- And in 1066 the Normans, people who came from the north of France, conquered England. As the years passed, the Normans and the Anglo-Saxons formed the English people.

- How do you know that?!

- From the school lessons, when we learned the history of the UK.

OK. But what about the wars. Were there any?

- Sure there were many of them, when little by little England became the strongest of all the states on the British Isles. In the 15th century it conquered Wales. And in general there were many wars between England and Scotland until in 1707, when they were united under one king, and became the powerful state. Its name has been Great Britain since then.

- O, I'm sorry, but I have to run. I must prepare for a school exam that I have at 5 o'clock today.

- OK, see you later, bye!

- Bye.

Feeling Good At School

- Hello, Dan.

- Hi, Sam. Well, how do you feel at your new school?

- You know, there are some things that I'm satisfied and to the contrary disappointed with.

- Yeah!? What do you mean talking in that way? Can you explain me all in details?

- All right. You know, I'd like it at all. Educational level is high, what is very important nowadays, teachers are well knowledgeable and kind in all ways, however still give us a lot of homework, pupils are very easygoing, gentle and thoughtful.

- However, with what thing does your upset related? Maybe it's the whole conditions that environ you: for example the manner of coloring walls in classrooms or disliked design of desks; otherwise perhaps you've no acquaintances with your classmates and neighbors?

- I don't quit agree with even one of your suggestions. Think easier. I'm completely fulfilled with all of this things that you've just now listed and got many friends of mine, sitting at the desk colored so that I really keen on it. Don't you know since I've been graduated to the new school, I start spending very much time on my mathematics, for the reason that it's very hard for me to solve some problems.

- Well, Sam, we all make mistakes at first, so don't let it get you down and hope for the best, no more than. A little practice and, in no doubt, you'll be more successful next time. And do not forget teacher's help that can be very useful.

- I think, it's necessary to do as you are told.

- Listen, I've heard that your school is on the first place for going on educational excursions and trips. And it is holding all kinds of contests and competitions, discussions and conversations.

- Oh, don't even talk about it. It is definite true. For example every week anyone who wants may take part in nature walks. It is marvelous. Participating in this kind of activities helps me to get rid of boredom. What can be better as a true friendship with your schoolmates. And for it I like my school time.

- Maybe you are able to decide which of the reasons, why you go to school, you think most important. As for me on the first place stands a reason of that school helps you make your own decisions and introduces you to new scientific ideas.

- Other than you're my opinion is a bit different. I apologize that school helps you to understand yourself better and makes you polite and well behaved. Furthermore it teaches you moral values and helps train you for a job.

- Maybe you're right. Oh, Sam I'm sorry I have to run - forgot that I've extra-curricula classes of Biology. See you tomorrow.

- OK, Bye!

- Bye!

Immigration to Australia

- Hi, Dan!

- O, hello my friend, Sam!

- Well, what is your solution about the state we want to immigrate in Australia? Did you think of it?

- Yes I've been thinking of it all day, and have decided, that the best place will be the South Australia.

- Why do you think so? Could you explain this to me?

- You know, this state is the 3rd largest state in the country (Australia).

- Size doesn't matter. What are the living conditions there?

- Most of South Australia's people, farms and industry are in the south-eastern part of the state. Much fruit are grown there: apricots, pears, nectarines and others. And hot temperature in this state dominates. At last we will “have a rest” from our Estonian frosts.

- But, you know that where a hot temperature is, there are always deserts. And from my point of view living in the state where the most unproductive desert lands occupy the greater part is silly.

- Yes, you are right as always. And what is your opinion?

- Hmm… Let me think for a minute. Western Australia is dry and inhospitable - there are even three deserts are there: the Great Sandy Desert, the Gibson Desert and Great Victo-ria Desert; Northern Territory is the least populated and least developed part of the conti-nent, where only wild animals, as crocodiles and emu, live.

- …And about South Australia we have “completed”… What about Tasmania? Tasmania is an island state and I don't want to live there and to become a savage in this huge country. I know - it will be Queensland state, where long sandy beautiful beaches stretch for many kilometers.

- However, the same deserts are situated there.

- Well, I would choose New South Wales - Australia's leading indus-trial state, where most people live along the east coast, and most of them in Sydney. Syd-ney is also the largest city in Australia. Or maybe Australian Capital Territory, occupying an area of 2,432 square kilometers.

- It is situated on the same territory as New South Wales. You know it's long enough to see a main sights of Victoria state…

- Sorry, maybe we will finish our talk later, because I have an exam at school?

