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7 steps to describe your job descriptions

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Job descriptions are used to centralize tasks and skills. Discover 7 steps for writing your job descriptions.

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Ash tree:

Mathew , who died and this happened after he hanged an old woman because he thought she was a witch .

She fought and shouted “ there will be visitors”

Strange animals seen around the tree , more than four legs...

Then .....he died mysteriously , his body was dead and black , no wounds , no injuries...

Later his grandson was spending a lot of money decorating and rebuilding, he cancelled some graves and the grave of Mrs Mothersole was empty , this was a surprise for everyone

..............Later when the grandson opened the room where his grand father died.

He decided to move into the room but he had a visitor , read the bible just like his grandfather , ...

1 cut it down =grandfather

2 you will be looking for me but I will not be here

Next morning he was not there he was outside and dead and black

Everyone said lets cut the tree that was hollow , gardener , was terrified , as he fell down from the ladder , fire started, many spiders run out and people kill them with sticks , the tree burn down. Inside was the body of Mrs Mothersole.

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The Digital Camera is a scary ghost story about a little girl whose mother dies suddenly. She begins to exhibit strange behavior and refuses to be left alone. It is based on a supposedly true story that apparently happened in Japan a few years ago.

One of my relatives passed away suddenly. I never met the woman. She had a daughter who was four years old. The little girl's name was Yuki. Her father wasn't able to raise her on his own, so he asked my aunt to take care of her.

The little girl refused to be left alone and never left my aunt's side. It started to become a problem. My aunt couldn't go anywhere without Yuki. She constantly needed attention. Even my aunt's own daughter started to get jealous.

One day, my aunt told me she had to go out of town for a couple of days and asked if I would babysit the little girl for her. I said it would be my pleasure. I lived alone and I could do with some company.

A few days later, my aunt dropped Yuki off at my apartment. As she was leaving, she took the little girl aside and said, "Yuki, please be good. Behave yourself."

When my aunt was gone, I tried to talk to Yuki and play some games with her, but the little girl's behavior was very strange. She had a teddy bear tucked tightly under her arm and never let go of it. She never smiled. She never spoke. All she ever did was sit quietly in the corner and stare at the wall. It made me kind of uneasy.

I was trying to find something that would entertain her. I had just bought a new digital camera and I decided to let Yuki play with my old one. When she saw the camera, her eyes lit up. I showed her how to use it and she went around my apartment taking pictures of everything. There was a bright smile on her face.

That evening, I discovered how difficult Yuki was to deal with. Whenever I tried to leave the room, she started crying and screaming out my name. I couldn't leave her alone or she would create a huge fuss. She even insisted on going to the bathroom with me, which was very embarrassing.

At bedtime, she refused to stay in the spare room and insisted on sleeping in my bed. I read her a bedtime story and after a while, I managed to get her to go to sleep. That was when I noticed her teddy bear. One of its legs was charred and blackened, as if it had been burned. It made me wonder.

In the middle of the night, I was awoken by a strange noise. When I turned over, I saw that there was something wrong with Yuki. The little girl's body was trembling and shaking. Her eyes were wide open, her teeth were chattering and tears were streaming down her cheeks. I held her close and asked her what was wrong.

"She's looking at me again," she mumbled.

"Who is?" I asked in surprise.

"The dark woman," replied Yuki.

She wouldn't say anything more. I tried to tell her it was just her imagination, but she kept shaking her head and whimpering. It took me a long time to get her to go back to sleep.

The next day, Yuki was fine again. She loved playing with my digital camera. When it was time for her to go home, I told her she could keep it. Yuki hugged me. Although she didn't say anything, I could tell she was overjoyed.

I dropped the little girl off at my aunt's house and stayed to have a cup of tea. My aunt thanked me for taking care of Yuki we spent a while chatting at the kitchen table.

"Poor little thing," said my aunt. "She hasn't said a word since her mother died."

I couldn't contain my curiosity. "How did Yuki's mom die?" I asked.

A strange look came over my aunt's face. "She died in a fire..."

"How did the fire start?" I asked.

"Well..." my aunt hesitated, unwilling to talk about it. "It's a very sad story. She committed suicide. Yuki's mother was a very troubled woman. She poured gasoline over herself and lit a match. She burned herself alive."

"OMG!" I exclaimed. "How horrible!"

"Yes," said my aunt. "Her family was so shocked, they hushed it up and pretended it was an accident. We had a small funeral but only close relatives were invited. Yuki wasn't there. She doesn't even know her mother is dead. She thinks her mother is just on a long holiday. We haven't had the heart to tell her the truth."

"Poor Yuki," I murmured.

My aunt nodded her head sadly. "Poor yuki."

A few days after that, Yuki died.

My aunt was trying to change Yuki's behavior. At night, she forced the little girl to sleep in her own bedroom. Even though Yuki screamed and cried, my aunt left her there alone and locked the door. In the morning, she found Yuki lying motionless in bed. The poor little girl was dead.

Nobody could understand what had happened. The coroner couldn't determine a cause of death. There wasn't a mark on her body. She was perfectly healthy. She had just mysteriously died during the night. There was no explanation.

After the funeral, I went back to my aunt's house. Everyone was very sad. She returned the digital camera I had given to Yuki. I took it home with me. It was something to remember her by.

The memory card was full of random photos that Yuki had taken. I browsed through them, wiping a tear from my eye. There were pictures of my apartment, pictures of my aunt's house, pictures of flowers, dogs, toys, candy... Silly pictures that a child would take.

Then, I came to the last picture and it made my blood run cold.

My hands were trembling.

I wanted to scream, but nothing would come out.

The timestamp on the photo showed that it had been taken on the night Yuki died.

Here is the last picture that poor little girl ever took with my digital camera:

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The Digital Camera is a scary ghost story about a little girl whose mother dies suddenly. She begins to exhibit strange behavior and refuses to be left alone. It is based on a supposedly true story that apparently happened in Japan a few years ago. One of my relatives passed away suddenly.

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Created with Hot Potatoes by Half-Baked Software, registered to Klaus Rosmanitz.

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T085 - All Tenses - English Grammar Exercises

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Created with Hot Potatoes by Half-Baked Software, registered to Klaus Rosmanitz.

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T085 - All Tenses - English Grammar Exercises

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Tenses

This section is all about English tenses. It contains exercises on every tense - simple and progressive - as well as a section with mixed tense exercises.

Levels of Difficulty : Elementary Intermediate Advanced

Present Tense

Past Tense

Present Perfect

Present Perfect - Past Tense

Past Perfect Tense

Future Tense

All Tenses

Irregular Verbs

Further Exercises

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Online Tense Exercises - English Grammar

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English Grammar Tense Exercises - All exercises can be done online

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padlet audio file cda7b1f6 24fb 4bc8 b3c0 a9aacd837bbc

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Blood contains many types of cells: white blood cells (monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, and macrophages), red blood cells (erythrocytes), and platelets. Blood circulates through the body in the arteries and veins.

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A person's neck may feel stiff due to overuse, injury, or sleeping in an unusual position. Stretching, using warm or cold packs, and medication may relieve it. However, in some cases, a person may need treatment for a more serious cause, such as meningitis.

The neck contains muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. These work together to support the head and allow it to move in many directions.

A stiff neck often occurs when one of the muscles becomes strained or tense. Stiffness can also develop if one or more of the vertebrae is injured.

A stiff neck may become painful when a person tries to move their neck or head.

Usually, a stiff neck results from a minor injury or incident. People can often relieve the stiffness at home. In rare cases, however, it can be a sign of a serious illness that requires medical treatment.

Stiffness usually occurs when the neck muscles are overused, stretched too far, or strained. This can cause pain ranging from mild to severe that can make it difficult to move the head or use the neck muscles.

The most common causes of a stiff neck include:

Minor sprains and strains

A stiff neck often results from minor injury or strain, possibly due to:

sleeping awkwardly

sitting or slouching for long periods, such as at a desk

looking down at an object (such as a cell phone) repeatedly

sustaining a sports injury

experiencing a fall

having tense muscles due to stress

Whiplash

More severe neck injuries can cause whiplash. People often experience whiplash during car accidents that cause the head to suddenly jerk forward and backward.

Whiplash is an injury to the muscles, bones, ligaments, nerves in the neck, or all of these. It causes pain and stiffness in the neck.

Other symptoms of whiplash include:

dizziness

back or shoulder pain

a feeling of prickling or burning in the neck area

memory loss or trouble concentrating

Arthritis

Cervical spondylosis, or arthritis of the neck, can also cause neck pain and stiffness, which may improve when lying down.

The pain may get worse when a person stays in the same position for a long period, such as while driving or sitting in front of a computer. Other symptoms of cervical spondylosis include:

headaches

numbness in the arms or hands

trouble walking, balance problems, or both

weakness in the arms or legs

A doctor may diagnose cervical spondylosis with the help of certain tests, such as an X-ray, MRI scan, and a blood test.

Meningitis

Sometimes, a stiff neck is a symptom of meningitis, which can be serious. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, which are coverings on the brain and spinal cord.

A virus, bacteria, or fungi may cause meningitis. Viral meningitis can get better on its own, but bacterial and fungal meningitis can be life-threatening. Some symptoms of meningitis include:

a sudden fever, usually with a headache, a stiff neck, or both

nausea

vomiting

sensitivity to light

confusion, irritability, or both

an inability to wake from sleep

A person should seek immediate medical care if these symptoms appear.

The best way to relieve a stiff neck depends on the cause. When the stiffness is minor, some of the following home treatments may help:

Applying ice

Using an ice pack can help relieve inflammation and swelling after a minor strain. The ice can have a numbing effect, temporarily relieving any pain.

This treatment is usually most effective within the first 48 hours of an injury, when there tends to be the most significant swelling.

Use a first aid ice pack or cover a bag of ice or frozen peas with a cloth to avoid frostbite. Apply the ice for up to 20 minutes at a time, taking 20-30-minute breaks.

Applying heat

Some people alternate using ice and heat on a muscle strain. Using heating pads or a taking hot bath can help relax tense muscles and provide relief.

Taking over-the-counter medicines

If applying ice, heat, or both does not relieve the pain of a stiff neck, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) may help.

Some examples include ibuprofen and naproxen, which can reduce swelling and relieve pain. If a person has a health condition and is taking other medications, they should ask a doctor before using NSAIDs.

Stretching

Stretch the neck muscles by gently and slowly moving the head from side to side. Roll the shoulders forward and backward. Stop if the stretches cause pain.

Checking the sleep environment

Sometimes, a mattress that is too firm or not supportive enough can cause neck pain. A pillow that is the incorrect size or firmness may also cause a stiff neck.

The head, neck, and back should be in an aligned position during sleep. The pillows that a person uses should suit their sleeping position.

A firmer, larger pillow may work well for side sleepers. Back sleepers may need a flatter pillow that supports the head and neck without forcing them into a forward position.

Paying attention to posture

Slouching can gradually pull the neck muscles and cause stiffness and pain. A person should focus on keeping the shoulders, neck, and back in a straight line throughout the day. Wearing a posture-correcting device may help, as can setting reminders and alarms on a cell phone or computer.

See a dentist

Ongoing stiffness in the neck accompanied by a headache or jaw pain upon waking can be a sign of nighttime teeth grinding, or bruxism. A dentist can check the teeth for signs of wear from grinding, and they may look at the alignment of the jaw.

Some people wear a custom-made teeth guard at night to protect the teeth from further damage. This may also alleviate pressure on the jaw and neck muscles.

Getting a massage

A licensed massage therapist may help provide relief from tense, sore muscles. Although research has not yet proven that massage is effective, a study from 2014 found that massage did improve pain for people with neck arthritis.

Other research published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that having a professional massage can help relieve stress, which may indirectly help with stiffness in the neck.

Managing stress

There is no way to completely avoid stress. However, learning to manage it can reduce tension in the neck.

People with high levels of chronic stress may wish to talk with a healthcare professional about healthful ways to manage stress.

Some of the following measures can help prevent a stiff neck:

Use an earpiece to talk on the phone. Avoid holding the phone between the shoulder and ear.

Try not to look down at a cell phone or tablet for long periods. Hold the device at eye level whenever possible and take frequent breaks.

Use proper ergonomics at work. This may include keeping the screen at eye level, keeping the feet flat on the floor, and making sure the arms are supported. Also, focus on keeping the head directly above the neck without craning it forward.

Be mindful when carrying bags. Carrying a heavy purse or briefcase can put pressure on the shoulder and strain the muscles in the neck. Use rolling bags or backpacks whenever possible.

Take breaks. Sitting or driving for long periods can strain the neck. Get up, walk, and stretch at least once per hour.

Invest in a high-quality mattress and pillow that provide the correct amount of support.

Regularly engage in stress-relieving activities. Some examples include listening to relaxing music, taking baths, practicing meditation or deep breathing, and enjoying a class or favorite activity.

See a healthcare provider as recommended. Talk with them about pain, stress levels, sleep quality, and overall well-being.

Exercise regularly. Moving the body can help alleviate muscle tension and stiffness. Exercise is also a natural stress reliever. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, biking, or yoga may be helpful.

A stiff neck is generally not a cause for alarm. However, see a doctor if:

The stiffness is accompanied by other symptoms, such as a fever, a headache, or irritability.

The stiffness does not go away within a few days and after trying home treatments such as NSAIDs and gentle stretching.

The pain is severe.

A stiff neck is a common problem that a person can usually treat with home remedies and prevention strategies. It usually results from injuries caused by whiplash, sleeping awkwardly, having a poor posture, or stress.

Neck pain is not typically a sign of a more serious issue. Do not ignore it, however, if it comes on suddenly and accompanies other symptoms.

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Stiff neck: Causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor

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The neck may grow stiff for many reasons. Some common causes include sleeping awkwardly, having bad posture, and slouching for long periods. Treatments can involve applying heat or ice and getting a massage. In this article, learn more about the causes and treatments for a stiff neck and when to see a doctor.

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What do you do with your free time? - A1 Reading test - Test-English

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A1 reading comprehension test. Read a text about free time activities and for questions 1 to 7 choose the correct answer.

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B1+ Reading Test

Read the text about eco-terrorism and for questions 1 to 6, choose the correct answers.

Seeding clouds to make rain

Drought is an increasing problem in our warming world. All continents have been experiencing more extended periods without rain, leading to forest fires and poor crop growth. Consequently, people are looking at cloud seeding to solve the problem. Cloud seeding is a method of encouraging precipitation by distributing small particles of silver iodide into clouds.

Cloud-seeding expert Arlen Huggins has been studying its effectiveness. 'My earliest experience was to use cloud seeding to reduce the amount of hail in northeast Colorado. They don't get huge hailstones here, like in the Midwest, but they get it more often. We didn't have any luck with that, but we had success later on in increasing snowfall in Utah. Now, the focus is shifting towards increasing rainfall from summer clouds, which is far more unpredictable.

The problem is that it's pretty hard to know whether precipitation resulted directly from cloud seeding. It might have rained or snowed anyway. Even if you cloud seed in one place and don't in another, it's impossible to know for sure what caused the precipitation unless the cloud system is straightforward, like fog that otherwise has no chance of forming rain or snow.

However, it's not during foggy and snowy conditions that people think of increasing the chance of rainfall. It's when a country is hit by drought, and then cloud seeding isn't an option due to the lack of clouds. In warm conditions, only storm clouds can produce rain by seeding, while during drought, skies tend to be clear with a few wispy clouds. The best option to prevent drought is to seed at times of the year when rainfall levels are normal or higher. That way, slightly more rain can be extracted and stored in reservoirs for the dry season.

As cloud seeding is expensive and its effectiveness tenuous, its usefulness is still a matter of opinion. University of Colorado researcher Katja Friedrich says cloud seeding can't end a drought. However, it can be beneficial, provided it occurs alongside other water conservation strategies. Arlen Huggins is of the same mind. Increasing precipitation through cloud seeding would significantly benefit the economy in the large water basin where he works. Still, for that to happen, the water would need to be captured and stored effectively.

There are also environmental issues regarding the impact of cloud seeding. At high levels, silver iodide can harm humans and other mammals, and some studies have found silver compounds to be slightly toxic. However, several ecological studies have shown minor environmental and health impacts. Where cloud seeding has taken place, the amount of silver compounds in the soil and vegetation has been found to be no higher than natural levels. Even so, some environmentalists are concerned about the long-term impacts, as there isn't data on how much silver iodide accumulates in the environment over periods exceeding ten years.

