Бердянський муніципальний ліцей Бердянської міської ради в Запорізькій області

How to Speak English Efficiently
Підготовка учнів 8-9 класу (рівень B1) до олімпіад (навчання усному мовленню)

Навчальний посібник для навчання учнів 8-9 класу (рівень B2) усному мовленню

Автор Гусєва Світлана Олександрівна

2019
Card 1. 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 friend 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?
I’ve invited my pen pal from the States to stay with my family for 2 weeks during the winter holiday. I’ll certainly try to help David to prepare properly for his visit. I’ll tell him as much as I can about my country and in the first place about the weather, the food, the people and the Ukrainian traditions. As the weather is usually quite cold at this time of the year, I’ll tell him to bring warm clothes. He shouldn’t forget to take a coat, a hat, a scarf, a pair of gloves and a pair of warm boots.
For David’s first meal at my place I’ll certainly cook Ukrainian borshch for him. It’s the most popular and well-known Ukrainian dish. It’s aromatic and appetizing cabbage soup of some 20 ingredients. I prefer chicken borshch. It can also be cooked with beef or pork, baked beets, beans and mushrooms. Borshch is served as the main course with soft rolls soaked in garlic. And I’m sure he wouldn’t find the dish on a menu in his native country. Ukrainian cuisine has a variety of dairy meals as well as sweet pastry, including doughnuts, cakes and other cookies. I can also cook dumplings with various fillings either potato, cabbage, curds or mushrooms. Perhaps he would love cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat. I hope David enjoys the meals at my place.
I’ll certainly show him around. The best starting point for the tour of Berdiansk is an overlook, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the town, as well as the Bay of Berdiansk, the Sea of Azov and the Berdiansk Peninsula. After you go down the hill, you find yourself in Azovskyi Avenue where you can feel a different atmosphere. You can enjoy the murmur of the fountains, you can relax on one of the comfortable benches, you can take photographs of the Lion, the Billhead, the Chair of Wishes and the famous solar clock, which is said to be the biggest in Europe, you can sing karaoke just outside, on a special ground. Also, you can have fun at the water park, watch a show at the Dolphin Aquarium, visit the Safari Park and take a ride on the Observation Wheel.
I’d also like to show my friend some other Ukrainian towns such as Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, Kharkiv, one of the biggest and most beautiful cities of my Motherland and Lviv, the cultural capital of Ukraine.

Card 2 Sports and Life
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 exercise and those who do not?
* What are the benefits of regular exercise?
I think exercise should be an important part of every person’s life because it helps people in lots of ways. Firstly, the greatest benefit of sports is that they help us keep in shape. Secondly, when we play team sports we learn how to work together and achieve a common goal. Thirdly, sports teach us to deal with both success and failure and how to balance competitiveness. Finally, sports bring people together and help us to relax.
I know I should practice regularly to keep fit and stay in shape. I`m very energetic and active. I do sport for leisure and pleasure and to unwind. [I used to go belly dancing. It is an oriental dance. I took part in several competitions. Tournaments took place in different cities. I enjoyed belly dancing because it made me strong, healthy and fit.] I would like to get fit so I am looking for a lively activity which I can do whenever I have some spare time. I adore dancing and exercising to music. Now I’m thinking of taking up jogging.
And of course, you can see a great difference in the people around you who exercise and those who do not. As a proverb goes, “A healthy mind in a healthy body”. People who do not exercise regularly don’t feel very good, they often catch a cold, their immune system is damaged and they look pale and unhealthy.
There are several activities I have never done before that I would love to try one day. One of these is certainly skydiving. I saw a programme on TV about skydiving and I was very impressed. I would love to have a go myself. It might cost an arm or a leg, and you have to travel a bit to get to the really good places, but it’s worth it! As soon as I get the chance, I’m going to go skydiving.
As for the equipment required, you have to wear a parachute, a special suit, a helmet, and protective sunglasses. You should also learn the rules and find out about the places where you can practise skydiving. You are instructed how to jump correctly from an aircraft, how to use your hands and the whole body to control your fall, when to open your parachute and how to land.
I enjoy sports like swimming and dancing. I can`t see why other people prefer to jump out of an aeroplane or climb a mountain or whatever. Of course, It`s the thrill and excitement and perhaps the sense of achievement they get from it.
Don’t forget that playing a sport is just one aspect of leading a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, healthy eating, positive attitude, enough sleep and some other healthy habits are also very important. 408 words s-ses
Card 3. Extreme Sports What extreme sports would you most like to try?
*Describe the sport including the equipment required, uniform and rules.
*Why is it considered an extreme sport?
*What dangers can exist when somebody does an extreme sport?
There are several activities I have never done before that I would love to try one day. One of these is certainly skydiving. I saw a programme on TV about skydiving and I was very impressed. I would love to have a go myself. It might cost an arm or a leg, and you have to travel a bit to get to the really good places, but it’s well worth it! As soon as I get the chance, I’m going to go skydiving.
As for the equipment required, you have to wear a parachute, a special suit, a helmet, and protective sunglasses. You should also learn the rules and find out about the places where you can practise skydiving. You are instructed how to jump correctly from an aircraft, how to use your hands and the whole body to control your fall, when to open your parachute and how to land.
Skydiving is considered to be an extreme sport because it involves high risk. It is very dangerous to attempt and can lead to serious injury or even death. Despite this, its popularity is increasing and more and more people are attracted to the excitement and danger of skydiving. While there is a certain amount os risk involved, enthusiasts take proper safety precautions. They are well-trained and carry safety equipment which helps to prevent injury.
A lot of dangers can exist when a person does an extreme sport. For example, you can either break your leg, injure your head or get concussion. While skydiving, people can fall from great height.
All in all, while extreme sports are exciting and fun to some, I feel that they should be banned. They are extremely dangerous and people who take part in them are a danger to themselves. It seems to me that a ban would save the lives of many people. 19 s-ses 309 words

Card 4 HEALTH Health is essential to a high quality of life.
• What are some good and bad habits you have?
• What is the most important thing to remember about healthy living?
• What could you do to help improve the health of others?
I think a lot about health and good living. I’m strongly opposed to such bad habits as smoking, drinking alcohol or even taking drugs. Instead, I choose to live a healthy life which involves a lot of exercise, healthy eating and a fixed routine. However, I should confess I do still have some harmful habits. I spend too much time sitting in my arm-chair surfing the Internet on my laptop. That’s not very good both for my eyes and my back. And I don’t usually go to bed in time as I get very excited about chatting with my friends or playing computer games.
I think exercise should be the most important part of every person’s life because it helps us keep in shape. I know I should practice regularly to keep fit and stay in shape. I’m very energetic and active. I do sport for leisure and pleasure and to unwind. I would like to get fit so I am looking for a lively activity [which I can do whenever I have some spare time]. I adore dancing and exercising to music. Now I’m thinking of taking up jogging. True, playing a sport is just one aspect of leading a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise as well as healthy eating, positive attitude, enough sleep are all very important.
In order to improve the health of others I could recommend them to think about what they eat and drink. People often say “You are what you eat” and we all know that to be healthy we need to eat healthy food. What is really healthy, though? Firstly, the best thing you can do is (to) choose a balanced, healthy diet. We need carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, minerals and fibre. You shouldn’t forget about low-fat food such as chicken, fish and seafood. You should also avoid eating junk food, fast food or convenience food as well as sugary drinks or sweets. Secondly, it would be a good idea to incorporate lots of vegetables and fruit into your diet. Thirdly, every person should drink at least five glasses of water per day. Without plenty of water, you will feel exhausted and may suffer from headaches.
And here are some more tips. You shouldn’t go to bed late. If you don't get enough sleep, you will lack energy and you will age faster. Sleep replenishes the energies spent during the day and aids the natural healing process of the body. Furthermore, don't get stressed: keep calm and avoid stress at home, school or work. Learn to relax, and when you feel that your stress level is rising, take a break. Finally, give up smoking - every cigarette shortens your life. 31 s, 321 w
Card 5. A Holiday of a Lifetime
If you had a week to travel out of your native country and endless supply of money where would you want to go, and how would you get there?
* Would you travel alone, with a few people, or with many people? Why?
* What are the top three things you would do in each place and why?
* What does your travel style say about your personality?

If you had a week to travel out of your native country and endless supply of money where would you want to go, and how would you get there?
If I had an opportunity to go anywhere in the world, I would certainly choose Great Britain. I would visit this location because everything connected with Britain and the English language attracts me greatly. I’d like to know as more as possible about this unusual country of strong customs and traditions. I would travel to Kyiv by train and then catch a plane to London at Boryspil Airport.

I. *Would you travel alone, with a few people, or with many people? Why?
I wouldn’t go alone, of course. I would take my close friends with me and we could have great fun together. I think it’ll be the adventure of a lifetime. I can’t wait to see the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Trafalgar Square. True, the most wonderful attractions are mainly concentrated in London. One great man (Lord Tennyson) said: “If you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life, for there’s in London all that life can afford”. London is a festival which is ever with you. The capital of Great Britain is more than 2000 years old. It is one of the most ancient cities in the world, so it has lots of places of historic interest.
II. * What are the top three things you would do in each place and why?
The top activities to see and do in London are the following: we would have a walk around the Tower of London, watch a live show performed by professional actors just outside and see the famous ravens. We’d also visit the Museum of the Crown Jewels and watch its fantastic exhibits. We’d love to take a ride in a passenger capsule of the London Eye and see the spectacular panorama of London. Just imagine that! The Houses of Parliament are just below our feet! We’d certainly take a boat trip on the River Thames later on. The third destination in London is Trafalgar Square with the Nelson’s Column and its beautiful fountains. In fact, it’s the geographical centre of London and the tourist hot spot. We’ll start with a relaxing walk across the square, then we’ll visit the National Gallery which is also right here and see the greatest masterpieces, and finally, we’ll go shopping for souvenirs. I’ve always dreamed of visiting Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus. I’d certainly go to the theatre to watch The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie. Let`s also drive to Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Stonehenge. I`m so excited! I believe it will be an unforgettable experience.
III.* What does your travel style say about your personality?
My travel style can’t say much except that I’m an adventurer and enthusiast. I like exploring new places and discovering new things. I’m happy to enjoy the company of a few close friends while visiting a foreign country. 546 words
Card 6. FANTASY WORLD
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?

I`ve been transported to another world. It`s the world of automatic equipment and machines, which can do work previously done by people. As you can guess, I`ve been to Japan. I`ve seen the house that thinks to itself. Home automation is big business in Japan. It has changed their lives. I`ve never expected to find so many advantages. Japanese people don`t have to waste their energy. They can operate everything from one spot.
So what does it look like? The world of Japanese fully automated home looks a bit strange and exciting. In the kitchen there`s a touch screen. It allows people to control every light switch in the house, start the bath or shower running at precisely the temperature that they choose, lock the door and program the air-conditioners. The doors open and shut automatically as people approach. If they are out, they can check that they have locked all the doors. If somebody breaks in, the security system will get in touch with the owners of the house and the police. Smoke and fire alarms, gas leak sensors and panic buttons are also wired in. Japanese people have developed not only a thinking house but intelligent home appliances.
Although there`s some automation in my home, I think that the world of a Japanese home differs a lot from mine. I was greatly impressed by everything I`ve seen. I wish I could live in a fully automatic house like that.
I would like to live in this kind of house as my life would be much easier. On the other hand, I might get quite lazy if the house did everything for me. 275 words 23 s-ses
Card 7 Fashion
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?
I strongly believe you should never judge a person’s personality from the clothes they wear. You’d better look at a person and try to imagine what they are really like.
I never laugh at people wearing unusual clothes. We can sometimes meet a goth, a skater or a hip-hopper in the streets of Ukrainian cities. You can easily recognize a goth, for example, by the black colour. They wear black outfits, have black hair and make-up. That fashion doesn’t even reveal their own personalities, but indicates that they belong to a group of quiet people who like rock or heavy metal music. I think it’s better to be an individual than to belong to a group.
I would never make jokes about a person who speaks in an unusual way. That’s impolite because a person can suffer from an illness.
Nobody has ever made a joke about my clothes and behavior, maybe because and I always give time and thought to my clothes, footwear, hairstyle as well as make-up and accessories, perfume and jewellery. This makes me feel confident in any situation. I prefer wearing stylish clothes, either sports or classical, depending on the occasion. I often choose casual clothes although I feel great in smart clothes. My everyday outfit includes a pair of jeans and a blouse. This perfect blend of different styles completely reveals my personality – romantic and feminine. I believe the clothes you wear will provide important information about your educational level, social status and even your level of self-esteem.
In conclusion, I believe it`s very important to think about how you look every day. Your appearance can make a good impression on people. Words – 277
Card 8. ZOOS
There are some who say that zoos are like prisons for animals, others say they are sanctuaries, safe place for them. * Do you feel that they are prisons for animals? Do they guarantee their survival? *How do we protect endangered species from extinction? * Have you ever taken part in a project to protect endangered wildlife?
I agree with Dr. Dolittle, a character from a number of books by Hugh Lofting, who would say: “A zoo should be an animal home not an animal prison”. I hold that keeping animals in captivity is inhuman. Think of a zoo and images of animals imprisoned in cages is what usually comes to mind. Fortunately, a revolution has been taking place in zoos across Europe, and it looks as though things will never be the same again. A new set of guidelines, called the European Union Zoo Directive, is coming into effect. It has already forced zoos to review their role in animal welfare. Most cities of the world have already refused to have zoos and started creating safari parks. This is fantastic news for the animals, who are seeing their concrete cages gradually disappear and are enjoying greatly improved living conditions which are so close to their habitats as possible.
The new conversation role of zoos involves the breeding of endangered species in captivity. This is carried out in cooperation with other zoos. Together they try to maintain the animals’ health as well as increase their numbers. Recently British zoos have created natural environments where the animals are happy to live. They use water and other natural barriers as well as hidden fences to separate the animals from each other and from the visitors. This is an exciting time for Europe’s zoos. Their new roles mean they can become a time capsule, preserving and increasing the numbers and life expectancy of much of our wildlife.
I’ve never taken part in a project like that but I’d love to one day. I’ve heard about such projects and I’m really interested in them. Perhaps one day I can do my bit to help endangered species to survive.

Card 9. Your pen-pal is planning to take a tour of Ukraine this summer and wants to know what there is to see and do. What would you recommend?
* Why would you recommend these places?
* How are these places interesting and what can one do there?
* What is the most important place in Ukraine to visit and why?
I. * Why would you recommend these places?
I would certainly recommend my pen pal to see Kyiv, Lviv and my native town, of course, because they’re impressive places which can tell a foreigner a lot about Ukraine. I’ll certainly try to help David to prepare properly for his visit. I’ll tell him as much as I can about my native country and, in the first place, about the weather, the food, its people and Ukrainian traditions. As the weather is usually quite hot at this time of the year, I’d recommend him to bring T-shirts, some shorts, a cap and a pair of sandals.
II. * How are these places interesting and what can one do there?
I think you’d better start your holiday in my native town. Berdiansk is an amazing place and we can have a great time here. It is a resort town located on the coast of the Sea of Azov in the south-east of Ukraine. With its warm climate and excellent beaches, it is a popular resort and the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday. [The warm and shallow sea and famous mud baths attract visitors during the tourist season. A great number of sanatoria and rest homes offer various facilities such as equipped beaches and swimming pools as well as facilities for renting boats, bikes and water scooters.] The most famous tourist attractions in Berdiansk are the Water Park, the Dolphin Aquarium, the Safari Park and the Observation Wheel.
First, I’ll certainly show you around. The best starting point for the walking tour of Berdiansk is an overlook, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the town, as well as the Bay of Berdiansk, the Sea of Azov and the Berdiansk Peninsula. After you go down the hill, you find yourself in Azovskyi Avenue where you can feel a different atmosphere. You can enjoy the murmur of the fountains, you can relax on one of the comfortable benches, you can take photographs of the Lion, the Bullhead, the Chair of Wishes and the famous solar clock, which is said to be the biggest in Europe. There are plenty of activities and we are planning to do lots of things. We’re going to swim and sunbathe on the beach every day. [Perhaps we’re going to try parascending.] We’re also going to have fun at the Water Park, watch a show at the Dolphin Aquarium, visit the Safari Park and take a ride on the Observation Wheel. We’re going to dance at the night club and we’re going to eat at the restaurants which offer a variety of dishes from around the world.
After our amazing holiday in Berdiansk, you must visit Lviv. You will travel to Lviv by train and spend a couple of days there. It has got some of the most beautiful historic buildings in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the morning, you will visit Rynok Square where you can try one of the cafes as well as Caramel Workshop and Chocolate Workshop . In the afternoon, you will visit the Lviv Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life, which is one of Ukraine's most interesting museums. It's not just one building but groups of historic houses from different parts of the country in a beautiful park.They show life in Ukraine in the 18th and 19th centuries. On the second day ,you will climb to the top of Vysokyi Zamok where you can see fantastic views. In the evening, you will visit Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet. This grand building in the centre of the city is over a hundred years old.
III. * What is the most important place in Ukraine to visit and why?
The most important place in Ukraine is certainly our capital city. You will visit Independece Square, Khreschatyk and St. Sophia’s Cathedral on a walking tour of the city. In the evening, you will have a delicious meal at a traditional Ukrainian restaurant. On the second day, you will go to Kyiv Pechersk Lavra and the Golden Gate. Saint Sophia’s Cathedral is a striking white building in the middle of Kyiv which is topped with attractive green and gold domes. It's no surprise that it's one of the seven wonders of Ukraine. Inside the church there are lots of old frescos ,or wall paintings, and mosaics. The Golden Gate is another sight buit by Yaroslav the Wise in the 11th century.This huge fortress is an amazing construction. It's one of three city gates built by Prince Yaroslav.
With so many things to see and do in Ukraine, your visit will be an unforgettable experience. 800 words
Whether you are interested in culture or countryside, Ukraine has something for you. With a long, fascinating history and rich traditions, it certainly won’t leave you bored.
At the crossroads between Europe and Asia lies the beautiful country of Ukraine. It’s a geographically interesting country. With a total area of 603,700 square km, Ukraine is the largest country on the continent of Europe. With close to 46 mln people living on its area, Ukraine is a densely populated country.
Ukraine is a land of great natural beauty, which offers a wide range of attractions. Mount Hoverla is the highest mountain and a very famous sight, standing proudly at 2,061 m. The longest river is the Dnipro and Lake Yalpuh is the largest lake. The weather’s usually fine in this country. Ukraine lies in the temperature belt. The climate is mainly temperately continental, but there are freezing winters in the north and almost tropical summers in the south. The temperature varies according to location.
I can say that my family`s traditions are typical for Ukraine. In my opinion, it is vital for families and whole countries to keep up their traditions and customs. This is the way how the nation expresses its identity.

