Задание 1. Соответствие вопросов и текстов (варианты 1–5)
Определите, в каком из текстов A–F содержатся ответы на интересующие вас вопросы 1–7. Один из вопросов останется без ответа. Занесите ответы в таблицу (формат: 1A, 2B, 3C и т.д.).
Вариант 1. Lena River
Вопросы:
Where does the name Lena come from?
What role does the Lena River play in the economy?
When is the Lena River navigable?
What is the most serious ecological problem for the Lena River basin?
What is the fauna of the Lena River region like?
Why does the Lena River attract tourists?
Are there any events that celebrate the great river?
A. The beauty of Siberia, the Lena River, is frozen for almost eight months of the year. Ice usually appears in late October and remains until May. The water is ice-free only during the summer months, which allows ships to travel, and makes the Lena a busy waterway for transporting timber, gold, and industrial products. The traffic is heavy, which sometimes raises ecological issues. In summer, the river also becomes a popular tourist route for steamship excursions.
B. The Lena River is more than just a natural wonder – it is also an economic resource and a cultural symbol of the free spirit of Siberia. In 2013, July 2 was officially declared Lena River Day – a holiday dedicated to protecting the river and its unique ecosystem. On this day, the local communities arrange clean-up campaigns and cultural and educational events. Cruise tourists are also happy to take part in those festivals.
C. The Lena River may be covered with ice for most of the year, but it is a paradise for nature lovers, who enjoy cruises from Yakutsk down the river in summer. The river goes through taiga forests, spectacular mountain ranges, and valleys. Many tourists go there to see the Lena Pillars, massive natural stone towers along the river. Together with Lake Baikal, the Lena boasts crystal-clear water and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
D. Due to long distances and short navigation periods, the Lena is not as well-known to tourists, fishermen, and bird and animal watchers as European rivers. Meanwhile, it supports a rich variety of fishes, including salmon, sturgeon, and lenok. Its wetlands and delta serve as nesting grounds for unique bird species, such as the Siberian crane. The area is also home to bears, wolves, reindeer, arctic foxes, and even polar bears.
E. The Lena River is about 4,400 km long, which makes it one of the longest rivers in the world. It flows entirely through Siberia, starting near Lake Baikal and travelling northeast for thousands of kilometers, until it reaches the Laptev Sea in the Arctic Ocean. Its name is believed to come from a word in the language of northern peoples, meaning great river. This name reflects both its impressive size and its importance for life in the region.
F. For centuries, the cold waters of the Lena River have been important for transportation. For a few navigable months, the river connects distant Siberian cities and villages. Due to the enormous volume of water, several hydro-power plants generate electricity there, which means renewable energy without much pollution. In addition, the region is rich in minerals, gold, and diamonds that are highly important for Russia's economy.
Ваш ответ:
Вариант 2. Music
Вопросы:
When and where did music first appear?
Who invented musical notes, and what do they mean?
What kinds of music exist, and which are the most popular?
Who are the most famous musicians and composers of all time?
Why do people in different countries listen to the same music?
How has technology changed the way we listen to music today?
Can AI write music better than people can?
A. We still listen to music created centuries ago and enjoy it. The feelings and emotions of a medieval musician resonate with ours, though we are centuries apart. We enjoy songs in a language we do not know. It happens because music is called a universal language. It appeals to emotions. It breaks barriers and creates a sense of unity. That is why international festivals, concerts, and online platforms bring together people from all over the world.
B. In prehistoric times, people knew how to produce sounds and rhythms. The first musical instruments were made of bones, stones, or wood. Due to AI, scientists can restore some of them, and even demonstrate how they were used. Though there were no notes yet, ancient cultures in Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, and Greece had their recognisable musical styles thousands of years ago. Thus, music is one of the oldest forms of art. It was invented long before writing.
C. The invention of notes started a new era – large pieces of music were recorded and shared. The seven notes enable us to reproduce melodies created by the great masters. Classical composers such as Bach, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Beethoven are often considered the greatest of all time. Nowadays, AI models are being trained on their samples. The maestros' music is timeless because they created works that are full of strong emotions and energy.
D. Though music and musical styles had been known to people since ancient times, they used to play it by ear. It is believed that musical notes, as we know them today, were first developed in the Middle Ages. Around the 11th century, the Italian monk, Guido of Arezzo, created a system to write down melodies. Each note represents a sound with a specific pitch and length. His invention made it possible to record and share music across Europe.
E. In recent years, artificial intelligence has learned to compose melodies and even whole songs. AI can produce music quickly, and in a wide range of styles. However, most experts agree that while AI is useful, it cannot fully replace human creativity. Music written by people often carries emotions, stories, and cultural meaning that machines cannot truly understand. Still, AI may become a powerful tool to support musicians – beginners, as well as professionals.
