Review #4

A Farewell to Arms 

A Farewell to Arms is a 1957 American DeLuxe Color CinemaScope drama film directed by Charles Vidor. The screenplay by Ben Hecht, based in part on a 1930 play by Laurence Stallings, was the second feature film adaptation of Ernest Hemingway's 1929 semi-autobiographical novel of the same name. It was the last film produced by David O. Selznick. An earlier film version, A Farewell to Arms starred Gary Cooper and Helen Hayes.

 Rock Hudson plays an American serving in the Italian Army during the "War to End All Wars". Jennifer Jones is his lover, a Red cross nurse. They have a torrid affair, which results in Jones' pregnancy. As the months pass, Hudson and Jones lose contact with one another, and Jones believes that Hudson has forgotten her. But a battle-weary Hudson finally makes it to Switzerland, where Jones is hospitalized. The baby is stillborn, and Jones dies shortly afterward, murmuring that her death is "a dirty trick."

As for the acting Rock Hudson was at his peak during this time. He was also at his most handsome. One of the high points of the film was when at the ending the awesome acting he does because his darling lover is on her death bed. Ms. Jones and Mr. Hudson both do a very convincing job.

The camera work is better than average, with some amazing location photography. Director Charles Vidor  does striking things in the first hour with an on-location, wide-screen camera. Vidor shows massive, panoramic tableaux, pans over a line of hundreds of soldiers trooping through the mountains; and then with a 90 degree swivel of his camera catches up with Hudson's ambulance barreling down on him.

In conclusion I'd like to say that the film is very interesting and have unusual themes that the story set up. In short, this is not a straightforward soldier-meets-girl love story. The conflicts that are presented (particularly in Jennifer Jones' mysteriously troubled psyche) make this romance much more than meets the eye. If you enjoy wartime romances that are not always formulaic love stories (i.e. they may contain hidden dysfunctional surprises), check this one out.

Review #3

In Love and War

In Love and War is a 1996 romance drama film based on the book, Hemingway in Love and War by Henry S. Villard and James Nagel, starring Mackenzie Astin, Chris O'Donnell, Sandra Bullock, and Margot Steinberg. This film takes place during World War I, and is based on the World War I experiences of the writer Ernest Hemingway. It was directed by Richard Attenborough. The film was entered into the 47th Berlin International Film Festival.

This romantic historical drama is based on the diaries of Agnes Von Kurowsky, who while serving as a nurse during World War I had a love affair with a young man who would later become one of the great literary figures of the 20th century, Ernest Hemingway. In 1918, 18-year-old Hemingway has volunteered to fight in the great war; while he goes into battle imagining it to be a lark, he soon discovers that the realities of warfare are far more grim, and during a shelling attack in Italy, his leg is severely wounded. Hemingway has taken a great deal of shrapnel, and the doctors at the field hospital decide that amputation would be the quickest and most effective way to deal with the injury. However, the idea of losing a leg horrifies Hemingway, and he pleads with Agnes (Sandra Bullock), the Austrian nurse looking after him, not to let the doctors cut off his limb. Moved by Hemingway's concern, Agnes convinces the doctors to pursue other treatments, and she looks after him during his long and difficult convalescence. Love and passion bloom between the young and naive soldier and the 26-year-old nurse, but while he's eager for her to return home with him as he follows his muse as a writer, she regards him not as the love of her life but as a passing fling and thinks that he's too young to marry. Agnes eventually sends Hemingway a "Dear John" letter; later Hemingway would use her as the basis for several characters in his novels and short stories, not always flatteringly. 

Hemmingway is played by Chris O'Donnel, he does a fine job, we all know that Hemmingway was a more gruff person and it never seemed realistic. Sandra Bullock plays the nurse and I liked her very much in this role.

In conclusion I'd like to say that Bullock and O'Donnell have a wonderful chemistry, and the lighthearted moments are weighed against a tale of great agony and suffering without being preachy or too painful. There are serious moments, when the reality of life and war come home to Ernest, and there are beautiful moments, when Catherine explores Italy. It's a wonderful mix of the dramatic and the light, without being overdone or showy. The realism is striking. I hope that everyone who watches this movie enjoys it as much as I did.

Review #2

Dangerous Minds

Dangerous Minds is a 1995 American drama/hood film directed by John N. Smith, and produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer.The film was released to an overwhelmingly negative critical reception, but became a surprise box office success in the summer of 1995, leading to the creation of a short-lived television series.

