Практика усного та писемного мовлення англійської мови. 4 семестр
Никула Денис <nykula@ukr.net>, 2 курс Київського міжнародного університету, 035 Філологія, заочна форма

Taking care of your health is arguably the most important thing you can do for yourself and your loved ones. Adopting a few recommendations can go a long way to improving your physical and mental well-being.¹

Eat a rainbow! This saying reminds people to eat different colored fruits and vegetables. Varying foods gets you a wide variety of nutrients beneficial to health. Include protein with every meal, and regularly snack on whole grains and nuts.² Focus on simple, healthy recipes.³

Staying hydrated keeps your body and brain running. Drinking enough water improves your thinking abilities and increases your energy. Water also helps with digestion, decreases joint pain and improves your heart health. Anywhere between 8 and 13 cups every day is a good target.¹

Choose some physical activity most days. Anything counts! Even as little as 10 minutes of light to moderate activity is associated with a longer lifespan. To be aware and accountable, use an app or notebook to track your activity choices each day.³

Social interactions can stave off loneliness an protect against depression. Interact regularly with your social pod, which is a small, intimate group. Casual conversations are also helpful.⁴ Ask if there's anything you can do for your friend, colleague, neighbor or family member. Being of service boosts the giver's health and happiness.⁵

Decluttering and getting things in order can encourage better rest and more productivity. Keep your desktop clean and your work tools readily available. Beware of taking your laptop to the couch or bed, because those zones are meant for resting.⁵

To sum up, a healthy diet, enough water, moderate activity, social exchange, and keeping yourself organized and well-rested are a few daily goals you should plan. These routines will nourish you physically, mentally and spiritually. This way you will become a healthier individual.⁵

From the common cold to Type 2 diabetes, health problems vary across people of different backgrounds, ages and socioeconomic statuses. Circulating viruses and diseases pose varying threats at different times. Individual assessments are essential for diagnosing a condition and establishing a proactive treatment plan.⁶

My friend Max, like one in 13 Americans, has asthma, which is a chronic inflammatory lung disease. Asthma is triggered by environmental allergens and physical activity. While Max experiences long periods without noticeable symptoms, sometimes he suffers an asthma attack. He wheezes and coughs, feels short of breath and tight in the chest.⁷ His doctor prescribed him Albuterol, which is a short-acting bronchodilator, also known as a rescue inhaler, best for treating sudden asthma symptoms.⁸

I myself live with dysthymia, also known as persistent depressive disorder. As is common for mental health issues, there's no single cause; environmental as well as biological factors are thought to play a role in its development.⁹ I experience dysthymia as lack of energy, fatigue, difficulty with concentration, hopelessness, and inability to sleep. I'm prescribed Venlafaxine, an SNRI-class antidepressant¹⁰. I also visit a psychotherapist once a week.

Unlike many other Ukrainians and overall people, I haven't had COVID, which is a viral disease that disrupted the lives of many in 2020. Its hallmark symptoms include shortness of breath, dry cough, fever and chills. COVID leaves some people with long-term drastic issues, such as changes in taste and smell. It's dangerous for young and older people alike. The main weapon against COVID is vaccination, which reduces symptom severity when a person contracts the virus.¹¹

Moderate physical activity, balanced nutrition, stress management, routine vaccinations and regular visits to the doctor helps people stay on top of conditions that may arise. For people already diagnosed, it's important to follow the prescribed treatment and lifestyle recommendations to manage their diagnosis or heal from it.⁶

It's commonly said that you should see a dentist twice a year.¹² A visit to the dentist doesn't have to be something to dread. The doctors want to help, and they try to make the office visit as easy as possible.¹³

Before my last dental checkup appointment, I planned enough time off from work to feel less rushed. I checked the clinic website to see how much the checkup and common treatment might cost, and called to order the appointment. I packed enough money and my identity documents, and the next morning I went to the clinic.¹³

The dentist set me up comfortably in a reclining chair and thoroughly examined my teeth and gums. She asked whether any specific pains were disturbing me.¹² I didn't have tooth pain but I mentioned that I was noticing stains when looking in the mirror. The doctor used a special tiny camera and a display to show me that there was an infection, and explained that she could treat it right away to prevent further development.

