Радмила Шарифьянова "Языковое путешествие: Изучение английского через культуру Великобритании"

2. The currency used in the UK is the pound sterling.

3. Transportation options available in the UK include trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars.

4. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including the use of «please» and «thank you» when interacting with locals, and observing social norms such as queuing and tipping.

5. The climate in the UK is temperate, with mild temperatures throughout the year, but can be rainy and windy at times.

2. Match the English words on the left with their corresponding Russian translations on the right.

a. Landmarks 1. достопримечательности

b. Pound sterling 2. фунт стерлингов

c. Temperate climate 3. умеренный климат

d. Cultural heritage 4. культурное наследие

e. Rental cars 5. аренда автомобилей

Sample answers:

a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4, e-5

3. Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

a. _______ is the currency used in the UK. (Pound sterling / Euro)

b. The UK has a rich and _______ culture. (diverse / similar)

c. Trains are often the fastest and most convenient way to travel in the UK because the train system is _______. (extensive / limited)

d. Visitors should be respectful of local _______ when interacting with locals. (customs / laws)

e. The UK has a _______ climate throughout the year. (temperate / tropical)

Sample answers:

a- Pound sterling, b- diverse, c- extensive, d- customs, e- temperate

4. Fill in the blanks with the correct words from the list: attractions, transportation options, stunning natural landscapes, social norms, landmarks

a. The UK is home to some of the most iconic _______ in Europe.

b. There are many _______ available in the UK, such as trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars.

c. The UK has many _______ that are worth visiting, such as the Scottish Highlands and Lake District.

d. Visitors should observe local _______ such as queuing and tipping.

e. The UK is known for its _______ and historic sites.

Sample answers:

a- landmarks, b- transportation options, c- stunning natural landscapes, d- social norms, e- attractions

Discovering Cambridge: A Treasure Trove of History and Learning

Cambridge is a city located in the county of Cambridgeshire, England. It is famous for being home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, the University of Cambridge. The city has a rich history that dates back to the Roman times, and it played an important role in the development of science and technology during the Industrial Revolution.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Cambridge is the King’s College Chapel, which was built in the 15th century. With its stunning architecture and intricate details, the chapel is a masterpiece of Gothic design. Other notable buildings include the Great St Mary’s Church, the Round Church, and the Bridge of Sighs, which is a covered bridge that connects two parts of St John’s College.

Apart from its historical and architectural attractions, Cambridge is also a hub of scientific research. The university has produced some of the world’s greatest minds, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Stephen Hawking. The Cavendish Laboratory, which is part of the university, has made significant contributions to physics and other branches of science.

To get a taste of Cambridge’s academic culture, visitors can explore the many museums and libraries that are open to the public. The Fitzwilliam Museum houses a vast collection of art and antiquities, while the Whipple Museum of the History of Science showcases scientific instruments and experimental apparatus. The Wren Library, which is part of Trinity College, contains rare books and manuscripts, including a first edition of Shakespeare’s plays.

In addition to its intellectual pursuits, Cambridge also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. The city has a thriving music scene, with regular concerts and festivals throughout the year. The Cambridge Folk Festival is a popular event that attracts musicians and fans from all over the world.

Vocabulary

Iconic – знаковый

Architecture – архитектура

Intricate – сложный, замысловатый

Gothic design – готический дизайн

Notable – заметный, значимый

Scientific research – научные исследования

Academic culture – академическая культура

Antiquities – древние предметы

Experimental apparatus – экспериментальное оборудование

Intellectual pursuits – интеллектуальные увлечения

Thriving – процветающий

Festival – фестиваль

Tasks

1. Define the following terms: «iconic», «notable», «scientific research».

2. Name three famous scientists who have studied at the University of Cambridge.

3. What is the name of the covered bridge that connects two parts of St John’s College?

Sample Answers: