Бесплатный фрагмент - Знакомство с США: изучайте английский и открывайте новые места

Предисловие

Дорогие читатели,

Эта книга — это не только увлекательные истории о популярных местах в США, но и возможность погрузиться в местную культуру и атмосферу. Изучая язык через культурное погружение, вы сможете лучше понять историю и традиции американского общества, а также научиться использовать английский язык в контексте реальных ситуаций.

Чтение этой книги поможет вам расширить ваш кругозор, познакомиться с новыми местами и культурой, и при этом улучшить свой английский язык. Вы сможете легко запоминать новые слова и фразы благодаря тому, что они будут контекстно связаны с конкретной историей или местом.

Кроме того, изучение языка через культурное погружение сделает ваше изучение английского более интересным и увлекательным. Читая занимательные истории о жителях англоговорящей страны и их диалоги, вы будете не только получать новый опыт, но и улучшать навыки в грамматике и лексике.

Я уверена, что эта книга поможет вам не только достичь лучших результатов в изучении английского языка, но и обогатить свой культурный и лингвистический опыт. Пусть она станет вашим надежным путеводителем в мире культуры и английского языка!

С уважением,

Радмила Шарифьянова

Texts

Introduction to Traveling in America

Traveling to America can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The United States is a diverse country with a rich history, natural wonders, and bustling cities. From the beaches of Hawaii to the skyscrapers of New York City, there are endless options for travelers to explore.

One of the first things to consider when traveling to America is transportation. Depending on your budget and travel plans, there are various modes of transportation to choose from. Rental cars, buses, trains, and airplanes are all popular ways to get around the country. It’s important to research and compare prices and travel times before making any reservations.

Another important aspect of traveling to America is accommodation. There are plenty of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. For those who prefer a more unique experience, there are also options like camping or staying in an Airbnb. Again, it’s important to research and compare prices and locations before booking anything.

When it comes to activities, America has something for everyone. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of national parks and hiking trails to explore. History buffs can visit famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty or Mount Rushmore. Art lovers can check out museums in major cities like Washington D.C. or Los Angeles. And let’s not forget about the food! America is known for its diverse cuisine, so make sure to try some local favorites wherever you go.

Overall, traveling to America can be an unforgettable experience. With careful planning and an open mind, visitors can discover all that this incredible country has to offer.

Vocabulary:

— Transportation — Транспорт

— Rental cars — Аренда автомобилей

— Buses — Автобусы

— Trains — Поезда

— Airplanes — Самолеты

— Accommodation — Жилье

— Luxury hotels — Роскошные отели

— Budget-friendly hostels — Бюджетные хостелы

— Camping — Кемпинг

— National parks — Национальные парки

— Hiking trails — Туристические маршруты

— Famous landmarks — Известные достопримечательности

— Art museums — Художественные музеи

— Diverse cuisine — Разнообразная кухня

Tasks:

1. What are some modes of transportation to choose from when traveling in America?

2. What should visitors consider before booking accommodation in America?

3. Name some activities that people can do while traveling in America.

Sample answers:

1. Some modes of transportation to choose from when traveling in America are rental cars, buses, trains, and airplanes.

2. Visitors should consider the prices and locations of accommodations before booking anything.

3. People can explore national parks and hiking trails, visit famous landmarks, check out art museums, and try diverse cuisine while traveling in America.

New York City

New York City, also known as NYC or simply New York, is one of the most iconic cities in the world. It is located in the state of New York and is the largest city in the United States, as well as one of the most populous cities in the world. With a population of over 8 million people, it is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, making it an incredibly diverse and vibrant place to visit.

The city is divided into five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Each borough has its own unique character and attractions, ranging from the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to the beaches of Staten Island. One of the most recognizable landmarks in the city is the Statue of Liberty, located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was a gift from France to the United States and has become a symbol of freedom and democracy around the world.

