Country File UNITED KINGDOM: The System of Education

The UK education system has five stages—Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Further, and Higher Education—with compulsory education from age 5 to 16, though some countries have slightly different starting ages. 

Although each of the four UK countries has some autonomy, the system is structured around Key Stages, with students transitioning from primary to secondary school and then potentially to further or higher education, culminating in qualifications like GCSEs and A-levels.  

Subject File ASPECTS of TRAVELLING

 Dream Destinations 

1. Destination World: The World's 47 Best Tourist Attractions

2. Destination Europe Europe Travel Guide: The Best European Destinations

3. Destination Austria 

Ex. 1: Read the text and complete the numbered gaps with the correct city names.

Austrian cities are always good for a surprise, even if one visits them regularly. A tour of the country’s cultural sights promises an astounding variety of experiences, impressions and pleasures that could scarcely be more different from each other. 

________________ (1) can boast two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the ___________(a) city centre and the Baroque ensemble of Schönbrunn Palace and its grounds. One can find art treasures and magnificent buildings all over the former imperial capital. The most important “cabinet of art” in the world, the Kunstkammer in Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum, takes visitors back in time to the Renaissance and Baroque "Kunst- und Wunderkammer" (chambers of arts and natural wonders) of the Habsburgs.

Austria’s youngest provincial capital, ________________ (2), can look back on a long history, with its town charter dating back to the twelfth century. One of the most ______________ (b) features of the capital of Lower Austria today is its hyper-modern government district, and directly adjacent is the equally modern cultural district with its futuristic Festspielhaus, where world-renowned musicians and dance companies perform regularly.

_________________ (3), the capital of Upper Austria, is remarkable for the coexistence of traditional and contemporary architecture. This city, situated directly on the banks of the Danube, succeeds in blending art, science and technology to create an impressive synthesis. A host of modern buildings, such as the Ars Electronica Center, provide a stimulating contrast to the Baroque city centre. The Lentos Kunstmuseum and the new music theatre are two other outstanding modern buildings and ____________ (c) attractions for visitors to the city. 

The Baroque city centre of ________________ (4), Mozart’s birthplace and home to the _______________ (d) Salzburg Festival, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The cityscape is marked by numerous churches and palaces as well as the Baroque palaces of Mirabell and Hellbrunn. Salzburg Cathedral and the medieval Hohensalzburg Fortress are other architectural highlights. And visitors to Salzburg should not leave without taking some of the city’s sweetest souvenirs with them: the original Salzburg Mozartkugel. 

What makes ________________ (5) _______________(e)  is not just its extraordinary location, surrounded by towering Alpine peaks. The Tirolean capital also features such world-famous sights as the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), the art treasures in the Renaissance Ambras Castle, and the Court Church (Hofkirche). The city has its share of modern structures too, including the Hungerburgbahn funicular railway and Bergisel Ski Jump, both designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid.

The history of ___________________ (6) began as early as two thousand years ago, when a Roman settlement was located here. Today the main feature of the town centre is the _____________ (f) St. Martin’s Tower, crowned by a sixteenth-century onion-shaped dome. The shoreline of Lake Constance is dotted with impressive modern buildings that represent a harmonious addition to the townscape: the Festspielhaus, the Kunsthaus and the “vorarlberg museum”, which opened its doors in 2013.

It is the Carinthian capital’s Baroque and Jugendstil façades, lovely arcaded courtyards and narrow passageways that lend the picturesque historic district of _______________ (7) its Mediterranean charm. The Jugendstil-era Stadttheater is not only the southernmost theatre in the German-speaking world, but also an _______________ (g) gem of extraordinary elegance.

 ____________________ (8), Austria’s second-largest city, is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the old town, as the largest medieval historic district in all of Europe, and Eggenberg Palace. In 2011 the Styrian capital was also designated as a “UNESCO City of Design”, placing it among the world’s most ________________ (h) and future-oriented cities. Architectural examples of this are the Kunsthaus Graz and the Murinsel.

In _______________________ (9), the capital of Burgenland, the visitor will encounter one name again and again: Joseph Haydn. The composer spent over forty years as music director in the service of the Esterházy Princes. Esterházy Palace, the city’s landmark, is the venue for concerts by world-class artists throughout the year. The ___________________(i) area surrounding the city is also well worth exploring: it is marked by extensive vineyards and features numerous wineries.

Ex. 2: Choose an adjective from below to complete the gaps with letters.

medieval - architectural - historic - striking - scenic - famous - unique - popular - creative

Grammar Review: Passive voice structures

When do we use the passive voice?

The passive is used when the person responsible for an action is not known or is not important:

• The beer is forced at high pressure through a sieve.
• A similar process is used in some Arab countries.
• I was given a watch for my birthday.

The passive is also used when we want to avoid mentioning the person responsible for an action:

• You were asked to arrive at 8 a.m. (less ‘personal’ than: I asked you to arrive …)
• This essay must be handed in next Monday.

By is often used with the passive to show who was responsible for an action:

• Penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming.
• The first landing on the moon was made in 1969 by the Americans.
• The research is being done by a team of European scientists.

 

Subject file CHANGES in the WORLD of WORK

The World of Work in History

Throughout human history, the world of work has seen profound changes. 

