Практика усного та писемного мовлення англійської мови
Никула Денис <nykula@ukr.net>, 2 курс Київського міжнародного університету, 035 Філологія, заочна форма
Зміст
- DONE The busiest district in Kyiv
- DONE Advantages and disadvantages living in a big city
- DONE The aspects of life in the city you would complain about
- DONE Some differences between living in the city and living in the country
- DONE The most impressive monuments of your city
- DONE The description of the architecture of your city
- DONE What can we make our cities safer places to live?
- DONE Some good tourist sites to visit in your city
- TODO If you had grown up in a different city, how would your life have been different?
- DONE What would you do to improve some aspects of your city?
- DONE My last visit to an exhibition
- DONE Famous art galleries in Kyiv
- DONE Design is an important part of culture, isn’t it?
- DONE The famous artist and designer William Morris said that you should not have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful'. Discuss
- DONE If you could buy a great work of art, what would it be? (style, title, artist's name…)
- DONE Does art imitate life?
- DONE What main genres of paintings do you know?
- DONE What do you know about composition and drawing?
- DONE What role do colouring, light and shade effects play in forming a general impression of the picture, the judgement we pass on it?
- DONE What is Gainsborough famous for?
- DONE What can you say about Reynolds?
- TODO What is happiness for you?
- DONE Under what emotional conditions can you display or disguise positive or negative feelings?
- DONE What people are easy to deal with?
- DONE What people are difficult to deal with?
- DONE What people do you like? Describe the traits of his/her character
- DONE What people don’t you like? Describe the traits of his/her character
- DONE What traits of character are required to make a good teacher and what traits might prevent one from becoming a good specialist?
DONE The busiest district in Kyiv
Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, blends rich history with modern charm.1 Some of the central and busiest streets in Kyiv are located in Shevchenkivskyi district. For example, Bohdana Khmelnyskoho street goes up from well-known Khreshchatyk street down to Honchara street. You can find lots of welcoming places while walking there.
Kyiv Theater of Drama, Opera House, Museum of Kyiv's History, and Museum of Natural History are all situated very close to each other in Shevchenkivskyi district. So are many nice restaurants and bars where you can continue the evening after visiting one of the theaters or museums.2
Shevchenkivskyi district is a vibrant area bustling with university life. Here are located various student bars, elegant restaurants and art galleries.1 The National University of Kyiv and Ihor Sikorskyi Kyiv Polytechnic Institute can be called must-see sights for visitors.3
In this district you can also find architectural marvels such as St. Sophia's Cathedral. The imposing Golden Gate is a replica of the original medieval entrance to the city.1 The area of Shevchenkivskyi district was the center of the ancient federation of Kyivan Rus.3
Shevchenkivskyi district is known for its prime locations, luxurious amenities, proximity to key landmarks, and high demand from affluent residents. It offers exclusive residential properties with top-notch facilities and exceptional views. With a vibrant culture, excellent infrastructure and rich history, Shevchenkivskyi district continues to attract residents and visitors from all over the world.4
DONE Advantages and disadvantages living in a big city
Every day, more people become city dwellers. Urban life involves trade-offs. We may gain big benefits in return for suffering big disadvantages.5 Let's consider what we should keep in mind before packing up and heading to a big city.
There's a significant reason big cities attract big populations. Large corporations tend to flock to cities. Whatever industry you're seeking employment in, you'll find no shortage of job openings. And many of these jobs come with higher salaries than outside the city.6
Public transportation is another advantage of living in a big city. Districts are connected with efficient systems of subways, buses and trains. This way you save time and don't need to own a car, unlike in the countryside where commuting is more difficult and less convenient.7
However, with more people concentrated in a city, the cost of living tends to be much higher than in the suburbs. There's a large price tag for rent, groceries and other necessities. It can be difficult to find affordable rentals with enough storage space. And public places are much more crowded in the city than in the country, which can definitely be a disadvantage if you like personal space.6
It all comes down to compromises. While the benefits of urban facilities and the anonymity of a big city are well-understood, you pay a certain price for living around modern urban inventions. And you lose the heartwarming benefits of village life. Still, more than half the world's people live in cities nowadays, and economic reasons are a good explanation for that.5
DONE The aspects of life in the city you would complain about
City life is luring to most people, especially those who live in small villages. The glamor of the city is a major reason for high level of rural-to-urban migration. However, city life can be much more difficult than life in the suburbs. There are numerous cons of living in a big city.
