Английский для старшеклассников. Учись, говори, достигай

To stay motivated

a) Вознаграждать себя за достижения.

b) Умение восстанавливаться после неудач.

c) Поддерживать интерес и стремление к достижению целей.

d) Создавать систему, чтобы не отвлекаться от работы.

e) Разделять большие задачи на более маленькие и выполнимые.

2. Fill-in-the-Blanks:

Complete the sentences with the correct word from the list below.

Words: environment, focus, reward, resilience, stress

It’s important to create a positive __________ for studying, where you can concentrate without distractions.

After finishing a difficult assignment, don’t forget to __________ yourself with something you enjoy.

Building __________ means learning how to deal with setbacks and challenges.

If you manage your __________, you’ll be able to stay calm and focused during stressful study sessions.

To stay on track, you need to __________ on your goals and not get distracted by other things.

3. Translation Exercise:

Translate the following sentences into English.

Иногда мотивация может падать, но важно найти способы снова почувствовать вдохновение.

Для того чтобы успешно учиться, нужно устанавливать четкие цели и не забывать о перерывах.

Награждая себя за достижения, мы повышаем свою мотивацию и сохраняем интерес к учебе.

Стресс и перегрузка могут мешать учебе, поэтому важно найти баланс между работой и отдыхом.

Создавая позитивную атмосферу для учебы, мы улучшаем концентрацию и продуктивность.

4. Speaking Practice:

Practice the following dialogue with a partner or in front of a mirror.

A: How do you stay motivated when studying for exams?

B: I set small goals, like studying one chapter at a time. When I finish a chapter, I reward myself with a short break.

A: That sounds like a good approach! Do you ever get stressed about studying?

B: Yes, sometimes. But I try to manage my stress by taking regular breaks and focusing on one task at a time.

A: What other strategies help you stay motivated?

B: Surrounding myself with motivated peers helps. We encourage each other to stay on track and study together when needed.

Answers to Exercises

1. Matching:

1 – e (To break tasks into smaller steps = Разделять большие задачи на более маленькие и выполнимые)

2 – a (To reward yourself = Вознаграждать себя за достижения)

3 – b (To develop resilience = Умение восстанавливаться после неудач)

4 – d (To manage distractions = Создавать систему, чтобы не отвлекаться от работы)

5 – c (To stay motivated = Поддерживать интерес и стремление к достижению целей)

2. Fill-in-the-Blanks:

environment

reward

resilience

stress

focus

3. Translation Exercise:

Sometimes motivation can drop, but it’s important to find ways to feel inspired again.

In order to study successfully, you need to set clear goals and remember to take breaks.

By rewarding yourself for achievements, we increase our motivation and maintain interest in studying.

Stress and overload can hinder studying, so it’s important to find a balance between work and rest.

By creating a positive atmosphere for studying, we improve concentration and productivity.

The Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering is the act of giving your time and effort to help others, without expecting anything in return. While many people volunteer to contribute to their community or a cause they care about, the benefits of volunteering extend far beyond just helping others. In fact, volunteering can have a positive impact on your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. It can also improve your skills, build your network, and enhance your sense of purpose.

One of the most significant benefits of volunteering is the positive effect it can have on your mental health. Helping others can boost your mood and reduce stress. When you volunteer, you focus on the needs of others, which can take your mind off your own problems and worries. Many people report feeling a sense of fulfillment and happiness after volunteering because they are making a positive difference in the lives of others. Additionally, volunteering can help combat loneliness and isolation, as it gives you the opportunity to meet new people and build meaningful connections.

Another important benefit of volunteering is the development of new skills and experiences. Volunteering allows you to gain practical experience in areas such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. For example, you might work with a group to organize an event, communicate with clients or colleagues, or take the lead on a project. These experiences can be valuable when applying for jobs or pursuing further education, as they demonstrate that you are proactive, responsible, and committed to personal growth. Volunteering can also give you the opportunity to explore different careers and industries, helping you gain clarity about what you enjoy doing and where your skills are best utilized.

Volunteering can also help you build and expand your professional network. By working with others who share similar interests or goals, you can form valuable connections that may lead to future job opportunities or collaborations. Networking through volunteering can introduce you to mentors, peers, and professionals who can provide guidance, advice, and support. It can also help you develop a positive reputation in your community, which can be beneficial for both your personal and professional life.

