Téma: Norway

Jazyk: Angličtina

Přidal(a): nikdo

Geography, history, politics, important people                 

Geography

Norway is located on the Western part of Scandinavian peninsula and it neighbours with Sweden, Finland and Russia. It covers a total area of about 385 000 square kilometers.

It is surrounded by the Barents Sea (north), the Norwegian Sea and the North Sea (west) and the Skagerrak in the south.

Norway is divided into 11 administrative regions or counties. The regions are: Agder, Innlandet, More og Romsdal, Nordland, Oslo, Rogaland, Troms og Finnmark, Trondelag, Vestfold og Telemark, Vestlandet and Viken.

Norway’s capital city – Oslo – is located on the southern part of the peninsula. It is also the biggest city of the country, in the following place is Bergen.Norway mainly consists of mountains and wilderness and is a home to more than 300 mountain peaks over 2,000 metres tall. The word „Fjord“ comes from the Norse fjorðr, meaning to go, pass or cross over.

Politics

Norway is a constitutional monarchy with the king as its official head. The current king is King Harald V after his death his son Haakon Magnus will take the throne. Legislative power is in the hands of the parliament, which is elected for four years and cannot be dismissed. Executive power is in the hands of the Norwegian government headed by the Prime Minister. (fro explanation = The Legislature makes laws. The Executive puts those laws into effect and plans policy.) The King also stands at the head of the Church of Norway, is the Commander-in-Chief of the Norwegian Armed Forces.

Population, economy and education

Population

In 2020 Norway has reached about 5,4 million inhabitants. Here we can see a population graph on which we can see, that the number of inhabitants is increasing.

Economy

Norway is a developed industrial country. An important role, for Norway’s economy, has fishing, logging, oil and natural gas extraction, and other mineral resources. Above all, due to possible restrictions on oil production and fishing, Norway has repeatedly refused to join the EU. Norway is a large producer of relatively clean electricity, more than 99% of which is produced in hydroelectric power plants.

Languages

Norwegian in its two forms (which are Bokmål and Nynorsk) is the main official language of Norway. Sami, a group of three separate languages, is recognized as a minority language at the national level and is a co-official language alongside Norwegian in the Sami Administrative Language Region (located in northern Norway). Another language is, for example, the minority Kven language.

Religions

Even though Norway no longer has a state religion, the faith of the largest part of the population belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Norway – as we can see on this circle graph. Atheists make up the second largest part of this graph. Furthermore, Islam and the Catholic church are present almost equally. This unmarked pink field represents other Christian faiths. The last – light blue field represents other faiths such as Buddhism, Hinduism and the like.

Education

Public education is virtually free, regardless of nationality. Higher education in Norway is provided by seven universities, five specialized colleges, 25 university colleges, as well as countless private colleges.

Resources:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norway
• https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/norway-population/
• https://www.visitnorway.com/things-to-do/nature-attractions/mountains/
• https://www.visitnorway.com/things-to-do/nature-attractions/fjords/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics_of_Norway
• https://www.worldatlas.com/maps/norway
• https://www.skandinavie.info/norska-kultura/
• https://cultures.cz/10-faktu-o-norsku-ktere-jste-nevedeli/
• https://nomadparadise.com/norwegian-food/

Téma: Italy

Jazyk: Angličtina

Přidal(a): nikdo

I have prepared a presentation about Italy today.

Basic information:

Italy is in the southern Europe. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food.

History:

Italy has a rich and complex history that dates back thousands of years. The country has been home to many different civilizations and empires, including the Etruscans, the Romans, and the Byzantines. Italy was a major centre of art, culture, and commerce during the Renaissance, and played an important role in the development of modern science and philosophy. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Italy experienced significant political and social upheavals, including the unification of the country under a single government and the rise of fascism under Benito Mussolini.

Geography:

Italy is a country that is located in southern Europe. It is bordered by France to the west, Switzerland and Austria to the north, and Slovenia to the east. Italy is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the south. The country is known for its diverse geography, which includes everything from the Alps to the hills of Tuscany. Italy is also home to two active volcanoes, Mount Etna, and Stromboli, which are popular tourist destinations.

Climate:

Italy has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it has mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The country’s climate is influenced by its long coastline, which helps to moderate temperatures and create a mild, pleasant climate. Italy is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including Mediterranean shrubs and trees, such as olive trees and cypress trees. The country also has a diverse range of wildlife, including wolves, wild boar, and deer. Italy is known for its beautiful national parks, which are home to many of these animals, as well as rare plant species. Some of Italy’s most famous national parks include the Gran Paradiso National Park and the Cinque Terre National Park.