In this drama, a school teacher discovers that it takes more than the ABCs to get through to a class of "uneducatable" kids. When Lou Anne Johnson (Michelle Pfeiffer), a nine-year veteran of the Marine Corps with a degree in education, begins a new job at an inner-city school in California, the principal (George Dzundza) warns her that her class will be the "rejects from Hell" -- kids with severe social problems and no interest in education. While at first her African-American and Latino students scoff at Lou Anne, she ultimately gets them to open up to learning and literature, through a combination of bribery (candy bars) and intimidation (her karate training from the Marines comes in handy), and she's able to reach out to the students who need her the most: Callie (Bruklin Harris), a bright girl who believes she's thrown away her future when she becomes pregnant; Emilio (Wade Dominquez), a macho bully whose violence is stifling his academic potential; and Raul (Renoly Santiago), the brightest kid in the class, who is afraid to show his intelligence.

It really touched my heart, because I felt for Michelle's character. How hard it is to want to get into a student's life, but you can't because otherwise, you have stepped out of line. She was above the system and was truly a good person who wanted to just help her students.That's how she changed students' lives.  I loved it's message of how a person can either choose to stay down or hold their head high.

In conclusion I'd like to say that all in all, this is a very good movie that is not afraid of portraying the gritty and tough suburban outlooks of inner city school life, as seen through the eyes of the pupils themselves and Louanne Johnston herself. Dangerous Minds is at times challenging and through-provoking and whereas it can often be a tad preachy, it still packs a mean punch.

Review #1

The Ron Clark Story

The Ron Clark Story  is a 2006 television film, starring Matthew Perry, that premiered on TNT on Sunday, August 13, 2006. The film received largely positive reviews, with particular praise going to Perry's portrayal. It was nominated for three 2007 Emmy Awards, including "Outstanding Made For Television Movie", "Outstanding Casting For A Miniseries, Movie Or A Special" and "Outstanding Lead Actor In A Miniseries Or A Movie" for Perry. Additionally, Perry was also nominated for the Golden Globe Award and the Screen Actors Guild Award for "Best Actor".

The Ron Clark Story follows the inspiring tale of an energetic, creative and idealistic young teacher who leaves his small North Carolina hometown to teach in a New York City public school. Through his passionate use of special rules for his classroom, highly innovative teaching techniques and an undying devotion to his students and helping them cope with their problems, Clark is able to make a remarkable difference in the lives of his students. For one young girl trying to attend school while helping to raise her 3 kids, he offers a chance for her to overcome her situation and become the top student of the class. For a young man with a penchant for graffiti, he offers an ideal outlet for artistic expression. Even when he is almost overcome by pneumonia, Clark continues to work with his students, hoping that he can raise their test scores to an acceptable level, or possibly even higher.
However, when Clark returns, he finds out his class did not deliver the goods but he remains optimistic about their chances. The kids sit in the state exams and a few weeks later, Clark takes the kids to see The Phantom of the Opera. In the end, Principal Turner reveals that Mr. Clark's class got the highest average (they got a higher score than the honor class) in the school and Clark was regarded by his students as their best teacher.

Speaking about acting I enjoyed seeing Matthew Perry in a different role but most of all enjoyed watching a story of a man who wouldn't give up on kids, even though tempted.We can observe a tagline, “No one believed in them except him" within the story , because Clark was the only person who believed in them and who really interested in these children. The young actors also gave great performances including Hannah Hodson as Shameika, Brandon Smith as Tayshawn and Micah Williams as Julio among others.

As for directing , the story is shown as amotivating and inspirational one. Films like this are nothing new but it is the simple story behind this one combined with the charm of Perry that allows it to stand out from the others.

In conclusion I'd like to say that I felt like The Ron Clark Story gives its audience hope for a better tomorrow, if we would only step out on faith. Mr. Perry does a great job telling the story of Ron Clark and his relationship with the students. Mr. Hudson gives the audience a honest view of how so many of us tend to give up when we feel beat down by the system, but Perry is the angel that saves not only the kids in his class but the parents, as well. Every child should be required to watch this movie for inspiration and hope for better tomorrows. Bravo to the network, writers, producers and actors in this movie.

Higher Education in Britain and the USA

Higher Education in Britain and the USA

1. Each university and college in the U.S has its own international student entry requirements – the minimum requirements for grades and standardised tests, e.g. the TOEFL and SAT, varies from institution to institution. Even within the same university there may be different admissions requirements, depending on which major you choose to study. Usually, the higher your grades and test scores, the better chance you have of getting into one of the top institutions in the U.S, eg. Cornell, Harvard.