The procedure to repair and save the tooth is called a root canal. To perform it, the dentist used local anesthesia to numb the area near my tooth. After waiting a couple of minutes for the anesthesia to start working, she placed a rubber dam around my tooth. Then she drilled an access hole into my tooth, removed the pulp along with bacteria, and sealed the tooth with a filling.¹⁴

At the end of my visit, the doctor used the camera and display again to show me the difference between how my tooth looked before and after the procedure. She asked what are my common foods, and advised me not to eat nuts so much the following days.¹² Finally, her assistant typed the details of the visit into the medical information system, and checked me out.

Overall, I'm not particularly dedicated to my oral hygiene, but I do see the dentist once in a while because I want to keep my mouth, teeth and gums healthy. I'm prone to getting cavities, so I need the doctor's help to fight them. It's not as scary as it was in my childhood, and since I keep a regular schedule of dental appointments, I rarely have major issues with my teeth.¹²

Communicable diseases spread from one person or animal to another, or from a surface to person. Pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, cause them. Colds and flu are some of the most common communicable diseases. Some communicable diseases may be mild, and symptoms pass after a few days. Others can be serious and potentially life threatening.¹⁵

Rhinoviruses, a group of viruses, are the most common cause of the common cold. A person with a cold may have a runny nose, sore throat, and headache. Rhinoviruses are spread by droplets that fly when a person coughs or sneezes. To prevent contracting or transmitting a rhinovirus, wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. Disinfect doorknobs, food areas and personal items such as phones.¹⁵

Stomach flu is another name for a condition called viral gastroenteritis, which affects your stomach and intestines. It usually resolves within a couple of days but it's a highly contagious condition. To avoid getting other people sick, wash your hands with soap after going to the bathroom, changing a diaper or touching food. Clean and disinfect the surfaces you regularly touch. Avoid sharing utensils with other people.¹⁶

Hepatitis A is a virus that affects the liver. It's one of the most reported outbreaks in the United States. Patients present with acute onset fever, jaundice and abdominal pain. There's no specific therapy available. However, hepatitis is preventable through vaccination, washing hands before working with food, and using protection during sex.¹⁷

As we see, there are steps that a person can take to reduce their risk of contracting or spreading pathogens. These include receiving available vaccinations, practicing hand hygiene, and keeping your home and workplace clean.¹⁵ Social distancing and staying home when feeling unwell are also good habits. This way, while your immune system is doing the work to get rid of the viruses and bacteria, they can't reach other people and make them sick.¹⁶

Whether it's a backyard game or an international event, sports aren't simply entertaining. Athletic activities offer many benefits, from physical fitness to personal development.¹⁸ Participating in sports also fosters a sense of belonging and unity within communities.¹⁹

Sports help maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity enhances cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and flexibility. It reduces the risk of chronic diseases and improves cognitive function. Physical exercise stimulates natural mood boosters.¹⁸ Sports contribute to the development of motor skills, coordination and balance.¹⁹

Sports create opportunities regardless of your social status, ethnicity or gender, breaking down social barriers and promoting harmony. Moreover, sporting facilities can boost local economies, generating employment opportunities. Besides, supporting a sports team fosters a shared sense of identity within a community.¹⁹

Athletes provide powerful examples of resilience, inspiring others to never give up on their goals. Sports encourage teamwork, communication and collaboration. They also develop the ability to handle both success and failure.¹⁹ In sports, one has to set and achieve goals, which turns into a valuable skill in all domains of life, leading to personal growth and success.¹⁸

Not only do sports provide opportunities to learn decision-making, effective communication and motivating others, they also help people develop skills that set them up for success in all areas of life.¹⁸ By harnessing the power of sports, we can empower individuals to overcome challenges and cultivate inclusive communities.¹⁹

Over the past decades, it has become common to use the words game and sport interchangeably. While it has blurred the actual differences between them, from an academic standpoint these words have distinct meanings. Let's solve the confusion between the purpose of professional competition and youth sports.

A game is an activity with a set of rules, equipment and coaching. Games can be competitive and cooperative, and a scoreboard is optional.²⁰ They may involve one or more players. People undertake games for enjoyment. Some games may be educational as well. A game usually involves challenge and interaction.