F. Good composers usually develop their own manner of writing, and musicians add their own emotions while performing. Due to their creativity, music is presented in countless styles and genres, which include classical, jazz, rock, pop, hip-hop, blues, reggae, country, and electronic music. Music written with AI assistants is also gaining popularity. Generally, pop and hip-hop are probably the most favoured styles today, especially by young people.
Ваш ответ:
Вариант 3. Time
Вопросы:
When did people start measuring time?
What units have ever been used to measure time?
How did people know the time before clocks were invented?
What is the oldest clock still working today?
Are there still any societies that do not measure time?
Can time flow faster or slower?
Is it possible to make time go backwards?
A. Different cultures had different ways to calculate the duration of time. They expressed it in days and years, which was based on the Earth's movement around its axis and around the Sun. Months were originally connected to the cycle of the Moon. Later, people divided the day into hours, minutes, and seconds. In medieval Europe, people expressed the length of time in candles, measuring it by how fast a candle burned.
B. The universal units to measure time, such as hours, minutes and seconds, suggest that time always moves at a constant speed. People, however, may feel time differently: it seems to pass quickly when we are happy or busy, and very slowly when we are bored or waiting. In science, particularly in Einstein's theory of relativity, time can actually move differently depending on speed and gravitational effects – and astronauts can experience this.
C. Nowadays, our daily life is planned, and we have schedules to follow. However, people in some Aboriginal communities still live without clocks and strict time measurement. For example, there are tribes in the Amazon and on Pacific islands who organise their lives according to natural cycles – sunrise, sunset, seasons, or weather – rather than exact hours or minutes. The Hadza people, from Tanzania, also live happily without knowing what a clock is.
D. Time is one of the most mysterious and important parts of human life. People have always wanted to understand it. The first attempts were made thousands of years ago in ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia. Around 1500 BC, Egyptians used large stone sundials. The Chinese had probably started to mark hours even earlier; they had their own sundials, which showed the time using the shadow of a stick or a carved plate.
E. A clock's hands mark the passing seconds. While science-fiction films and books often use a time-travel plot, in reality it remains impossible. Most scientists agree that time only moves forward, and so far, there is no proof that it is able to change its direction. Still, scientists who study the nature of time occasionally come up with quite extravagant theories. They suggest that the universe might be more complex than we can currently understand.
F. In the past, people did not have mechanical or electronic devices to measure time, and they relied on nature. They looked at the position of the Sun and the stars, used the phases of the Moon, and marked the length of shadows. Sundials were common in many parts of the world, and water clocks, or sand clocks (called hourglasses) were used for shorter periods of time. Bells in towns and monasteries also reminded people when to pray, work, or rest.
Ваш ответ:
Вариант 4. Black Sea
Вопросы:
Where is the Black Sea located?
Why is it called the Black Sea?
What are the main tourist centres in the Black Sea region?
Is the water in the Black Sea fresh or salty?
What is the wildlife of the Black Sea like?
Are there any natural resources in the Black Sea area?
What ecological problems does the Black Sea have?
A. The deep layers of the Black Sea contain a lot of salt and almost no oxygen, so even bacteria find it difficult to survive in those waters. Shipwrecks at the bottom do not rot, but are preserved untouched. In contrast, the upper layer is warm and inhabited. More than 200 types of fish live there, and some of them exist only in this sea. There are shrimps and crabs, too. And, of course, the tourists are delighted to see the dolphins there!
B. At first glance, the Black Sea looks like an ordinary saltwater basin, with typical, but not flourishing, flora and fauna – but it's much more complex than that! Long ago, the Black Sea was a freshwater lake. Later, the water from the Mediterranean Sea began to flow in, which made the Black Sea salty. Today, it has both freshwater and saltwater. The upper layers are fresher due to large rivers flowing into the sea, while the deeper parts are saltier.
C. In addition to its natural wonders, safe waters, and popularity with tourists, the Black Sea is important to people for economic and development reasons. Oil and natural gas reserves beneath the sea are large, and their importance for industries is indisputable. Different minerals, such as manganese, copper, and even gold, can also be found in the region. The coastal areas also have sand, gravel, and other useful materials.
D. The Black Sea is the largest inland sea in Europe. Six countries have access to its coast. It has always been important for trade, transport, and tourism. The Black Sea is one of the favourite holiday destinations for families with children, due to its safe waters – no sharks, and no poisonous jellyfish! The sea connects to the Mediterranean Sea through the Bosphorus Strait in the southwest, and to the Sea of Azov via the Kerch Strait in the northeast.
