Английский язык через современные темы. Учебное пособие для уровня B1–B2

Английский язык через современные темы

Учебное пособие для уровня B1—B2

Том Сториз

© Том Сториз, 2026

ISBN 978-5-0070-4288-8

Создано в интеллектуальной издательской системе Ridero

Введение

Данное учебное пособие предназначено для учащихся старших классов, изучающих английский язык на уровне B1—B2. Основной целью книги является развитие коммуникативной компетенции через работу с актуальными для подростков темами, отражающими их повседневный опыт, интересы и типичные жизненные ситуации.

В отличие от традиционных учебных материалов, в которых акцент делается преимущественно на формальное освоение грамматических структур и отдельных лексических единиц, в данном пособии внимание сосредоточено на формировании навыков использования языка в реальном общении. Материалы организованы таким образом, чтобы учащиеся могли не только понимать текст, но и активно применять изученную лексику и речевые модели в устной и письменной речи.

Каждая глава построена по единой структуре, включающей тематический текст, список ключевых слов и выражений, речевые шаблоны, а также задания для развития говорения и закрепления материала. Тексты написаны в разговорно-объяснительном стиле, что позволяет приблизить учебный процесс к естественной языковой среде. При этом соблюдается баланс между доступностью и достаточной языковой сложностью, необходимой для постепенного развития навыков.

Особое внимание уделяется развитию навыков самостоятельного высказывания. Вопросы и задания направлены на то, чтобы учащиеся говорили о собственном опыте, выражали мнение, аргументировали свою позицию и расширяли ответы с использованием изученной лексики. Таким образом, язык рассматривается не как набор правил, а как инструмент для осмысленного общения.

Тематика пособия охватывает широкий круг вопросов, связанных с личностью, отношениями, учебной деятельностью, цифровой средой и повседневной жизнью подростков. Это способствует повышению мотивации и вовлечённости учащихся, так как содержание напрямую связано с их интересами и актуальными проблемами.

Предлагаемый формат работы предполагает активное участие учащихся, регулярную практику и постепенное развитие языковых навыков. Пособие может использоваться как на уроках, так и для самостоятельной работы. Его структура позволяет гибко адаптировать материал в зависимости от уровня подготовки и образовательных целей.

Таким образом, данное учебное пособие направлено на формирование устойчивых коммуникативных навыков, развитие уверенности в использовании английского языка и подготовку учащихся к реальному взаимодействию в различных жизненных ситуациях.

Who Am I Really?

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Who am I really? It sounds like a simple question, but when you start thinking about it, it becomes much more complicated. Many teenagers ask themselves this question, especially when everything around them is changing so fast. One day you feel confident and sure about yourself, but the next day you begin to doubt your choices and even your personality.

At school, at home, and with friends, we often behave in different ways. For example, you might be quiet and serious in class because you don’t want to make mistakes, but with your close friends, you become more relaxed and talkative. Does it mean you are pretending? Not really. It just shows that people can adapt to different situations and feel comfortable in different environments.

Sometimes it is hard to understand what is real and what is not. Social media can make this even more confusing. Many teenagers try to show a perfect version of themselves online, although real life is not like that. You may start comparing yourself to others and feel that you are not good enough. But in reality, everyone has problems, fears, and insecurities. People just don’t always show them.

Another important part of understanding yourself is your values. What do you believe in? What is important to you? Some people care about honesty, others about success, and some about helping others. Your values influence your decisions, even if you don’t always notice it. For example, if you think friendship is important, you will try to support your friends, even when it is not easy.

It is also normal to change. The person you were a year ago is not the same person you are today. You learn new things, meet new people, and have new experiences. All of this helps you grow and understand yourself better. Although change can feel uncomfortable, it is a natural part of life.

Many teenagers worry about what others think of them. They try to fit in and be accepted. But if you always try to be someone else, you may lose your real self. It is important to find a balance between being part of a group and staying true to who you are.

Understanding yourself takes time. There is no simple answer to the question «Who am I really?» It is something you discover step by step. You don’t need to have everything figured out right now. What matters is that you keep learning about yourself, trying new things, and being honest with yourself.