Pets are good for us
Card 10
You are the owner of a pet store, and you have been asked to speak about the importance of having pets.
• Explain how to choose the right pet for you.
• What benefits do pets offer their owners?
• What responsibilities do owners have to their pets?
Card 11
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?
I`m the owner of a pet store. As you can imagine, I adore pets. I`ve got a dog, a cat and some fish. Everyone can choose a pet he or she likes best. I think it depends on what you want from a pet before you choose one. For me, though, a cat is the ideal pet because they are friendly and they`re easy to keep.
I can’t tell you what kinds of animals are good as pets because as a proverb goes: ”Tastes differ”. As a rule, cats and dogs are the favourite ones. In my opinion, there are some animals that should not be kept at home, for example: snakes, crocodiles, lizards, lions, tigers and the like. Nevertheless some people keep such pets at home.
A lot of people keep pets because they can offer great benefits to their owners. There’s an interesting theory amongst psychologists that pets are good for us. The basic meaning of “pet” is an animal we keep for emotional reasons. A pet animal is kept as a companion, and we all need companions to keep us feeling happy. But pets offer us more than mere companionship. They invite us to love and be loved. Many owners feel their pets understand them, for animals are quick to sense anger and sorrow. Often a cat or a dog can comfort us at times when human words don’t help. We feel loved, too, by the way pets depend on us for a home, for food and drink. Dogs especially look up to their owners, which makes them feel important and needed. A pet can be something different to each member of the family, another baby to the mother, a sister or brother to an only child, a grandchild to the elderly, undoubtedly pets provide pleasure and companionship. It has even been suggested that tiny pets should be sent as companions to astronauts on spaceships, to help reduce the stress and loneliness of space flights. In this Plastic Age, when most of us live in large cities, pets are particularly important for children. A pet in the family keeps people in touch with the more natural, animal world. Seeing an animal give birth brings understanding of the naturalness of childbirth.
Pet owners required to have certain responsibilities. These include providing your pet with home, food and drink, care and love. Learning to care for a pet helps a child to grow up into a loving adult who feels responsible towards those dependent on him. Rightly we teach our children to be good to their pets. They should learn, too, that pets are good for us human beings.
Card 12 Argumentative Essay: For and Against Essay: The Pros and Cons of using the Internet: The Internet - a blessing or a curse?
The British journalist and author Andrew Brown said, “The Internet is so big, so powerful and pointless that for some people it is a complete substitute for life”. Most young people have access to the Internet and they can do anything online. Is this as good as it sounds?
On the one hand, there are a number of advantages to the Internet. To begin with, some people argue that it is a world-wide communication device where any information as well as the latest information is available at any time. It can be used day and night in a variety of languages. In addition, it is true you can meet people from all over the world online. For example, it is easy to find people who share the same interests and hobbies as you. Furthermore, it is quick and easy to shop online. You can visit a lot of different websites and order at the click of a button.
On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages to the Internet. Firstly, it is argued that finding information takes a lot of time and you have to wait for a reply when you make a comment (so you need a good Internet connection). Secondly, it is clear that is difficult to judge virtual friends. For example, your “friend” can be a liar or even a cheater. Thirdly, online shopping can put you at risk of credit card fraud and pictures on a computer screen can be misleading so you may be disappointed when you purchase arrives.
In conclusion, I believe there are both advantages and disadvantages to using the Internet. It is easy and convenient but we should consider all the pros and cons. 300 WORDS

CARD 13 COMPUTERS
Nowadays young people can’t live without their favourite gadgets (mobile phones, MP3 players and computers). Write an essay (100 words) about them. Include the following:
• What they are used for on a daily basis.
• How these inventions changed the life of young people.
• What would the life without these gadgets be like?
Can you imagine a world without your favourite gadgets? These days, many young people are becoming increasingly dependent on their computers, laptops, tablets or mobile phones. I strongly believe that devices have made our lives a lot easier.
Many young people can use various appliances in their jobs or studies as well as for entertainment. We rely on computers in almost every area of our lives on a daily basis. Computers are used in all sorts of jobs to store and process information. [Most of today’s technology would be impossible without them.] In addition, the Internet is a world-wide communication device where any information is available at any time. [It can be used day and night in a variety of languages. This means that all forms of content – books, magazines, newspapers, music and home videos – are instantly available anywhere in the world on demand.] Furthermore, you can meet people from all over the world online who share the same interests and hobbies as you. Finally, it is quick and easy to shop online. Young people can visit a lot of different websites and order at the click of a button.
Our favourite gadgets have really changed the world and improved our lives. They have already revolutionized everything in the modern world. They allow us to do thousands of things that seemed impossible a century ago.
Without computers, the life would be much more difficult. We would still waste valuable time waiting in long queues instead of shopping online. In addition, we would still pay expensive phone bills or rely on the old-fashioned postal service instead of communicating quickly, cheaply and easily with people all around the world. 277 Words
Card 14. The invention of the Internet is one of the most revolutionary inventions of the past century.
* How has the Internet affected your life?
* What impact does it have on the lives of the people around you?
* What do you think life would be like without the Internet?