Sports, on the other hand, mean a physical activity. It requires skill or physical prowess, and is mostly competitive. Sports aim to ensure fair competition and a justified winner. A sport must have casual or organized participation. It usually has a governing body that manages it and enforces rules and guidelines.²¹

A game can also be a specific instance of a sporting event.²² Sports can be played by amateurs for the love of the game.²⁰ However, sports usually require full commitment. Sports athletes gain popularity for their skills, while in a game, individuals don't gain popularity, but the entire team does.

To sum up, games are activities that are supposed to be fun. On the other hand, sports are about competitive performance with fixed goals to achieve. We play games in recreational activities, and we play sports to practice ourselves and to win. While games are more democratic as they tend to be lighter on physical activity, sports have the benefit of being interesting to watch without getting involved in the contest itself.²³

People should do some type of physical activity every day. To stay as fit as a fiddle, you should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity every week, spread evenly over 4 to 5 days. There are many ways you can strengthen your muscles, including when you're staying home.²⁴

If you schedule your day, which is a good habit, you can plan on eating and exercising at specific times. Find a way to integrate workouts into your routines. You can watch television without missing out on exercise opportunities. Try to squeeze in a few minutes of physical exercise during each commercial break.

Simply being outside can relieve stress and clear your head. Walk around the block you live on. Try going out for a walk every day. In addition to getting exercise, you will feel refreshed. Vary your routes, as well as your routine in general, because if you always do things the same way you will get bored quickly.²⁵

Aim to perform multi-component physical activity with aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises. Do sit-ups and leg raises, engage in weight-lifting. Don't forget about the warm-up before and cool-down after exercise, as this reduces the risk of injury. Increase the amount of energy expenditure gradually over a few weeks of training.

As early as 3000 BCE, written records described continuous exercise as an essential principle of daily living. Nowadays, the key message in all current guidelines is that exercise performed throughout the day in short intervals is better than inactivity. Overall, physical activity is associated with better quality of life, lower risk of chronic medical conditions and cheaper healthcare.²⁶

Homes were once the projection of the future as seen by the architect. Frank Lloyd Wright expressed the American vision of cultural expansion. Le Corbusier's manifested abstract ideas into buildings. Venturi Scott Brown saw culture as a springboard of creativity. After World War II, massive cultural migrations happened, and there was widespread desire to make safe, affordable places to live, remaking whole neighborhoods in cities.²⁷

Nowadays, urban areas serve as melting pots. In the city, different social groups converge. People from various backgrounds come together in parks, plazas and streets. Music, art, cuisine and fashion thrive in these settings. Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure encourages cultural expression through art installations, performances and public gatherings.²⁸

By adapting to the local culture, architecture showcases the relationship between people and their surroundings. It represents the unique character and history of a place. Symbolic elements such as motifs or patterns on buildings are inspired by nature, climate or geographical features. The visual characteristics of buildings evoke a sense of familiarity and belonging for the local population. Iconic buildings themselves become symbols of national or cultural identity.²⁹

However, as the amount of trade, investment and travel rises, it significantly impacts cities in terms of social inequality. Wealth is increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few, and the disparities between the rich and poor widen. Multinational companies, financial institutions and investors cause a dramatic rise in property values and rents across the city. There happens an influx of wealth into certain areas while other parts of the city remain largely overlooked.

Certain neighborhoods experience a decrease in access to quality education, healthcare and other public services. People living in poverty become desperate, and levels of street violence increase. Wealth is withdrawn from the neighborhoods, and jobs become increasingly scarce. Economic opportunities for poorer residents of the city gradually vanish.

Overall, cities embody the aspirations of societies in which they are situated. They reflect our social values, as well as the best and worst aspects of our economic order. For the future generations to be able to enjoy the cultural evolution of a city, we don't only need to preserve architecture and safeguard cultural heritage, but ensure access to quality healthcare and other basic services for every citizen regardless of their income level. This will result in goods, services, people and ideas flowing through the city more freely than ever before.³⁰

Cities are often seen as hubs of cultural diversity, economic activity and convenience. With these perks come drawbacks such as high living costs, overcrowding and pollution. Any person considering a move to the city needs careful consideration before making an informed decision.

On the one hand, the most common reason for moving to a city is access to better economic opportunities. Cities are home to corporations, government offices and startups. Urban areas host renowned universities as well as specialized trade schools. The public transportation systems are well-developed, including buses, trams and subways, making it easier to get around without owning a car. And there's endless array of entertainment options, such as live music, sports events and art galleries. Faster Internet connection that cities tend to have is also an important aspect of modern, digitalized life.

