Tematy z ang ŚCIĄGI(1)

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What are the good and bad things about television?

Television is a very popular form of entertainment. Nowadays we can not imagine our life without this useful invention. Television is a very powerful force. It is the most important source of information about what has happened in our country and around the world. It gives us information about wars, important and interesting events, catastrophes, accidents and crimes. Thanks to television we can listen to good music, watch interesting film shows or sports programs. It also extends our knowledge about the world, people, and their culture, traditions and offers numerous courses for instance in foreign languages, cooking or gardening. Watching television is comfortable and helpful. When we are tired or bored we can turn on the set, find our favourite program and relax. However television also has disadvantages. Many people say that television is chewing - gum for the brain. TV is a thief of time. A typical person spends about four hours daily in front of the TV-Set. The TV has a very negative impact on children who are exposed to views of blood or views of violence. That doesn't serve our children well. The TV is like a drug because viewers forget about everything. They do not read books, do not entertain their friends, and do not go to sporting events, to the cinema and to the theatre. I think that the TV has changed our life but it serves us well.

-1-

How has the weather changed in Poland over the last few years?

In fact, the weather has changed in Poland and in Europe over the last few years. Especially hard was summer 1997. Catastrophic floods the south of Poland caused large destruction. The rivers were in flood and a lot of people have lost houses. We were watching on TV boats in the streets of Wrocław and hundreds of dead animals. It was terrible. But in the previous year summer was wonderful because it was very long and very sunny. Last summer started in May, but winter started in November. Yes, the weather has changed but I don't know what is the reason for the change of weather. Perhaps ozone hole or greenhouse effect is the causes of global weather changes.

How has the weather changed in Poland over the last few years?

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Which newspapers/magazines do you read? Why?

I must admit that my works engage almost all day so I don't have enough time to read newspapers everyday. Nevertheless, I try to review headlines. When week of the end is coming up then I buy a weekend edition of "Gazeta Wyborcza". It is a big edition with supplements. They're I find my favorite feuilletons and political articles. Moreover my wife and daughter find there news about the fashion. "Gazeta Wyborcza" is a polish legendary daily newspaper established in time of the great political changes in Poland. I read it because information inside is true (in many circumstances) and written professionally. If about magazines I read regularly "Polityka". In this magazine are many interesting comments about policy, culture and economics. For many years "Polityka" is the magazine which has a great approbation of readers. Political opponents respect it too. For these reasons I like reading it.

What else? Sometimes I glance up so-called color magazines for women. Recently there have appeared plenty of other titles such as Elle, Marie-Claire and much typical polish like Twój Styl etc. I am very angry when I see on almost page full of big advertising but sometimes I catch something convenient for me. For example I have discovered interesting columnists which give advises how to live with one woman all life. It is very interesting problem, isn't it? There is very good if a woman gives such advises. The female point of view on the subject relations between two such different people like man and woman is special worth for a man.

-3-

The more we have the more unhappy we are.

The problem of happiness and possessing has always been a very controversial issue. Everyone needs something different to be happy. Very often men need a good car or stereo equipment while women are happy when they can buy new clothes or redecorate a flat.

I know a lot of people who are very rich and healthy. They have beautiful houses and very expensive cars but there are very unhappy because they are not aware of their happiness. They are still running for money to have more and more and they can't take advantages of their fortune.

On the other hand, I live among people who can be happy despite the fact that they are rather poor. For them the most important is good health, children and family.

-5-

Joining NATO -advantages and disadvantages.