While there are many job opportunities in the city, one should consider that multiple people are competing for every post. The economy of the city tends to be unstable, and a person might remain unemployed in spite of hundreds of job ads in the newspaper. It can be difficult to maintain the ability to afford the prices of commodities that also tend to be higher in the city.
People in the city share common walls with neighbors, and it's very unusual to have extra space outside your house. You only get to experience nature in the park, and carry out physical activities in the gym. This is not the case in rural areas, where greeneries and open space are abundant.
Traffic is the biggest nightmare in the city. Many people prefer private cars to public transport. This causes daily congestions, especially on the way to the central business districts. If you have a car yourself, finding a parking spot can be a major problem. You may have to park your car a few blocks away from your destination street.
Any well-known or major city has typical problems: high competition, overcrowding and traffic congestions, not to mention the high cost of living. While for some, easy access to social amenities, great infrastructure and entertainment facilities outweigh the disadvantages of a big city, others may decide that a simple life in the countryside may be a better fit for them.8
DONE Some differences between living in the city and living in the country
A bustling city or the tranquil countryside? The choice is a pivotal decision that influences daily routines, access to services and overall well-being. By examining the contrasts of the distinct aspects of city and country living, one can gain valuable insight and find the right balance for their unique needs.9
For city dwellers, it's easier to find employment. There are lots of business and types of jobs available, and you can find opportunities close to where you live. Besides your workplace, there are amenities available nearby: not only education and entertainment but also centers that consult you how to start your own business.10
On the other hand, in the country, your day unfolds at a slower pace. You tend to your garden, stroll through fields and have picnics by the river. There are green spaces as vast as your eyes can see: fields, forests and rolling hills. As fresh air fills your lungs, you realize sustainability is truly a way of life.9
The city provides a wealth of services such as community gardens, soccer fields, libraries. Plenty of restaurants, fast food joints, coffee shops and bars are scattered around your neighborhood, and it's easy to save money on groceries when four major grocery stores are around.11 However, in the country, community is more than a word; traditions run deep, bonds are forged over generations, and knowing your neighbor's life story is as natural as the changing seasons.10
Whether country life or city life, our goal is to be happy with where we are. People take different approaches to decide where to live, and my strongest piece of advice would be to try both backgrounds before making up your mind on what suits you best. Try to really get a feel for the local life, as it's full of valuable opportunities.11
DONE The most impressive monuments of your city
Ukraine is known for its stunning architecture and history. Kyiv is home to some of the most interesting monuments in the world. They symbolize our origins, our struggle and our culture. Let's have an overview of the three monuments I think everyone should visit when coming here.
Located along the riverfront of Dnipro in Navodnytskyi Park, there stands a wonderful Kyiv Founders Monument. According to a legend, the medieval city of Kyiv was founded by brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv and their sister Lybid. The monument shows the three brothers at the rear of a boat and their sister at the front. The monument is in a picturesque spot with the river as a stunning backdrop.12
The Motherland Monument is a must-visit when you're in Kyiv. Towering over the city from Pecherskyi Landscape Park, it is a major symbol of independence that Ukrainians are proud of. The monument, an impressive piece of engineering and propaganda, has a strong sense of power and grace. There's also a Second World War museum underneath, as well as a huge sculpture in iron and stone reflecting the people's effort in the war.13
Walking around the downtown near the Artists Alley, you can stumble upon a romantic and pretty statue Za Dvoma Zaitsiamy. It depicts the characters of a story about a man who courted a pretty girl and a rich girl at the same time. For people seeking happiness in marriage, it is considered lucky to touch the ring (for a woman) or the beetle (for the husband), parts of the statue.14
One of the great things about Kyiv is that it's very easy to navigate, and most tourist attractions are within short transport journeys. When you visit our city, make sure to come look at our famous monuments, the physical embodiments of our great culture.15
DONE The description of the architecture of your city
The architecture of medieval Kyiv was influenced by religion, culture and politics. It was deeply rooted in Christian faith; prominent monasteries and castles were built. In the 16th century, the power and authority of religion rose again, and the architectural style shifted to dramatic, ornamented forms. Following World War II, the architecture of Kyiv shifted to functional structures.
Saint Sophia Cathedral is the best example of Byzantine architecture in Kyiv. Built in the 11th century, it took two decades to complete. Over centuries, the cathedral has survived multiple attacks, invasions, and civil wars. The upper structure, rebuilt in 1633, was distinctively done in the Ukrainian Baroque style. In the interior, numerous Byzantine mosaics and frescoes have been preserved.
The House of Chimaeras was built in the Art Nouveau in 1901 by the Polish architect Vladyslav Horodetskyi. Its architectural style is defined by ornate animal figures, sculpted by Italian architect Emilio Sala, applied as decorative elements. The building was used as an apartment building, communal living complex, and now as the presidential residence for official and diplomatic ceremonies.16
Located on the left bank of the Dnipro River, there's a hidden modernist gem, Bus Depot #7. Designed by Volodymyr Zinkevych, it looks like a giant space-age saucer and can house up to 700 vehicles. The disc-shaped structure is truly unique, and the massive concrete roof is held by a single pillar in the center. Unfortunately, the station is defunct and the building has long been neglected.
The Pozniaky Residential area, mostly built in 1990s, rewards a careful tourist with a prominent display of late modern functionalist architecture. The mass-built panel tower block series in the housing estate have distinctive fronts, symmetrically stacked on top of each other.17
Overall, the streets of Kyiv, one of the major Eastern European cities, combine more than 30 architectural styles. Ukrainian baroque, neo-Gothic, constructivism, Soviet monumental neoclassicism, and neo-modernism are some of the most prominent.16 Behind the structures' polished images, a fight for their preservation is under way. Let's plan for a future where the fate of our architectural heritage doesn't fall on the shoulders on activists, but the whole society carefully protects its landmarks and uses them responsibly and sustainably.17
DONE What can we make our cities safer places to live?
One of the crucial aspects of accessible public spaces is safety. We have to account for the social dimensions of safety. It is not simply about the presence of crime. Many groups of people experience threats, abuse and violence in public spaces. Measures designed to enhance safety for some have the opposite effect on others.
The gating of urban environments and the privatisation of public space secures the wealthy by separating themselves from the wider comunity. This actually adds to fear of people of lower socioeconomic status (who already feel almost twice as much fear as the wealthy ones), as it creates a certain urban border anxiety.
We need to ask what exactly we are trying to prevent. Police use at train stations, public spaces and events illustrates how security measures can be exclusionary. Most searches for drugs, justified on the grounds that they "send a message" to potential offenders, find nothing on the person. They create unnecessary stress for the already disadvantaged young and poor people.
For members of the LGBTQI community, homophobic violence threatens safe access to pubic space. People so far have struggled to take the threat of homophobic violence seriously. The police patrols the streets, clubs and festivals, but this doesn't help much against motivated and organized right-wing attackers.
Let's focus on making public spaces equally accessible to all, regardless of one's income and where they live. We should recognize which identities and ways of being in the city are discriminated and stigmatize. The planning of public space security should be open to all in a democratic process. Taking this principles into account can help us avoid compromising justice when implementing security measures.18
DONE Some good tourist sites to visit in your city
See: "most impressive monuments".
TODO If you had grown up in a different city, how would your life have been different?
DONE What would you do to improve some aspects of your city?
- Fast, reliable public transit.
- Ubiquitous access to sanitation.
- Architectural care.
Improvise.
DONE My last visit to an exhibition
Art exhibitions are spaces where people can see the creativity of famous artists. Work by one or more artists can be included, and the focus may be on a specific period or genre. It can be touching and inspiring to visit an art exhibition.
I recently visited an exhibition organized in my district. I went there with my girlfriend who also appreciates art. The exhibition was held in the municipal gallery. The place is conveniently located and accessible by public transit so it only took us half an hour to get there.
The exhibition had paintings that were really moving. They represented heavy feelings felt by oppressed people in a totalitarian state. Art doesn't visually represent reality, instead the extraordinary images are produced by extravagant interplay of shapes and color forms. One doesn't have to logically understand each of the paintings to appreciate them; it's important to immerse and feel with an open mind.
The environment provided a quiet, focused environment for the audience to witness the talent of the artists. The exhibition went well and the artist was highly appreciated by the people. I was impressed by the exhibition very much and I hope more of them are held regularly.19
DONE Famous art galleries in Kyiv
Kyiv is a fine and enigmatic city with an amazing art scene. Not only do you get impressed by its diverse architecture, you inevitably discover unique and inspiring galleries and museums dispersed all around the city.
One of the top galleries in Kyiv promoting contemporary art is Pinchuk Art Center. Located in the business center of the city, the gallery occupies a tremendous six-story builing with exhibition space on four floors. It has been promoting leading international artists and provides a space open to all the public.
ARTEast gallery, located in the old city, is a unique and simple art space. It houses a wide array of arts, such as paintings, ceramics, wooden masterpieces and even graphic art. The styles covered by the gallery include classical and contemporary art, social realism and folk artwork.20
Located in the middle of Troieshchyna neighborhood, Pavlo Zahrebelnyi Municipal Gallery of Art is a center of modern art. Painters, sculptors, designers, writers and other cultural activists can expose their art here for a wide audience. Master classes are often held here, as well as meetings with artists. The gallery follows the European exhibition room best practices in accessibility, opening the world of art to veterans and people with disabilities.21
The outstanding architecture and cultural space of Kyiv captivate every traveller's senses. Whether on the right or left bank of Dnipro, you will find top art galleries that will surely leave a great mark of memories in your box of experienfces.
DONE Design is an important part of culture, isn’t it?
Design has the power to change the way people see the world. Good design gives room for different cultures and perspectives,22 which shape our values and beliefs. Designers use cultural elements to create relatable and meaningful artwork that instills a sense of identity and belonging.
Western cultures value simplicity, functionality and minimalism. Eastern cultures value harmony, balance and detail. In some cultures, family and community values are essential. Other cultures appreciate individualism and self-expression. Understanding these differences is essentials for designers who want their artwork to resonate with their audience.23
Designers communicate emotions and ideas using colors, shapes and layouts that connect with us on a deep level. Their visual stories shape how we perceive organizations, products and even ourselves. Think of the bold typography and minimalist logo the "Black Lives Matter" movement use on their flags. Symbols unite people, and as a designer, you have the power to drive conversations and inspire change.
Overall, designers are visionaries who shape the world we live in. A career in design is a chance to leave your mark on the world. Design reflects cultural values and influences behavior. Whether it's the logo of your favorite coffee shop or the layout of your city's metro system, design is everywhere, and it's a powerful force in shaping our culture.24
DONE The famous artist and designer William Morris said that you should not have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful'. Discuss
William Morris was a massively important figure in the arts and crafts movement of the XIX century. He wasn't only an artist but a political theologian and an important part of the socialist movement. One can argue that his statement "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful" is a statement about politics and society.
Morris was of the understanding that beauty was related to nature. He was convinced that a form is ugly if it works against nature and thwarts her. He believed that passions evoked by nature had historical and romantic connotations. He attacked the utilitarianism of Victorian society, its self-assuredness and elitism.
Moreover, Morris believed that simple and sincere art could lead do social change, reform against industrialization and consumerism. He wanted the masses to be free from tiredness and have time and interest for enjoying arts. He idealize the times when people only produced things that were needed and useful. Such objects, in his opinion, became art.
By keeping the working classes producing mass goods, Morris was sure, prevente their education through art. Industrialism removed the joy of creating useful things and receiving social acknowledgment. Abstaining from consumption of unnecessary goods, that is not having at your home what you don't need or what isn't beatiful, is thus a step on the path towards a free and fair society.25
DONE If you could buy a great work of art, what would it be? (style, title, artist's name…)
See "description of the architecture of your city", Bus Depot #7. Improvise.
DONE Does art imitate life?
Let's delve into the age-old debate about whether life imitates art, or art imitates life. In other words, do the experiences and values of our society influence the creation of art, or does art shape the way we interact wit the world around us?
First, we have to acknowledge that society is constantly shaped by its cultural, historical and social context. Art created in a particular era reflects the beliefs and values of that time and place. For example, the 1960s were marked by social unrest, political activism, and the counterculture movement.
On the other hand, many literary works have been instrumental in shaping social attitudes and driving social change. For example, "To Kill a Mockinbird" by Harper Lee, exploring the issue of racial injustice, has had a significant impact on public opinion and social policy.
