e-mail or the web is

often a gateway to other resources and to self-reliance.

A mother who is worried about her child’s health can find out about childhood illnesses. A farmer

can take a beetle he finds on his crop and check it against a comprehensive catalogue on a CD-Rom in his

village. Children can learn about local history, world events or scientific advances in school, using

resources that would never be available in print because of the cost and the problems of distributing

books.

Perhaps it is time to update the old adage: “If you give me a fish, you feed me for a day. If you

teach me to fish, you feed me for life.” Maybe it should now say: “If you give me information, you

answer one of my questions. If you get me online, you let me answer my questions for myself.”


Form Students The Digital Divide” by Bill Thompson

Task 1. Put (+) if the statement is true, and (-) if the statement is false. 1. About 5.5 billion people worldwide have access to the Internet

2. More than half of UK households are connected to the Internet.

3. The decreased cost of Internet connection has made it available to almost all those who want it.

4. The gap in the access to and use of modern technologies has decreased since 1970.

5. Access to communication opportunities has an impact on only some aspects of life.

6. Dependency on technology has led to famine in many developing countries.

7. Installing a fixed-line telephone system is faster than creating a wireless mobile network.

8. The Simputer is a low-cost, easy-to-use computer processor.

9. The Internet can provide access to recourses usually unavailable because of high printing costs.

10. The suggested update to the old adage says: “If you get me online, you give me information.”

Task 2. Circle the right answer A, B, C, or D 11. What percentage of households in Bangladesh is connected to the Internet?

A. 0.5 B. 0.1 C. 5.5 D. 0.7

12. Many politicians now view the “digital divide” as ...

A. a major development issue C. today’s most urgent issue

B. a growing issue D. yesterday’s problem

13. The text mentions that all of the following have priority in development plans EXCEPT...

A. clean water C. an adequate energy supply

B. educational opportunities D. sufficient healthcare

14. According to the text, why should access to technology be an important part of development plans?

A. It affects all aspects of life

B. The cost of computers and networks has decreased significantly.

C. Limited access leads to uneven development within a country

D. It is more important than other resources.

15. What is suggested as an advantageous use for the Internet in a Punjab village?

A. doing research for homework.

B. watching over weather patterns.

C. finding out about childhood illnesses.

D. learning how to improve water sources.

16. Ultimately, encouraging developing countries to modernize farming techniques in the 1970s led to...

A. increased crop yield.

B. uneven development and fighting among farmers.

C. slow, but noticeable improvement.

D. hopelessness and famine.

17. Many developing countries are managing to leapfrog over the industrial world by...

A. missing the earlier stages of technological developments.

B. using appropriate technologies, such as laptops.

C. using mobile phones designed for shared village use.

D. installing fixed-line telephone systems.

18. The Internet is described as a______ to other resources.

A. bridge B. blockade C. gateway D. step

19. The author argues that getting Internet access to villages in India ...

A. is not as important as improving education.

B. is often a means to achieving self-reliance.

C. is just as important as providing clean water

D. is extremely difficult, but manageable.

20. According to the text, all of the following statements are true EXCEPT...

A. The Internet was invented in the 1970s.

B. Access to the Internet at home helps pupils in London do their homework.

C. The Simputer exemplifies the development of appropriate technologies

D. The Internet has grown slowly since it was invented.


Form Students

Justin Timberlake talks about The Social Network (from SheKnows)

Justin Timberlake belongs to no sort of Social Network. The singer- songwriter- actor

considers himself a novice when it comes to using computers of any kind, yet Timberlake excels

starring as Napster founder Sean Parker in the David Fincher-directed, Aaron Sorkin- written

story of how Facebook and Mark Zuckerberg came to change the world and earn billions of

dollars in the process. Not many know that Parker was on the launching pad of the rocketship

called Facebook. The Social Network showcases that fact and so much more!

You can pardon Justin Timberlake for not being wired in every possible way. Since the

age of eight, Timberlake has been too busy with show business. After announcing his presence to

the world famously On The Mickey Mouse Club opposite Britney Spears and Cristina Aguilera –

and then with his band ‘N Sync’ – Timberlake has always stood a few inches higher in the talent

department than those around him.

Timberlake can sing. He can dance. And, as he proved with his performance in The

Social Network, Timberlake can stand toe-to-toe with actors such as Jesse Eisenberg.

SheKnows: Why do people like social networking?

Justin Timberlake: There’s line that Jesse’s character says that it’s a party and you are

throwing it. I think that is the thrill behind having your own Facebook page and creating your

own profile. It is your world. What makes the film so intriguing, in the bigger picture of things, I

think social networking in general is still a hypothesis. I find that people are still asking the

question: Is it a good thing or is it a bad thing? it shows how kind we are. It shows how cruel we

are. The accessibility and instant gratification of having all of your photos and profile lined up. I

think that is what makes something like a Facebook so great to people.

SheKnows: Do you have an online obsession?

Justin Timberlake: No, I do not think I am obsessed with anything on-line. I am a few years

clean.