On the other hand, living in the city is very costly. Utilities, groceries and other daily expenses are much higher here compared to suburban or rural environments. Cities also tend to suffer from high level of air, water and noise pollution caused by industrial activities and heavy traffic. Roads are often congested, leading to long commute times, road rage and frustration. The work and life demands are often unbalanced, and people in the city tend to feel more isolated, unable to build meaningful relationships.

Some aspects of living in the city can be enjoyable for some while disturbing to others. The city landscape is dominated by concrete buildings and busy streets, which are vibrant and lively but can be disheartening for those who prefer a connection to nature or more outdoor activities. There are always neighbors and strangers around, making you feel like you're always surrounded by people, which is good for extroverts but not so much for those who need a little room for solitude. The city lifestyle is fast-paced and highly stimulating but can lead some people to stress and burnout.

In conclusion, city life offers excitement and opportunity, making it an attractive option to many. Personal and professional growth in a dynamic environment outweigh the cons for the majority of people in the countries of the economic center of today. However, the lack of privacy, constant noise and other challenges of urban living make it less appealing to other types of people. Whether city life is right for you depends on your personal preferences and goals.³¹

Moving to the country is a critical choice that can change your life forever. It is a drastic change from the city lifestyle. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of moving to the country so that there are no bad surprises.

The main advantage of living in the country is clean air. There are abundant green areas around, such as meadows, parks or even forests. There are few vehicles on the roads and few industrial zones around. Moreover, the country homes generally have more room inside than city apartments, and outside the home there are vast open spaces. Rural communities are usually close-knit, which feels safer and friendlier compared to the city. And the pace of life is slower, less stressful outside the urban centers.

However, there are much fewer job prospects in the countryside. Unless you have a retirement deposit or can work remotely, you probably won't be able to maintain a steady income here. There are also worse options for education and healthcare, and there's limited or no public transport around. Power cuts and water supply issues are somewhat ordinary to expect in rural areas. And when minor house maintenance problems occur, you need to be ready to play the role of an electrician or a plumber on your own.³²

On the other hand, some aspects of living in the countryside are simultaneously problematic for some people but beneficial for others. There are less opportunities for indoor activities because there are no restaurants or theaters, but the great outdoors offer you hiking, biking, gardening and wildlife watching. Extroverted people may feel isolated or lonely in rural areas, far from friends and family, but introverted people may value the fact that the rural environment is quieter and less congested than the city.

Overall, some people love the peace and tranquility that rural living offers, however living in the countryside has always been a topic of great debate. The opportunity to escape the fast-paced city life can lead to a better quality of life, in particular for individuals who are looking to slow down and appreciate nature. Still, despite the lower cost of living, one should keep in mind the potential decrease in income and the significant distance from amenities and services. Ultimately, one should live in a countryside for a while before deciding to move here.³³

London is a vibrant, world-class capital. The city has everything: over 170 museums, 3000 parks and an ever-changing number of restaurants. There's almost too much to see, do and eat. As a tourist in London, your only problem is working out what you can miss.³⁴

One of the coolest places to go in London is the Natural History Museum. Here you can discover everything dedicated to the study of the natural world, from dinosaurs to the modern British wildlife. From your time here, you're sure to learn a thing or two about the mysteries of human evolution and outer space. Not only does the museum host enthralling exhibitions, you can also visit them for absolutely free.³⁵

For the London Olympics led in 2012, the huge Queen Elizabeth Park was created in Stratford. Besides walking trails, sporting venues and children's play areas, it's home to London Stadium, host to big concerts and various athletics championship. Life's more fun when you stop for a picnic, a BMX ride or just a stroll, so wander into the vast swathes of parkland. Consider booking yourself a ticket for one of the events represented by eclectic posters that will catch your eye.

Also in 2012, there appeared a new popular destination in London's skyline. The Shard is the British capital's tallest tower. From the alluring viewing platform, you get stunning 360-degree views of the city. Below, you will find hotels, bars and restaurants. Gigs are held here throughout the year, and there's a silent disco on selected Saturday nights.³⁶

So there you have it, a roundup of three fun modern places to visit in London. The city is packed full of activities to try at least once in your life. Here it's sometimes difficult to know where to start exploring. But with me as your guide and translator, whether you like partying, sightseeing or learning, you are sure to have your favorite bucket-list activity covered.³⁷

While symbolizing the triumph of human spirit and physical endurance, sports come with inherent risks. Most sports have safety measures in place, but some have extreme potential dangers and significant injury rates. In pursuit of some activities, people put themselves in life-threatening scenarios. And some sports aren't only harmful to people.