E. Sadly, the Black Sea's beauty comes with a warning. Fishing has always been one of the leading industries there, but overfishing has reduced the fish population and upset the marine ecosystems. Pollution is also a big danger. Factories and cities often throw waste into the sea. Gas and oil exploration, and drilling for them under the sea, adds to oil and noise pollution, which is harmful to dolphins and other sea inhabitants.
F. Can water look black? Of course, it may, when it is dirty, muddy or heavily polluted, but that is not the case with the Black Sea. Long ago, Greek sailors called it black, as they thought it was dangerous because of storms and hostile tribes on its coast. Some historians believe the name comes from old traditions that denote directions with colours. In that system, black meant north, so the Black Sea was simply the sea in the north.
Ваш ответ:
Вариант 5. Architecture & Homes
Вопросы:
What did prehistoric people's homes look like?
What places did ancient people choose for their homes?
When did the profession of an architect appear?
What materials do people choose to build their houses?
What are the most exotic houses in the world?
What are the most ambitious architectural projects of our time?
In what houses will people be living in 100 years?
A. As people say, tastes differ! The diversity of weather conditions, traditions and practical needs leads to a great variety of home designs. In Mongolia, people still live in round tents called yurts. In the snowy Arctic, the Inuit have traditionally built igloos from blocks of ice. In some tropical regions, houses are built on stilts above the water. Modern architects promote futuristic designs, such as underwater hotels, and also create eco-friendly treehouses.
B. Thousands of years ago, amazing temples, pyramids, and amphitheatres were built in Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The people who designed them were skilled and smart. They were often priests or high officials. Architecture as a respected profession officially appeared in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, when great masters like Brunelleschi and Michelangelo began to design buildings that combined beauty and function.
C. In comparison to other living beings on the planet, people are obviously the most disadvantaged. Humans have neither warm fur nor sharp claws and they are not able to fly or even run fast enough to escape danger. To survive, people need a warm place to hide in – a home. At the dawn of civilization, caves protected early humans from wild animals, cold, and rain. Later, people began to build huts from branches, grass, bones, and animal skins.
D. The homes of our grandchildren will probably look very different from today's. With climate change and new technologies, people may build floating cities, underground houses, or even homes in space. The designs may be various, but all houses will likely be smart, where artificial intelligence will save energy and improve comfort. Hopefully, they will also be eco-friendly, using solar panels, wind energy, and sustainable materials.
E. Besides safety and access to water, people have to consider many other factors when building a home. Climate and weather conditions are very important. In cold areas, wood and stone houses have always been much in use. In hot, dry regions, people traditionally build houses from clay, mud bricks, or even sand. Today's technology widens the choice, and architects often design houses from concrete, steel, and glass.
F. As societies developed, people started to settle in one place. They usually built their homes on fertile land near rivers and lakes because they needed water for drinking and farming. Safety was also very important – the settlers wanted to protect themselves from dangerous animals and aggressive tribes. The location of a home was a matter of survival. That is why many towns and villages were built on hills or surrounded by walls.
Ваш ответ:
Задание 2. True / False / Not stated (варианты 6–10)
Определите, какие из утверждений 1–7 соответствуют содержанию текста (1 — True), какие не соответствуют (2 — False), и о чём в тексте не сказано (3 — Not stated). Запишите в поле ответа цифру 1, 2 или 3.
Вариант 6. Oliver the Odd Octopus
"What's that? That creature…," Lisa could not take her eyes off something swimming in Ken's fish tank. The tank was large, much larger than people usually put into their flats for interior reasons. But Ken's parents were not like most people – his father was a marine biologist, and his mother worked as a vet in the local vet clinic. Their home was different. Lisa wouldn't be surprised to see a dog or a cat with bandaged legs there – as Ken's mother sometimes 'took work home.' The creature in the fish tank, however, looked like an alien to Lisa.
"Oh, now it's my dad who's taken work home. This guy is called Oliver. He's an octopus, can't you see?" Ken came up to the fish tank and tapped his fingers on the glass. The octopus immediately approached the glass and looked up at Ken. His eyes were orange, and his eight legs seemed blue. Lisa came up to the tank to take a better look, but the octopus… disappeared! It just dissolved in the water! Lisa was puzzled and Ken laughed loudly, "This is Oliver's favourite trick. He can turn invisible. Well, almost invisible... He's still there, but he's changed his colour to sandy brown to match the sand in the tank. In the wild, this trick helps octopuses to hide from sharks."
Lisa felt more and more curious about the octopus. "Are you saying Oliver is able to camouflage himself to escape danger? What else can he do?"