Another fear is that cloud seeding could potentially steal water from neighbouring areas by encouraging the water in clouds that would otherwise fall somewhere else to fall in your location. According to Maarten Ambaum from the University of Reading, it is possible to use cloud seeding to make rain fall on your farm, which otherwise would fall on your neighbour's farm. It's not the case, though, that if one country uses cloud seeding to create rain, a neighbouring country will lose out because clouds are constantly forming and reforming.

Reading comprehension test

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Seeding clouds to make rain - B1+ English Reading test - Test-English

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English reading comprehension test for upper-intermediate students (CEFR B2.1). Read a text about cloud seeding and answer the questions.

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How many carrots he picked up?

What happened with the bucket ?

Why did he need to wash the carrots fast ?

Why did he wash them in the sink ?

The next day ..he spent money ...how much and why?

Plumber ?

Electrician?

The hole in the wall?

Carpenter ?

Where did they find the problem?

Summary , shock , bank 10000 minus

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Listen to the speakers and do the exercises to practise and improve your listening skills.

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English Tenses- Mixed Exercise | English4u

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Advanced Exercise on English tenses - mixed online exercise.

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Homemade pizza dough recipe | Jamie Oliver recipes

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Jamie Oliver shows you how to make pizza dough at home. An easy and reliable homemade pizza dough recipe is a staple that no budding chef should be without!

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Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

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Góvinda Prešov, Presov. 726 likes · 1 talking about this · 77 were here. Indian Restaurant

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Najlepšie miesto pre Vašu svadbu, rodinnú oslavu,
firemnú akciu, stužkovú, alebo chutný obed.

jedlá na
objednávku

Vítame Vás
v reštaurácii Soraya.

Náš tím profesionálov je pripravený vyhovieť Vašim požiadavkam tak,
aby vašim hosťom chutilo, dobre sa zabavili
a na oslavu dlho spomínali.

Z nášho blogu

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Vitajte na stránkach reštaurácie Soraya Prešov. Ponúkame vám priestory pre svadby, rodinné oslavy, firemné večierky. Cez pracovné dni ponúkame denné menu.

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A raja is the name for a monarch — a king or a princely ruler — in historic India.

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A raja is the name for a monarch — a king or a princely ruler — in historic India.

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The word “pasta” itself derives from the Italian word for the dough from which pasta shapes are made. The names themselves usually trace back to either their creation process or objects they resemble. “Spaghetti”, for example, derives from the Italian word spago, meaning string, resembling its long, straggly shape.

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The word “pasta” itself derives from the Italian word for the dough from which pasta shapes are made. The names themselves usually trace back to either their creation process or objects they resemble. “Spaghetti”, for example, derives from the Italian word spago, meaning string, resembling its long, straggly shape.

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Do you like eating out? Check out these reviews of the trendiest places to eat and improve your reading skills.

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The Hero's Journey, or monomyth, is a narrative structure found in myths and stories across cultures. It consists of three stages: Departure, Initiation, and Return, and involves the hero's call to adventure, trials, personal transformation, and the bringing back of a reward or boon.

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(1)Do you like holidays?(2)What holidays do you celebrate?(3)What holidays do you really look forward to?(4)Are there holidays in other countries or religions that you wish were also celebrated in your country?(5)Are there enough holidays in your country for which workers get the day or days off?(6)What do you think is the most overrated holiday?(7)Are there any special occasions or anniversaries you think deserve to be a public holiday but are not?(8)Do you usually need a holiday after your holiday?(9)Is it better to stay at home on holidays or go somewhere?(10)Are holidays where the whole country is travelling stressful?

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doorway effect ....Similarly, research suggests that walking through doorways—in reality, virtual reality, and even in our imagination—causes us to forget information obtained in the previous room

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doorway effect ....Similarly, research suggests that walking through doorways—in reality, virtual reality, and even in our imagination—causes us to forget information obtained in the previous room

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Read about how the film Star Wars follows a pattern found in myths to practise and improve your reading skills.

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What's wrong with enjoying a bit of celebrity gossip? It doesn't do us any harm ... or does it? Read the article to find out if celebrities really are bad for you.

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Coaching is about making positive changes in your life. A coach helps you identify your goals and become your own expert in how to achieve them.

Coaching is a useful tool in today's challenging world of business. Companies are merging and restructuring and people change jobs far more than before. Our work has changed and we might feel less prepared or demotivated, unsure if what we have been doing is the right way forward. So we might consider hiring a professional business coach to help us get where we want to be and feel happier at work.

A coach is sometimes compared to a mentor and a consultant. However, unlike having a mentor, working with a coach is normally for a short, specified amount of time. A coach is also quite different to a consultant, who looks at the whole team or company and how it does things. In addition, mentors and consultants often give advice - something a coach doesn't normally do.

So what does a coach do? Here are five things.

1. A coach allows the individual to determine the direction of their conversation.

When the coachee meets the coach for a session, the coach doesn't come with a fixed plan. It is the individual that leads the conversation; the coach observes and listens. As the coach starts to understand the individual's context, they might ask more questions and talk about their observations. This helps the individual see the situation clearly, as if the coach is holding up a mirror.

2. A coach helps the coachee to identify goals and prioritise them.

Before we can decide on our path to development, we need to first understand what our desired destination might be. A coach can help the individual link their business goals with their personal plans and dreams. And in doing so, they can improve motivation and focus. The coach then helps the individual identify the practical steps they need to take.

3. A coach asks questions to guide the individual and help them understand the issues they're facing.

By asking the right questions, a coach can help the individual to focus the conversation and truly explore the relevant issues. However, a good coach does not ask leading questions that suggest a particular answer, for example, Do you think x might be a better idea? or How do you feel about doing it this way instead? Good coaching questions do not tell the coachee what to do. Instead, they help them to reflect, see things clearly and discover their own way forward. A coach might ask, for example, What is your biggest challenge at the moment? What would be a successful outcome for you here? or What could you do now that would be a step forward?

4. A coach notices the emotions behind the issues and helps the individual understand them.

In a coaching conversation, hidden emotions often come to the surface. A good coach would help the individual become aware of their emotions and allow them to explore their feelings when needed.

5. A coach guides the individual to move forward, taking them from where they are now to where they want to be.

Many coaches set the coachee tasks to complete in between sessions. Over a series of sessions, the coach helps motivate the coachee to follow steps towards success, tracks the coachee's progress and keeps them focused on the end goal. The coach does not do the work for the coachee, nor do they advise them. They act as a guide to help the individual find the appropriate strategies in reaching their goals.

There are many benefits to employing an external business coach, like their objectivity and fresh perspective. But business leaders and managers have also discovered that if they acquire coaching skills themselves, this can help them improve the performance of their teams. Managers are now taking coaching training in order to have internal coaching conversations with team members who might be having difficulties, and many are now seeing the power of coaching as a way to help their businesses grow and ensure their staff are happy and motivated.

Discussion

Language level

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Coaching helps a person make positive changes in their life. Read about how a coach can help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential.

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Sometimes you think you know a place well, and then a story pops out that leaves you speechless. Like this one, a curious tale that played out over several weeks in the sea off the coast of Rimini yet is still unknown to many (unless you've seen the recent Netflix movie): Rose Island or the Isola delle Rose.

It was 1968, a year that sparked political protest movements in Italy and elsewhere in Europe. To be precise, it was 1 May 1968 when this 400-sqm stilt house built over the water on a structure of steel tubes, 6.27 nautical miles off the coast and thus 500 metres outside Italian national waters, was inaugurated with a grand official banquet to proclaim itself an independent republic.

STROKE OF GENIUS OR INSANITY?

This manmade platform was intended as a kind of utopia after Thomas More: a model, free micro-nation detached from the Italian state. It had its own flag, its own currency (the Mill), its own postage stamps and even its own official auxiliary language, Esperanto. (The island's original name wasn't Isola delle Rose but Insulo de la Rozoj).

It was the brainchild of Giorgio Rosa, an engineer from Bologna with links to the former "Republic of Salò" during World War II.