To begin with, few sports epitomize physical confrontation more than mixed martial arts. Fighters frequently suffer concussions, torn ligaments, broken bones and deep cuts. In spite of gloves and other protective gear, as well as strict rules, repeated punches and kicks to the head can lead to permanent neurological dangers. There were cases of fatal injuries due to the cumulative effects of trauma sustained in the ring.

Another extreme and dangerous sport is big-wave surfing. Massive waves, towering as high as 60 to 100 feet, are formed far offshore, often by storms far out at sea, and carry immense power. The force of the wave can slam surfers against reefs or rocks. While safety gear such as flotation vests prevents successive waves from holding the surfers underwater, strong currents, unpredictable swells and the sheer physical strain lead them into life-threatening situations. Mavericks in California, Jaws in Hawaii and other dangerous surfing spots have claimed lives.

Finally, equestrian sports are dangerous for both the rider and the horse. In show jumping and cross-country eventing, missteps and mistimed jumps often result in injuries that can be fatal for the exploited animal. Jockeys can be thrown from their horses or injured in collisions. In the event of a fall, the rider is vulnerable to concussions and spinal cord injuries.

To sum up, I believe that some sports are indeed risky, dangerous and silly. I can applaud people trying to reconnect with nature and with their animal roots, but I don't think putting your body and life on the line in pursuit of your passion outweighs the potential consequences. And I find it most repulsive when people hurt other animals when their own survival clearly isn't at stake.³⁸

Despite the progressive image of sports, professional athletes struggle with systemic problems when it comes to fairness and equality, which are supposed to be the cornerstones of competition.

A persistent issue in sports is the gender pay gap. Female athletes earn far less than their male counterparts, especially in basketball, football and tennis. Media covers women's sports less, and sponsors prefer making deals with men. Women are also underrepresented in leadership roles, having less career advancement opportunities and recognition.

Discrimination based on gender and sexual orientation remains widespread. Athletes face pressure to conceal their orientation or identity. Transgender individuals are often excluded and harassed; media covers them in a way that erases any inclusion opportunity for them or perpetuates harmful stereotypes.

Young athletes from low-income families need the same equipment, training and travel opportunities as everybody else, however athletes from wealthier backgrounds have greater chances for success. There's pressure to perform at a high level while managing financial instability, which creates a lot of stress.

In order to keep professional sports a viable career, the athletes, fans and organizations must address the challenges for fairness and inequality. Addressing pay gaps, transforming policies and attitudes to foster more inclusion, and providing accessible public training amenities can create a supportive and just environment for all.³⁹

Football is the world's most popular sport. It's exciting, fast-paced, competitive and brings lots of fun. Let's dive into the basic rules to figure out how to feel confident and play your best on the field.

Two teams of 11 players gather on a rectangular field divided into two halves, each with a goal at the end. There's a round ball, which each team tries to push into the opposing team's goal and score more goals than their opponents. Players move the ball using their feet, head and chest, except the goalkeeper, who can also use their hands.

In order to maneuver around opponents and advance the ball up the field, midfielders gently tap the ball using their foot's inside, outside and sole while keeping it close. This is called dribbling, and it's done in zigzag patterns.

Besides dribbling on their own, one has to move the ball to their teammates. This is called passing, and is usually done with the inside of one's foot. Accuracy and timing matters.

Shooting, done by forwards, is how you score goals. To take a proper shot at your opponent's goal, aim low and away from the goalkeeper. It's best to strike with the inside of your foot. Practice shooting from different angles to get better.

Defense, also a specialized position, involves blocking passes, intercepting the ball, and challenging the player with the ball. It's important to avoid hurting your opponent, which is called fouling them. Stay on your toes and be ready to react quickly.

Finally, the goalkeeper is responsible for guarding the goal. They dive save, catch crosses and block shots with their feet. Goalkeepers are the last line of defense and must have excellent reflexes and strong team communication.