The universities in the United Kingdom (with the exception of The Open University) share an undergraduate admission system which is operated by UCAS. Applications must be made by 15 October for admissions to Oxford and Cambridge (and medicine, dentistry and veterinary science courses) and by 15 January for admissions to other UK universities.Many universities now operate the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) and all universities in Scotland use the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) enabling easier transfer between courses and institutions.One-half of universities have lost confidence in the grades that are awarded by secondary schools, and require many applicants to sit for a competitive entrance examination. According to the Schools Minister, “strong evidence has been emerging of grade inflation across subjects” in recent years

2. What are the three types of schools in higher education?

Almost all higher educational institutions proceed through an accreditation process, which is developed to promote academic standards within the educational institution. Several accreditation agencies exist to ensure that graduates meet certain standards and secure consistency in education. There are numerous benefits for accreditation, namely, evaluation of curriculum, attentiveness of faculty to present the curriculum, and program. The educational philosophy that guides the principles of the institution and its structure has several components, which will be addressed under specific educational institutions.  Vocational Schools, Technical Schools, and For-Profit Schools.

3. What degrees are offered by schools of higher learning in the USA/Britain? What are the requirements for these degrees?

Four-year colleges, which usually have a larger number of students and offer a greater range of studies, provide the bachelor's degree, mostly the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.). They are either primarily undergraduate institutions (i.e. Liberal Arts Colleges) or the undergraduate institution of a university (such as Harvard College and Yale College). Universities are research-oriented educational institutions which provide both undergraduate and graduate programs. However, for historical reasons, some universities (such as Boston College, Dartmouth College, and The College of William & Mary) have retained the term "college" as their name. Graduate programs grant a variety of master's degrees (like the Master of Arts (M.A.), Master of Science (M.S.), Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) or Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)) in addition to doctorates such as the Ph.D. The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education distinguishes among institutions on the basis of the prevalence of degrees they grant and considers the granting of master's degrees necessary, though not sufficient, for an institution to be classified as a university.

At postgraduate level, the main qualifications offered are:

Master's degree. A master’s qualification gives you the opportunity to further your knowledge of a particular subject or to go in a completely different direction using the skills you’ve gained from your undergraduate studies. A master’s degree is an academic qualification awarded to individuals who successfully demonstrate a higher level of expertise in a particular field of study. You can study one in almost any subject, but there are two main types of master’s: taught and research.

MBA courses. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree is an internationally recognised qualification which gives you the skills you need for a successful management career. MBA courses cover topics such as business policy and strategy, operational and strategic management, marketing, market research, finance and accounting, IT, human resource management, leadership, entrepreneurship and international trade.

PhDs/doctorates. A Doctor of Philosophy, or doctorate (PhD/DPhil) is the highest academic level a student can achieve. These degrees are very demanding and often lead to careers in academia. Doctorate courses can be applied for by students who achieve at least a 2:1 result at undergraduate level. Although you don’t necessarily need a master’s degree, it is usual practice to undertake one before a PhD.

Postgraduate diplomas and qualifications. For those wishing to continue their studies beyond an undergraduate degree, a variety of options are available. Postgrad certificates and diplomas allow students to study something new or build on the skills and knowledge already gained during their first degree.

Professional and vocational qualifications. A professional or vocational qualification is usually taken to improve skills or gain attributes required by specific jobs. Most awards will involve practical training, giving you the opportunity to experience a job first-hand.

Conversion courses. A conversion course is a vocational postgraduate qualification usually taken by graduates wanting to change subject area after their first degree and better prepare themselves for the job market.

4. What is a credit in the US system of higher education? How many credits must an undergraduate student earn to receive a bachelor’s degree? How can they be earned?

Most colleges use a 5-stage letter grade system in which the letters are worth a certain number of "points":

A -- highest grade -- worth 4 "points"

B -- above average grade -- worth 3 points

C -- average passing grade -- worth 2 points

D -- minimum passing grade -- worth 1 point

F -- failure (no credit) -- zero points

5. What steps do students have to take to enroll in a college/university for admission? Speak about the exams they take – PSAT, SAT, ACT.

The SAT and ACT tests are primarily used for college admission purposes or financial aid. If your child is college bound, these tests are important. Even if your home school child is not currently thinking about attending college, you may still want to consider having your child take either the SAT or ACT (primarily used for east coast schools). Your child's post high school plans may change one day, and having an SAT or ACT score on file will facilitate the college entrance process.

6. What financial assistance are applicants eligible for? What is college scholarship, grants, loan? Explain and bring out the essence of student financial aid.

Loans

 Remember when you were a kid and asked your brother for some cash to buy a few new baseball cards? Sure, he gave it to you but he did so expecting you would pay him back. That’s a loan in its simplest form and when it comes time to start writing those checks to your child’s college or university, you’ll need more than those few bucks to cover the cost. The school, banks and even the government can step into that role formerly held by your sibling – its pockets are much deeper – to provide the funds you need but just like your baseball card loan, you will have to pay it back eventually…this time with interest.