"Well, lots of things. He can squeeze through a very small hole. As small as a coin. Look, if I put this plate with a hole between him and his snack, he will get to his food in no time," said Ken. He opened the tank, put his hand with a snack into the water and blocked the octopus's way to it with a large plastic plate with a few small holes.
"I bet he'll never get through the hole. It's too small! Oliver's much larger! Even his head…" but Lisa did not complete what she wanted to say, because Oliver had already moved through the hole as if he were liquid. He grabbed his snack with one of his eight arms and looked at Lisa. "Oh, he's amazing!" Lisa couldn't hide her surprise.
"See?" Ken was pleased with the performance. "It's easy because he has no bones."
"How is it possible? No bones at all? I wouldn't believe it if I hadn't seen it myself." Lisa looked at Oliver very closely and added, "He is odd, of course. But he is not ugly. He is even cute. And he looks smart."
Ken nodded in agreement, "My dad says octopuses are very smart. They can watch and learn by watching. They are fast at learning new skills and they are good at problem-solving. For example, they can figure out how to open a jar or untie a knot. My father has been studying the behaviour of dogs and cats, and, according to him, octopuses are cleverer and more resourceful than they are. At least my father is sure of that. He's been testing Oliver's abilities for a few weeks, and has got some astonishing results."
Выберите 1 (True), 2 (False) или 3 (Not stated):
1. Ken's father found out that octopuses were able to count to ten.
2. Oliver managed to get through a small hole to get his snack.
3. Both Ken's parents worked as scientists in a biological laboratory.
4. The fact that octopuses have no bones was new to Lisa.
5. Lisa lost sight of Oliver because the octopus had jumped out of the fish tank.
6. Ken's father believed that octopuses were smarter than dogs.
7. Ken and Lisa were classmates.
Вариант 7. Kamchatka
When I think back to my journey to Kamchatka, it feels like I visited another world. My job involves lots of travelling, as I'm a wildlife photographer. I'm not a person who can be easily impressed, but Kamchatka amazed me! It is a peninsula in the far east of Russia, very far from big cities, and it cannot be called a popular tourist destination.
It is not easy to get there. People usually do it by boat or by helicopter, and maybe this is why the nature of the region still looks so wild and untouched. The rivers and streams (and there are more than 14,000 of them on the peninsula) cut through mountains and valleys, making the landscape wild and dramatic.
The first thing I noticed was the volcanoes. Kamchatka has more than three hundred volcanoes, and some of them are still active. When I saw smoke rising from the crater of Klyuchevskaya Sopka, the highest volcano in Eurasia, I felt both afraid and excited. Walking on the black volcanic soil was like walking on another planet. I took some photos of the landscape, which looked like shots from a space-exploration film. The ground was warm in some places, and small hot springs bubbled out of the earth.
I had seen geysers before Kamchatka, but nothing like the Valley of the Geysers! The guide said there were about 40 to 90 geysers, depending on how you count. Some of them erupt regularly every 15 minutes, and others once in a few hours. The temperature of the water is very high; it may be close to the boiling point, near 95–100°C.
The guide explained that in 2007, a large landslide happened in the Valley, which dramatically changed the landscape of the place. Mud, rocks and sand buried many geysers, and some of them were flooded by water, but that was how a new lake was formed. It is called Geysernaya Lake, and I felt privileged to see it, as not many people can.
Along with being remote and difficult to reach, the Valley of Geysers is a very vulnerable place and needs protection. Tourists are allowed there in very small quantities. They are usually taken there by helicopter, and then they have to use special walking paths, so as not to cause any damage to the environment. There are lots of other amazing places on Kamchatka which I want to see when I go (hopefully!) there next time.
And, of course, as a wildlife photographer, I took a lot of shots of the animals on Kamchatka. You probably know that Kamchatka has the highest concentration of brown bears in the world. In summer, you can see dozens of bears fishing for salmon in the same river at the same time. But I will write about that in my next entry…
Выберите 1 (True), 2 (False) или 3 (Not stated):
1. The narrator did not see any smoking volcanoes during his trip.
2. Geysernaya Lake is a man-made lake.
3. The number of tourists who can visit the Valley of Geysers is restricted.
4. The narrator's job keeps him in his office most of the time.
5. According to the guide, the water from the geysers was suitable for drinking.
6. According to the narrator, there is a large population of brown bears on Kamchatka.
7. The narrator got to Kamchatka by helicopter.
Вариант 8. What Do Teenagers Read?
Writing essays is not my favourite pastime. I prefer solving maths problems or running my blog. You may say that writing for a blog and writing essays are just the same, but they're not!