The Neolithic/Agricultural Revolution

• the most fundamental transition in early human history from a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle to one of agriculture and settled village life
• marked by the domestication of animals and plants
• began independently in multiple regions around 10,000 BCE
• led to permanent settlements, population growth, and the development of civilizations
• Neolithic centres: Old Europe (Southeast/Eastern Europe), Fertile Crescent (Levant, Mesopotamia, Anatolia)

The (1st) Industrial Revolution 

• between 1760 and 1840, beginning in Great Britain
• major shift from making goods by hand at home to machine manufacturing in factories
• based on new energy sources such as steam and coal to power machines, allowing for mass production, faster transportation, and rapid urbanization
• faster travel because of steam-powered engines in ships and locomotives

The Digital Revolution

• ongoing transformation of society driven by digital technologies, with artificial intelligence (AI) as a major catalyst
• AI integrates into everyday life, performing tasks that require human intelligence and revolutionizing industries through enhanced efficiency, automation, and data analysis
• Information Revolution: information moved from physical forms to digital forms and is fast and easily available, connecting billions of people in real time
• key drivers: Internet, computers and other devices, digital storage

The Future in the World of Work

BBC 6 Minute English: What is the future of work?

Subject File CHILDREN and FOOD

Children and food: challenges and opportunities

A balanced diet and healthy eating habits are essential for children's overall well-being. By providing a variety of nutritious foods, creating a positive mealtime environment, and setting a good example, parents and caregivers can help children develop healthy eating habits that will benefit them throughout their lives. 

Childhood obesity is a serious issue due to its immediate and long-term health consequences, including increased risk of chronic diseases, psychological and social problems, and higher healthcare costs. Obese children are more likely to become obese adults, who face a higher risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. 

Health Problems:

• Increased risk of chronic diseases (type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and fatty liver disease)
• Respiratory issues (asthma, sleep apnoea)
• Joint problems (pain, potential long-term mobility issues) 
• Cardiovascular problems (heart disease, stroke) 

Psychological and Social Issues:

• Low self-esteem and body image issues: Obese children may experience negative self-perception, teasing, and bullying, leading to social isolation. 
• Depression and anxiety: Mental health problems are more prevalent among children with obesity. 
• Reduced quality of life: Obesity can affect a child's overall well-being, including their ability to participate in activities and their social interactions. 

Long-Term Consequences:

Children who are obese are more likely to remain obese as adults, perpetuating the cycle of health problems. Obese individuals often require more medical care, leading to increased healthcare costs. Obesity-related diseases contribute to a higher risk of premature death. 

Contributing Factors:

• Unhealthy diet: Excessive consumption of sugary drinks, processed foods, and large portion sizes contribute to weight gain. 
• Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyles, increased screen time, and limited opportunities for physical activity contribute to obesity. 
• Environmental factors: Factors like food availability, marketing of unhealthy foods, and access to safe places for physical activity can also play a role. 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/childhood-obesity-applying-all-our-health/childhood-obesity-applying-all-our-health

Subject File 21st-century Housing: Smart homes

What is a smart home? A definition.

A smart home is a residence equipped with internet-connected devices that can be remotely controlled and monitored, often through a smartphone or other networked device. These devices automate various aspects of the home, including lighting, temperature, security, and appliances, enhancing convenience, efficiency, and safety.

Country File U. S. A.: The System of Education

The US education system is quite similar to that in other countries. It consists of three main stages: primary education (kindergarten and elementary school), secondary education (middle school and high school), and further education (tertiary or higher education). It is  structured as a K-12 system, encompassing Kindergarten through 12th grade, which is then followed by higher education.

This system is largely decentralized, with states and local school districts primarily responsible for education policy. 

Compulsory education includes elementary school, middle school, and high school education. 

It is for children from the age of 5 to the age of 18.

Around age six, U.S. children begin primary school, which is most commonly called “elementary school”. They attend five or six years and then go onto secondary school. In elementary school, children acquire foundational skills like literacy, numeracy, and social studies.

Secondary school consists of two programs: the first is “middle school” or “junior high school” and the second program is “senior high school”. Students have additional subjects such as mathematics, science, history, etc.

Upon completion of 12th grade, students receive a High School Diploma, a requirement for college or vocational training. 

Post-secondary education includes vocational training, two-year associate's degrees, and four-year bachelor's degrees.

U.S. students may go on now to college or university. College or university study is known as “higher education.” Colleges and universities offer a wide array of programs and degrees.

Ex. 1: Watch the video and complete the cloze below with words from the video.

K-12 Education:

Elementary School: typically encompasses _______________(1) through 5th or 6th grade

Middle School (or Junior High): covers 6th through 8th ____________(2) in many areas, although the specific grades may vary

_____________ (3) School: generally spans grades 9-12, although some schools may begin at the 10th grade

Public Schools: around 85% of students attend public schools, which are _____________ (4) and funded by local and state taxes

______________ (5) Schools: a smaller percentage of students attend private schools, which charge tuition

Home-schooling: a growing number of families choose to home-school their children

Ex. 2: Learn more about some concepts central to the U. S. system of education in the following video.

• KEY: 1) kindergarten; 2) grades; 3) High; 4) free; 5) private

•