Grants

Grants, like loans, can come from both federal funds and private institutions but, unlike loans, you do not have to repay them. Stop rubbing your eyes and questioning your reading comprehension skills because you read that sentence correctly: YOU DO NOT HAVE TO REPAY THEM. Feel free to let out a sigh of relief or do a celebratory dance; we’ll be here when you’re ready to start reading again.

Scholarships

 Hooray for more free money for college: Just like their cousin the grant, scholarships do not require repayment and are awarded for almost anything. Seeing as though scholarships are what we know best (note our name), you’ll find plenty of advice on this subject all over our site but here are the most important things to consider.

7. What is a GPA (Grade Point Average)?

Grading in education is the process of applying standardized measurements of varying levels of achievement in a course.

Grades can be assigned in letters (for example A, B, C, D, E or F), as a range (for example 1 to 6), as a percentage of a total number correct, as a number out of a possible total (for example out of 20 or 100), or as descriptors (excellent, great, satisfactory, needs improvement).

In some countries, all grades from all current classes are averaged to create a grade point average (GPA) for the marking period. The GPA is calculated by taking the number of grade points a student earned in a given period of time divided by the total number of credits taken.[1] The GPA can be used by potential employers or educational institutions to assess and compare applicants. A Cumulative Grade Point Average is a calculation of the average of all of a student's grades for all courses completed so far.

8. What is the role of a student’s counselor? Specify the function of career development and job placement within a university.

Student Counselors provide vital services to all students who want to make the most of their time in college. When visiting Counseling Services, students will receive caring, knowledgeable assistance.  Below are just a few of the services we offer.

10. What are the sources of funding for universities and colleges (both public and private)?

Universities that provide four-year study courses are either privately funded foundations or are state or city foundations that depend heavily on the government for financial support. Private universities and colleges depend largely on tuition charges levied on students. The individual state governments fund the nation’s highly developed system of state universities, which ensure the provision of higher education for the vast majority of those willing and academically qualified to receive such education.

11. What is an undergraduate student? A graduate student?

The undergraduate classes are usually the first 4 years of college until you get your Bachelor's Degree. After the Bachelor's Degree, you would apply to graduate school to get a Master's Degree or a PhD.

12. Are you for written or oral examinations? Which ones are more objective?

Oral and written examinations have much bigger differences then common features. At first glance the written examination seems to be easier for student – you have more time for preparing, rallying your thoughts, you have the chance of cheating and copying the information from the textbook – that’s all advantage. From the other hand it is very difficult to put in words your thoughts when the time is limited. If you didn’t learn some theme and you happened to take the examination card with this question, it would be impossible to trick your teacher by using many words for describing what you didn’t know.

14. Would you like to study in the USA or Great Britain? Why? Why not? What are the requirements for foreign students to study in the USA or Great Britain?

The number of international students attending school in the US has risen steadily in the past five years, and now totals more than 723,000 students according to the most recent report from the Institute for International Education. Within the US, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York and Texas are the most popular locales for foreign students.

Though the UK's higher education system is much smaller than what the US has to offer, the proportion of international students in the UK is comparatively high, accounting for 17% (as compared to ~3% in the U.S.). In 2009-10, the number of international students in the UK was 428,225; in descending order, the most chosen destinations for study were England, Scotland, Wales, then Northern Ireland.

15. What aspects of American or British higher education system would you like to introduce into our system?

Well, it’s very difficult to judge what I would like to introduce , because every system is peculiar but I believe that system of admission in US universities is rather better that in Russia.

Laboratory Works - Higher Education

MP3 AUDIO 5.1

1. You’ll hear five speakers talking about problems they or their relatives face while studying. Fill in the chart with the information given in the recording. Be especially precise with the column “Your solution to the problem”; here, you’re supposed to give your personal advice to avoid or ease the problems mentioned by the speakers.

Speaker	Problem	Signs of the Problem	Your Solution to the Problem
1	examination	the ability to learn and understand the subject	to ask students to explain everything in details
2	preparation for the exam	tired face, sleepless nights etc.	to divide preparation into equal periods of  time
3	exams to enter university	lost weight, big black rings under the eyes	to set aside particular days for rest
4		stunned, confidence	to be morally ready for exam
5	assessment tests	on-line tests	to remember that automatically check is not an ideal one

2. Have you ever experienced problems while studying?  What were these problems like? How did you cope with them?

Yes I have problems while studying especially concerning with preparations.  I usually spend plenty of time on it and sometimes the following day I can't remember some details of what I've learned some time ago. Also I often mix up some facts when read too much information in a short period of time, so I have to read the same issues many times.