But that's not all. Some works of art occupy a grey area where the distinction between reflection and influence becomes increasingly blurred. Surrealist art, which emerged in the 1920s, questioned the very notion of what was considered real. Reflecting the societal anxieties, it at the same time challenged the viwers perceptions and categories.
In conclusion, there's truth to both statements: art imitates life, and life imitates art. The age-old debate may not be as binary as we think. The relationship is symbiotic, and we should research the ways in which art and life intersect.26
DONE What main genres of paintings do you know?
Throughout history, humans have had the urge to express themselves visually. Art comes out of the desire of artists to share their visions of the world, personal experience and emotions. Like life itself, art is changing all the time. Every era gives birth to fresh and innovative art forms.27
Renaissance paintings focus on balance, proportion, and idealistic beauty. Mannerism distorts the human figure in an elegant and sensual way. Baroque is full of drama and dynamic movement, as well as contradictory decorations. Neoclassicism has a sober, timeless, harmonious and ordered feeling.
Romanticism highlights the influences of emotions and sensations on the world. Realism emphasizes the struggles of the poor and working class in everyday settings. Impressionism uses the plein-air technique and tries to capture striking movement. Art Nouveau is characterized by long flowing lines, organic shapes and sensual decoration.
Expressionism uses distortion, primitivism and exaggeration to create extreme, vivid pieces. Cubism breaks its subjects down into abstract shapes, painting them on distinct planes on top of a flat canvas. Constructivism is characterized by strong geometric shapes in bright colors.
Surrealism uses strange and bizarre imagery, juxtaposed with seemingly normal subjects. Pop art includes vibrant and colorful references to popular culture and uses everyday materials. Minimalism uses extremely simple geometric shapes to convey an emotion or experience.
There are dozens of art styles, with more being created every day. The beauty of art is that you can grow and explore elements of different styles, finding your own unique combinations. Experimenting with different techniques can help you build appreciation for the great artists' skills.28
DONE What do you know about composition and drawing?
Composition in art is the way elements of an artwork are arranged in order for it to look harmonious. For beginners, coming up with good composition can be tricky. It matters to plan your values, face and body proportion. You may also want to take into consideration the basic elements of art: color choices, values and so on.
When composing artworks, we use elements such as lines, shapes, space, color and texture. They are held together by rhythm, balance, emphasis, grdation, variety and movement. In order for an artwork to make sense and deliver your intended message, learn more about these basic building blocks of art.
The goal of a successful composition is to guide the viewer to give their attention to the subject. Think what our eyes naturally spot first. We notice what is positioned in the center in the image, then our eyes move to one of the upper or lower thirds of the painting, and back to the focal point.
One way to present your subject as the focal point is by isolation, which automatically draws the viewer's attention. Another approach is to use contrast, achived by color, lightness and harshness. Structuring your elements in a way that frames a certain area of the artwork and giving the impression of existing lines also helps capture the viewers' attention and control their focus.
The mentioned techniques aren't absolute rules to follow, but are effective guidelines to help you perceive the world and improve your artwork. Practicing the basics, guiding the viewer, and balancing their focus is the key to painting a captivating image.29
DONE What role do colouring, light and shade effects play in forming a general impression of the picture, the judgement we pass on it?
With careful use of lighting, artists set up the mood, emphasize certain parts, and sculpt the perception of shapes within their work. Delicately balancing and contrasting between light and shadow, artists guide the viewer's eye through a visual narrative. Therefore, the manipulation of light and shadow is an essential technique for artists.
To create a strong visual impact, you need to pick the perfect balance between highlights and shadows. A stark contrast instantly captures the viewer's attention with a dramatic effect. A subtle contrast conveys a serene, natural atmosphere. The contrast has to effectively highlight the focal point, while the mid-tones have to smoothly transition between the pieces for the overall painting to feel cohesive.
Lighting is central to creating texture and realism. Directional lighting creates strong shadows and a sense of three-dimensionality. Meanwhile, natural lighting conditions, such as the golden hour, offer soft warm hues that enhance the landscape's beauty. Soft, diffuse shadows from an ambient light source can give the composition a feel of realism and complexity. The key light defines the emotional impact of the scene. A fill light supports the scene by illuminating an area of interest. A rim light travels the outer edges of objects.30
What artists are doing with lighting and shadow is re-creating the properties and behaviors of light in a 2D space, channeling geometric and physical optics to express themselves. To understand how to render light and shadow in art we must grasp the concept of what light is and how it behaves.31
DONE What is Gainsborough famous for?