Politics:

Italy is a parliamentary republic, with a president who serves as the head of state and a prime minister who serves as the head of government. The country has a multi-party system, with several major political parties that represent a range of political views. Italian politics has been marked by instability in recent years, with frequent changes in government and a high degree of political polarization. Despite these challenges, Italy remains an important player in European and global politics and has been a member of the European Union since its start.

Economy:

Italy is the eighth-largest economy in the world and the third-largest economy in the European Union. The country has a diverse economy that is based on a mix of manufacturing, agriculture, and services. Some of Italy’s most important industries include fashion, automotive manufacturing, and food and wine production. Italy is also famous for its luxury goods, such as designer clothing and accessories. However, Italy has faced some economic challenges in recent years, including high levels of public debt and a low birth rate.

Population:

Italy has a population of approximately 60 million people. The country is the fifth-most populous country in Europe and has a relatively low birth rate. The population of Italy is concentrated in the northern and central regions of the country, with the largest cities being Rome, Milan, and Naples. Italy is known for its rich cultural heritage and has been home to many famous artists, writers, and musicians over the centuries. The country has a diverse population that includes people from many different ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Important people:

Italy has been home to many important people over the centuries, including artists, writers, musicians, and scientists.

Some of the most famous Italian people include:

•  Leonardo da Vinci, who is known for his iconic paintings and inventions.
• Michelangelo, who created some of the most famous sculptures in history.
• Galileo Galilei, who made important contributions to the fields of astronomy and physics.

Italy has also produced many famous musicians, such as:

•  Giuseppe Verdi
• Luciano Pavarotti

As well as famous writers, such as:

• Dante Alighieri
• Umberto Eco

In the world of fashion, Italy is known for its famous designers, such as:

•  Giorgio Armani
• Donatella Versace

Téma: Faulty Coat Complaint

Jazyk: Angličtina (English formal letter)

Přidal(a): Veronika Hejčlová

13 March 2025

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing you to complain about a coat I purchased from your online store two weeks ago.

I have already received it but when I opened the package and tried it on, I noticed that there were few problems. There were two missing buttons on the front of the coat. It was filthy on the inside. It looked like a paint stain. And the last straw was that it was a much larger size than the one I had ordered.

In addition, I contacted your store by phone and no one answered me. For me the store is too far and traveling there is not worth it.

I am really disappointed with this purchase. Can you either send me new undamaged coat or a refund please?

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,

Veronika Hejčlová

Známka ze školy: 1/2 = výborně/chvalitebně

Téma: Holiday in Bangladesh

Jazyk: Angličtina (Essay)

Přidal(a): Klára Osičková

Holiday in Bangladesh

“How much?” I asked, pointing at the fruit on the pavement in front of me. “10 taka” replied the street vendor, staring at me. I gave her the money and as I went to take an apple, she grabbed my wrist and whispered “Sāmudrika khābāra khābēna nā”. I was pretty scared so I walked away really fast. However, I didn´t understand her and that´s why I tried to forget it. Although the memory was still in my mind I started enjoying my holiday in Bangladesh.

As always, I had my lunch in the Berska restaurant. Today, just for a change I ordered seafood with fries. Actually, it was more delicious than I had expected. Just after I had finished my lunch I drove back to my apartment because I needed to take my stuff for a beach party with my friends. Henry, my boyfriend, was in the apartment and was waiting for me angrily. “He looks like a penguin but a cute one” I thought. After a small argument Henry helped me to take all my stuff and we finally went to our beach party. Obviously, everybody had already been there except for us but they were fine with our little delay so the party could start!

Two hours later we were drunk, happy and full of energy and decided it would be cool if we walked home. Looking back, it really wasn´t a great idea.

While we were walking, I felt sick. A few minutes later my head started spinning and I fainted. The next thing I remember is that I woke up in the hospital. They told me the seafood I had had for my lunch had been poisoned and I was lucky to survive.

After I heard all of that I remembered the old woman who had told me something strange. I asked the doctor if he knew what she had said. I was really surprised with what he said. She simply warned me to not eat seafood and that was it – no magic and no mystery at all.

Známka ze školy: 1 = výborně (bez chyb)

Téma: Uniforms at school

Jazyk: Angličtina (Essay)

Přidal(a): Klára Osičková

This essay will consider the effect of having uniforms at school.

Introducing school uniforms in Czech schools may have several benefits. The most prominent one would probably be eliminating differences between pupils – especially the difference in their clothes and social statuses which sometimes result in bullying. If children wore uniforms this reason for bullying would not exist and it would improve the climate in the class bringing all pupils to the same level. This could in turn improve school grades and improve pupils’ motivation. What is more, the issue of children who dress up inappropriately (e. g. wearing way too short skirts, showing too much in crop tops, …) would be solved with school uniforms in a quick and efficient manner.