His aim was to create a state that was completely independent from Italy. It had its own system of taxation (like San Marino) and would finance itself through the restaurants and souvenir shops that were to open for tourists and curious visitors arriving from Rimini.

The papers soon picked up on the story, which was on everybody's lips not least because of the myths that were swirling around it. Word had it that the island was a haven for casinos, bordellos and a pirate radio station. That it was the hub of an international spy ring. That it was even a Soviet submarine base.

THE EPILOGUE TO AN INCREDIBLE STORY

Although no evidence of any of this was ever found, of course, Rosa's dream was dead in the water. Not even two months after the official opening, the harbourmaster and the finance police surrounded the island on 25 June 1968, blockading it so that not even the builders could draw up and moor.

In February 1969, Italian navy divers began work to demolish it, deploying kilos of explosives. But Rosa had built the island so well that not even a second blast was enough to sink it, and it was left to a storm on 26 February 1969 to finish the job.

And that's how this "experiment of freedom" ended. It is a story that few people knew of until recently, when the new, worldwide hit Netflix movie, brought it to popular attention.

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The curious, true story of Rose Island, an Independent Republic born in 1968 and lived a few weeks off the coast of Rimini.

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Nicholas—starting on the 5th of December, the eve of the day, by sharing candies, chocolate letters, small gifts, and riddles. Children put out their shoes with carrots and hay for the saint's horse the evening prior, hoping St. Nicholas would exchange them for small gifts.

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Nicholas—starting on the 5th of December, the eve of the day, by sharing candies, chocolate letters, small gifts, and riddles. Children put out their shoes with carrots and hay for the saint's horse the evening prior, hoping St. Nicholas would exchange them for small gifts.

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Location: Prešovský kraj, okres Poprad, Vysoké Tatry

GPS: N49°9'32'' E20°13'27''

Venue: Hrebienok

Date: 11/25/2016 - 4/17/2017

Event type: other event, Christmas, TOP Event, event for children

At Hrebienok is the biggest and coolest winter attraction in the High Tatras, the Tatra Ice Dome. We look forward to your visit!

During the winter some weddings are organized here, lots of engagements, and visitors can also enjoy traditional music performances and concerts every Sunday. Last year this attraction had 165 000 visitors, and this year over 200 000 is aimed for.

The patron of the church is St. John Apostle and evangelist, the protector of sculptors whose statue is in the centre of the main portal. He holds an eagle in his hand, which is a symbol of the High Tatras. There are also more baroque statues and angels.

Source: OOCR Regón Vysoké Tatry

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At Hrebienok is the biggest and coolest winter attraction in the High Tatras, the Tatra Ice Dome. We look forward to your visit!

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Christmas in the USA - English text for beginners

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A Christian holiday signifying the birth of Jesus, Christmas is widely celebrated and enjoyed across the United States and the world. The holiday always falls on 25 December (regardless of the day of the week), and is typically accompanied by decorations, presents, and special meals.

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a small two-winged fly that resembles a mosquito. Gnats include both biting and non-biting forms, and they typically form large swarms.

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A lion was very angry with a gnat that kept flying and buzzing around his head. The gnat would not quit bothering the lion. "Do you think that you, the great king of all the animals, can make me scared?" the gnat said to the poor lion. The lion just kept trying to hit the gnat with his big paw. All he did was scratch himself with his great claws. The gnat laughed and flew between the big paws and stung the lion on the nose. He then buzzed away laughing at how he had stung the great lion. However, he was so busy thinking of how he would boast that he did not see the spider web. He got stuck in the web of a little spider and that was the end of him.

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Created with Hot Potatoes by Half-Baked Software, registered to John Horbacz.

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A lion was very angry with a gnat that kept flying and buzzing around his head. The gnat would not quit bothering the lion. "Do you think that you, the great king of all the animals, can make me scared?" the gnat said to the poor lion.

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One day two travelers came upon a bear. After the first had saved himself by climbing a tree, the other, knowing he had no chance against the bear by himself, lay on the ground as if he was dead. The bear came up to him, sniffed him around the ears but thinking him dead walked off. His friend climbed down from the tree and asked, "What was the bear whispering in your ear"
"Oh, he just said I should think twice about traveling with people who run out on their friends."

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Created with Hot Potatoes by Half-Baked Software, registered to John Horbacz.

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One day two travelers came upon a bear. After the first had saved himself by climbing a tree, the other, knowing he had no chance against the bear by himself, lay on the ground as if he was dead. The bear came up to him, sniffed him around the ears but thinking him dead walked off.

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Created with Hot Potatoes by Half-Baked Software, registered to John Horbacz.

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Pollution and the environment

In this B2 Pre-advanced Vocabulary Lesson about Pollution and the Environment, you will learn crucial terms related to environmental protection and sustainability. From the damaging effects of a growing carbon footprint to the protective actions of reforestation and sustainable practices, this lesson will equip you with the language needed to talk about environmental challenges and solutions. Check the pictures and read the texts and definitions below.

Threats to the environment

Our planet is facing an environmental crisis exacerbated by our growing carbon footprint¹. This footprint results from all the greenhouse gases² we emit, often from burning fossil fuels³ like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy. These gases, including carbon dioxide, are the primary culprits behind the greenhouse effect⁴, trapping heat in our atmosphere and leading to global warming⁵ and climate change⁶. The consequences of climate change are very serious, with extreme weather patterns, rising sea levels⁷ and the alarming process of desertification⁸, where once fertile lands become deserts.

Deforestation⁹ plays a significant role in accelerating these environmental issues. Cutting down vast areas of forest releases carbon dioxide and reduces the Earth's capacity to absorb existing carbon, making it difficult to counteract our ecological footprint¹⁰. This footprint measures the impact of human activity on Earth's resources, indicating how sustainably we live.

Another pressing issue is plastic waste¹¹, which clogs our oceans and landscapes, taking centuries to decompose. The accumulation of plastic not only pollutes but also contributes to shrinking habitats¹², threatening the survival of countless species. As our natural spaces dwindle, the delicate balance of ecosystems is disrupted, underscoring the urgency with which we must address our environmental responsibilities.

1 Carbon footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases released by a person, group, or activity.

2 Greenhouse gases: Gases like carbon dioxide that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere and contribute to global warming.

3 Fossil fuels: Natural fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas that are used for energy.

4 Greenhouse effect: A process that occurs when certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap the sun's heat and warm the planet.

5 Global warming: Gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere due to the greenhouse effect.

6 Climate change: Changes in global or regional climate patterns, largely due to the increase of the Earth's temperature.

7 Rising sea levels: Increasing height of the ocean's surface, mainly due to the melting of ice caps and glaciers and the expansion of seawater as it warms.

8 Desertification: The process by which fertile land becomes desert, often because of drought and deforestation.

9 Deforestation: The clearing or thinning of forests by humans that cut down trees often to make way for agriculture or development.

10 Ecological footprint: A measure of how much an individual or group consumes resources and generates waste, compared to the Earth's ability to regenerate those resources and absorb the waste.

11 Plastic waste: Used plastic items that are discarded and can harm the environment because they take a long time to break down.

12 Shrinking habitats: The reduction in the size of the natural environments where plants and animals live, often due to human activities like urbanization or pollution.

Helping the environment

Eco-friendly practices¹ are leading the fight against worldwide environmental problems, and using renewable energy² is a key part of this effort. More and more, we see solar farms³ and wind turbines⁴ across the land, using natural energy to make cleaner electricity. Alongside energy solutions, forest protection⁵ and reforestation⁶ are vital eco-friendly practices. They not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also enhance wildlife conservation⁷ by preserving natural habitats.

A growing environmental awareness⁸ drives governments and individuals to advocate for sustainable practices⁹. Every day, more and more efforts and policies are implemented to improve pollution control¹⁰ and waste management¹¹. A key component of waste management is recycling, which helps reduce the amount of trash in landfills and leads to the creation of eco-friendly products¹². Often made from recycled or organic materials, these products represent a shift towards more environmentally friendly consumption and production patterns.