The football game is meant to be enjoyed. Don't stress about perfection and focus on building teamwork. Pick the midfielder position when you're beginning, the try to specialize into a forward, a defender or a goalkeeper. The more you play, the more you'll love the sport.⁴⁰

Table manners are a code to be comfortable when dining and have good conversations. They make eating with others a generally pleasant experience. Dining etiquette is essential for all kinds of social functions, particularly dating and workplace dinner meetings.

These days, the first thing to do before sitting down is to silence your phone to prevent distractions. Don't forget that you are sharing the table with others.

Respect the distance and avoid leaning in too aggressively. Don't lean away from the table, either. You can rest your forearms on the edge of the table, but you shouldn't place your elbows on the table.

Take smaller bites and don't scarf down the food. This way the conversation feels less rushed. Always eat with your mouth closed. Wipe your mouth and hands frequently with a napkin.

Instead of reaching out for a distant food, ask someone to pass it, and thank the person afterwards. When there's a serving bowl, take what you need and pass the bowl counterclockwise around the table.

Only leave the table once everyone is finished. Remember to thank your host. It can be a good gesture to also say individual goodbyes to everyone at the table.

Most table manners are common sense. In general, it's enough to think of what's respectful for others and try to avoid doing what you find annoying yourself. Still, it's good to formalize some guidelines in order to feel less clumsy and more confident at the table.^{41 , 42}

Britain its known for its hearty comfort food. The cuisines of the Isles is steeped in tradition and rich in flavor. Moreover, it's possible to enjoy the classic dishes while being vegan. Which is what I did when I visited my British friends last summer.

Porridge With Fruit is a staple of a traditional British breakfast. Oats cooked in almond milk, topped with sweet seasonal berries, offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Sprinkling on a spoonful of nut butter provides satisfying protein and healthy fat.

Bangers and Mash, a classic dish, can feature plant-based sausages with robust seasoning. It's served with creamy mashed potatoes and complemented by onion gravy. Fresh herbs and roasted garlic are added for more flavor in this traditional comfort food.

Shepherd's Pie can use lentils and mushrooms over a flavorful broth base of diced onions, carrots and celery. Once again, a generous topping of creamy mashed potatoes to finish the dish evokes the cozy atmosphere of a British pub.

Classic British recipes are deeply rooted in the Isles' rich culinary history. They exemplify home cooking and communal enjoyment of regional ingredients. And it's possible to preserve the rich traditional flavors without relying on animal products, capturing the essence of beloved dishes while applying creative substitutes.⁴³

Dear Reggie,

You asked me to share a recipe of a purely Ukrainian dish that would introduce you to our local cuisine. I'll gladly share one with you! Shukhy is a Ukrainian dish, specifically of Hutsul origin, which is based around beetroots, mushrooms and nuts–common foodstuffs in countryside households around the Carpathian Mountains.

First, you need 800 grams of beetroots, 30 grams of penny bun mushrooms and 5 common walnuts. For more flavor, you want 2 onions, 3 cloves of garlic and some prunes. Since cooking this dish involves frying, you need 50 grams of sunflower oil, however you also want some (20 more grams) oil for seasoning. Finally, you need 1 table spoon of vinegar, as well as some salt and pepper.

Wrap the beetroots in aluminum foil and bake them in the oven for an hour or so at 200 degrees Celsius, until they become soft. Put the dry mushrooms in a bowl, fill it with boiling water and let them soak for up to 30 minutes. Rinse the mushrooms thoroughly under running water, put them in a pot, fill it with water and boil it for about 20 more minutes.

Cut the onions into half-rings and fry them in sunflower oil until they turn golden brown. Grate the garlic using a fine grater. Soak the prunes in water. Cut the beetroots, mushrooms and prunes into strips. Add the seasoning oil and vinegar. Spread the fried onion and crushed walnuts over the top. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This way, you get an authentic Ukrainian dish that uses commonly available foodstuffs, fits well into any modern setting and is suitable for vegans. Take care to ask if any of your friends or family have walnut allergy, you might want to cook shukhy without this ingredient so that everyone can enjoy.

Can you likewise tell me about some Scottish dish that I can cook for my family? Looking forward to your reply!