Aside from being a cultural hub, New York City is also a major center for business, finance, and commerce. Wall Street, located in Lower Manhattan, is home to the New York Stock Exchange and many large financial institutions. The city is also famous for its fashion industry, with designers and brands such as Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Marc Jacobs all based in New York.

In terms of entertainment, there is never a shortage of things to do in New York City. Broadway, located in Manhattan, is home to some of the world’s most famous theaters and plays host to a variety of shows and musicals throughout the year. The city is also home to numerous museums and art galleries, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim Museum.

Overall, New York City is a bustling metropolis that offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in business, culture, or entertainment.

Vocabulary:

— Iconic — символический

— Melting pot — плавильный котел (фигурально: место смешения разных национальностей и культур)

— Skyscrapers — небоскребы

— Statue of Liberty — Статуя Свободы

— Fashion industry — индустрия моды

— Museums — музеи

Tasks:

1. What is the population of New York City?

2. Name the five boroughs of New York City.

3. What is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor?

4. Which famous street is home to the New York Stock Exchange?

5. Name three famous museums in New York City.

Sample answers:

1. The population of New York City is over 8 million people.

2. The five boroughs of New York City are Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

3. The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor.

4. Wall Street is home to the New York Stock Exchange.

5. Three famous museums in New York City are the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim Museum.

Los Angeles and Hollywood

Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis located on the west coast of the United States. It’s the second-largest city in the country, with a population of over 10 million people. The city is famous for its beaches, its weather, and its Hollywood entertainment industry.

Hollywood, a district of Los Angeles, is known as the «entertainment capital of the world.» Many of the world’s most famous movies and television shows are produced here. It’s also home to some of the world’s biggest movie studios, such as Universal Studios, Warner Bros., and Paramount Pictures.

In addition to its entertainment industry, Los Angeles boasts many other attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. They can also enjoy world-class museums, art galleries, and cultural events.

For example, the Getty Center is an impressive museum complex that houses an extensive collection of European paintings, drawings, sculpture, and decorative arts. The Museum of Contemporary Art, or MOCA, features works by both established and up-and-coming artists.

Los Angeles is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach, and Malibu Beach. Visitors can swim, surf, or just relax in the sun.

If you’re interested in shopping, Los Angeles has plenty of options. The Beverly Center is a popular shopping mall that features high-end designer stores. The Grove, a large outdoor shopping center, has shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Vocabulary:

— Los Angeles — Лос-Анджелес

— Hollywood — Голливуд

— Entertainment industry — Развлекательная индустрия

— Movie studio — Киностудия

— Museum — Музей

— Art gallery — Художественная галерея

— Beach — Пляж

— Shopping mall — Торговый центр

— Restaurant — Ресторан

— Movie theater — Кинотеатр

Tasks:

1. What is Los Angeles known for besides its entertainment industry?

2. What are some of the most famous movie studios located in Hollywood?

3. Name three popular beaches in Los Angeles.

4. What is the name of the outdoor shopping center in Los Angeles?

5. Translate «beach» into Russian.

Sample answers:

1. Los Angeles is also known for its diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, and beautiful beaches.

2. Some of the most famous movie studios located in Hollywood include Universal Studios, Warner Bros., and Paramount Pictures.

3. Three popular beaches in Los Angeles are Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach, and Malibu Beach.

4. The name of the outdoor shopping center in Los Angeles is The Grove.

5. «Beach» translates to «пляж» in Russian.

Miami and South Beach

Miami is a city located in South Florida, United States. It is known for its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. One of Miami’s most popular areas is South Beach, which is located on the southern end of Miami Beach.

South Beach is a world-famous destination that attracts millions of visitors every year from all over the world. It is known for its Art Deco architecture, pastel-colored buildings, and bustling streets. The area features numerous restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops, making it a hub of activity day and night.

South Beach is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand and crystal clear water. Popular beaches include Lummus Park Beach, South Pointe Beach, and Nikki Beach. Visitors can relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy a range of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.