- OK. See you soon. Bye!

- Bye!

Improving Language Skills

- Hello, Dan.

- Hi, Sam, glad to meet you!

- Dan, I'm taking interview to the best language learner for our class newspaper, that'll give advice how to improve language communication skills, and want you to ask some questions for me.

- I think, I'll do this. You may start, however why have you chosen me as the best learner of languages.

- Because it seems to be that you're the one in our class that has fives in languages. OK, lets begin. What kind of recommendation would you give to those, who want to improve their basic language skills?

- At first I'd like to say that cause won't turn into reality without an experience in subject that you learn. Excellent work in the classroom and diligent homework preparing is successful result in your primary achievements.

- Do you think that out-of-class activities may bring you desired help - help in getting reading, writing, conversation and pronunciation skills? Is it a good idea, to come home and after making homework, to practice in writing, obeying your teacher's exact and clear explanations, if it is so.

- It's just what I was thinking. In addition I'd like to say that your every extra reading, simple writing compositions, industriousness and responsibility in a good work habits, constant study will make your speech fluent. And it is always necessary to remember never to give way to despair in a case of a failure.

- I agree with you, I also think that there are many educational supplementary training courses in our town. Either ask help from your teacher, I'm sure she or he can always do it for you, or get somebody's, who knows a subject matter well, advice to solve your problems. On the other hand how to make use of, for example, English TV, songs, periodicals, etc.?

- Oh, I suppose it as a superior thought. And furthermore it is easy accessible. You can just go and by a new English newspaper or a magazine in a nearby newsstand. Also you can choose from this variety of TV-channels that your providers offer and again in English.

- Certainly! Moreover at the end I feel like to say that communication with native speakers is so important as other factors of help in studying language. Thee can hold different discussions and conversations with inhabitant people of the foreign language you want to learn and to receive invaluable support. But, if you can't find him or her don't be saddened, you can find yourself in the language environment as well in school classes.

- I couldn't agree more.

- Thanks for your answers, they were very good.

- Thank you too. Bye!

- Bye-bye!

Inviting a Friend

- Hallo! Could I speak to Dan?

- Speaking.

- Ooh… Hi Dan. It is me, - Sam!

- Hi Sam haven't heard from you for ages. How are you? And where are you calling from?

- From Narva of course. And I'm fine. And how do you feel?

- I'm fine too.

- That's good. You know, we have a school holidays next week.

- Really, what a coincidence, we, too.

- I didn't know that. Thought, that you only have it in summer. Would you like to come and see me next week while you are on holiday? We would have a good time, even better than you would have in New York.

- I don't know what to say.

- Don't you believe me? I will show you all Narva sights. Have you heard anything about famous Narva Castle that was built at the end of the 13th and at the beginning of the 14th centuries by the Danes? The bastioned Castle with its high tower, named Tall Herman, being one of the most interesting erections of the medieval Estonia. Narva has always been and remains one of the most important gateways of Estonia.

- That is very interesting. I think you'd better come to see me in New York. Everyone knows something about New York - the Statue of Liberty, the spectacular skyscrapers, the beautiful shops of Fifth Avenue, and the many theaters on Broadway. I think you too.

- Yes you are right. I remember our school lessons about New York city and its history.

- And I can show you many other different and interesting places in New York, too. Because this city is the place to try something new. And it may be an experience that you will never forget.

We will visit well-known Disneyland, you will see one of the highest buildings (constructions) in the hole World,- New York Trade Center(s) skyscraper. It has 110 floors. We will also walk on Broadway and watch some performances in its theatres. Then we will…

- Hold on! You named me so many places to visit that my head has begun to spin around. However, in Narva there aren't fewer places to see. Narva Art Museum performs large collections of paintings of the best art makers all over the Europe. You will be amazed at the Kreenholm factory with its capacious size. This manufactory has worked since the end of the last century. It produces clothes and many other textile products.

- And where can we have a rest in Narva?

- Our resorts and recreation centers are situated in the Narva suburb - Narva-Jхesuu and can receive and accommodate over 1000 guests. Holidaymakers come here every summer from St.Petersburg, Sweden and even from your America. Estonia is prouded of its clear, fresh air and clean water of the Finnish Gulf and its lakes inside the country.