In the end, being yourself is not about being perfect. It is about accepting who you are, with your strengths and weaknesses, and feeling comfortable with it.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

figure out — разобраться

feel confident — чувствовать уверенность

doubt yourself — сомневаться в себе

make mistakes — совершать ошибки

be relaxed — быть расслабленным

adapt to situations — адаптироваться к ситуациям

compare yourself to others — сравнивать себя с другими

not good enough — недостаточно хороший

in reality — на самом деле

values — ценности

make decisions — принимать решения

support your friends — поддерживать друзей

grow as a person — расти как личность

go through changes — проходить через изменения

feel uncomfortable — чувствовать дискомфорт

worry about — переживать о

fit in — вписываться

be accepted — быть принятым

stay true to yourself — оставаться верным себе

find a balance — находить баланс

step by step — шаг за шагом

try new things — пробовать новое

strengths and weaknesses — сильные и слабые стороны

Useful Patterns

I often feel that… — Я часто чувствую, что…

Sometimes it is hard to… — Иногда трудно…

It depends on… — Это зависит от…

I try to… because… — Я стараюсь…, потому что…

Although…, I still… — Хотя…, я всё равно…

One of the reasons is… — Одна из причин в том, что…

In my opinion… — По моему мнению…

I think it is important to… — Я думаю, важно…

Practice: Answer the Questions

Do you think you are the same person in all situations?

Do you often compare yourself to others?

What is important to you in life?

Is it easy for you to be yourself?

Do you worry about what others think of you?

Have you changed in the last few years? How?

Model Answers

I think I am a bit different in different situations because I try to adapt to people around me. However, I still try to stay true to myself.

Sometimes I compare myself to others, especially on social media, and it makes me doubt myself. But I try to remember that it is not always real.

One of the most important things for me is friendship because I like to support my friends and spend time with them.

It is not always easy to be myself because I sometimes worry about being accepted. But I am learning to feel more confident.

Yes, I often worry about what others think of me, especially at school. Although I know it is not always important, it still affects me.

I have changed a lot in the last few years because I have become more confident and open. I also started to understand my values better.

Expand Your Answer

Try to give a longer answer. Use expressions from the vocabulary list and add a reason or an example.

Example answer:

I sometimes compare myself to others because I see their perfect lives online. However, I understand that in reality people only show the best moments, so I try to stay true to myself and focus on my own goals.

Practice: Complete the Sentences

I often ______ myself to others, especially when I use social media.

It is important to ______ true to yourself in difficult situations.

I sometimes ______ about what people think of me.

I try to ______ new things to understand myself better.

My values help me ______ decisions in life.

Being Confident in Yourself

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Being confident in yourself is something many teenagers think about, but it is not always easy to achieve. Confidence does not mean being perfect or never feeling nervous. It means believing in yourself even when things are difficult or uncertain.

Many people think that confident people are always outgoing and talkative, but this is not true. Some confident people are quiet, but they still feel comfortable with who they are. Confidence is not about how loud you are, but about how you feel inside.

At school, confidence can affect many things. For example, if you are afraid to speak in class, you might stay silent even when you know the answer. You may worry about making mistakes or looking silly. However, making mistakes is a normal part of learning. If you allow yourself to try, you will improve much faster.

Another important part of confidence is how you talk to yourself. If you often think «I can’t do this» or «I’m not good enough,» it becomes harder to feel confident. On the other hand, if you try to think more positively, it can change your attitude. For example, instead of saying «I will fail,» you can say «I will do my best.»

Social media can also influence your confidence. When you see perfect photos and successful people, you may start comparing yourself to others. This can make you feel less confident. But it is important to remember that people usually show only the best parts of their lives online. In reality, everyone has problems and insecurities.

Confidence grows when you take small steps. You don’t need to change everything at once. For example, you can start by speaking a little more in class, trying a new hobby, or meeting new people. Each small success helps you feel stronger and more уверенно.

Support from other people is also very important. Friends, family, and teachers can help you believe in yourself. When someone supports you, it is easier to take risks and try new things. At the same time, it is important not to depend too much on others. Real confidence comes from inside.

Sometimes you may feel nervous or unsure, and that is completely normal. Even confident people feel this way. The difference is that they don’t let fear stop them. They continue to move forward, even if they are not sure about the result.