In addition to the mental and professional benefits, volunteering can also have a positive impact on your physical health. Studies have shown that volunteering can reduce the risk of depression, lower blood pressure, and even improve your overall life satisfaction. The social interaction, physical activity, and sense of purpose that come with volunteering contribute to these health benefits. By staying active and engaged in helping others, you can improve your own well-being and lead a more fulfilling life.

Volunteering also promotes a sense of community and social responsibility. When you volunteer, you contribute to the well-being of others and the development of your community. Whether you’re helping at a local food bank, tutoring children, or supporting environmental initiatives, volunteering connects you with others who care about similar issues. It’s an opportunity to work together for the common good, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Finally, volunteering can provide a sense of personal satisfaction and achievement. Knowing that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life or contributed to a cause you care about can give you a deep sense of pride. This sense of accomplishment can increase your self-esteem and motivate you to continue volunteering, creating a positive cycle of giving and personal growth.

In conclusion, the benefits of volunteering go far beyond just helping others. Volunteering can improve your mental and physical health, develop your skills, expand your network, and provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether you’re looking to give back to your community, explore new career opportunities, or simply make a difference in someone’s life, volunteering is a powerful way to create positive change – for both yourself and the world around you.

Useful Phrases and Expressions

To volunteer – Волонтерить

To give back to the community – Возвращать обществу

To make a positive difference – Оказывать положительное влияние

To gain practical experience – Получать практический опыт

To develop skills – Развивать навыки

To build a network – Строить сеть контактов

To take the lead – Взять на себя руководство

To expand your network – Расширять свою сеть контактов

To work with others – Работать с другими людьми

To combat loneliness – Борьба с одиночеством

To promote social responsibility – Содействовать социальной ответственности

To contribute to a cause – Вносить вклад в дело

Exercises

1. Matching:

Match the phrases with their meanings.

To give back to the community

To gain practical experience

To combat loneliness

To build a network

To contribute to a cause

a) Создавать связи с людьми, которые могут помочь в профессиональной сфере.

b) Делать что-то для других, чтобы улучшить общество.

c) Стать частью группы людей, работающих ради общей цели.

d) Приобретать реальный опыт, который может быть полезен в будущем.

e) Бороться с чувством одиночества, участвуя в деятельности с другими людьми.

2. Fill-in-the-Blanks:

Complete the sentences with the correct word from the list below.

Words: network, experience, cause, loneliness, community

Volunteering helps you meet new people and expand your __________.

Helping others can provide a sense of fulfillment and reduce __________.

By volunteering, you can gain valuable __________ that will help you in your career.

It’s important to give back to your __________ by supporting local initiatives.

Many people volunteer to support a __________ they feel passionate about.

3. Translation Exercise:

Translate the following sentences into English.

Волонтерство помогает не только другим людям, но и нам самим, улучшая психическое и физическое состояние.

Получая новый опыт и навыки, можно улучшить свою карьеру и профессиональную сеть.

Помощь другим способствует преодолению одиночества и созданию новых связей.

Волонтерство помогает строить связи и участвовать в социальных инициативах.

Занятие волонтерской деятельностью приносит удовлетворение и гордость за сделанное.

4. Speaking Practice:

Practice the following dialogue with a partner or in front of a mirror.

A: Have you ever volunteered before?

B: Yes, I’ve helped at a local food bank. It felt great to give back to the community and make a difference.

A: That’s amazing! How did volunteering affect you?

B: It gave me the chance to meet new people and develop new skills. I also felt proud to contribute to a good cause.

A: I agree! Volunteering is such a fulfilling way to spend your time.

Answers to Exercises

1. Matching:

1 – b (To give back to the community = Делать что-то для других, чтобы улучшить общество)

2 – d (To gain practical experience = Приобретать реальный опыт, который может быть полезен в будущем)

3 – e (To combat loneliness = Бороться с чувством одиночества, участвуя в деятельности с другими людьми)

4 – a (To build a network = Создавать связи с людьми, которые могут помочь в профессиональной сфере)

5 – c (To contribute to a cause = Стать частью группы людей, работающих ради общей цели)

2. Fill-in-the-Blanks:

network

loneliness

experience

community

cause

3. Translation Exercise:

Volunteering helps not only others but also ourselves by improving our mental and physical well-being.

By gaining new experiences and skills, you can improve your career and professional network.

Helping others helps combat loneliness and build new connections.

Volunteering helps build connections and participate in social initiatives.

Engaging in volunteer work brings satisfaction and pride in what has been done.