- You know, we have the same place, named oasis of New York's concrete desert, - beautiful Central Park. The park is surprisingly big, with lakes and woods as well as organized recreation areas. New Yorkers love Central Park, and they use it all the time. In the winter, going ice-skating, and in the summer roller-skating, bicycling and boating. They play ball, ride horses and have picnics. And there is even a children's zoo with wild birds and animals. Families come here to enjoy the sun and fresh air. The children can play safely here away from fast cars and busy streets. Musicians, hot dogs and hamburgers, water birds, fine and calm weather, - what can be better!?

- That's great, but not as good as in Narva…

- Sam I'm sorry (watching to the clock). Let me phone you tomorrow.

- What's happened? We haven't finished our talk yet.

- You see, I have a training session at 5 o'clock and can't be late, because we will have an Estonian Championship in basketball and I must get ready for it!

- That's a pity, but if it needs I will be waiting for your call. And I think that I will convince you to come here.

- We shall see! Bye!

- Bye! (laughing)

Newspapers and Magazines.

- Hello Dan, haven't seen you for ages!

- Oh, hi Sam, glad to meet you to! (buying a newspaper at the newsstand)

- I see you are going to buy some recent newspapers? And your choice has felt on the “Djen za Dnjom” paper.

- You know, Sam, this is the only paper that I prefer to read.

- Can you tell me more about this kind of newspaper, as I've even got interested in it? I've just heard that this weekly newspaper is one of the most popular Russian papers in Estonia, and, if my memory does not lie, its circulation is nearly 70 thousand copies.

- You're absolutely right. And of course I'll tell all that I know about the newspaper my family and I subscribe to regularly. I appeal reading to the “Djen za Dnjom” because the paper contains 50 pages and covers the most important local and international events. There are detailed articles of political nature, economic and business news, literary and artistic reviews, sport news and much more.

- Wow, you can get very useful information out of there, am I right?

- You've stroked exactly.

- And I think that best of all you like to read the “Palata №9” partition, what is devoted to funny stories and riddles, crossword puzzles and logical tasks. I've read it once with my friends, when we had a spare time. Moreover I know that in addition the newspaper has supplements like the “Masterok” and the “Astra”. And also the issue cost includes “TV Park” TV-guide of just about 40 channels on the whole week.

- Steep knowledge! And you know as well my parents prefer reading this kind of the newspaper too, however choosing the material they are interested in. In difference from them I like to read it because there are no long and boring articles.

- These articles from my point of view must be short, laconic and informative, entertaining and easy to read.

- I can entirely agree with your opinion. I find it helpful and convenient for the reason that the advertisements in this paper assist me find out what's on in the theatres and concert halls plus where I can buy different things.

- I wonder that this newspaper has no editorial. The front page usually contains several pictures and articles that catch the reader's eye.

- I've noticed this attention-grabbing design too. What about you - what are you your reading preferences?

- I haven't thought about it yet. There are few homes to which at least one newspaper is not brought every morning, maybe at a reason of that there are many free domestic newspapers, usually containing lots of advertisements, which are brought to people's homes whether they ask for them or not. And my home isn't elimination.

- Dan I'm sorry, but I am in a hurry - I have to run. See you later. You can call me. Bye!

- Bye! It was nice talking with you.

Occurring with a writer,

who write books about Australian animals

- Good day mister Gary Fisher. (this is a name of the writer)

- Hello my friend, Sam!

- How a famous writer is doing?

- I'm fine. And you know that recently a new book have been written by me. It is named “Australian animals”.

- Great! But why did you choose this theme, as you haven't been to Australia?

- Who said? Last month as fiduciary, I left our town for that country, even it is better to say a continent.

- And how it is there in Australia? What animals from this country did you see and describe in your book? At all, tell me about your book.

…

- I know that. And…

- How did you know that?

- From school lessons, of course. It is not all.

…

Rubbish in newspapers

- Hello Dan, haven't seen you for ages.

- Oh, hi Sam, glad to meet you.

- I see a newspaper in your hands, which I think you are going to tear. Is it so?

- Yes, it is. These ads make me really furious. Every time as you open the latest newspaper to read some recent events in the world, you see bright, catchy, small ads everywhere.

- You know Dan, from my point of view this is a global problem, if it can be called so. Many papers are often criticized by reading public because of advertisements. And there are always advertisements of the things that at the moment you don't need, and sometimes prices are so high that you can't afford these products yourself. You only waste the time looking through them.