On the other hand, uniforms may have negative effects as well. Having uniforms would prevent children from dressing up the way they want to. That means they would not be able to fully express who they are because their choice of clothing is a part of their unique personalities. Consequently, losing the choice could also lead to problems with mental health. Furthermore, some students prefer baggy clothes, some prefer tight clothes. It means that some students will most probably feel uncomfortable in only one kind of school uniforms.

This essay has highlighted the main effect of having uniforms at school. Since school uniforms can have several negative impacts – for example the above-mentioned suppressing of student personalities and expressions I believe it is better to keep the status quo and not to introduce uniforms at our schools.

Známka ze školy: 1 = výborně (bez chyb)

Otázka: Report example (CAE)

Jazyk: Angličtina

Přidal(a): Pastickar

Dear Mr. Angel,

Thank you for your letter requesting my opinion and advice for the upcoming students at your school. In this letter I will share my experiences which your students might hopefully benefit from.

Firstly, I would like to mention that all the teachers had an excellent approach to the students and always tried to explain the curriculum in a comprehensible and entertaining way. I also appreciated that they all were very helpful and cared about all the students.

Secondly, I would like to talk about the accommodation for students. Before I started attending college I have never lived on my own. Travelling to a new city and learning all the habits was difficult at the beginning, but I lived in the school´s facilities with other students. This also helped me to get to know new people and all the important information.

It is a fact that living on your own and studying at a college requires a substantial amount of money. Fortunately, the schools cooperate with a shopping centre nearby and provides jobs for all the students, who are in need for money. Living on your own also taught me how to deal with money.

As I already mention, there is a possibility to live with other students on the school´s premises and it is a magnificent way to make and build new friendships. I shared a room with a student that has already attended the school for 2 years and he helped me to adjust to new environment.

To sum up, I would recommend studying at this school to anyone, who wants to experience new teaching methods and is not afraid of living in a new environment.

Otázka: Proposal letter example (CAE)

Jazyk: Angličtina

Přidal(a): Pastickar

Dear Mr Schwarzenegger,

I am very grateful for your email in which you confirmed my job at the hotel starting at the beginning of this summer. I am currently studying a school of economics and one day I desire to have my own hotel as well. Because I used to work as a food carrier, I have experience in working with customers and solving problems associated with the job.

I am delighted that I will have the opportunity to work at your hotel and in my opinion, it will be supremely useful for my future business life. I assume that I will work only as a receptionist or room cleaner, but I would be very thankful if you could show me all responsibilities associated with hotel management. As a student I am used to learning new things and methods, so it will not be a problem for me to adapt quickly in the new environment.

I still have a few additional questions regarding the job. Can I expect that the accommodation and meals are going to be provided to me as a part of work? Am I expected to take formal clothing, or will I receive a hotel uniform from you?

I look forward to being part in your business and building my career in the hotel operation.

Yours sincerely,

Matouš Šilhavý

Otázka: My first Interrail journey

Jazyk: Angličtina

Přidal(a): Monika

My journey starts at train station in Prague because I decided to try something different and through the Interrail website I planned a 14-day trip to Paris. I want to travel by train, because I can have a lot of adventure, it´s good for the environment and we are young, so let´s leave the comfort of plane for the older people. It´s my only trip of this summer, so I´m not afraid to invest as much money as it takes to enjoy it. And the last thing, I´m traveling with my friend, because two people always go better and you have somebody to talk to.

First, we had to choose the right Interrail passport. We chose the Interrail global pass for 4 days within one month, because we won´t probably be visiting more than 3 countries during our trip and because we belong to the youth category, we have a discount. So, 1 interrail global pass costs 258 €.

Now, we must find some good train connections from Prague to Paris. The website generated for us train connection with two transfers, one in Berlin and other one in Frankfurt. We liked it, because through this train connection we can leave Prague train station at 16:25 and arrive to Paris in the early hours of the next day.

We are supposed to travel with the first train for four hours and then we will have 39 minutes to change trains. I think that´s enough time and we can even manage to buy food for the next part of the trip to Frankfurt at the station. We will travel another four hours with the second train, but it will be at night for change, so we can sleep. When we arrive at the main train station in Frankfurt, we will have almost 4 hours to transfer and because it will be 02:11 in the morning we can visit a club, which is only 5 minutes walking from the train station. Time in the club will surely go fast and we will have opportunity to stretch a bit from the sitting in the train. At 5:56 the club will probably be closing, and we will have to take the last train to Paris. It will be the only train where we should book a reservation for the seats. In the train we will probably be sleeping again and at time 09:51 we should be in Paris, where we will have arranged accommodation through Airbnb.