Anyway, today we've got an assignment to write an essay about what genres teenagers prefer to read. At first, I wanted to write that teenagers do not like reading at all, and that is why they have no favourite genres. However, I then thought that the common belief that teenagers do not read may be just a stereotype, and not a fact. Indeed, a lot of senior people complain that we read much less than they did, but where is the proof? Has anyone ever done any research? Are there any figures, graphs, or diagrams proving that contemporary kids read less than teenagers sixty years ago, or how much less?
Feeling intrigued, I decided to search the web. Guess what! I was right – nobody has provided any evidence. I did not find any figures. But what I did find was a list of teenagers' favourite genres! The list was generated by AI, of course, but it provides some interesting information to consider. So, according to AI, fantasy and adventure books are at the top of the list, and I agree with that completely. I also prefer stories about magic, quests for hidden keys, and portals to any other kinds of books.
The next in rank are love stories, books about relationships, and challenges of teenage romance, and here, my personal preferences do not coincide with my AI assistant's choice. Not at all! I never read love stories, finding them too boring, and I was surprised to find out that they are so popular. On the other hand, why shouldn't they be? My sister loves them, and her friends do, too. To be precise, the girls prefer watching romantic films to reading romantic books, but, anyway, the genre is the same.
Thrillers and crime stories are third in popularity. For some reason, this genre has always been popular with people of all ages. Just remember the queen of detective stories, Agatha Christie. I don't think there's any person who has never read any of her books – except for my sister, maybe. There are a few Agatha Christie books in our home library, but only mum can read them. Do you wonder why? Because they are in French, and mum is the only one in our family who knows French. I study Italian at school, but my level doesn't allow me to read Italian books in the original. Probably, in a couple of years, I'll be able to do it.
Science-fiction books take only fourth place in the ratings. At first, I thought AI was mistaken, but then I agreed with it. Our technological reality is breathtaking, and recent discoveries are so unbelievable and exciting, that science-fiction books cannot compete with science journals.
And you? What's your favourite reading genre?
Выберите 1 (True), 2 (False) или 3 (Not stated):
1. The narrator's favourite genre is fantasy and adventure books.
2. The narrator has found convincing evidence that today's teenagers read less than their grandparents did.
3. The narrator's sister is younger than him.
4. According to the narrator, nowadays science fiction is less popular than detective stories.
5. The narrator reads books in Italian and French.
6. The narrator's sister is fond of books about romance and relationships.
7. The narrator writes mainly about school life in the blog.
Вариант 9. The Knights of Camelot
The story about Camelot, the kingdom ruled by King Arthur, is popular with writers and film producers. You have probably seen films and serials about it, and such names as Queen Guinevere and Sir Lancelot sound familiar. Some people believe they were real, while others think Camelot and its inhabitants were only a legend.
There is no real proof that Camelot ever existed. Historians and archaeologists have searched for it, but they have not found any clear evidence. Anyway, they do not give up, and believe that Camelot was probably inspired by real places in Britain. Possible locations that researchers suggest are an old hill fort, where local legends say Arthur once lived, and a Roman fortress town connected with old Arthurian tales.
Despite the absence of material evidence, there are many references to Camelot in literature. Camelot was mentioned for the first time in the 12th century by a French writer, and there were other stories and poems after that. They differ a lot, as the storytellers added their own vision and interpretation of the events. The things that all the versions have in common are the famous sword, Excalibur, and the Round Table.
Excalibur was not an ordinary sword. Its name comes from Latin and French words meaning 'cut steel.' For a long time, it had been stuck in a large stone and nobody could pull it out. The old tale said that only the true king would be able to do that, and Arthur proved to be that king. He pulled the sword out of the stone, and the people of the kingdom gladly accepted their young ruler. According to other stories, however, it was the Lady of the Lake who gave the sword to Arthur as a magical gift. When Arthur died, Excalibur was returned to her.
The Round Table, another symbol of Camelot, was the place where Arthur and his knights gathered. In some films, it is featured as a massive rock or stone construction, but the old legends insist that the huge table was made of wood. Yes, it was created from a single large piece of oak, and all sorts of golden ornaments and other decorations were added by storytellers much later. The table had no head or end, which meant that all the knights were equal, and as important as the king himself.
Camelot was meant to become the Kingdom of brave, generous and free people, but in the end, the dream began to fall apart. The unity of the Round Table was broken, and Arthur fought his last battle against his own knight. Arthur was badly wounded and carried to the island of Avalon, where he still rests. Nobody has ever seen his grave yet, and even the legends do not give us any clue about exactly where it might be. Some legends, however, say that King Arthur will return one day, when Britain needs him again.