In addition to the beaches, South Beach is also known for its thriving arts scene. The area is home to numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. The Bass Museum of Art showcases contemporary art, while the Colony Theatre hosts a variety of theatrical performances. The New World Symphony offers classical music concerts and educational programs.

For those interested in history, South Beach offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. The Art Deco Historic District features over 800 buildings designed in the Art Deco style, providing a glimpse into Miami Beach’s past. Additionally, visitors can check out the Holocaust Memorial, which serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II.

If you visit Miami and South Beach, there is no shortage of things to do and see. The area is a perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.

Vocabulary:

— Miami — Майами

— Tropical climate — тропический климат

— Beautiful beaches — красивые пляжи

— Vibrant nightlife — яркая ночная жизнь

— Pastel-colored buildings — здания в пастельных тонах

— Restaurants — рестораны

— Bars — бары

— Clubs — клубы

— Shops — магазины

— Water sports — водные виды спорта

— Jet skiing — гидроцикл

— Galleries — галереи

— Museums — музеи

— Theaters — театры

— History — история

— Holocaust Memorial — Мемориал Холокоста

Tasks:

1. What is Miami known for?

2. Where can you find South Beach?

3. Name three popular beaches in South Beach.

4. What is the Bass Museum of Art?

5. What historic attraction can be found in South Beach?

Answers:

1. Miami is known for its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

2. South Beach is located on the southern end of Miami Beach.

3. Three popular beaches in South Beach are Lummus Park Beach, South Pointe Beach, and Nikki Beach.

4. The Bass Museum of Art is a museum that showcases contemporary art.

5. The Art Deco Historic District can be found in South Beach, featuring over 800 buildings designed in the Art Deco style.

San Francisco and the Bay Area

San Francisco is a vibrant and bustling city located on the west coast of the United States. It is affectionately known as «The City» by locals, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. San Francisco is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

The Bay Area is a region surrounding San Francisco that encompasses several counties, including Marin, Sonoma, Napa, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara. The area is known for its diverse population, thriving tech industry, and stunning natural beauty. From towering redwood forests to sandy beaches and rolling hills, the Bay Area has something for everyone.

San Francisco is a perfect destination for foodies, as the city offers an array of culinary delights from around the world. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf or indulge in dim sum in Chinatown. For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, San Francisco boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants.

In addition to its culinary scene, San Francisco is also renowned for its cultural offerings. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Asian Art Museum. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the San Francisco International Film Festival and the Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bay Area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. The region is home to several state parks, including Mount Tamalpais State Park and Point Reyes National Seashore. Visitors can also take a leisurely drive down the Pacific Coast Highway, which offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country.

Overall, San Francisco and the Bay Area are truly unique destinations that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, culture buff, or nature lover, these regions are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Vocabulary:

— San Francisco — Сан-Франциско

— The Bay Area — Бухта (залив) Сан-Франциско

— Golden Gate Bridge — Мост Золотые ворота

— Michelin-starred restaurant — Ресторан со звездой Мишлен

— San Francisco Museum of Modern Art — Музей современного искусства Сан-Франциско

Tasks:

1. What are some popular landmarks in San Francisco?

2. What type of cuisine can visitors enjoy in San Francisco?

3. Name one festival that takes place in San Francisco.

4. What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in the Bay Area?

5. Translate «Golden Gate Bridge» into Russian.

Sample Answers:

1. Some popular landmarks in San Francisco include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

2. Visitors to San Francisco can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf and dim sum in Chinatown.

3. One festival that takes place in San Francisco is the Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival.

4. Visitors to the Bay Area can enjoy hiking, biking, and water sports in several state parks, such as Mount Tamalpais State Park and Point Reyes National Seashore.

5. «Golden Gate Bridge» translates to «Мост Золотые ворота» in Russian.

Chicago and the Midwest

Chicago is a city located in the Midwest region of the United States. The Midwest is often referred to as America’s heartland, and it includes several states such as Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas.

Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States, with a population of over 2.7 million people. It is known for its diverse culture, world-renowned architecture, deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and sports teams like the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bulls. The city also boasts several museums and cultural institutions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Shedd Aquarium.