3. What are other difficulties that contemporary university students face while studying? When do the problems usually occur? Are there special stresses that cause them? Do you agree that the quality learning is “the travel of hardships”? Give account of about 100 words on the questions mentioned.

There are many problems that contemporary university students face while studying, such as :possible homesickness and frequent calls home,some anxiety about coursework, social life and residence life,large sets of exams ,roommate problems may arise, money/budgeting issues and many others.

MP3 AUDIO 5.2

Listen to a talk given by a university advisor to a group of students and answer the following questions:
1. What is the standard grading system in the USA?
 The standard grading system in the USA  is of A, B, C, D, E ,F grades.
2. What are the ‘special grades’ that the speaker mentions in the recording?
Satisfactory and non-satisfactory grades
3. Comment on the standard grading system in your country?
 5  - excellent grade , 4  - good  grade, 3 - satisfactory grade, 2  bad grade
Do schools and colleges practice non-standard grading systems? What are they?
Give examples of other grading systems throughout the world? Which of them do you think are efficient for the students’ academic assessment?

Hong Kong
Percentage Grades GPA
80–100   A 3.7-4.3
60–79     B 2.3-3.3
50–59     C 1.7-2.3
40–49     D 1.3-1.0
Below 40 F 0

Lebanon
U.S. Equivalence
Scale / U.S. Grade Equiv.
14-20 / A+
13–13.9 / A
11–12.9 / B+
10–10.9 / B
9.5–9.9 / B−
9.1–9.4 / C+
9 / C
8–8.9 / C−
6.5–7.9 / D
0–6.5 / F

In France, schools grades typically range from either 0 (worst) to 20 (best) (or, sometimes, from 0 (worst) to 10 (best)). A mark below the average (10 out of 20 or 5 out of 10, depending on the scale) is usually a fail. For the French National High School Level (baccalauréat), a grade of 8–10 typically gives the right to take an additional oral exam in order to try to improve that average to 10 and pass. A grade between 10 and 12 is a simple pass (without grade) ; between 12 and 14 (more rarely 13–14) the grade is called "assez bien" (rather good) ; 14–16 is called "bien" (good) ; above 16 is "très bien" (very good). An exams jury can award the "Félicitations du Jury" for any mark, though they usually reserve it to a candidate who has achieved 18/20 or more. Grade equivalence between France and the U.S. Grading Scale Scale U.S. Grade Equiv. 14-20 = A ; 12-13.9 = B+; 11-11.9 = B; 10.5-10.9 = B-; 10.1-10.4 = C+; 10 = C; 9-9.9 = C-; 8-8.9 = D; 0-7.9 = F;

MP3 AUDIO 5.3

1. What are the rules for dropping a course in the talk provided?

You need the course professor's signature on an official document;
you have to come to the advisor to get a signature.

2. What warnings does the student advisor give?

You can officially drop a course after the first three weeks of the semester.
If you are having problems in a course and you decide later on that you want to drop the course it’s impossible to do so.

3. How can you avoid getting a failing grade, according to the recording?
If you go through official procedure of getting drop, you will not have any problems

4. What are the official drop procedures for the elective courses in your country?
Classes can be officially dropped during the first 20 percent of their scheduled meeting time.

MP3 AUDIO 5.4

Listen to a talk given on a college campus.
1. What are the places of a college campus that the speaker mentions in the recording?
Administration complex, library, students’ centre , a bank, a theatre
2. Can you find the similar campus places in your college/university? What are other places that are worth mentioning? Characterize them briefly.

 There 2 dormitories (for students from distant towns), a stadium( for PE activities and students individual activities , a canteen( a place for having breakfast , dinner or supper), a library( for taking books)

School Education in Britain and the USA

School Education in Britain and the USA

1. What types of schools do they have in the UK?

Nursery - Non-compulsory schooling for 3-4 year olds

Infant schools - Children aged 4 - 7 Junior Schools - Children aged 7 – 11

Primary schools - Combining Infant, Junior and often Nursery classes within one school

Secondary schools - for all pupils aged 11 - 16 years. Some provide additional schooling for students from 16 - 18 years.

Sixth form colleges (non-compulsory) - for students 16 - 18 years

Special schools - For the education of children with various physical, emotional and behavioral learning needs which cannot be met in the mainstream. Independent or private schools are fee paying. They normally follow the NC or the IB.

2. When do children start/leave school?

Local authority maintained schools to all children between the ages of 5 – 16.