Being confident in yourself takes time. It is something you build step by step. You don’t have to be perfect. You just need to believe that you can grow, learn, and become better.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

be confident — быть уверенным

believe in yourself — верить в себя

feel nervous — чувствовать нервозность

be afraid to — бояться что-то делать

make mistakes — совершать ошибки

learn from mistakes — учиться на ошибках

be good enough — быть достаточно хорошим

talk to yourself — говорить с собой (внутренний диалог)

think positively — мыслить позитивно

do your best — делать всё возможное

compare yourself to others — сравнивать себя с другими

feel less confident — чувствовать себя менее уверенно

in reality — на самом деле

take small steps — делать маленькие шаги

try something new — пробовать что-то новое

feel stronger — чувствовать себя сильнее

get support — получать поддержку

take risks — идти на риск

depend on — зависеть от

come from inside — идти изнутри

move forward — двигаться вперёд

step by step — шаг за шагом

grow and improve — расти и улучшаться

Useful Patterns

I am not always confident, but… — Я не всегда уверен, но…

Sometimes I feel nervous when… — Иногда я нервничаю, когда…

I try to… because… — Я стараюсь…, потому что…

It helps me to… — Мне помогает…

One of the ways to… is to… — Один из способов… — это…

Although I feel…, I still… — Хотя я чувствую…, я всё равно…

I think it is important to… — Я думаю, важно…

I have learned to… — Я научился…

Practice: Answer the Questions

Do you consider yourself a confident person?

In what situations do you feel nervous?

What helps you feel more confident?

Do you compare yourself to others?

Is it easy for you to speak in front of others?

How can a person become more confident?

Model Answers

I am not always confident, but I try to believe in myself and do my best in different situations.

I feel nervous when I have to speak in front of the class because I am afraid to make mistakes. However, I try to move forward.

It helps me to prepare and practice because I feel more confident when I know what to say.

Yes, I sometimes compare myself to others, especially online, and it makes me feel less confident.

It is not easy for me to speak in front of others, but I try to take small steps and improve.

One of the ways to become more confident is to try new things and learn from mistakes step by step.

Expand Your Answer

Try to give a longer answer. Use expressions from the vocabulary list and add a reason or an example.

Example answer:

I sometimes feel nervous when I meet new people because I am afraid to say something wrong. However, I try to believe in myself and move forward. For example, I started talking more in class, and it helped me feel stronger and more confident.

Practice: Complete the Sentences

I try to ______ in myself even in difficult situations.

It is normal to ______ mistakes when you learn something new.

I sometimes feel ______ when I speak in front of others.

I want to ______ small steps to become more confident.

It helps to ______ positively and focus on your progress.

What Makes Me Happy

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What makes me happy? It may seem like an easy question, but the answer is different for everyone. Happiness is not always something big or dramatic. In fact, it is often found in small, simple moments that we sometimes don’t even notice.

For many teenagers, happiness is connected to everyday life. Spending time with friends, laughing together, or just talking about random things can make a big difference. These moments may seem ordinary, but they help us feel relaxed and comfortable. When you are with people who understand you, it is easier to be yourself.

Another thing that can make people happy is doing something they enjoy. It could be listening to music, watching a favorite series, playing games, or going for a walk. These activities help you take a break from stress and forget about your problems for a while. Although they may seem simple, they are very important for your mood.

Achievements can also bring happiness. For example, when you finish a difficult task, pass an exam, or reach a goal, you feel proud of yourself. This kind of happiness often comes after hard work. It shows that your effort was worth it. However, it is important not to depend only on achievements. If you focus only on results, you may feel disappointed when things don’t go as planned.

Sometimes happiness comes from helping others. When you support a friend or do something kind, it can make you feel good inside. Even small actions, like giving advice or listening to someone, can have a positive effect. It reminds you that you are important and can make a difference.

Your attitude also plays a big role in how happy you feel. If you always focus on negative things, it becomes harder to enjoy life. But if you try to notice good moments, even small ones, your mood can improve. For example, a sunny day, a good conversation, or your favorite song can make your day better.

Of course, it is normal not to feel happy all the time. Everyone has bad days. Sometimes you feel tired, stressed, or upset, and that is part of life. The important thing is to understand what helps you feel better and not be too hard on yourself.