NATO, which stands for the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, is a political and military alliance among 19 independent and sovereign countries of Europe and North America (e.g.) The treaty was signed on 4"' April 1949. The organisation was designated for creating common defence and security system. Moreover NATO permits international co-operation in management improving modem technologies and science. Joining NATO has both advantages and disadvantages. First of all it gives us on efficient security and defence system. Secondly NATO will probably provide us with advanced military technology as well as modem equipment and armament. By taking part in common military exercises and peacekeeping Polish units can improve their professional military skills. Finally I hope Polish soldiers will possibly increase. On the other hand joining NATO has some disadvantages. The main of them is connected with the cost of our participation in NATO. In future we will have to contribute to the common budget of the Alliance. Beside we will have to reduce the number Polish soldiers. In addition our Armed forces will be obliged to reorganised themselves in order to meet requirements of NATO standards I think that joining NATO will brings us some benefits such as opportunity of development we are aware of draw back for example.

-6-

What is your view on smoking? Should taxes on cigarettes be raised?

Many people all over the world smoke cigarettes. They are convinced that smoking has lot benefits. They think that it helps them relieve the stress of everyday life. They even claim that thanks to cigarettes they do not feel shy and their social contacts are made easier. Many smokers are of the opinion that cigarettes are good for their nerves, stimulating, relaxing and therefore they are not ready to give up the habit.

People don't often realise that cigarettes are the main cause of lung cancer, which kills hundreds of thousands of people every year. Smoking also increases the risk of heart disease and people who smoke are more likely to die of a heart attack. On average, an ordinary cigarette smoker dies five and half years earlier than a non-smoker. Many people claim that high taxes are good method to fight against smokers. From my point of view, high taxes on cigarettes will cause that smokers will have to smoke cheaper and worse sort of cigarettes which are more dangerous for their health. There are many ways of giving up smoking. Unfortunately, good intentions are not enough. The most important is strong will and determination.

-4-

What job would you do if you were not an army officer?

In 1981 I decided to pursue a military career. After five years of my studying, I graduated from Military Academy of Technology in Warsaw in 1986. I have got the master's degree in Cybemetic Faculty. Then the information technologist was very fashionable and attractive profession because the computer technique has begun to enter everywhere. If I were not an army officer I would work in computers too, but in civilian areas. When I was young I liked learning mathematics and physics. Learning these subjects was easy for me. Today it is very attractive and interesting profession. Cybemetics and computers technology develops amazingly fast. At present computers affect nearly every area of our lives. Computers, robots and machines do most of the work in factories, banks, homes and other places. This profession is still very important because the future of modern society depends greatly on computerisation. My job will be better paid then it is now. I wouldn't have to move from place to place and I could improve my English much earlier. I would pursue only my profession. To sum up I would be proud of my job if I will choose this profession in civilian areas.

-7-

How I learn English.

I think that in order to learn English I have to have a proper attitude to do it. Good way to develop it is an inner motivation. I learn English, for many reasons. It is needed for me in my work. Next, I need it for contact with my friends and in order to read the newspaper and to watch TV programs broadcasted in the original version. In my opinion the very good way to study English is attending a course.

Every day after the lessons I record onto the tape the sentences that have new words. Then when I am driving I can listen to them. I have a little notebook in which I can write the new words two or three limes a week. I write the English word first then the translation and a short sentence as an example. I try to learn ten new words a day. I also read a lot for example newspaper or books written in simple language. Sometimes I put groups of words in my personal dictionary, like fruit, animals, and clothes. I have some grammar pages where I write irregular verbs or a page for propositions. I think that English is difficult for me, but I hope that after this course I will speak and write English more fluently. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays I realise my own learning program using student book and workbook. I regard these books very well for learning because they contain a lot of exercises. On Fridays and Saturdays I listen to a lot of typescripts. Moreover I think that I have to overcome the fear of speaking. I think that I don't avoid occasions to express my thoughts in English.

-8-

Do you like the town you live in? Why/why not?

I have lived in Warsaw for three years. Warsaw is the capitol of Poland. It lies on the River Vistula in the very centre of Poland. During the World War II it was in ruins. Now it is beautifully city. It is not the biggest city in Europe but is very interesting. Warsaw is famous for many things. Tourists come from all over the World to visit this historic city. There is the Old Town with beautiful 14"' century buildings and pretty little streets. There is the Palace of Culture and Science. There are many beautiful parks. In Warsaw we can see famous Royal Castle and Sigmundu's Column. There are many theatres, museums and operas. There are also good restaurants, bars and department stores.