3. What are the stages of schooling according to age? + 4. What exams do pupils have to take?

·         Primary Education

·            Infant School or Primary School

·               Reception, age 4 to 5

·               Year 1, age 5 to 6

·               Year 2, age 6 to 7 (KS1 National Curriculum Tests - England only)

·            Junior School or Primary School

·               Year 3, age 7 to 8

·               Year 4, age 8 to 9

·               Year 5, age 9 to 10

·               Year 6, age 10 to 11 (Eleven plus exams in some areas of England, Key Stage 2 National Curriculum Tests)

·         Secondary Education

·            Middle School, High School or Secondary School

·               Year 7, old First Form, age 11 to 12

·               Year 8, old Second Form, age 12 to 13

·               Year 9, old Third Form, age 13 to 14 (Key Stage 3 National Curriculum Tests, known as SATs (Standard Assessment Tests))

·            Upper School or Secondary School

·               Year 10, old Fourth Form, age 14 to 15

·               Year 11, old Fifth Form, age 15 to 16 (old O Level examinations, modern GCSE examinations)

·            Upper School, Secondary School, or Sixth Form College

·               Year 12 or Lower Sixth, age 16 to 17 (AS-level examinations)

·               Year 13 or Upper Sixth, age 17 to 18 (A2-level examinations. Both AS-levels and A2-levels count towards A-levels .)

5. Do school leavers have to take entrance exams to go to university?

School leavers have to take A-level exam.

6. It is well known that there is no written constitution in the UK. Is there such a thing as a national curriculum?

The National Curriculum covers learning for all children aged 5-16 in state schools, and sets out:

·         which subjects should be taught

·         the knowledge, skills and understanding your child should achieve in each subject (according to your child’s age)

·         targets - so teachers can measure how well your child is doing in each subject

·         how information on your child’s progress should be passed on to you

7. How long should it take to complete full-time compulsory education?

It should take twelve years.

8. What should primary school and secondary school concentrate on?

Education in primary schools is rather traditional: it concentrates on reading, writing and basic mathematics, but also touches already a very broad range of topics (biology, music, religion, history, etc.). When graduating from primary school around the age of 12, students enter secondary education. Here they have to choose a course that they want to follow, depending on their skill level and interests.

9. In what case can entrance exams be abandoned?

Entrance exams can be abandoned only if standardized external testing of high school students is introduced throughout the country.

10. What should be admission requirements to primary and secondary school?

Primary school should concentrate on basic skills while secondary school should offer a wider curriculum, with most subjects being optional.

11. What is the purpose of elite school education? 

The overall purpose of elite school education seems to be the promotion of the human intellectual capacities related to creativity.

12. What subjects should be an integral part of school curriculum? What subjects can be optional for university students?

core subjects — English, mathematics, and science ,seven other foundation subjects — technology (including design), history, geography, music, art, physical education, and a modern foreign

13. What is the essence of private schooling in Russia?

Private schooling in Russia doesn't necessarily mean an elite education.

14. What is a problem pupil?

A problem pupil is one who abuses fellow students and interferes with their learning not only by ongoing individual bullying and harassment but also by disrupting lessons at the detriment of entire class.

15. What is your idea of a good teacher?

A good teacher is one who is able to bond with his/her students, to understand and to resonate with their feelings and emotions.

16. Looking back on your school days, what experiences can you describe as the most 1) memorable, 2) exciting, 3) painful?

1)the last bell 2)the same 3)when I’ve received the result of my history exam

17. How do you feel on the morning of an exam?

I feel well

18. In your opinion, which exam is easier to pass: oral or written?

I think that written exam is rather easier , because you can think twice before giving the answer

19. Do you prefer to be the first to answer in an oral exam?

No I prefer to be in the mile because I usually afraid of exams and it is easier for me to wait some time in order to calm myself down

20. Do you use rough-work sheets in a written exam? Why?

Yes in order to correct something in time.

21. Do you feel uncomfortable if a teacher stands next to you during a written exam?

Yes , I’m nervous during such moments

22. Do you think a crib can be of any use?

Yes ,it is useful if you have a plenty of time for preparing in other case it only complicates situation.

23. Have you ever panicked during an exam?

Every time

24. Do you think it is a way out to copy from other students?

No , it is not. I believe it is obvious when a student use someone's material

25. What is the most difficult thing about exams?

To prepare for them properly

26. What are the advantages and disadvantages of private schools (boarding schools, co-educational vs single-sex schools, school uniforms)?

Private schools, unlike their public counterparts, are not free to the public, and families must consider costs when choosing a private or public school. Tuition for private schools can be costly, and while some offer scholarships or sliding scale fees based on need, many do not. Furthermore, some schools may charge tuition up front, or they may allow parents to pay on a monthly basis. Another cost consideration is that families of private school students must provide their own transportation to and from the school. 