There is a high demand for celebrity magazines and TV programs about

famous people.

- Why are these media so popular?

- Do celebrities give up the right to privacy when they become famous?

- What is your opinion of the paparazzi?

- How could the time and energy people spend learning about celebrities

be used differently? Explain.


Form Students

1. Online journals and blogs are becoming increasingly popular. Often people who publish

online diaries write about personal events and feelings, and allow anyone on the Internet to

read them.

* What is the appeal of online journals?

* What are the effects of publishing personal thoughts online instead of in a private

diary?

* Do you keep a diary, online or otherwise? If not, which format would appeal to you

more and why?

2. What is the most threatening health problem facing humanity?

* Do you know why this problem is spreading?

* Do you know anyone it has affected?

* What can we do to help solve this problem?

3. Television shows like “American Idol” and “Fabrika Zirok” have become incredibly popular.

. Ordinary people present their talents before judges and a viewing audience, and if they are

well-received, they have a chance at becoming stars.

* What does it mean to be a “celebrity” today – is talent the most important thing?

* Are shows like these a good way to discover unknown talent?

* Do all talented people have an equal chance at fame, regardless of looks, age or status?.

4. Most scientists argue that we live in a dangerous time of climate change.

* Why should all people be concerned about the environment?

* How can humans undo the damage they've done to the Earth?

* What are people doing in your town or village to help the environment?

.5. The Internet has provided the world with a wonderful tool for communication.

* What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the Internet?

* How has the Internet allowed people from different cultures to interact?

* In what ways has the Internet changed society?

6. Marcel Proust once wrote, “The true voyage of discovery lies not in seeking new landscapes,

but in having new eyes."

* Please describe this quote in your own words and what it means to you.

* How can people gain "new eyes'?

* What is more important to you, seeing new places or understanding new things?

7. A utopia is described as an ideal community or society.

* Describe your ideal society.

* Who would be invited to live in your society?

* Who would be excluded from your society?

8. Imagine that you have been asked to write a travel guide for Ukraine.

* What clothing items would you suggest travellers pack?

* What cities and attractions would you recommend people to see in these cities?

* Do you think it is important that visitors to Ukraine also experience life in a village?

Why or why not?

9. Many people are distrustful of modern medicine. They believe that natural medicines from

herbs and plants work much better.

* Do you think that using natural medicines is a valid form of treatment?

Why or why not?

* Some argue that laughter is a better cure than any medicine. Do you agree?

* Some say that curing illnesses is more mental than physical? Do you agree?

To what extend?

10. Some people believe it is important to share wisdom with future generations so that they

avoid making the same mistakes. Imagine that you are speaking to your future granddaughter or

grandson about lessons you have learned so far in your life

* What lessons would you like to share?

* What traditions do you hope he or she will carry on in the future?

* What wisdom would you pass to him or her from your grandparents?

11. Many people say that the world is becoming smaller because we now know more about each

other. Because of this increase in globalization, many have argued that the world should

adopt a universal language.

* Do you think a universal language would help international relations?

* How would a universal language be beneficial or detrimental to the world?

* What criteria would you have for a global language?

12. It has been said that those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

History plays an important role in our lives, whether we know it or not.

* What main lesson have you learned from history?

* How have you used this lesson in your life?

* How would society suffer were we not to heed this lesson?

13. Exercise creates stronger, happier, and smarter people.

* Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?

* Explain how you would improve physical education classes at your school.

* What are some ways to keep a healthy lifestyle? What are some bad habits to avoid?

14. Natural disasters can be an opportunity for bringing the world together.

* Why in times of great need do people set aside their differences to work together?

* Do you think there is a way for the world to come together and cooperate without any

kind of disaster involved? How?

* How do you think human nature plays a role in this behaviour?

15. Adults and teenagers often misunderstand each other.

* Do you think it’s more difficult to be an adult or a teenager?

* What difficult decisions do teenagers face today? Adults?

* What similarities and differences do adults and teenagers have?

16. Drug usage is a major problem in almost every country.

* What kinds of negative effects does drug usage have on society?

* What steps can countries take to prevent drug use?

* Why do you think people choose to use drugs?

17. People usually play music that reflects their mood.

* .What genre of music do you usually listen to?

* What type of music do you listen to in different emotional states?

* Do you think music allows you to deal with your emotions? Explain.

18 Most people agree that eating junk food such as chips, cookies, and candy is not good for our

health, yet almost everyone eats these things anyway.

* Do you eat junk food? Why? Which are your favorites?

* What other bad habits do people have that have a negative effect on their health?

* What would life be like if we always did what was best for us and never made poor

decisions?

19. How do you imagine city life in the future?

* How do you think cities will look in the future?

* What will be the advantages and disadvantages of living in cities in the future?

* Is city living a sustainable lifestyle? Explain.

20. Many countries are now passing very strict laws against smoking.

* Do people have the right to smoke wherever they want? Why or why not?

* Do you think that government should be able to control where people smoke? Explain.

* Does Ukraine have such laws? If so, should the laws be more or less strict