Warsaw has problems with traffic and pollution. Now there is a modern underground, but traffic is still a problem, because Warsaw does not have any motorways round the city. Warsaw has many small car parks but they are too small. I like Warsaw very much because I live and work here. I love the atmosphere of the Old Town and its lovely pubs. I like walking to Łazienki with my family. We love the green countryside of Warsaw.

-9-

Does money make people happy?

It is very difficult for me to imagine my life without money, or working without salary. In my opinion it is very important to have money although there are o lot of things which are more important than money.

To start with, if I have a lot of money I can send my son to private school for learning different foreign languages.

Also, new technological equipment, which is very expensive, will make our lives easier. You can buy for example computer but you need money.

In addition to this, some people argue that it is necessary to dress fashionably in order to create the correct image for their carriers. This is particularly true of those who work with the public. If you want to do it you have to spend too much money on fashion.

On the other hand, if I have money I would like to visit famous palaces during my leisure time and holiday. I can go on a package tour, which is very convenient for me.

To conclude, I strongly believe that money makes people happy.

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What is the crime situation in Poland? What can be done?

The crime rate in Poland is very high and it's still rising, especially when organised crime is concerned. As the police is corrupted and many crimes escape detection criminals may feel safe and comfortable.

The streets of big cities are dangerous by day and at night. In my opinion, there is a solution this problem.

The police should be paid more, so that they become more interested in their work. They should be better equipped. What's more, we should be change the law - it shouldn't be lenient for criminals.

Unfortunately, no changes may be expected in the nearest future.

-11-

My good and bad habits.

It's difficult subject to talk because it's not easy to talk about oneself. There aren't people without demerits and bad habits. The famous Russian bard Bułat Okudżawa said in one of his ballad „The nature doesn't know sinless people".

So I like most of people haven't only good habits but also bad ones too. One of my bad habits is foible to beautiful things, especially books, watches, pens, phones etc. I spend a lot of money on it, but in my opinion it's better then being a penny pincher.

Besides this I like sleeping a lot, thought lately I don't have a lot of free time to do it because I am learning English. Another my bad habit is fast driving. I know that it is sometimes dangerous, so I fight with bad habit. There aren't all my bad habits. It will better if I keep other things secret. Let me tell you about my good habits. Unfortunately, in my opinion and also in my wife's opinion there aren't too many of them.

For example I have habit of shaving and singing. I don't have good voice and that's why there are many fans at my home and at my neighbour's home too. Another my habit is admiring the beauty of the nature, especially flowers' and women' beauty. Luckily, my wife doesn't know all hobbies interests and habits.

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Does money give happiness or not?

It is a very difficult problem. There are people all over the world that hasn't got too much money and they are very happy. But there are also people very rich and they are very unhappy. There are poor people who say that only a lot of money can made them very happy. This problem I'm going to show on the following example.

There are a lot of rich people all over the world. One group of rich people is businessmen. As young people they study business to learn how to manage it later. Very often they are children of rich people. When they finish their education they establish and develop some companies to earn money. They often spend a lot of money on enjoying themselves. Some groups of wealthy people live in expensive palaces. Large groups of wealthy people constitute sportsmen, especially tennis players, basketball players, boxers and footballers. At the beginning of their career they train and play for pleasure but then they have to work very hard so they can become famous. They spend a very interesting life but they have more personal and private problems. They very often are disloyal in their marriages and get divorced. Most of them lose their fame very fast and they become addicted to alcohol and drugs. I think that money can give happiness but only to wise people.

-13-

What are your career ambitions?