Love and hugs, Denys

In England and Wales, the main route to the teaching profession is a four-year course for the degree of Bachelor of Education (BEd). Teacher training involves the study of the major subject and the study of the second (auxiliary) subject. Then there is the professional cycle consisting of the theory of education and teaching methodology. Finally, one obtains practical experience of teaching at school.

The main subject is teaching, which means building sustainable connections between school and society. A teacher must master the critical analysis of their main subject in relation to such subjects as psychology, sociology and philosophy. They have to be competent in the field of their second subject. They also should understand the age characteristics of children (as well as the needs of children of different levels of ability and ethnic origin) and the perception of the child as an individual.

Students must also choose a second subject that they will teach at school. It can be fine arts, natural science, mathematics, the English language, history, geography or physical education. Each year, the student completes 8 modules and receives credits. There are additional modules for qualified teacher status. One needs 240 or more credits in total.

At the end of the fourth year of the course, an exam is held. During the exam, teaching students give demonstrative lessons in front of a specially created commission. One can also obtain a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) through a one-year course, spending 60% of their study time at school. Post-graduate pedagogical practice is guided by specialists directly familiar with the problems of a certain school and a certain area.

Good mastery of the teaching subject, methodical training, management skills, the ability to listen, friendliness, empathy and creativity are keys to becoming a good teacher. The modern English reform of education also focused on what is called «school-centered teacher training». University lecturers and professional school teachers support future English teachers on their journey, fully including the students in educational theory and practice.⁴⁴

The United Kingdom has a long history, including leading the Industrial Revolution and developing parliamentary democracy. The country continues to have a tremendous economic and political influence worldwide. Its time-honored educational institutes attract international students who want to apply themselves to a world-leading commercial and cultural center.⁴⁵

Lancaster University offers a course specializing in the English language and linguistics. Here one can explore the structures and development of languages, as well as the political questions explored by linguists. The university provides world-leading facilities researching phonetics, perception and learning. The graduates are involved in innovative career paths, for example analyzing online harms and developing social media policy.⁴⁶ The campus is often likened to a small town, and the central location in the UK is well-connected to many places of interest.⁴⁷

Bristol University lets one study the English language in combination with philosophy. Students here inquire into the foundations of knowledge and explore the complexities of the past and the present through studying literary texts. They explore moral and political issues and are trained to apply critical thinking and logic.⁴⁸ Analyzing others' thoughts and expressing yourself clearly is an important asset in non-governmental organizations and social work.⁴⁹ The Global Lounge of the university is a multicultural hub that hosts social events throughout the year, which creates an opportunity to learn about newest research and stay in touch with modern culture.⁵⁰

The University of Edinburgh teaches a course in linguistic and social anthropology. Here you can learn in depth how language varies across society and evolves over time, and how people behave in living societies. Students analyze and interpret historic and contemporary social structures, such as kinship, culture and power, ritual and religion. The skills acquired here let the graduates work in social research, journalism and speech technology research.⁵¹ Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is also home to an iconic scene of live music, theater and modern cuisine, which generates new ideas and social discoveries. The surrounding areas also offer stunning scenery and attractions.⁵²

Overall, top Universities in the United Kingdom consistently rank among the top universities globally. Living in the UK offers efficient transport links, safe accommodation, and an extraordinarily diverse culture. Students may have part-time jobs up to 20 hours per week.⁴⁵ With good amenities for studying and research, here one can find a good head start on their journey to becoming a self-sufficient, reflective and critically thinking member of the modern global society.

I am studying philology at the Kyiv International University. More specifically, I focus on the English language in the context of translation to Ukrainian. I am a correspondence course student, which means I do distance learning at my own pace while having a part-time job. I am a second-year student but this is my first year of studies at this university; I resumed studying a different major after dropping out from a software engineering course to work full-time.

To be completely honest, I actually wanted to study full-time rather than take a correspondence course, but my country doesn't let me because I'm a man older than 25 years, eligible for mobilization to serve in the Russian-Ukrainian war. However, this format of study turned out to fulfill my needs so far. I'm an introverted, somewhat neurodivergent person with a strong need for flexible schedule and being in a place free of noise and distractions.

At the KyIU, I have studied subjects such as history of Ukraine, history of translation, history of literature, public relations basics, psychology of communication, philosophy and information technology. My studies have so far been quite captivating; having received a list of topics to study for each subject, I browse the web to find relevant information in textbooks, blogs and articles, synthesize it and write detailed notes in my own words that I send the professors before the exams. I have made a personal website on which I publish my notes for my own later reference and in case others find them useful in their own studies. On the exams, I get a selection of topics, of which I can choose the one I find the most interesting, then I explain to the professor what I know and think about it.