Thomas Gainsborough was a leading artist in the 18th century England. He was a founding member of the Royal Academy and a favourite painter of George III and his family. He was inclined for landscape and rustic scenes. His mature work is known for his feathery brushwork and rich sense of colour.32
Gainsborough's earliest dated picture with a landscape background depicts a bull terrier, with many of the details influenced by Jan Wynants. Although Gainsborough preferred drawing landscape, he painted portraits for economic reasons. One of his well-known works is his jaunty self-portrait in a cocked hat.
Thomas Gainsborough painted a good deal from memory, often by candlelight, setting little model landscapes in his studio. His idyllic scenes perfectly blend the real and the ideal. His portraits were more formal and elegant, to satisfy the tastes of his sophisticated clientele.
Gainsborough was always eager to find new papers and techniques. He composed in chalk, pen and watercolour. He made a series of soft-ground etchings and aquatints. To give his paintings striking lighting effects, he produced a special lantern.
Unlike Reynolds, Gainsborough didn't believe in the academic tradition much. He painted instinctively and delighted in the poetry of paint. He was warm-hearted, generous, independent, inventive and original.33
DONE What can you say about Reynolds?
Joshua Reynolds was a leading English portraitist of the 18th century. He combined the English style of painting with ideas from antiquity and the Old Master. He was the first president of the Royal Academy of Arts, which let artists show they work in public for the first time.
The style of painging for which Reynolds became most famous was the Grand Manner. The artist borrowed poses and compositions from Classical Art and Renaissance painting. He sought to idealize nature rather than copy it. He often featured pastoral as well as classical setting.34
Reynolds' "Discourses Delivered at the Royal Academy" was one of the most important art criticism of the time. He outlined what grandeur in art was meant to be and how to achieve it. He emphasized rigorous academic training and study of masters of art.35
Joshua Reynolds can be seen as an early modernist. His choice of subjects was egalitarian, and he fashionably styled all his sitters. Like future modern artists, he removed distracting details from his paintings, insisting on focusing the viewer's attention.34
Reynolds was never a mere society painter or flatterer. He often varied his poses and style. His contemporary and rival Thomas Gainsborough famously remarked once, "Damn him, how various he is!".35
TODO What is happiness for you?
DONE Under what emotional conditions can you display or disguise positive or negative feelings?
In many social situations, it is necessary to hide your feelings. For example, just because you hate your government doesn't mean it is safe to openly express your feelings of dislike for it. Many adults are very good at suppressing their emotions and often do it to avoid controversy and stay within social norms. However, emotion suppression also has harmful effects.36
Let's reflect on how we hide your feelings. Cognitive reappraisal involves reinterpreting a situation to change its emotional impact. It is widely recognized as effective in reducing both the intensity of emotional experiences and their outward expressions.
There's also expressive suppression, which occurs after the emotional response has already been triggered. It focused on inhibiting facial expressions, gestures and other display of emotions. Its impact on reducing negative emotions remains statistically significant.37
Unfortunately, emotional suppression actually increases the physical symptoms experienced together with the emotion. People who hide their emotions sweat more and have faster heart rate. It can also cause impairment to cognitive functioning.
Conclusively, suppression is an effective tool for emotion regulation, particularly when other strategies may not be feasible. Still, we have to be careful with using this technique because it interferes with our physical state and memory.36
DONE What people are easy to deal with?
There are people who make us feel comfortable, heard and appreciated. We seem to naturally gravitate towards them in social situations. And guess what? These people tend to have certain character traits in common. Let's explore in what subtle (or not so much) ways the people we enjoy talking to the most stand out.
First, some people have a high degree of empathy. This trait allows them to connect with others on a deeper level, understanding their perspectives and treating them with kindness and respect. We often find ourselves drawn to empathic individuals. Their genuine concern for others makes them easy to be around.
Second, it feels refreshing to be around authentic people. Such people embrace their strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures, without being afraid to show their real colors. Authenticity creates a sense of trust and openness. Their genuine interactions encourage us to let down our own guards and be authentic in return.
Last but not least, open-minded people are accepting of new ideas, perspectives and experiences. They don't dismiss something just because it's unfamiliar. Their willingness to broaden their horizons inspires us to explore, learn and grow. It's this openness that makes them so fascinating and pleasant to deal with.