The 20th century was dominated by advances in technology. There were many great inventions in the last century. In my opinion, the invention of the Internet and its widespread use across the planet has totally changed our world.
I strongly believe that the Internet has made my life a lot easier. Thanks to the Internet and social networking sites I can easily communicate with my friends and share music, videos and photos with them. For instance, I’m constantly using a conversation with my classmates in the social networking site Facebook, which I find really useful. We keep informed about what’s going on at school. We can also keep in touch and help each other while doing our homework. It is very convenient indeed, especially if you are ill and stay at home.
The Internet has already revolutionized everything in the modern world. We rely on it in almost every area of our lives. The Internet is used in all sorts of jobs, to store and process information. Most of today`s technologies would be impossible without it. To begin with, the Internet gives us access to up-to-date information. This means that all forms of content – books, magazines, newspapers, music and videos – are instantly available anywhere in the world on demand. What is more, it is a world-wide communication device where you can meet people from all over the world online. For example, it is easy to find people who share the same interests and hobbies as you. Finally, it is quick and easy to shop online. You can visit a lot of different websites and order at the click of a button.

Without the Internet, our lives would be much more difficult. We would still waste valuable time in long queues instead of shopping online. Moreover, we would still pay expensive phone bills or rely on the old-fashioned postal service instead of communicating quickly, cheaply and easily with people all around the world. 22 sentences
Card 15 A Magical Mirror
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?
If I found a magical mirror, I would like to see my future self at the age of about 30.
Most people are eager to get to know about their future and I’m not an exception. I`m particularly interested in my personal life and career related things. We live in 21st century. It`s the age of technological advancement. I was delighted to be one of the participants of a special scientific project. I was given a magical mirror and I could see and talk to my future self. I was happy to hear that she was a skilled lawyer and she earned a fortune. She said she had a family of her own: a husband and two children – a boy and a girl, and they live in a big house. She admitted that her husband and she treated their children with love, patience and respect. She also added that they spent all their free time together travelling. She enumerated lots of countries they had visited: Great Britain, Russia, Germany, Australia and others. She also described her fully- automated house to me. In the kitchen there`s a touch screen. It allows people to control every light switch in the house, start the bath or shower running at precisely the temperature that they choose, lock the door and program the air-conditioners. The doors open and shut automatically as people approach. If they are out, they can check that they have locked all the doors. If somebody breaks in, the security system will get in touch with the owners of the house and the police. Smoke and fire alarms, gas leak sensors and panic buttons are also wired in. I`ve never expected to find so many advantages. I was really happy to meet her and I was impressed indeed.
This information has helped me a lot. I’ve become more confident. Now, I`m sure, my life will be happy and excited. It will be a beautiful film and I`ll be a star in it. I believe I`ll be able to climb my personal Everest. 340 words 24 s-ses
Card 16 A Superhero
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, non-comic book life?
If I could become a superhero in a comic book, I’d choose to be an inventor with one supernatural ability or gift. Yeah, I believe I’d choose to have a special power of inventing things. If I were a character in a comic book, I`d produce a small portable device. It would contain everything to do with our lives. It would be a bit like the black box recorder on aircraft, but a fraction of the size. This device would be capable of keeping health records, work records and bank statements. It would also carry every digital photograph or video taken in person`s life, every telephone conversation they ever had and every email they ever wrote. In short, it would contain every aspect of their life on a hard drive.
I`d use my supernatural power of inventing things to help people. The possible uses for this kind of information storage system are endless. One obvious example would be in a medical emergency. Just imagine! Doctors would have a patient`s records at their fingertips. And the police might just find such a system useful in helping them solve crime. Although the device is useful, it would affect people`s right to privacy. That`s why I can`t predict how other people would treat me because of my invention. Perhaps somebody will consider me a genius while the others will object to my invention.
Many people are already familiar with some of the possibilities of such a system, from the world of Hollywood films. This is perhaps why many are so suspicious of any kind of device that could record and store every piece of information to do with a person`s life. Being a great scientist, my character would never use her inventions for personal gain. She would just get the money for her inventions.
Surely, my everyday life as a superhero would differ from my real, non-comic book life. I’d act as a heroine, I`d help the global society, I’d help to save people’s lives. In fact, I don’t do all those things in my everyday life. 344 words 24 s-ses

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