In my future years at this university, I expect more practical subjects, involving translation itself. Since high school, I have translated free software as a hobby, which I don't do much these days but still come back to it from time to time. My goal is to make the environment in which I live more comfortable, more native, more Ukrainian, and I want to make the knowledge and tools of the world more accessible to people from my country. I hope my future jobs help me move closer towards my goal, and I hope the Kyiv International University helps me move towards my future jobs.

When people think of a fear of flying, their minds jump to the image of a plane crash. However, the fear of flying is a complex issue with multiple layers.

The primary reason people fear flying is the sense if losing control. If a person is typically comforted by being in control of their environment, placing their trust entirely in the hands of the pilots and crew can induce anxiety.

Furthermore, the thought of being thousands of feet above the ground can cause people with a fear of heights intense discomfort. And many individuals suffer from claustrophobia. Being in a small, enclosed space for hours on end can lead them to panic and a strong desire to escape.

Past trauma, such as particularly rough turbulence or an emergency landing can leave a lasting impression and trigger physical symptoms and muscle tension, even if the person has previously enjoyed flying.

Finally, some people are prone to motion sickness. They can be significantly deterred by the idea of feeling nauseous and uncomfortable for the duration of the flight.

The fear of flying can stem from a variety of concerns. Understanding the root cause of your fear, recognizing your triggers can let you feel that you are not alone and reach out for help to overcome it and reclaim the joy and opportunities of travel.⁵³

Travel is essential for commerce, education and leisure. One can say it is crucial for the progress of humanity. Different means have been invented to transport people and goods using vehicles and the infrastructure supporting them. Let's explore the most common modes of transportation available to travelers.

The primary benefit of road transportation, in other words going by car, is flexible service. Routes and timings can be tuned to suit individual requirements. The car also lets you reach into the most remote areas not accessible by rail, air or water. However, there is a high risk of breakdowns and accidents, and roads are very susceptible to weather conditions.

Alternatively, rail transportation, or going by train, has the benefit of high speed covering huge ranges. It's a good, dependable choice for long-distance traffics least affected by weather conditions. Moreover, it's suitable for heavy and bulky goods. Unfortunately, the centralized administration fails to meet the personal needs of the people, particularly those with disabilities.

Last but not least, air transportation (by plane) is the fastest way to travel. It has no stops or interruptions, and provides a relatively comfortable individual experience compared to car or rail. Still, air travel is very dependent on weather conditions, and the fare of transport is very high.

Each mode of transportation has a different technological solution suitable for different needs and environments. When choosing between car, train and plane, one has to weigh what's most important for their personal goals: flexibility, dependability or speed.⁵⁴

Light rail (LRT) is a form of urban public transportation that provides capacity and speed between lower than those of subway but higher than those of buses or traditional trams. LRT systems tend to use electric rail cars mostly separated from other traffic.

Trams in light rail systems have smaller size and turning radius compared to the subway. They also don't need an electrified third rail as the electricity is supplied by overhead lines. This makes LRT suitable to operate in the existing streets, avoiding the cost of expensive developments and the poor accessibility of elevated segment construction. Compared to traditional trams, LRT with its dedicated right-of-way can reach up to 105 kilometers per hour while carrying more passengers due to its larger-volume streetcars.

Unlike the subway which is increasingly automated, light rail systems rely heavily on human operators because the train tracks often run on roads with cars. The philosophy here is that a qualified person should be on each train to deal with emergencies, and since they're already there, they might as well operate the train.

Common light rail techniques to keep low development costs and good accessibility include minimizing underground and elevated trackage, sharing transit malls with buses, and combining LRT construction with freeway expansion.⁵⁵ Light rail vehicles can be bilateral, which lets city planners avoid turn-around loops needing to be constructed.⁵⁶

To sum up, light rail is a flexible and adaptable, modern way of transit. It is particularly efficient in congested urban areas.⁵⁷ LRT is designed to deliver rapid, reliable and safe transportation services. It is growing in popularity for major cities around the world because it provides significant transit capacity without the expense and density needed for subway systems.⁵⁶