Reading
1. Discuss the questions. Then read the passage.
1. Where is Scotland?
2. What is this land famous for?
SCOTLAND - THE LAND OF LEGENDS
Scotland is in the north of Great Britain. It is famous for its rich culture as well as its amazing natural beauty. Visitors to this land can spend endless days exploring its historic centuries-old castles. But be aware - legend says that some of them are haunted by ghosts. Fun-lovers can experience its world-famous festival, the Highland Games where they can enjoy unique Scottish activities such as the piping, drumming, and dancing. They can also see traditional sports, or drink whisky with the local people. Driving through vast green pastures, or boating on scenic lakes - or lochs - are other attractions that Scotland offers.
The great people of this legendary land have also given many of the world's important inventions like the telephone, the television, penicillin and the raincoat. Edinburgh, the capital, was the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade in 1824. Edinburgh University welcomed the first female medical student in Great Britain in 1869.
2. Match each place or event with its two features.
| Place | Feature |
| 1. Edinburgh 2. castles 3. Highland Games 4. lochs | a. haunted by ghosts b. piping and drumming c. centuries-old d. the world's first fire brigade e. scenic f. first female medical student g. boating h. traditional sports |
3. Read the passage again and answer the questions.
1. Is Scotland famous for its rich culture?
2. What might you see while you are exploring a castle?
3. What are some activities you can see at the Scottish Highland Games?
4. What were some of the things invented by the Scots?
5. When was the first fire brigade in the world created?
Speaking
4. Work in pairs. Talk about the thing(s) you like most about Scotland. Give reasons.
Example:
- What do you like about Scotland?
- I like the castles.
- Why?
- Because I want to see a ghost!
5. Work in groups. Read and discuss these interesting facts about Australia. Prepare a short introduction of Australia. Then present it to the class.
AUSTRALIA - Interesting facts
- world's only country which covers an entire continent
- world's capital of sports and outdoor activities (70% of the population regularly participate)
- world's longest fence (5,400 km); built to protect world's largest population of sheep (about 175 million); claimed to be seen from outer space
- world's largest cattle station (Anna Creek station); larger than Belgium