Выберите 1 (True), 2 (False) или 3 (Not stated):
1. Most films about King Arthur and Camelot were made in Britain.
2. According to the legends, the Round Table was wooden.
3. There is no universal story about King Arthur's life.
4. King Arthur was buried in the Castle of Camelot.
5. Scientists and researchers managed to find the place where Camelot had been.
6. The French writer who first described Camelot was inspired by an old Roman fortress town.
7. The name of Arthur's sword can be translated as a magical gift.
Вариант 10. Doctor Peyo
It is a common belief that cats, dogs and other pets can help people feel happier and healthier. This story is about Peyo, a horse that treats people. He belongs to a breed called the Arab-Barb, which was created in North Africa. The horses of this breed are strong, elegant, and temperamental. They are considered excellent for riding. Peyo, however, was born in Europe and is not just known for his strength and beauty, but also for his unique ability to comfort people who are seriously ill. Peyo became a celebrity in medicine, though his career started ordinarily for a sports horse.
Peyo's owner and trainer, Hassen Bouchakour, started working with him about two decades ago. He prepared the young horse for competitions and shows. Peyo galloped, jumped, and performed in different sports and cultural events, showcasing impressive tricks such as dancing, bowing, and even walking on his hind legs. But over time, something unusual began to happen.
Once, after a show, Peyo walked away from his trainer and approached a man from the audience. The horse stood quietly beside the person for a long time. The trainer was very much surprised by Peyo's behaviour. The man, who was seriously ill, said that the horse's presence made him feel better. His pain was released.
That wasn't the end of the story. His trainer noticed that Peyo tended to stand near people with visible or even invisible health problems. Amazingly, the horse was able to detect people with serious illnesses even before their diagnoses were known. Doctors were curious about the extraordinary abilities of the horse, but were not able to explain them.
Meanwhile, Peyo has changed his career dramatically. He is not a sports horse anymore. Now, Peyo and his trainer work in a hospital. There, Peyo calmly walks through the halls and gently enters patients' rooms. He chooses who to visit, without any direction from his trainer. He finds the patients who need him most and brings them peace and even joy.
The doctors and nurses affectionately call the horse Doctor Peyo. They say that Peyo's presence has visible effects: it reduces patients' heart rates and blood pressure. It releases pain, which means lower doses of painkilling medication are needed. Some patients who have not spoken or smiled for days relax and smile when the horse is near.
Scientists are still studying Peyo's behaviour. They want to understand how animals like him can help cure people, and believe that his natural ability to connect with people could improve future therapy programs that involve animals.
When not working, Peyo lives on a quiet farm, where he can rest and run with other horses. His trainer provides healthy food and good medical care.
Peyo is a real celebrity. Videos with him have gone viral online, and his story inspires people. He shows us that healing does not only come from medicine, but sometimes comes from a gentle heart and soft touch.
Выберите 1 (True), 2 (False) или 3 (Not stated):
1. When Peyo works in the hospital, he visits more than ten patients a day.
2. As the patients need him very often, Peyo lives in the hospital yard all the time.
3. Most people Peyo approached were diagnosed with heart problems.
4. It is possible to measure the results of Peyo's work in the hospital.
5. Peyo used to take part in horse shows and public events.
6. The trainer chose the first patient for Peyo to help.
7. Peyo was born in North Africa.
Раздел 2. Говорение
Как правильно выполнять задание 3 (монолог)
Формат: Вы получаете тему и 4 пункта плана. Время подготовки — 1,5 минуты. Время ответа — не более 2 минут (10–12 предложений). Говорите непрерывно.
Вводная фраза (начало монолога): Начните с общего вступления к теме, например: "I'd like to talk about...", "Today I'm going to speak about...", "Let me tell you about...". Это показывает, что вы понимаете задачу и переходите к ответу.
Структура: Раскройте каждый из 4 пунктов плана по 2–3 предложения. Используйте связующие слова: First of all, Secondly, As for..., In conclusion.
Завершение монолога: Завершите своё отношение к теме или общим выводом: "To sum up", "In my opinion", "That's all I wanted to say". Не обрывайте речь резко.
Вариант 1. Conflicts with your friends
why teenagers can have a conflict with their friends;
what you usually have conflicts with your friends about;
how you usually make up with your friends;
what your attitude to conflicts with your friends is.
Готовый вариант ответа
I'd like to talk about conflicts with friends.
First of all, teenagers can have conflicts for many reasons: different opinions, jealousy, misunderstandings or broken promises. Sometimes we argue about trivial things like plans for the weekend or who should pay for something.
As for me, I usually have conflicts with my friends about whose turn it is to choose a film or a game. We also sometimes argue when one of us is late or forgets about our plans.