One of the most iconic attractions in Chicago is the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower. Standing at 1,450 feet tall, it was once the tallest building in the world and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Another notable attraction is Navy Pier, a 3,300-foot-long pier on the shores of Lake Michigan that features an array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.

The Midwest is known for its vast farmland, producing crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. It is also home to several major cities like Detroit, Cleveland, Minneapolis, and St. Louis. In addition to agriculture, the region is also a hub for manufacturing, with industries ranging from automotive to aerospace.

Vocabulary:

— Midwest — Средний Запад

— Heartland — Сердце страны

— Architecture — Архитектура

— Art Institute of Chicago — Художественный институт Чикаго

— Field Museum — Музей науки и промышленности в Чикаго

— Corn — Кукуруза

— Soybeans — Соевые бобы

— Wheat — Пшеница

Tasks:

1. What is Chicago known for?

2. Name some of the major cities in the Midwest.

3. What are some of the crops grown in the Midwest?

4. Name one of the museums in Chicago.

5. What is the name of the tower in Chicago that was once the tallest building in the world?

Sample answers:

1. Chicago is known for its diverse culture, architecture, deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and sports teams like the Cubs and the Bulls.

2. Some of the major cities in the Midwest include Detroit, Cleveland, Minneapolis, and St. Louis.

3. The Midwest is known for producing crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat.

4. One of the museums in Chicago is the Field Museum.

5. The name of the tower in Chicago that was once the tallest building in the world is the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower).

Washington D.C. and the East Coast

Washington D.C. is a city that needs no introduction — it’s widely recognized as the capital of the United States and a hub for political power. Located on the East Coast, Washington D.C. is home to a number of iconic landmarks and government buildings, including the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the United States Capitol.

Beyond its political importance, Washington D.C. has a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, many of which are free to the public. The Smithsonian Institution, for example, is a world-renowned network of museums and research centers that offers visitors access to an incredible array of artifacts and exhibits covering everything from American history to natural science.

Moving further up the East Coast, there are a number of other cities and regions that offer their own unique attractions. In New York City, for instance, visitors can take in some of the world’s most famous landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. Boston, meanwhile, boasts a rich colonial history and is home to some of the country’s oldest universities.

But the East Coast isn’t just about big cities — it also has plenty of natural beauty to offer. Acadia National Park in Maine, for example, is a stunning area of natural beauty where visitors can hike, swim, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. In Vermont, the Green Mountains offer picturesque scenery and opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

Vocabulary:

— City — город

— Capital — столица

— Landmark — достопримечательность

— White House — Белый дом

— Lincoln Memorial — мемориал Линкольна

— United States Capitol — Капитолий США

— Museum — музей

— Theater — театр

— Free — бесплатный

— Natural science — естественные науки

— Iconic — символический

Tasks:

1. What is Washington D.C. known for?

2. Name three iconic landmarks in Washington D.C.

3. Which institution provides access to a network of museums and research centers?

4. Name two other cities on the East Coast besides Washington D.C.

5. What is Acadia National Park known for?

Sample answers:

1. Washington D.C. is known for being the capital of the United States and a hub for political power.

2. Three iconic landmarks in Washington D.C. are the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the United States Capitol.

3. The Smithsonian Institution provides access to a network of museums and research centers.

4. Two other cities on the East Coast besides Washington D.C. are New York City and Boston.

5. Acadia National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty and opportunities for hiking, swimming, and enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean.

New Orleans and the Southern U.S.

New Orleans is a city located in the Southern United States, specifically in the state of Louisiana. It is known for its vibrant culture, music, and unique cuisine. The city was founded in 1718 by French colonists, and has since been influenced by various cultural groups, including African Americans, Creoles, and Cajuns.

One of the most famous events in New Orleans is Mardi Gras, which takes place annually in February or March. This celebration involves parades, parties, and costumes, and is a major tourist attraction. Another important aspect of New Orleans culture is jazz music, with many famous musicians hailing from the city, such as Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton.