How to Handle Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is the influence that people of the same age group or social circle have on each other. It can be either positive or negative, but often, it’s associated with situations where individuals are pressured to conform to certain behaviors, beliefs, or actions, even if they don’t feel comfortable doing so. For teenagers, peer pressure can be especially difficult to handle, as they are often striving to fit in, gain acceptance, and build their social identity. However, it is possible to manage and overcome peer pressure by developing a set of strategies and maintaining a strong sense of self.

Understanding Peer Pressure

Peer pressure doesn’t always come in the form of direct requests or commands. Sometimes, it can be more subtle, like feeling left out or judged for not joining in on certain activities or behaviors. It can involve things like skipping class, engaging in risky behaviors, or even just going along with the group’s opinions on social issues. The key thing to remember is that peer pressure can influence both your actions and your thoughts, and it can happen in both social and academic settings.

While it’s natural to want to fit in and be accepted by your peers, it’s important to recognize that not every action that’s popular or commonly accepted is necessarily right for you. Your values, goals, and well-being should always come first. Peer pressure might make you feel like you have to act in a certain way to be liked, but it’s essential to stand up for what you believe in and make decisions based on your personal values.

Dealing with Negative Peer Pressure

When you face negative peer pressure, the first thing to do is recognize it for what it is. Awareness is a critical step in handling peer pressure effectively. If you feel uncomfortable or pressured into something you don’t want to do, it’s okay to say no. Many people find it helpful to rehearse their responses ahead of time, so they feel more confident when faced with pressure.

For example, you can say things like:

«I’m not interested, but thanks for asking.»

«That’s not something I’m comfortable with.»

«I have other plans.»

«I don’t think that’s a good idea.»

It’s also important to stand your ground. If your friends pressure you, and they don’t respect your boundaries, it’s a sign that they might not have your best interests at heart. True friends will support your decisions and not make you feel bad for saying no.

If you’re in a situation where you feel overwhelmed or unsafe, it’s always a good idea to remove yourself from the situation. Walk away or find someone who can help you, such as a teacher, counselor, or trusted adult. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Building Self-Confidence

One of the best ways to resist peer pressure is by building your self-confidence. When you have a strong sense of who you are and what you believe in, you are less likely to be swayed by others. Self-confidence comes from knowing your values, understanding your goals, and believing in your abilities.

Start by recognizing your strengths and reminding yourself of what makes you unique. You can also practice setting small goals and achieving them, which will help build your self-esteem. Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. Positive, like-minded friends are less likely to pressure you into doing things that go against your values.

Creating Healthy Boundaries

One important aspect of handling peer pressure is learning to create and maintain healthy boundaries. Boundaries are limits that help protect your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. When you set clear boundaries, you teach others how to treat you and show them what is acceptable behavior. It’s okay to have boundaries, and it’s important to enforce them, especially when faced with peer pressure.

For example, if your friends are pressuring you to do something you’re uncomfortable with, let them know your boundaries. Be firm but polite in explaining that you won’t participate in certain behaviors, and if they don’t respect your wishes, it’s okay to distance yourself from that relationship.

Seeking Support

If you find yourself struggling with peer pressure, it’s important to seek support from trusted people in your life. This could be a close friend, a family member, or even a counselor. Talking through your feelings with someone who understands can help you gain perspective and reinforce your confidence in standing up for yourself.

Sometimes, just knowing you have support can make it easier to resist negative peer pressure. Additionally, people who care about you can offer valuable advice and guidance on how to handle difficult situations.

Positive Peer Influence

It’s also important to recognize the role that positive peer influence can play in your life. Healthy friendships and supportive relationships can encourage you to make good choices and pursue your goals. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to be your best self and who respect your individuality.

Positive peer influence can also help you build resilience, as it creates a supportive environment where everyone feels safe to express themselves. These kinds of friendships can help you grow emotionally, mentally, and socially, and provide a solid foundation to resist negative peer pressure.

Peer pressure is something that everyone experiences at some point in life, especially during the teenage years. While it can be challenging, it’s important to remember that you have the power to make your own decisions. By recognizing peer pressure, building self-confidence, setting boundaries, and seeking support, you can manage it effectively and stay true to yourself. Always remember that your choices are yours to make, and staying authentic to who you are will lead to stronger, healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.