1 Eco-friendly practices: Actions that help protect the environment by reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

2 Renewable energy: Energy made from natural sources that never run out, like the sun and wind.

3 Solar farms: Large-scale setups of solar panels that capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy.

4 Wind turbines: Tall structures with blades that spin with the wind to generate electricity.

5 Forest protection: Efforts to preserve forests from deforestation and promote biodiversity.

6 Reforestation: The act of planting trees in deforested areas to rebuild forest ecosystems.

7 Wildlife conservation: The practice of protecting wild species and their habitats to prevent extinction.

8 Environmental awareness: Understanding the importance of protecting the environment and promoting healthy ecosystems.

9 Sustainable practices: Methods of using resources that ensure they are not depleted or permanently damaged.

10 Pollution control: Strategies and technologies used to reduce the release of harmful substances into the environment.

11 Waste management: The process of treating and disposing of trash in ways that are safe and do not hurt the environment, like recycling.

12 Eco-friendly products: Items made using recycled materials or natural materials that are not harmful to the environment.

Verb phrases and phrasal verbs

1 If you cut down a tree, you cut its trunk so that it falls to the ground.

2 If you cut back (on) something, such as CO2 emissions, you reduce it.

3 If something breaks down, it decays or decomposes into smaller parts.

4 If you switch to something, such as clean energy, recycled materials, etc., you start using these new practices, materials, etc. instead of the old ones.

5 If you preserve something like natural resources or endangered species, you protect them from damage, depletion or extinction.

6 If you tackle a problem, such as environmental issues, global warming, climate change, etc., you take action to deal with it and try to find solutions.

7 If you dump something like garbage, waste, chemicals, etc. you get rid of it, often in an improper or careless way, such as throwing it in a non-designated area.

8 If you become self-sufficient, you are able to provide for your own needs without relying on external sources, often in terms of producing your own food or energy.

9 If you harm the environment, an ecosystem, etc., you cause damage to it, often through pollution or destructive practices.

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Pollution and the environment - B2 English Vocabulary - Test-English

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English B2 pre-advanced vocabulary lesson on Pollution & the Environment with pictures, examples, exercises, and fun games.

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Tourism

In this pre-advanced vocabulary lesson about Tourism, you will learn about common places to visit, verbs and idioms related to travel, and adjectives to describe different types of places. Check the pictures below and read the definitions and sentence examples to enhance your tourism-related vocabulary.

Places to go

1 Tourist attractions are places such as monuments, famous buildings, and museums that are popular among visiting tourists. Tourist attractions are often crowded because many people want to see them.

2 A seafront is a coastal part of a town or city that faces the sea. People often walk along the seafront so they can look out to sea. Many seafronts have cafes facing them where one can sit and admire the view.

3 Backstreets are narrow streets behind the busy main streets, often in a poorer area of town. They are usually quieter than main streets as they don't contain many shops and are therefore not usually used by tourists.

4 Amusement parks are outdoor areas where people can enjoy rides, games, and other forms of entertainment. Many are only open at certain times of the year, as they are not usually equipped to deal with bad weather.

5 Ruins are the remains of buildings, cities, or monuments that are in a state of disrepair.

6 Hiking trails are paths through mountains or forest areas that are marked out for walkers. Hiking trails can vary in length, with some stretching hundreds of kilometres.

7 Food markets are covered outdoor areas with many different vendors selling various types of food. People enjoy visiting food markets and sampling the different types of food.

8 Nature reserves are parks, forests, or other outdoor areas that are managed to protect their plants and wildlife. Many people visit nature reserves to enjoy the flowers, trees, and views.

9 A crafts fair is an event where people gather to showcase and sell handmade items, often including artwork, jewelry, pottery, and other unique crafts.

Verbs and idioms

1 If you go off track, you go away from the popular tourist routes. Many tourists often go off track to get a more authentic taste of a place.

2 To make a reservation means to book something ahead of time. People often make reservations at restaurants to ensure that they get a table.

3 To chill out means to relax and take it easy. You can chill out at home by relaxing on the sofa, but you can also chill out on holiday sitting on a beach or in a bar. Unwind is similar to chilling out. When you unwind, you relax and forget about work and the stresses of daily life.

4 To stroll means to walk at a leisurely pace, with no particular aim. You can through the streets of a town, taking in the buildings and sights, or you can stroll down a country lane and enjoy the natural surroundings.

5 If you hit the shops, you go shopping, usually for clothes, presents, or souvenirs. People often hit the shops when on holiday to buy things that they can't get at home.

6 To sample the local cuisine means to taste the food of the area that you're visiting. Many tourists enjoy sampling the local cuisine in markets or local restaurants.

7 If you pack your bags, you put your clothes and belongings in a suitcase or rucksack. People pack their bags when preparing to go on or return from a trip or holiday.

8 To take a detour means to take a different route to a place in order to avoid something or save time. People often take detours because of traffic, road closures, or building work.

9 We use the verb form go on before nouns related to travel, trips or similar, such as holiday, trip, journey, excursion, tour, cruise, safari, etc.

Adjectives to describe places

1 Unspoilt or unspoiled means in its natural state, not ruined or changed by humans. We are more likely to describe the countryside as unspoilt than we are a city or town.

2 Remote is a word we use to describe a place that is isolated and far from transport links. Remote areas are usually unspoilt because very few people visit them.

3 Off the beaten track means away from areas and attractions that are usually visited by tourists. Many people like to find somewhere off the beaten track because they are seeking peace and relaxation.

4 If a place is touristy, it's not very nice because it's full of tourists and things for tourists to buy or do. Areas with monuments, galleries, and famous buildings are usually very touristy.

5 Picturesque and 6 breathtaking are both words that we use to describe a place or view that is very attractive. Picturesque means beautiful, like a scene from a picture or postcard, whereas breathtaking means so beautiful that it takes your breath away.

7 Something or somewhere that is overrated is said to be better than it actually is. Restaurants are often described as overrated when the food is not as good as you expected it to be.

8 Vibrant or lively means full of life, so a city or place that is vibrant or lively usually has many things going on and lots of things to do.

9 Exotic means exciting or unusual because it comes from or is characteristic of a different place. We can describe a place as exotic, but we can also use the word to describe food, music, or people too.

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Tourism - B2 English Vocabulary - Test-English

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Boost your travel vocabulary with the pictures, examples, exercises, and games in this comprehensive English vocabulary lesson about Tourism.

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Making a change How easy is it for us to change our lives - and why?

In 1990, a young American named Christopher McCandless gave up his career plans, left behind everyone he knew, including his family, and went off on an adventure. He was 22 at the time. In an act of kindness, he donated all his savings to the famous charity, Oxfam International, and hitchhiked his way through America to Alaska. His decisions were so unusual for his age that Jon Krakauer wrote a book about them called Into the Wild, and Sean Penn directed a film that had the same title.

Of course, this is an unusual story. Most college graduates would not do quite the same thing. However, studies do show that in teenage years, people are more likely to try out new experiences. Instead of following the family career path, for example, and working his way up the same organisation like his grandfather did, a 15-year-old may dream about becoming a traveller - only to find in his early 20s that this fascination with new places is declining and change is less attractive. This age-related trend can be observed in all cultures.

The reason why people all over the world become less keen to change as they get older may be because people's lives generally follow similar patterns and involve similar demands. Most people, wherever they are, aim to find a job and a partner. As they get older, they may have young children to look after and possibly elderly family members. These responsibilities cannot be achieved without some degree of consistency, which means that new experiences and ideas may not have a place in the person's life. New experiences may bring excitement but also insecurity, and so most people prefer to stay with the familiar.

However, not every individual is the same. One toddler may want to play a different game every day and get fed up if nothing changes at the nursery. Another may seek out and play with the same children and toys on every visit. Young children who avoid new experiences will grow up to be more conventional than others. Psychologists argue that those who have more open personalities as children are more open than others might be when they are older. They also suggest that young men have a greater interest in novelty than women, although, as they age, this desire for new experiences fades more quickly than it does in women.

The truth is that, as we get older, we prefer the things we know. We tend to order the same meals in restaurants, sit on the same side of the train when we commute to work, go on holiday to the same places and construct our day in the same way. If you are older than 20, remember that your openness to new experiences is slowly declining.

So you are better off making a new start today than postponing it until later.