27. Is it a good idea for pupils to specialize in their “best” subjects at school?

Yes , I believe it is a good idea , because it will be very useful for their future profession.

28. What's the best age for children to start primary school? Why? 

Frankly speaking I think it is better to start the education as earlier as it is possible.

29. Should children stay at school until they are 18 or 19? 

No they shouldn't they should go on further education 

30. Is it a good idea for pupils to participate in the running of schools?

Yes , because all children want to be significant.

31. Are national and international exams necessary? What are the pros and cons of regular performance tests and continuous assessment by teachers and lecturers?

Exams are absolutely necessary because they show teachers and parents the level of children’s education. On the other hand the process of passing the exam is very nervous 

32. Can computers assess learning?

Yes , but only part of it because works of creative character can not be checked by electronics.

Laboratory Work

SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

MP3 AUDIO 3.1

1. You’ll hear short descriptions of the education systems in England, the USA and Australia. Make notes on how a ‘typical’ pupil passes the system in each country.

Educational Institutions in Order	England	the USA	Australia
1	primary school (age 5)	elementary school (age 6)	primary school (5)
2	secondary (comprehensive) (11-16)	junior-high school (11)	intermediate school(11)
3	GCSE (16)	senior-high school (14)	high school (age 13)
4	A-level (18)	High School

2. Listen again and check your knowledge of the education systems in Britain and the USA. Fill in the gaps in these sentences.

1.    Before they start school, very young children in Britain may go to a nursery school where they play with other children and learn to socialize.

2.    British children start primary school at the age of 5 and move to a secondary school at 11 or 13. At the age of 18 or 19 they may go on to high education at a university, polytechnic or college.

3.    At the age of 16, British pupils take GCSE exams. They may stay on at school to take A-level two years later when they are in the sixth form.

4.    A British school or university year is divided into three terms; in America the year is divided into two terms.

5.    In Britain, private boarding schools are known as independent schools – in the USA, this term refers to the normal kind or state schools.

6.    At the end of a university course, graduates are awarded a degree - probably a BA (Bachelor of Arts), BSc (Bachelor of Science) or Bed Bachelor of Education); post-graduates can take a further course or do research and write a dissertation in the hope of getting an MA (Master of Arts) or a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy).

2. What are the main differences between the education system in Russia and those described in the recording? Give a brief account of the education system in Russia.

Education in Russia is organised and coordinated by the state, which ensures that general education is free and available for everyone. Most schools are state schools but private schools have also been established in recent years.

Education usually begins with pre-school before the age of six, although it is not compulsory. Children typically go to kindergartens or other pre-schools which focus on both intellectual and physical activities. The next step is primary school, which is part of the general education programme.

General education in Russia comprises three stages: primary education, which lasts for four years; basic general education lasting for five years and secondary education which lasts for two to three years.

Russian general education is aimed at the intellectual, emotional, moral and physical development of the individual. It aims to develop the abilities that will allow a student to adapt to life in society as well as helping individuals to make conscious choices concerning professional education.

General education normally consists of 34 weeks of study per year and 27 to 36 hours of study per week. The academic year typically runs from 1 September to the beginning of June. School examinations are in June.

The language of instruction is Russian in all state-accredited educational institutions, except in pre-schools. Citizens of the Russian Federation also have the right to receive their basic general education in their native languages. 

General education is compulsory. The basic curriculum for has some compulsory fields of study such as the Russian language, foreign languages, mathematics, history, politics, natural sciences etc. Every school designs its own curriculum, which is based on state requirements, and there can be some extra or optional disciplines. In Moscow, there are also schools that specialise in certain subjects, such as maths, music, arts, and sports. These schools can also offer extra education for children, alongside the general courses.

After completing primary and basic general education, the students participate in final examinations. They are awarded a Certificate of Basic General Education, Attestat ob Osnovom Obshchem Obrazovani, which entitles the student to be admitted to either secondary general education, to vocational education or to non-university level higher education.

After completing the secondary general education, the students need to pass the State final attestation (final examinations), after which they will be awarded a Certificate of Secondary General Education, Attestat ob Sredem Obshchem Obrazovanii. This school leaving certificate will allow students to continue to higher education: either vocational education or both non-university and university level education.

Recently, new types of secondary schools have emerged called gymnasium and lyceum, which can be both state owned or private. The duration of studies can exceed that of secondary general schools, and the educational programmes can be more advanced.

In total, general education takes 11 years to complete. Children are enrolled in schools at the age of six and normally they finish school by the age of 17.

FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL

MP3 AUDIO 3.2

1. You’ll hear two accounts of a first day at school – one from a little boy’s point of view, the other from a young teacher’s point of view. The first extract is taken from ‘Cider with Rosie’ by Laurie Lee (1959), the second extract is from ‘Decline and Fall’ by Evelyn Waugh (1928). How did the two protagonists feel about the first class before the day started and after it finished? Sort the adjectives in the table to characterize the emotions of the main characters on the first day at school. You will not need to use ALL the adjectives.  

EMOTIONS	LAURIE LEE	PAUL PENNYFEATHER
agreeable         angry              bewildered brave               calm                clumsy defeated         delightful        eager embarrassed    fierce               grumpy happy              helpless           jolly lively               nervous           obedient obnoxious       panicky           proud relieved           repulsive         scary thankful          thoughtless     uptight victorious        worried           zealous	grumpy , defeated , obedient, uptight, worried, obnoxious, angry	panicky , nervous , helpless ,  eager , fierce

2. Comment on each emotion in the above task using the information in the audio stories.

Laurie Lee felt grumpy as he behaved too childish on his first day at school.

Laurie Lee felt defeated &obedient when his sisters forced him to go to school.

Laurie Lee felt uptight& worried as he experienced school life the first time.

Laurie Lee felt obnoxious& angry because of the absence of present.

Paul Pennyfeather felt panicky&nervous as he thougth that he couldn’t calm the children down.

Paul Pennyfeather felt eager because he couldn’t listen to all children greetings.

Paul Pennyfeather felt helpless& fierce because he didn’t find way to calm the boys and had to shout.

3. Here are some excerpts about school from ‘Decline and Fall’ by Evelyn Waugh. What impression about school education do you get after reading the excerpts? Give a small account of the school, the staff, and pupils described by the author.

‘Augustus Fagan, Esquire, Ph.D., Llanabba Castle, N.Wales, requires immediately junior assistant to teach Classics and English to University Standard with subsidiary Mathematics, German and French. Experience essential; first-class games essential...’

'Might have been made for you,' said Mr. Levy.

'But I don't know a word of German, I've had no experience, I've got no testimonials, and I can't play cricket,' said Paul.

'It doesn't do to be too modest,' said Mr. Levy. 'It's wonderful what one can teach when one tries..' (Part One, Chapter One)

'But what am I to teach them?' said Paul in sudden panic.

'Oh, you shouldn't try to teach them anything, not just yet, anyway. Just keep them quiet.' (Part One, Chapter V)

"We class schools, you see, into four grades: Leading School, First-rate School, Good School, and School. Frankly," said Mr. Levy, "School is pretty bad..." (Part One, Chapter One)

Unfortunately , it is very difficult to judge this particular school and its level of education , because of the very short excerpts, but I can say a few words about my first impression. I can’t even imagine a school where a teacher has no work experience and knows no word of a required language. A school is a place where children are taught ,in order to be well-educated and it is impossible without qualified teachers.

LIVE AND LEARN

MP3 AUDIO 3.3

1. In your opinion, what are the reasons students stay away from school? Think about boredom, influence of friends, problems at school, family problems. What problems can truancy cause a student?

Truancy is when children leave for school or go to school but then slip off to meet with friends or do something that may involve breaking rules.

There are many problems that can cause truancy.Children  may be wanting to get attention, trying to impress their friends or they may    be angry because of school or home problems. Truancy may happen when there are learning problems. Children who truant a lot sometimes go on to break the law as they get older. Children who truant usually try not to let their parents find out. Truancy sometimes happens when parents are not very interested in the child getting a good education, and perhaps don’t get on very well with the school themselves.

2. You are going to listen to the interview with headmaster of East Crompton Comprehensive School Dr. Charles Greenway. For questions 1-7 choose the correct answer (A, B or C).

1. B    

2. C    

3. A    

4. B

5. A

6. A

7. A

3. Which of the following things would be most effective in combating truancy? Rank them and give a short account describing your choice.

-          more interesting lessons – I believe it is the only way to solve the problem of truancy, because an interesting lesson will attract students to attend it

-          more responsible parenting – Parents are responsible for their children and they should control them

-          teaching students to respect school  - It is also very important because children spend at school most part of their time as well as teachers and students should respect everything which is one for them

-          police involvement – I don’t think that police can somehow solve this problem

-          strict punishment – Is not the way to solve the problem at all

MP3 AUDIO 3.4

1. Listen to two people discussing the issue of public vs. state schooling. What are they saying about: cost, quality of education, increased life chances? What do you agree with most?

Speaking about the cost of education it is an open secret that public schools are available mostly for rich people when state schools are free. On the other hand public schools provide their student with plenty of opportunities such as many optional subjects and the ability to enter the best universities of the country