Useful Phrases and Expressions

To resist peer pressure – Сопротивляться давлению со стороны сверстников

To stand your ground – Стоять на своем

To set boundaries – Установить границы

To say no – Сказать «нет»

To build self-confidence – Развивать уверенность в себе

To support someone’s decisions – Поддерживать чьи-то решения

To feel pressured – Чувствовать давление

To make your own decisions – Принимать собственные решения

To walk away from a situation – Уйти из ситуации

To build self-esteem – Повышать самооценку

To create healthy relationships – Строить здоровые отношения

To have someone’s best interests at heart – Заботиться о чьем-то благополучии

Exercises

1. Matching:

Match the phrases with their meanings.

To stand your ground

To resist peer pressure

To build self-confidence

To set boundaries

To support someone’s decisions

a) Помогать кому-то, поддерживать их выбор.

b) Установить ограничения, которые защищают личные границы.

c) Развивать уверенность в себе и в своих силах.

d) Противостоять давлению сверстников и делать собственный выбор.

e) Оставаться твердым в своем решении, не поддаваться на уговоры.

2. Fill-in-the-Blanks:

Complete the sentences with the correct word from the list below.

Words: boundaries, self-confidence, peer pressure, decisions, support

It’s important to set __________ in your relationships to protect your well-being.

Building __________ can help you resist negative influences from others.

Saying no to __________ can sometimes be difficult, but it’s important to stand firm.

When you make your own __________, you take control of your life and happiness.

A strong support system can provide __________ when facing challenges.

3. Translation Exercise:

Translate the following sentences into English.

Очень важно устанавливать границы, чтобы защитить себя от давления со стороны других.

Я стараюсь не поддаваться давлению сверстников и делать то, что правильно для меня.

Уверенность в себе помогает принимать более здоровые решения и справляться с трудными ситуациями.

Поддержка со стороны близких людей помогает мне оставаться верным себе.

Порой трудно сказать «нет», но это необходимый шаг для защиты собственных интересов.

4. Speaking Practice:

Practice the following dialogue with a partner or in front of a mirror.

A: Have you ever felt pressured by your friends to do something you didn’t want to do?

B: Yes, I have. It’s hard sometimes, especially when you want to fit in. But I’ve learned to stand my ground and say no when something doesn’t feel right.

A: That’s a great approach! How do you feel when you resist peer pressure?

B: I feel proud and more confident in myself. It’s empowering to make my own decisions and stay true to my values.

A: I agree! It’s important to know your worth and trust your instincts.

Answers to Exercises

1. Matching:

1 – e (To stand your ground = Оставаться твердым в своем решении, не поддаваться на уговоры)

2 – d (To resist peer pressure = Противостоять давлению сверстников и делать собственный выбор)

3 – c (To build self-confidence = Развивать уверенность в себе и в своих силах)

4 – b (To set boundaries = Установить ограничения, которые защищают личные границы)

5 – a (To support someone’s decisions = Помогать кому-то, поддерживать их выбор)

2. Fill-in-the-Blanks:

boundaries

self-confidence

peer pressure

decisions

support

3. Translation Exercise:

It’s very important to set boundaries to protect yourself from the influence of others.

I try not to give in to peer pressure and do what feels right for me.

Self-confidence helps you make healthier decisions and cope with difficult situations.

Support from loved ones helps me stay true to myself.

Sometimes it’s hard to say no, but it’s a necessary step to protect your own interests.

The Future of Work and Careers

The world of work is changing rapidly. Technological advancements, shifts in the global economy, and evolving societal expectations are all shaping the future of careers. As we look ahead, it’s clear that the traditional model of work is being replaced by new opportunities, challenges, and possibilities. While the future can be unpredictable, certain trends are emerging that will likely have a significant impact on the way we work and the careers we pursue.

Changes in the Workforce

One of the key trends shaping the future of work is the increasing diversity of the workforce. More and more people are working from different locations, across various time zones, and in different industries than ever before. Globalization, improved connectivity, and remote work technologies have made it easier for companies to employ individuals from all over the world. This means that there will likely be a greater variety of career options available, and competition for jobs may become more global.

In addition, as the workforce ages and the population grows, there will be a greater demand for skilled workers in areas such as healthcare, education, and technology. There will be more opportunities for individuals to specialize in fields that require a combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills.

The Rise of Remote and Flexible Work

The shift toward remote work has been one of the most significant developments in recent years. With the rise of video conferencing tools, collaborative software, and cloud-based systems, many people are now able to work from anywhere. Remote work offers several benefits, including greater flexibility in terms of work hours, less time spent commuting, and the ability to balance work with personal life more easily.