---End of the Test---

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Making a change How easy is it for us to change our lives - and why? - IELTS reading practice test

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Making a change How easy is it for us to change our lives - and why? reading practice test has 6 questions belongs to the General Training subject. All of the questions are YES-NO-NOT GIVEN form

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The perception of one-way transmission is achieved when one side of the mirror is brightly lit and the other side is dark. This allows viewing from the darkened side but not vice versa.

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Philip is the CEO of WebWare, an IT company. He needs to hire a new sales director as soon as possible.

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cefr a2 vocab words ket- free reading practice  exam practice english language elt efl grammar writing structure cambridge business exercises a2

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A2 Listening Practice: Describing people

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Listen to Kevin and Maria. They are talking about Maria and her sister, Catherine. Choose true or false.

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ket- free reading practice  exam practice english language elt efl grammar writing structure cambridge business exercises a2

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Read the description of a new shopping mall and answer questions about it.

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Listen to the radio interview about improving your memory and do the exercises to practise and improve your listening skills.

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For Notices and Messages Set 8, you read five real-world notices, messages and other short texts for the main message of the text. It provides practice for the reading section of the Cambridge English B1 Preliminary exam.

This tests your understanding of various kinds of short texts: authentic notices and signs, packaging information such as, instructions on a food package. As well as communicative messages such as notes, emails, cards and postcards.

Notices and Messages Set 8
More exercises available:
We add reading and writing exercises on a regular basis. Why not bookmark our site, so you can come back to practice anywhere or at any time of the day?

Part 1 - Read five real-world notices, messages and other short texts for the main message.

Part 2 - Match five descriptions of people to eight short texts on a particular topic, showing detailed comprehension.

Part 3 - Read a longer text for detailed comprehension, gist, inference and global meaning, as well as writer's attitude and opinion.

Part 4 - Read a longer text from which five sentences have been removed. Show understanding of how a coherent and well-structured text is formed.

Part 5 - Read a shorter text and choose the correct vocabulary items to complete gaps.

Part 6 - Read a shorter text and complete six gaps using one word for each gap.

Write about 100 words, answering the email and notes provided.

Write about 100 words, either an article or story.
Articles Short Stories
In addition, we add listening and speaking exercises in order to practise for this part of the B1 Preliminary test.
Part 3 - Gap-Filled Exercise Part 4 - Multiple Choice Exercise
The B1 Preliminary Speaking test has four parts and you take it together with another candidate. There are two examiners. One of the examiners talks to you and the other examiner listens.

The more words you encounter and understand, the broader your day-to-day vocabulary will become. Our word games and puzzles are an excellent way to help to reinforce spellings in your mind.

Especially helpful are exercises that are focussed on a theme or topic as these provide word retention practice so you can be confident to read, write, speak and listen successfully.

Cambridge English Examinations:

Cambridge English exams are designed for learners at all levels from the pre-intermediate level Cambridge English: Key (KET) to the very advanced level Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE). These exams give candidates proof of their ability to use English in a wide variety of contexts, relevant to work, study and leisure activities.

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Notices and Messages Set 8 | B1 Preliminary Part 1

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For Notices and Messages Set 8, you read five real-world notices, messages and other short texts for the main message of the text. It provides practice for the reading section of the Cambridge English B1 Preliminary exam. This tests your understanding of various kinds of short texts: authentic notices and signs, packaging information such as, instructions on a food package.

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Beginners Reading Passage 2 - GrammarBank

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Beginners level short story completion for ESL students-- Complete the readings by filling in the blanks with correct the options.

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Your browser does not support the audio element, so here's a link to the mp3: https://continuingstudies.uvic.ca/upload/elc/studyzone/490-stories-cam/The-Effects-of-Stress.mp3

There is a famous expression in English: "Stop the world, I want to get off!" This expression refers to a feeling of panic, or stress, that makes a person want to stop whatever they are doing, try to relax, and become calm again. 'Stress' means pressure or tension. It is one of the most common causes of health problems in modern life. Too much stress results in physical, emotional, and mental health problems.

There are numerous physical effects of stress. Stress can affect the heart. It can increase the pulse rate, make the heart miss beats, and can cause high blood pressure. Stress can affect the respiratory system. It can lead to asthma. It can cause a person to breathe too fast, resulting in a loss of important carbon dioxide. Stress can affect the stomach. It can cause stomach aches and problems digesting food. These are only a few examples of the wide range of illnesses and symptoms resulting from stress.

Emotions are also easily affected by stress. People suffering from stress often feel anxious. They may have panic attacks. They may feel tired all the time. When people are under stress, they often overreact to little problems. For example, a normally gentle parent under a lot of stress at work may yell at a child for dropping a glass of juice. Stress can make people angry, moody, or nervous.

Long-term stress can lead to a variety of serious mental illnesses. Depression, an extreme feeling of sadness and hopelessness, can be the result of continued and increasing stress. Alcoholism and other addictions often develop as a result of overuse of alcohol or drugs to try to relieve stress. Eating disorders, such as anorexia, are sometimes caused by stress and are often made worse by stress. If stress is allowed to continue, then one's mental health is put at risk.

It is obvious that stress is a serious problem. It attacks the body. It affects the emotions. Untreated, it may eventually result in mental illness. Stress has a great influence on the health and well-being of our bodies, our feelings, and our minds. So, reduce stress: stop the world and rest for a while.

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The Effects of Stress: Reading Comprehension

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Your browser does not support the audio element, so here's a link to the mp3: https://continuingstudies.uvic.ca/upload/elc/studyzone/490-stories-cam/The-Effects-of-Stress.mp3 There is a famous expression in English: "Stop the world, I want to get off!" This expression refers to a feeling of panic, or stress, that makes a person want to stop whatever they are doing, try to relax, and become calm again.

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A2 English test 1 - text with multiple choice gaps - Test-English

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A2 English test. Use of English. Intermediate grammar test. Text with 15 multiple-choice gaps. It includes key and feedback with links to grammar revision.

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Deadly TikTok challenges – B1+ English reading test - Test-English

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English reading comprehension test for upper-intermediate students (CEFR B2.1). Read a text about TikTok challenges and answer the questions.

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Why do we need International Workers' Day?

International Workers' Day is a celebration of working people and a day when people campaign for decent work and fair pay. Thanks to action taken by workers over many years, millions of people have won fundamental rights and protections. Minimum wages have been established, there are limits on working hours, and people have the right to paid holidays and sick pay.

However, in recent years, working conditions in many situations have got worse. Since the global financial crisis of 2008, part-time, short-term and badly paid work has become more common, and state pensions are at risk. We have also seen the rise of the 'gig economy', where companies hire workers casually for one short job at a time. These workers don't have the usual rights to paid holidays, the minimum wage or redundancy pay. Solidarity with other workers is as important as ever.

The history of International Workers' Day

In May 1886, 400,000 workers in many parts of the USA went on strike, demanding an eight-hour working day. The strike started peacefully, but on the third day of protests in Chicago there was some violence. The police shot at unarmed workers, killing several of them. The next day there were more protests and someone threw a bomb. Seven police officers and four workers were killed by the bomb or police shooting just after the bomb. The person who threw the bomb was never identified, but eight workers were arrested. Seven of them were sentenced to death, and one of them was sent to prison for 15 years.

This event, known as The Haymarket Affair, was very important in bringing working people together in the USA. Many people didn't believe the men were guilty, and the trial was criticised for being unfair. The Haymarket Affair became an international symbol of the struggle for workers' rights, and May 1 was chosen to be International Workers' Day. On this day, socialist parties and trade unions called for workers to demonstrate for the eight-hour day and in favour of peaceful protest. The eight-hour working day became law for public workers in 1892 in the USA. Since then, workers' movements all over the world have continued to fight for and win this right.

How is Workers' Day celebrated now?

Celebrations and protests take place in different ways in different countries around the world. May 1 is a public holiday in countries such as South Africa, Tunisia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and China. In many countries, including France, Greece, Japan, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States, there are demonstrations on International Workers' Day.

Workers' Day is a day for working people to have a rest from their usual labour. It is an opportunity to campaign for workers' rights, show solidarity with other working people and to celebrate the achievements of workers all over the world.

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International Workers' Day is a celebration of working people and a day when people campaign for decent work and fair pay. Thanks to action taken by workers over many years, millions of people have won fundamental rights and protections. Minimum wages have been established, there are limits on working hours, and people have the right to paid holidays and sick pay.