To make up, we usually apologise and talk things over. I try to listen to my friend's point of view and explain my feelings. Sometimes we just need a bit of time to calm down and then we forget about the argument.
In my opinion, conflicts are a normal part of friendship. They help us understand each other better if we solve them in a respectful way. That's all I wanted to say.
Вариант 2. Hobbies
why it is important for people to have a hobby;
what your hobby is and how long you have been doing it;
how much time a week you give to your hobby and why;
what your attitude to creative hobbies is.
Готовый вариант ответа
Let me tell you about hobbies.
I think it's important for people to have a hobby because it helps us relax, develop new skills and forget about everyday problems. Hobbies make life more interesting and can even help you make new friends.
My hobby is photography. I've been doing it for about two years. I started when I got my first smartphone with a good camera and now I take pictures everywhere I go.
I give my hobby about five to seven hours a week. I usually take photos at weekends when I have more free time. Sometimes I edit pictures in the evening after homework.
I have a positive attitude to creative hobbies like drawing, music or photography. They help people express themselves and see the world in a different way. That's all I wanted to say.
Вариант 3. Family
why family plays an important role in every person's life;
what a typical Russian family is like;
who you feel closest to in your family and why;
what your attitude to having a big family is.
Готовый вариант ответа
I'd like to talk about family.
Family is important because it gives us support, love and a sense of belonging. Our relatives teach us values and help us through difficult times. We learn how to communicate and care for others in the family.
A typical Russian family usually consists of parents and one or two children. Many families live with grandparents. We often have dinner together and celebrate holidays as a family. Parents usually work, and children go to school.
I feel closest to my mother because we talk about everything. She always listens to me and gives good advice. We enjoy spending time together, for example cooking or watching films.
I have a positive attitude to big families. It must be nice to have many brothers and sisters, though it might be noisy sometimes. To sum up, family is the most important thing in life.
Вариант 4. Shopping
why many people enjoy shopping;
who you like shopping with and why;
what you like and dislike shopping for;
what your attitude to online shopping is.
Готовый вариант ответа
Today I'm going to speak about shopping.
Many people enjoy shopping because it's relaxing and they like finding new things. For some, it's a way to spend time with friends. Shopping can also improve mood when you buy something nice for yourself.
I like shopping with my friends because we can give each other advice and have fun together. We usually go to the mall at weekends. I don't really enjoy shopping with my parents because they take too long to decide.
I like shopping for clothes and gadgets. I dislike shopping for groceries because it's boring. I also don't like trying on many things when nothing fits.
I have a positive attitude to online shopping. It's convenient: you can compare prices and order from home. But you can't try things on, so sometimes you have to return them. That's all I wanted to say.
Вариант 5. Pocket money
why it is important for a teenager to have pocket money;
how much pocket money a week you usually get;
what you spend your pocket money on and why;
what your attitude to earning pocket money is.
Готовый вариант ответа
I'd like to talk about pocket money.
It's important for teenagers to have pocket money because it teaches us to manage our budget and make decisions. We learn the value of money and how to save for something we want. It also gives us independence.
I usually get about 500 rubles a week. Sometimes my parents give me extra money for good marks or when I help with housework. The amount depends on what I need to buy.
I spend my pocket money on snacks, apps, and sometimes on gifts for friends. I try to save a part of it for bigger purchases like a new game or clothes. I don't like wasting money on things I don't need.
I have a positive attitude to earning pocket money. It's good when teenagers can earn a bit by doing small jobs or helping neighbours. It makes us more responsible. That's all I wanted to say.
Вариант 6. Household chores
why it is important to share the household chores in a family;
how household chores are divided in your family;
what household chores you like and dislike doing and why;
what your attitude to ignoring household chores is.
Готовый вариант ответа
Let me tell you about household chores.
It's important to share household chores because it teaches responsibility and nobody has to do everything alone. When all family members help, the home is clean and it's fair. Children learn useful skills for the future.
In my family, my mum does most of the cooking and laundry. My dad takes out the rubbish and repairs things. I'm responsible for my room, washing the dishes and vacuuming. My younger sister tidies her room and helps set the table.
I like vacuuming because it's quick and I see the result immediately. I dislike washing the dishes because it's boring. I also don't like taking out the rubbish, especially when it's cold outside.
I have a negative attitude to ignoring household chores. If nobody does them, the house becomes messy and uncomfortable. Everyone should do their share. That's all I wanted to say.
Раздел 3. Письмо
Выполнение задания 35 (личное письмо)
Задание: Вам приходит письмо от зарубежного друга по переписке с 3 вопросами. Вам нужно ответить на все 3 вопроса и соблюсти правила оформления письма.
Объём: 100–120 слов. Не выходите за указанные границы — за превышение или недобор объёма снимаются баллы.