In the end, happiness is not something you find once and keep forever. It changes over time and depends on your experiences, people around you, and your attitude. The key is to appreciate small moments, take care of yourself, and do things that make you feel good.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

make someone happy — делать кого-то счастливым

simple moments — простые моменты

spend time with — проводить время с

feel relaxed — чувствовать себя расслабленно

be yourself — быть собой

enjoy something — получать удовольствие от чего-то

take a break — делать перерыв

forget about problems — забывать о проблемах

reach a goal — достигать цели

feel proud of yourself — гордиться собой

hard work — тяжелая работа

be worth it — стоить того

go as planned — идти по плану

depend on — зависеть от

help others — помогать другим

support a friend — поддерживать друга

make a difference — иметь значение

have a positive effect — оказывать положительное влияние

focus on — сосредотачиваться на

improve your mood — улучшать настроение

have a bad day — иметь плохой день

be hard on yourself — быть слишком строгим к себе

take care of yourself — заботиться о себе

Useful Patterns

I feel happy when… — Я чувствую себя счастливым, когда…

One of the things that makes me happy is… — Одна из вещей, которая делает меня счастливым…

It helps me to… — Мне помогает…

Sometimes I enjoy… because… — Иногда мне нравится…, потому что…

Although…, I still… — Хотя…, я всё равно…

I try to focus on… — Я стараюсь сосредоточиться на…

It makes a difference when… — Это имеет значение, когда…

In my opinion… — По моему мнению…

Practice: Answer the Questions

What usually makes you feel happy?

Do you prefer spending time with friends or alone? Why?

What do you do when you feel stressed?

Do achievements make you happy?

How do you help others in your daily life?

What do you do to improve your mood?

Model Answers

I feel happy when I spend time with my friends because we laugh and talk about everything. It helps me feel relaxed.

I prefer spending time with friends because it makes me feel more comfortable and less stressed. However, sometimes I enjoy being alone.

When I feel stressed, I try to take a break and listen to music because it helps me forget about my problems.

Yes, achievements make me happy because I feel proud of myself when I reach a goal.

I try to support my friends when they have problems because I want to help others and make a difference.

I try to focus on small positive things, like music or a good conversation, to improve my mood.

Expand Your Answer

Try to give a longer answer. Use expressions from the vocabulary list and add a reason or an example.

Example answer:

I feel happy when I spend time with my friends because it helps me feel relaxed and forget about problems. For example, we often watch movies together, and it always improves my mood.

Practice: Complete the Sentences

I feel happy when I ______ time with my friends.

It is important to ______ a break when you feel stressed.

I feel proud of myself when I ______ a goal.

I try to ______ on positive things in my life.

Helping others can ______ a difference.

My Comfort Zone

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Everyone has a comfort zone. It is a place or a situation where you feel safe, relaxed, and in control. Inside your comfort zone, you know what to expect, and you don’t feel much stress or fear. For many teenagers, the comfort zone includes familiar places, close friends, and daily routines.

For example, you may feel comfortable at home, where everything is familiar. You know your space, your habits, and your responsibilities. You may also feel comfortable with people who understand you well. When you are with them, you don’t need to pretend or worry about what to say. You can just be yourself.

However, staying in your comfort zone all the time can be a problem. Although it feels safe, it can also limit your growth. If you never try anything new, you may miss interesting opportunities. For example, you might avoid speaking in class, meeting new people, or trying a new hobby because it feels uncomfortable.

Stepping out of your comfort zone is not easy. It often involves fear and uncertainty. You may worry about making mistakes, feeling embarrassed, or failing. These feelings are normal, and everyone experiences them at some point. The important thing is not to let fear stop you completely.

Taking small steps can help you move forward. You don’t have to do something big right away. For example, you can start by answering one question in class, talking to a new classmate, or trying a simple activity. Each small step makes you feel more confident and helps you expand your comfort zone.

It is also important to understand that discomfort is part of learning. When you try something new, you may not feel confident at first. However, with practice, it becomes easier. What was once outside your comfort zone can slowly become a part of it.

At the same time, your comfort zone is not something negative. It is a place where you can rest and recover. After a stressful day, it is important to relax and feel safe. The key is to find a balance between staying comfortable and trying new things.

Support from other people can make a big difference. Friends, family, or teachers can encourage you and help you feel less afraid. When someone believes in you, it becomes easier to take risks.

In the end, your comfort zone is always changing. As you grow and gain experience, it becomes bigger. Things that once seemed difficult become easier, and you feel more confident in different situations. The more you challenge yourself, the more you learn about your abilities.