We wanted to visit Paris, because of the most famous monuments, the Eiffel tower, the Louvre, the Arch of Triumph, the Notre Dame cathedral, the Versailles, and other places. We also want to have enough time to get to know the city through the eyes of the locals, so we will try to ask local people about not that well known places. That’s why we want to spend.

14 days there. And when we will get bored in Paris, we still have our Interrail pass, so we can take next train and go to another country or place.

Téma: Animal testing in cosmetics and medicines

Jazyk: Angličtina

Přidal(a): Monika

Is it necessary to use animals to test cosmetics and medicines?

The issue of using animals for medicine and cosmetic testing is a global problem. In almost all countries of the world that produce cosmetics and medicines, this topic is a question, to which an answer is still being sought. I chose this topic, because I use cosmetics products from drugstores and medicines from regular pharmacies and I started being interested in how these products are created. So, my questions are: Is this issue finally settled in some countries and animal testing is banned? How the Czech Republic solves this problem? How do I know, if cosmetics I use are tested on animals, or not?

Every year thousands of animals are killed because of testing cosmetics and medicines. Tested animals are injected with chemicals in the eyes, on the skin, forced to swallow or inhale them. All this, just for give consumers a choice of thousands of new products. The most used animals for testing cosmetics are mice, rats, pigs, and rabbits. In my opinion animal testing is not only a very cruel, but also not very reliable way of verifying the safety and quality of products. On the other hand, the animal testing process is financially acceptable for every brand.

As a result, many companies have already banned animal testing. There are other possibilities that can be used instead of animal experiments. These include cell and tissues experiments, an EYTEX screen test, used instead of terrible eye irritation test, or mathematical and computer models. These methods are expensive, but they have been shown to provide more credible and accurate data than animal testing. In the Czech Republic, this problem is still being solved, but the Czech market for cosmetic products and medicines contains both variants of products. Products tested on animals and products tested differently.  All of us have a choice….

Personally speaking, for a long time I overlooked this topic and bought products regardless of their origin. If you want to make sure, that your product is tested on animals or not, the only internationally valid and recognized certificate for cosmetics not tested on animals is the Human Cosmetic Standard (HCS). The symbol displayed on the products is a jumping rabbit.

The trend of animal testing worldwide is far from over. In large countries such as the USA or China this topic is an endless question. It’s the same in the Czech Republic, but no one can deny that this is a form of animal cruelty, and we should stop it.

Téma: Business and private letters

Jazyk: Angličtina

Přidal(a): PepazDepa

  ** Structure of a Business Letter: **

„In a business letter, the structure is critical. You begin with your address, followed by the date. Then, you include the recipient’s address, followed by a formal salutation. The body of the letter should be clear and concise, with a formal tone. Finally, you conclude with a closing and your signature.“

** Types of Business Letters: **

„There are various types of business letters, depending on their purpose. For example, a job application letter, often referred to as a cover letter, is used to introduce oneself to a potential employer. On the other hand, a complaint letter is written to express dissatisfaction with a product or service. These letters have specific structures and content tailored to their purpose.“

** Key Elements in Private Letters: **

„In private letters, the tone is more personal and informal. You might start with a warm salutation, perhaps even using a nickname. You can include personal anecdotes, ask about the recipient’s well-being, and express your emotions openly. These letters are all about connecting on a personal level.“

** Language and Tone: **

„The language and tone in a letter are crucial. In business letters, maintain a formal and professional tone. Use polite language and avoid slang. On the other hand, private letters allow for more emotional and casual language, but it’s important to maintain respect and politeness, even in personal correspondence.“

** Emails vs. Traditional Letters: **

„Emails have become the primary mode of communication in the business world due to their speed and convenience. They differ from traditional letters in that they are usually less formal. However, traditional letters can still be more impactful for formal communication or personal messages due to their tangible nature.“

** Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them: **

„One common mistake in letter writing is overlooking grammar and spelling. It’s important to proofread your letters carefully. Additionally, formatting errors, such as incorrect margins or spacing, can make your letter appear unprofessional. Taking the time to review and edit your letter can help you avoid these mistakes.“

** Cultural Differences in Letter Writing: **

„Cultural differences can significantly impact letter writing. In some cultures, direct language is appreciated, while in others, it may be seen as impolite. It’s essential to be aware of these differences when writing letters to individuals from different cultural backgrounds to avoid misunderstandings or offense.