New Orleans is also known for its cuisine, which blends elements of French, African, and Spanish cooking. Some iconic dishes include gumbo, jambalaya, and po’ boys, which are sandwiches filled with fried seafood or roast beef.

In addition to its cultural offerings, New Orleans is home to many historic landmarks, including the French Quarter, which features stunning architecture and cobblestone streets. Other popular attractions include Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the Garden District.

The Southern United States is a region that encompasses many states, including Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Georgia, and others. It is known for its warm climate, hospitality, and diverse cultures. The region has a rich history, with significant contributions made by Native American tribes, European settlers, and African slaves.

Today, the Southern United States is a popular destination for tourists, who come to experience the region’s natural beauty, historic sites, and delicious food. Some popular destinations include Nashville, Tennessee, known for its country music scene; Savannah, Georgia, a charming coastal town with antebellum architecture; and San Antonio, Texas, home to the Alamo and other historic missions.

Vocabulary:

Culture — Культура

Cuisine — Кухня

Jazz music — Джазовая музыка

French Quarter — Французский квартал

Tasks:

1. What is Mardi Gras and when does it take place?

2. Name three famous musicians from New Orleans.

3. What type of cuisine is unique to New Orleans?

4. Name three popular tourist attractions in New Orleans.

5. What is the Southern United States known for?

6. Name two popular destinations in the Southern United States.

Sample answers:

1. Mardi Gras is a festival that takes place annually in February or March in New Orleans, Louisiana.

2. Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, and Harry Connick Jr. are all famous musicians from New Orleans.

3. The cuisine in New Orleans is a blend of French, African, and Spanish cooking, with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po’ boys being iconic to the city.

4. Three popular tourist attractions in New Orleans are the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the St. Louis Cathedral.

5. The Southern United States is known for its warm climate, hospitality, and diverse cultures.

6. Nashville, Tennessee and Savannah, Georgia are both popular destinations in the Southern United States.

Seattle and the Pacific Northwest

Seattle and the Pacific Northwest are a unique region of the United States. The Pacific Northwest is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Rocky Mountains to the east, and extends into Canada to the north. It’s an area that is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and diverse culture.

Seattle, located in the state of Washington, is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. It’s situated on Puget Sound, an inlet of the Pacific Ocean, and surrounded by mountains, forests, and waterways. The city is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the original Starbucks coffee shop. Seattle is also home to some of the world’s most innovative companies in technology, aviation, and healthcare, including Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

The climate in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest is mild and rainy, with cool temperatures year-round. This creates a lush, green landscape that is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. The region is also known for its abundant wildlife, including bears, elk, whales, and bald eagles.

The culture in the Pacific Northwest is diverse and influenced by many different groups. The indigenous people of the region, including the Coast Salish and Duwamish tribes, have lived here for thousands of years and their traditions continue to be an important part of the area’s culture. In addition, immigrants from Asia, Europe, and Latin America have brought their own customs and traditions to the region, creating a vibrant and eclectic community.

Vocabulary:

— Pacific Northwest — Тихоокеанский Северо-Запад

— Mountains — горы

— Forests — леса

— Technology — технологии

— Aviation — авиация

— Healthcare — здравоохранение

— Climate — климат

— Rainy — дождливый

— Outdoor activities — активный отдых на природе

— Wildlife — животный мир

— Indigenous people — коренные жители

— Customs — традиции

— Immigrants — иммигранты

— Community — сообщество

Tasks:

1. What are some of the iconic landmarks in Seattle?

2. What companies are headquartered in Seattle?

3. What is the climate like in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest?

4. Name some outdoor activities that are popular in the Pacific Northwest.

5. Which indigenous tribes have lived in the Pacific Northwest for thousands of years?

Sample answers:

1. The iconic landmarks in Seattle include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the original Starbucks coffee shop.

2. Some companies that are headquartered in Seattle include Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

3. The climate in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest is mild and rainy with cool temperatures year-round.