To sum up, conversations with people who embody certain traits resonate with us most deeply. These are traits that are about fostering genuine connections with others. Understanding, trust and curiosity create a space where others can be their true selves and feel comfortable doing so.38
DONE What people are difficult to deal with?
Difficult people can really test our patience. Worse, they're pervasive! They seem to inevitable crop up everywhere we go in life. However, there are ways to handle these challenging characters that make our blood boil. Understanding and recognizing different personality types can help us with this.
First, some people can find a cloud in every silver lining. They could probably complain about winning the lottery, because of the taxes. Sometimes, all they need is a gentle nudge towards positivity. At other times, redirecting their focus to solutions is useful.
Second, there are people who seem to have been everywhere and done anything, and are more than happy to let you know about it. When a person is unnecessarily competitive, it's important to resist the urge to combat their achievement. Instead, asking about their experience and validating their expertise works well.
Finally, an occasional person is explosive, bossy and wants their way or the highway. When dealing with such a tank, it matters to stay calm and stand your ground. Acknowledging their perspective can help lower their defenses. Being firm without being confrontational, and prioritizing finding solutions over winning is a good strategy.
To sum up, identifying boundaries, practicing empathy, and controlling your responses are keys to dealing with difficult people. By staying present and non-judgmental, we become well-equipped to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.39
DONE What people do you like? Describe the traits of his/her character
See: "easy to deal with".
DONE What people don’t you like? Describe the traits of his/her character
See: "difficult to deal with".
DONE What traits of character are required to make a good teacher and what traits might prevent one from becoming a good specialist?
Teachers challenge students to think outside the box and counter new challenges. They build the learners' confidence, encourage exploration and collaboration. For a teacher, it's crucial to acquire and practice the skills needed to effectively inspire and grow the people with whom they share the classroom.
On the one hand, the teacher should be an expert in their field. If you love your subject, your stuents will be motivated to learn. Knowing a lot about your topics lets you use different angles to explain the subject matter, helping students from different backgrounds approach the subject constructively.
On the other hand, you should work closely with other teachers an your students. Learning from each other and brainstorming new ideas is significant in improving learner outcomes. Hearing what parents have to say about their children also equips the teacher with an understanding of how to help the students better.
Specifially, a good teacher can understand their learners' emotional, social and intellectual situations. For instance, if a student fails a test, try to inquire how they feel about their performance, and suggest ways to improve the result. It's important to provide a physically, mentally and emotionally safe environment for your students, assuring them that they have opportunities to turn things around.
Good teachers practice expertise, collaboration and empathy. These qualities help them grow their students, whose lives they significantly and positively impact.40
Примітки:
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A Complete Guide To Kiev's Neighborhoods. - Culture Trip https://theculturetrip.com/europe/ukraine/articles/a-complete-guide-to-kievs-neighbourhoods
Kyiv Administrative Districts. - Kyiv Guide https://www.bestkievguide.com/kiev-guide-2/kiev-districts/
How the pros and cons of city living vary around the world. - National Geographic https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/article/city-living-benefits-and-disadvantages-different-around-the-world
Pros and Cons of Living in a Big City. - CORT Furniture https://blog.cort.com/moving/city-pros-and-cons/
Tommy Soto. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a large city? - NCESC Geographic FAQ https://www.ncesc.com/geographic-pedia/what-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-living-in-a-large-city/
Priyanki Baruah. Top 10 Disadvantages of City Life. - Planning Tank https://planningtank.com/city-insight/disadvantages-living-city-life
City vs. Country: Key Differences in Lifestyle and Environment. - One Step guide https://onestepguide.net/science/city-vs-country-key-differences-in-lifestyle-and-environment/