- I can fully agree with your opinion. I'd rather stay at home, put my feet up and enjoy what I've got, than dreaming of buying a good new car, for the reason that prices incredibly have felt down from 1,000,000 krons to 999,999 krons. I always have been misleading of the ads. Once I've bought some product at the very high price and it haven't justified my hopes. That is why nowadays we cannot trust advertisements.

- However, don't you know that economists tend to argue that if we didn't have advertising there wouldn't be such a wide choice of things to buy?

- I can understand it, but can we for a little reduce quantity of ads? I think advertising makes things more expensive, and it would be better if the money were spent on improving quality or making things cheaper.

- You are right. The last thing what is necessary to do is to find the ways to improve a newspaper. Newspapers must not to have been glossy, have colourful pictures on the whole start page with lots of small ads, instead of having useful information. For example to have an editorial is a same great idea, as having headlines on the current affairs.

- As I think of this theme that we are discussing now, it can be called rubbish in newspapers. Real rubbish, which's place is no more than in the recycle bin.

- Dan I'm sorry, but I've to run. I promised my coach to be at five on my training session. I'm really sorry, however we may finish our talk later. Just phone to me.

- OK, bye!

- Bye, it was nice talking with you!

Traveling

- Hello, Dan!

- Hi, Sam, glad to meet you! Haven't seen you for ages, where you've been?

- I've been traveling all winter holidays.

- And if it's not a secret, what places did you visit? May I guess - it was either Sweden or Finland?

- It's warm, however not hot. I've traveled to Lapland, the North of Finland, behind an Arctic Circle. You even can't imagine what a delightful place it is.

- Wow! I think it's awesome. What kind of transport did you use and may ask your opinion about the best way of traveling.

- You know I've noticed that quite a lot of people have still not found the best way to travel around. As for me I prefer car trip, because it seems remarkable to me. Traveling by in this way attracts me for many different reasons.

- And so what are they? Can you prove your point of view? I think that a bicycle ride is more marvelous, for the reason that it gets you out into the fresh air. You can go along narrow country roads, find new places, see new sights. Furthermore it gives you exercise and keeps you in good health.

- Yes, that's quite true but you can't overcome long distances riding a bicycle. The more you ride, depending on your fatigue, the more you legs get tired, twisting (gyrating) treadles. See in your mind's eye how you'll enjoy picturesque spots, feeling really good. You can stop anywhere you want, though there are some parking problems.

- I catch you, there is nothing to dream of freedom. By the way adventure is necessary for us all, because it keeps us from growing stale and old, develops our imagination, gives us that movement and change which are essential to our life. Sitting on seats of the automobile you can't afford such breathing space environment.

- OK, you've convinced me. Lets better talk of the places you've visited traveling by bicycle. For example I stayed in a hotel and went mountain skiing. Outgoing, fantastic! I don't think you saw other places, excluding our Narva-Jхesuu sandy beach all in waste and the dirty Boltic Sea.

- Oh, Sam, I'm sorry, but I'm in a hurry. I promised my mom to be at home at five o'clock. Should we finish our talk later.

- No problem, I'll be waiting for your call, bye!

- Bye-bye!

Watching a documentary film about Australia

- Hi, Sam!

- Hi Dan, nice to meet you!

- Have you had a nice evening, Sam?

- Yes, I've been watching a documentary film on TV.

- Really?! What was it about?

- About the largest island in the World.

- The largest island? Do you mean Australia?

- I do. Though I'm sure that Australia is the biggest island. I know that many people think it's a continent.

- Yes. That's what I think: it's the smallest continent on the Earth.

- And it is an independent country too

- I know that. What is its capital? Sydney?

- No. It's Canberra, however Sydney is the largest city in the country.

- Is English the official language?

- Yes, it is, though it is a bit different from the language they speak in the USA and Britain.

- And I've heard that this country has 6 states.

- Yes, you are absolutely right. I can tell you about this. This is a state Queensland, where long beautiful sandy beaches situated, Victoria, Western Australia and the South Australia - the 3rd largest state with remaining farm industry; and the Northern Territory and Tasmania island (state).

- Wow! How many states (areas).

And I know that Australia is a land of striking differences at all, and that the most part of the continent - 50% - is desert.

- How did you know that?

- From school lessons, of course. But it doesn't matter. You know, from my point of view Australia is the smallest continent in the World. Am I right, Sam?

- Yes you are. Ooo… Sorry Dan, but I'm in a hurry and must go, as I promised my mother to come back at 16 o'clock.

- OK. See you tomorrow, bye!

- Bye.

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