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Labor Day, an annual celebration of workers and their achievements, originated at a time when American industry was rapidly expanding but there were few legal protections for American workers.

In the late 1800s, many Americans were working 12 hours a day six or seven days a week. Even children, some as young as age five or six, were working in mines, mills, and factories.

Labour union leaders Peter J. McGuire and Matthew Maguire each are said to have advocated for a holiday in New York City in 1882 to celebrate working people, though which of them was the true founder of Labor Day is still debated.

The idea of a "workingmen's holiday," celebrated on the first Monday in September, caught on in other industrial centres across the country, and many states passed legislation recognizing it. Congress would not legalize the holiday until 12 years later, when a watershed moment in American labour history brought workers' rights squarely into the public's view.
Historical timeline

September 5, 1882. 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march from City Hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first Labor Day parade in U.S. history.

May 4, 1886. Labour protesters and Chicago police clashed in the infamous Haymarket Riot, which became a symbol of the struggle for workers' rights and so came to be associated with the annual observance of May Day, or Workers' Day, in many countries.

1887. Oregon was the first U.S. state to declare Labor Day an official holiday.

May 11, 1894. The massive Pullman Strike began. Workers boycotted the railroads to fight for safe conditions, normal schedules, and living wages. The strike and boycott disrupted rail traffic throughout the Midwest and lasted until about July 20.

June 28, 1894. U.S. Pres. Grover Cleveland signed a bill into law making Labor Day a national public holiday.

How it's celebrated today

Labor Day is celebrated each year on the first Monday of September.

It falls on a different date every year, just like Thanksgiving.

Some people enjoy a long weekend for family get-togethers, picnics, end-of-summer celebrations, and parades, while others use the Labor Day to advocate for workers' rights.

Did You Know?

Labor Day is considered the unofficial NFL season kickoff. The NFL plays its first official season game the Thursday after Labor Day.

Other countries celebrate labor with a different holiday

May Day, or International Workers' Day, is observed on May 1 in many countries as a public holiday to commemorate the struggles of workers and the labour movement. It continues to be celebrated with picnics and parties while serving as the occasion for demonstrations and rallies in support of workers. With the breakup of the Soviet Union and the fall of communist governments in eastern Europe in the late 20th century, large-scale May Day celebrations in that region declined in importance, however.

Holidays That Fall on Mondays
The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 changed some holidays to ensure that they would always be observed on Mondays so federal employees could have more three-day weekends. The Act, signed into law on June 28, 1968, set Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Columbus Day to be observed on fixed Mondays each year.

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Labor Day Origin and Timeline - Student Center | Britannica.com

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Labor Day, an annual celebration of workers and their achievements, originated at a time when American industry was rapidly expanding but there were few legal protections for American workers. In the late 1800s, many Americans were working 12 hours a day six or seven days a week.

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https://www.ted.com/talks/antonio_cataldo_what_would_happen_if_you_lost_your_sense_of_touch/transcript?language=en

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Antonio Cataldo: What would happen if you lost your sense of touch?

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We don't often think of touch as being a vital part of movement, but touch is one part of a network that oversees all the sensations arising from the surface and interior of our bodies. Touch, pain, temperature, and our spatial awareness are regulated by this system.

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https://sangu.ge/images/Business_E.pdf

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Customers might not think about competition when they're walking through the grocery store or making an online purchase, but it happens to be a cornerstone of business and the free economy that impacts every single thing that's bought and sold. Technically, competition consists of the cumulative force of actions taken by companies that're designed to improve their market standing, sales, and ultimately, profits. But really, competition is simply what allows businesses to try and get ahead of each other, and consumers to get the best possible value.

Like many business ideas, competition is best explained through an example. Imagine that a company opens a profitable retail location and sells bread at an enormous profit. After another company notices all the profits that're being made through bread sales in this neighborhood, they may open a store of their own and undercut the competition, or sell similar items or services for lower prices. The first company may respond by lowering their own prices (so they sell more bread to their former customers, who're presumably buying the cheaper bread), and the end result is much cheaper bread for consumers. In this way, businesses going head-to-head benefits customers.

Reverse competition, or the tendency of some businesses to purchase items that're being sold below market value (or the price that an item can reasonably be expected to sell for) and reprice them, is also a business practice that's worth considering. Imagine that a bread company, to limit the success of other businesses, sells their bread that's worth five dollars per loaf elsewhere for one dollar per loaf. Instead of being pushed out of the market, a competing business could recognize the discrepancy between the bread's value and its sale price, and then proceed to purchase all the first company's bread for one dollar and resell it for two dollars with their own label.

The effects of not having competition, in a particular professional sphere or entire economies, are devastating to consumers and the wellbeing of citizens generally. Consider the example of railroad companies in Europe and America a couple centuries back that owned a multitude of tracks and land; essentially no other companies existed to create competition (because the major railroad companies bought all the land and kept others from doing so), and they were able to charge whatever high prices they wanted. This described scenario is an example of a monopoly, or a situation when one company has complete control over an industry and its prices due to a lack of competition.

Lastly, an oligopoly is a style of competition wherein businesses are small in number and coordinate with each other to raise prices-thus making goods and services more expensive for consumers. Modern-day examples of oligopolies are satellite television and internet services, which, although they cost companies very little to provide, are billed to consumers for sizable sums. Thus, something of a general understanding has been reached by leading internet and television companies, as they would make far less money if they competed rigorously.

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Customers might not think about competition when they're walking through the grocery store or making an online purchase, but it happens to be a cornerstone of business and the free economy that impacts every single thing that's bought and sold.

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Doctor's appointment and teacher conversation

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Doctor's appointment and teacher conversation

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Listen to a student explain why she can't come to class to practise and improve your listening skills.

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https://lingua.com/businessenglish/reading/problem-solving/

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Customer service: problem solving - Business English Lesson

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Informing a Customer that an Ordered Item Isn’t Available

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https://test-english.com/reading/b1/speedflatmating-accommodation-b1-english-reading-test/

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B1 Reading Test

Read a text about accomodation, and for questions 1 to 10, choose true or false.

SpeedFlatmating

When you are looking for rental accommodation in a shared house, you have to think not only about the location and your budget, but also about who you are sharing with, as your housemates can make the difference between a successful or an unhappy house-share.

SpeedFlatmating is a perfect way to find the ideal house or flatmate. SpeedFlatmating events, which are organised by the website speedflatmating.co.uk, are mainly held in London. However, some events are held in other British towns and cities. They typically take place in a bar or pub. At these events, people looking for accommodation can meet people with available rooms, or other people on the lookout for accommodation who they can rent a place with.

On arrival at a SpeedFlatmating event, guests are given a sticker to wear. White stickers indicate that you have an available room. Pink stickers are for people who are looking for a room. On white stickers, people write their name, the rental cost of the room and its nearest tube station. On pink stickers, people write their name, their budget and the area where they want to live.

The website organises about 17 events per month in London. Their larger events cover the whole of central London and are geared towards people who are flexible about where they want to live. They also run local events for people who already know where they want to live.

Users enjoy SpeedFlatmating for various reasons. Firstly, it cuts out the long, boring process of advertising and showing people around a flat. Also, potential flatmates can get to meet each other in a relaxed, social setting and find out whether they would be a good match for a flatshare or not. As well as meeting potential flatmates, many people say they enjoy the friendly atmosphere and make new friends at the events.

A huge number of people have benefitted from SpeedFlatmating. Paul from London says, 'I had been having problems finding a place to live in London because I'm in my forties. Most people sharing accommodation in London are in their twenties and thirties, and I didn't really fit in. I went to a SpeedFlatmating event and met three other people in the same situation as me, so we decided to get together and rent a place. Within a week, we had found a place within our budget.'

Melissa says, 'I was just starting to think about moving out of my parents' home, and SpeedFlatmating seemed like a good way to find out more. I was quite nervous about attending the event on my own, but when I got there, I realised that everyone else was nervous too, and so I was able to relax, enjoy myself and meet people. I met a landlord there who was looking for tenants, and I arranged to have a look round his house. I'm moving in next week! It was as simple as that!'