City vs. Country Living: The Good and the Bad (from someone who’s lived both). - Millennial Homeowner https://millennialhomeowner.com/city-vs-country/
City Life vs Country Life: 12 Key Differences and Pros/Cons. - TicTocLife https://www.tictoclife.com/city-life-vs-country-life/
Neil K, harryatkck, TheLush101. Kyiv Founders' Monument. - TripAdvisor https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294474-d3187570-Reviews-Kyiv_Founders_Monument-Kyiv.html
Jake C, GlasgowWriter, Kris-LondonGB, alexkaed. The Motherland Monument. - TripAdvisor https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294474-d636597-Reviews-The_Motherland_Monument-Kyiv.html
The World is My Oyster, Kseniia, 773chrish22. Za Dvumya Zaitsami Monument. - Trip Advisor https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294474-d3240706-Reviews-Za_Dvumya_Zaitsami_Monument-Kyiv.html
Monuments in Kyiv. - Sightseeing in Kyiv https://www.kiev4tourists.com/monuments
An overview of Kiev’s architecture. - Rethinking The Future https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/top-architects/a6867-an-overview-of-kievs-architecture/
Kyiv’s 12 extraordinary sights of Soviet architecture. - Kyiv Post https://www.kyivpost.com/post/7442
To create safer cities for everyone, we need to avoid security that threatens. - The Conversation https://theconversation.com/to-create-safer-cities-for-everyone-we-need-to-avoid-security-that-threatens-93421
Describe an art exhibition that you have visited: IELTS Cue Card https://www.admissify.com/blog/describe-an-art-exhibition-that-you-have-visited/
Kiev Art and Design Highlights. - Artist https://www.theartist.me/art-in-the-city/europe/ukraine/kiev/
Галерея мистецтв. - Централізована бібліотечна система Деснянського району міста Києва https://desnabib.kiev.ua/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3273&Itemid=131
Thaisa Fernandes. Decolonizing Design: An Exploration of Culture, Power, and Oppression https://medium.com/pm101/decolonizing-design-an-exploration-of-culture-power-and-oppression-937fc6214283
Abaz Eton. The Intersection of Culture and Design https://medium.com/design-bootcamp/the-intersection-of-culture-and-design-f777e57110b8
How Designers Influence Culture: A Look at Design’s Role in Society https://thedesignvenue.com/2024/12/20/how-designers-influence-culture-a-look-at-designs-role-in-society/
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”. - BeautifulMood https://beautifulmood.wordpress.com/2015/05/23/have-nothing-in-your-house-that-you-do-not-know-to-be-useful-or-believe-to-be-beautiful/
Does life imitate art or does art imitate life? - California Learning Resouce Network https://www.clrn.org/does-life-imitate-art-or-does-art-imitate-life/
What Are The Different Genres Of Art? - ARTDEX https://www.artdex.com/what-are-the-different-genres-of-art/
Megan van Schoor. Types of Painting – A Guide to Genres, Styles, and Techniques https://acrylgiessen.com/en/types-of-painting/
What is composition and why does it matter so much in art? - The Art and Beyond https://theartandbeyond.com/a-beginners-guide-to-composition-in-art/
Michelle Connolly. The Role of Light and Shadow in Crafting Stunning Visual Narratives https://learningmole.com/the-role-of-light-and-shadow/
CecelyV. Light and Shadow in Art – The Fundamentals of Light, Part 1: The Science & The Basics Made Clear https://cecelyv.com/light-and-shadow-in-art/
Thomas Gainsborough (1727-1788) - National Gallery, London https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/artists/thomas-gainsborough
Landscape painting - Impressionism, Realism & Nature Art - Britannica https://www.britannica.com/art/landscape-painting
Joshua Reynolds Paintings, Bio, Ideas - TheArtStory https://www.theartstory.org/artist/reynolds-joshua/
Joshua Reynolds - Biography, Paintings, Style, & Facts - Britannica https://www.britannica.com/biography/Joshua-Reynolds
Hiding Your Emotions: Useful, But Also Hurtful. - A Cognitive Psychology Blog https://web.colby.edu/cogblog/2013/04/30/hiding-your-emotions-useful-but-also-hurtful/
Expressive suppression can effectively reduce negative emotions under specific conditions. - PsyPost https://www.psypost.org/expressive-suppression-can-effectively-reduce-negative-emotions-under-specific-conditions/
People who are easy to be around usually have these 9 character traits. - Ideapod https://ideapod.com/people-who-are-easy-to-be-around-usually-have-these-9-character-traits/
4 Types of Difficult People and How to Deal With Them. - Science of People https://www.scienceofpeople.com/difficult-people/
The Most Important Qualities That Make a Good Teacher. - Teachers of Tomorrow https://www.teachersoftomorrow.org/blog/insights/good-teacher-qualities/