Структура письма:
Обращение (Dear + имя) и запятая;
Благодарность за письмо и/или ссылка на предыдущую переписку;
Ответы на все 3 вопроса (каждый вопрос — 2–4 предложения);
Указание причины, почему заканчиваете письмо;
Прощание (Best wishes, / All the best, и т.д.) и подпись (имя на отдельной строке).
Критерии оценивания (максимум 10 баллов):
Решение коммуникативной задачи (до 2 баллов): ответы на все 3 вопроса, уместный стиль (неформальный);
Организация текста (до 2 баллов): логичность, деление на абзацы, связующие средства;
Языковое оформление (до 6 баллов): грамматика, лексика, орфография и пунктуация.
Письмо 1. Helen — Russian Nature
Helen: I've seen wonderful pictures of Russia's nature. It seems so different from the region where I live. What natural places in Russia are the most beautiful to visit? Do Russians often go hiking or camping in the countryside? If you could spend a summer anywhere in Russia, where would you go?
Образец ответа
Dear Helen,
Thanks for your letter! I'm glad you're interested in Russian nature.
I think Lake Baikal and the Kamchatka Peninsula are among the most beautiful places. The Caucasus Mountains are also amazing for hiking. Yes, many Russians enjoy hiking and camping, especially in summer. My family often goes to the forest or the mountains at weekends.
If I could spend a summer anywhere in Russia, I would choose the Altai region. The scenery there is breathtaking, and you can go rafting and horse riding.
Write back soon! Best wishes, [Your name]
Письмо 2. Mary — Russian Towns
Mary: My teacher told me that Russia has many beautiful small towns. I'd love to travel and see some of them. What small Russian towns would you recommend visiting and why? What is the best way to travel around Russia? Where would you prefer to live, in a big city or a town, and why?
Образец ответа
Dear Mary,
Thanks for your letter! I'd be happy to tell you about Russian towns.
I'd recommend visiting Suzdal, Sergiev Posad and Veliky Novgorod. They have beautiful old churches and a unique atmosphere. The best way to travel around Russia is by train – it's comfortable and you can see a lot of the countryside. You can also fly between big cities.
I would prefer to live in a big city because there are more opportunities for study and work, and more entertainment. But I love visiting small towns for holidays.
Write soon! Best wishes, [Your name]
Письмо 3. Ruth — Russian Food
Ruth: Yesterday I tried borsch in a small Russian café in my city. I liked it a lot. I'd like to try more Russian dishes when I visit Russia. What other traditional Russian dishes would you recommend me to taste? Do Russian families usually cook at home or eat out in restaurants? What dish is your personal favourite, and why?
Образец ответа
Dear Ruth,
Thanks for your letter! I'm glad you enjoyed borsch.
I'd recommend trying pelmeni, blini, oladyi and syrniki. Shchi (cabbage soup) is also very traditional. Most Russian families cook at home – it's a big part of our culture. We usually eat out on special occasions or when we don't have time to cook.
My favourite dish is pelmeni with sour cream. I love them because they're tasty and you can have them with different fillings. My grandmother makes the best pelmeni!
Write back soon! Best wishes, [Your name]
Письмо 4. Laura — Russian Daily Life
Laura: I've read that Russian families often live in flats rather than houses. That seems quite different from where I am from. What are Russian homes usually like inside? Do teenagers in Russia help their parents with housework? What is your usual day like during the school year?
Образец ответа
Dear Laura,
Thanks for your letter! I'll tell you about Russian daily life.
Russian flats usually have a living room, kitchen, bathroom and one or two bedrooms. Many families have a balcony. Teenagers often help with housework – we tidy our rooms, wash the dishes, and sometimes cook. I usually vacuum the flat at weekends.
During the school year I get up at 7, have breakfast, and go to school. After school I do homework and have some free time. In the evening I have dinner with my family and relax.
Write soon! Best wishes, [Your name]
Письмо 5. Gerald — Russian Transport
Gerald: In my small city we usually travel by buses. Yours is a big country, I wonder how people in Russia get around. What is the most common way of travelling in Russia? Do people often have to go by long-distance trains? If you could choose, would you rather travel by train, car or plane, and why?
Образец ответа
Dear Gerald,
Thanks for your letter! I'll tell you about transport in Russia.
In big cities people usually use buses, trams, the metro and minibuses. In Moscow and St Petersburg the metro is very popular. Yes, long-distance trains are common – many people travel from one city to another by train, especially to reach remote regions.
If I could choose, I would prefer to travel by train. It's comfortable, you can sleep and enjoy the view. Planes are faster but I find trains more relaxing for long journeys.