VII. A. Read the text England and discuss it

England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It borders on Scotland in the north and Wales in the west. It is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, the Irish Sea, the North Sea and the English Channel which separates it from continental Europe. Most of England comprises the central and southern part of the island of Great Britain. The country also includes over 100 smaller islands.

England's terrain mostly comprises low hills and plains, especially in central and southern England. However, there are uplands in the north and in the south west. England's population is about 51 million, around 84% of the population of the United Kingdom, and is largely concentrated in London, the South East and in the Midlands, the North West, the North East and Yorkshire. Meadowlands and pastures are found beyond the major cities.

The ports of London, Liverpool, and Newcastle lie on the tidal rivers Thames, Mersey and Tyne respectively. The Severn is the longest river flowing through England. There are many lakes in England; the largest is Windermere, within the Lake District.

The Pennines, known as the "backbone of England", are the oldest range of mountains in the country. The highest point in England, at 978 metres is Scafell Pike in Cumbria. Straddling the border between England and Scotland are the Cheviot Hills.

The English Lowlands are to the south of the Pennines.

Many ancient standing stone monuments were erected during the prehistoric period, amongst the best known are Stonehenge, Devil's Arrows, etc. Some of the best known medieval castles include the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, etc. Throughout the Plantagenet era an English Gothic architecture flourished - the medieval cathedrals such as Canterbury Cathedral, Westminster Abbey are prime examples.

UK = United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Соединенное Королевство Великобритании и Северной Ирландии

Westminster Abbey Вестминстерское аббатство

VII. B. Read the text Scotland and discuss it (from Easy English № 13)

When we think about Scotland, what comes to our minds is the beautiful landscape of hills and moors surrounded by the North Sea and the Atlantic ocean. It is an extraordinary place where men wear tartan skirts and play the bagpipes. Scotland is also known for its Scotch Whisky and delicious salmon, a typical Scottish fish.

Scotland is a part of the United Kingdom and is situated in the north of the main British island and includes over 790 small islands. The mainland of Scotland comprises the northern third of the land mass of the island of Great Britain, which lies off the northwest coast of Continental Europe. Scotland's highest point is Ben Nevis, while Scotland's longest river, the River Tay, flows for a distance of 190 kilometres. There are numerous bodies of freshwater including Loch Lomond and Loch Ness. The most famous lake is called Loch Ness, where you can meet the very shy monster Nessie.

The climate of Scotland is temperate and oceanic, and tends to be very changeable. It is warmed by the Gulf Stream from the Atlantic, and as such has much milder winters (but cooler, wetter summers) than areas on similar latitudes. However, temperatures are generally lower than in the rest of the UK. In general, the west of Scotland is usually warmer than the east, owing to the influence of Atlantic ocean currents and the colder surface temperatures of the North Sea.

The main cities are Edinburgh and Glasgow. Edinburgh, the country's capital for almost 500 years and second largest city, is one of Europe's largest financial centres. Edinburgh is a cultural centre of Scotland.

One of the most characteristic things about Scots is their national garment, so called “tartan kilt”, that is a woolen checked skirt worn by men. Scottish music is a significant aspect of the nation's culture, with both traditional and modern influences. A famous traditional Scottish instrument is the Great Highland Bagpipe. Scottish literature includes text written in English, Scottish Gaelic, Scots, French, and Latin. The poet and songwriter Robert Burns wrote in the Scots language, although much of his writing is also in English. Similarly, the writings of Sir Walter Scott and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle were internationally successful during the 19th and early 20th Centuries. Scottish theatre has for many years played an important role in Scottish society.

Scotland is also famous for its medieval castles like Edinburgh castle, which is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. Another place worth visiting is the Palace of Holyrood, her Majesty the Queen’s official residence.

Scotland offers a wide range of attractions throughout the year. Whatever you need, Scotland has it all!

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