Reading comprehension test

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SpeedFlatmating (Accommodation) - B1 English reading test - Test-English

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English B1 reading comprehension test for intermediate students (CEFR B1). Read a text about accommodation and answer the questions.

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https://test-english.com/reading/b2/crypto-addicts-b2-reading-test/

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B2 Reading Test

Read an article about people who are addicted to trading cryptocurrency, and for questions 1 to 6, choose the correct answer.

Crypto addicts

Cryptocurrency trading has become very popular. By buying and selling different currencies, traders can make huge profits. However, trading addiction is becoming increasingly common. Here, addict Josh Johnson talks about his experience.

'I heard about cryptocurrencies years ago when Bitcoin first came out, but I can't say I was intrigued from the start. Even when cryptocurrencies were mentioned more and more in the news and on social media, I didn't pay much attention. It wasn't until my friends started trading that I got into it. Seeing them earning loads of money overnight by doing practically nothing made me want to get in on it too. I'd been trading for a while by the time the pandemic started, but that was when the trouble started.

'It was crazy to begin with. My first investment quadrupled within a couple of weeks. I couldn't believe it. It gave me a feeling of power, and I felt as if I could achieve anything. I poured more money in, and the same thing kept happening. Of course, it was all chance. I happened to put my money in before the currencies hit an all-time high. Then they plummeted. I was convinced they'd recover, so I kept pumping more money in. But what had worked before no longer did. I lost everything.

'Since getting help, I've thought about how I got addicted. There was a point when I had over three hundred thousand pounds. If I'd quit then, I could have bought the house that I had my heart set on. But rather than the money itself, it was the drama that hooked me. And winning didn't give me as big a thrill as losing. You would think I'd feel devastated when money disappeared, but instead, I'd feel a new sense of purpose and drive to prove myself once again.

'Lots of people enjoy these highs and lows of trading without becoming addicts, so it's hard to know when you've gone too far. Like with many addictions, crypto addicts become isolated and withdrawn and neglect their work. But I was off work and living by myself, so if those signs were there, they weren't noticeable. For me, I missed the high when money ran out and I couldn't trade, so I found it through drugs, and my sister found out. I'd been addicted to them in the past, and it got to the point of me lying and stealing from others. She didn't want that to happen again, and she stepped in.

'There's a worrying, rising trend in cryptocurrency trading addiction. It's not surprising really, given the irresponsible advertising techniques which companies have used. I'm glad authorities are cracking down on those. But it concerns me that the apps send you notifications when you make money, inviting you to share your good news with others. But when you lose, you get nothing. It gives you a false sense that you are doing well. I think there should be rules that don't allow that.

'Compared to traditional gambling, cryptocurrency trading is seen as socially acceptable. It's something that smart but adventurous people do. And whereas a lot of gamblers play alone or against other people, trading is social. But this leads to a herd mentality, where people stop thinking things through for themselves. The companies make lots of information available to educate people about the risks of trading. It's far easier, though, to act on a friend's tip-off or hunch. All this means that people don't realise that they are on a slippery slope until it's gone too far.

Take the reading test

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Crypto addicts - B2 Reading test - Test-English

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Read an article about people who are addicted to trading cryptocurrency, and for questions 1 to 6, choose the correct answer. Crypto addicts Cryptocurrency trading has become very popular. By buying and selling different currencies, traders can make huge profits. However, trading addiction is becoming increasingly common.

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Past Simple or Past Perfect Simple Exercise | English4u

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Past simple or past perfect - English online grammar exercise.

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A first-person account in English of one individual's experience of going to work, with most of the details focusing on the one-hour drive--useful for advanced beginners to learn everyday, conversational English about working life. Comprehension questions follow the text so you can check your understanding.

My job is a long distance from my home, almost 50 miles away. I have to wake up early every morning, as I'm always in a rush. There's never enough time for a relaxed breakfast. At exactly 6:00 AM, I get into my car and start the long drive.

I usually like driving on the highway more than in the city. During the morning rush hour, though, it's not very enjoyable. The heavy traffic is a little bit annoying. So I always listen to my favorite classical music CD's in the car - Chopin, Mozart, and Bach. That cheers me up a lot.

The drive to work takes about one hour. Going back home in the evening after work takes even longer, maybe around 70 minutes. Lately I've been thinking about trying to take the train to work instead of driving. That way, I could still listen to my music with headphones, and even read a novel at the same time.

Did you understand the text?

Please answer the following questions of understanding:

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A first-person account in English of one individual's experience of going to work, with most of the details focusing on the one-hour drive--useful for advanced beginners to learn everyday, conversational English about working life. Comprehension questions follow the text so you can check your understanding.

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luggage , my wife went to the hospital alone

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One night in December 2011, a bear came into the city of Vancouver in Canada. It walked through the city streets past houses, shops and offices. Then it found some food in bins outside a restaurant and started eating. In the morning, someone saw the bear and called the police. The police came with a vet from the city zoo. They put the bear in a lorry and took it to the mountains outside the city. Luckily, the bear was safe. But what happens in other countries when big animals come into cities? In Vancouver it is unusual to see a bear, but in some cities you can see big animals on the city streets every day.

Big animals usually come into cities to find food. In Cape Town in South Africa baboons come into the city when they are hungry. They go into gardens and eat fruit from trees. They even go into houses and take food from cupboards and fridges! Baboons are strong animals and they can scare people. But the city can be dangerous for baboons too. Sometimes, cars and buses kill baboons in accidents. Human food is very bad for the baboons' teeth because it has a lot of sugar. Now, there are Baboon Monitors working in Cape Town. Their job is to find baboons in the city and return them to the countryside.

In Berlin in Germany, pigs sometimes come into the city to look for food. They eat flowers and plants in parks and gardens. Sometimes they eat vegetables from gardens and they walk in the street and cause accidents. Some people like the pigs and they give them food and water to drink. Other people do not like the pigs and they want the government and the police to stop them entering the city.

In Moscow in Russia, there are 35,000 wild dogs. The dogs live in parks, old houses, markets and train stations. Some dogs live in groups and others live alone. Many people in Moscow like the dogs. They give them food and water. Some people make small houses for the dogs in their gardens. This helps the dogs in winter, when the temperature in Moscow is -10 ºC and there is a lot of snow and ice.

Many animals live in cities. In some cities, you can see birds, insects, mice and squirrels every day. But sometimes, it is dangerous when big animals come into cities to find food. We need to find ways of stopping animals coming into the city without hurting them.
Robin Newton

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One night in December 2011, a bear came into the city of Vancouver in Canada. It walked through the city streets past houses, shops and offices. Then it found some food in bins outside a restaurant and started eating. In the morning, someone saw the bear and called the police.

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I Want To Cook 👩‍🍳 - Little Princess 👑 FULL EPISODE - Series 1, Episode 24

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I Want My Dummy! 👶 -  Little Princess 👑 FULL EPISODE - Series 1, Episode 6

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Minuscule - Night Of The Mandibles / La nuit des Mandibules

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think , thought , thought is the verb

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look I have better things than you , I have a better car , better shirt , better wife , children ....

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snowdrops are the flowers , and trap is a place where you can catch a rat

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TO WANDER INTO A GARDEN AND SEE A BEAUTIFUL SUNSET
THE PROBLEM FROM LAST WEEK TURNED OUT TO BE A LITTLE PROBLEM , NOT TOO BIG , IT IS ALREADY SORTED
I LIVE NEXT DOOR TO AN INFLUENCER , SHE WATCHES ALL THE CALORIES SHE EATS AND POST HEALTHY LIVING STANDARDS ONLINE FOR EVERYONE TO SEE
OUR SEWAGE WAS BROKEN , LAST WEEK , WE COULD NOT USE THE BATHROOM
I LOOKED A LITTLE BUFFED ON MY SELFIE , MUST BE JUST FAT SINCE I AM NOT ACTIVELY EXERCISING
I REALLY DON'T LIKE TO LOOK AT PEOPLE'S FEEDS , I THINK PEOPLE ONLY POST WHAT THEY LIKE AND THE REAL LIFE IS NOT WHAT THEY ARE POSTING
I FEEL BLESSED BECAUSE OF MY FAMILY , I THINK WE HAVE A GOOD LIFE
SCROLL DOWN ON YOUR PAGE IF YOU WANT TO ACCESS THE EXERCISES