I'm career officer. I'm joined the Army in 1984. I have been career officer since 1988. When I began my work in the army I wanted to be a good soldier. And I started to learn my job. In 1996 I graduated WKDO because it was necessary for my military career. The changes in Poland and in all over the world give us new challenge. These challenges are very difficult. We have to learn more and more, because all is new. And now we should be learn new languages and knew system of organisation work in our army. I think that all officers' career ambitions are the following:

to complete a good course;

to be promoted;

to serve in the command army;

to be general;

to earn a lot of money

-14-

What qualities would a person need to do your job?

If we want to describe our profession we should say that is a very difficult task, If you want to be a good soldier you should have various qualities. Firstly you should be well educated and would need to speak two foreign fluently languages and your character should be friendly, responsible, quiet, respectful and tolerant. Moreover, you must be able to operate computers and sophisticated weapon systems. Secondly, you have to be very fit, resistant to the difficulties of the military life and at the same time you should be creative and full of initiative. Thirty, you should be demanding patient and obstinate. Quick decision making and courage under battle stress are also essential. If you want to be a good soldier you have to have good relations with the subordinates and superiors. Last, but not least you should always take care about your appearance and you should remember that you represent the army not just yourself.

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Old age as a social problem.

There are several stages in everybody's life. The last stage of life is the old age. No one wants to be old. People get their pension. If they are not active, they will get old very fast. They old people seem to have time to do all the things they dreamt of before but they also face different problems. They have serious problems with health. Many old people are homeless. They live in the streets and in railway or bus stations. Some of them have never had families. Some of them complain about their children who threw them out of their houses, as if they were a burden.

Many old people feel redundant and rejected by the society; they spend most of the time sitting at the window observing nature and other people. They are often waiting for death. All the old people need our help and support. Their children should first of all help them. The government should assure them the suitable standards of living and social protection.

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SPIS TREŚCI

What are the good and bad

things about television?..................1

How has the weather changed

in Poland over the last few

years?..............................................2

Which newspapers/magazines

do you read? Why?.........................3

What is your view on

smoking? Should taxes on

cigarettes be raised?........................4

The more we have the more

unhappy we are...............................5

Joining NATO -advantages and

disadvantages..................................6

The ideal home.

The house for people has always been a symbol of independence and safety. The house has been a place where person returned with joy and missed it being somewhere far. The house has been the place where a person could gather his powers. The house and family has made basic elements of society. The ideal house is when all family wants to live there. Where each one has his corner for resting, learning and to meeting friends. This house should be a detached house with the big garden around, inhabitants' garages, the swimming pool. There should be beautiful view from its balconies. The house should be situated in calm place. This house doesn't have to be very beautiful but it should be very comfortable for his inhabitants. Each of the inhabitants should have his own, room and enough place for life. Then it should be spacious with cosy and warm rooms. The ideal has to have two kinds of central heating - oil and electric heating, and air conditioning. The very important thing is that friendliness should be in this house. Here should reign warm relations between husband and his wife and between parents and their children. The ideal house should consist of presented above elements.

-21-

A film (play) book you have seen/read recently.

The best film, which I have watched recently at cinema, was "Forest Gump". The film was based on a novel written by Winston Groom. Famous American actor plays the title role. He won the Oscar Prize for his acting in that film. "Forest Gump" is a romantic and amusing story of a simple and not very intelligent young man. The film reveals that a person doesn't need to be educated or clever achieve fame and money. It shows that optimism is very important in life. Moreover, this film is very important because it teaches love and lives optimism. I think everybody should watch this film.

-22-

A real man never cries (drinks beer, likes boobs and loves football).

The men are quite different from women. There is an undeniable right. The position of a man in each society depends on its culture, tradition and history. For instance, in some western countries, the men and the women the same works in their household. Sometimes men grow up their children but women earn money for living. I think that some men in those countries cry because their life is awful.

The situation is quite different in certain Arabic countries. The men have all rights. They can work everywhere, go to restaurants to meet their friends. They can also go to watch matches. They always take profits from their lives. The Arabic wives don't have any rights. They always stay at home and bring up their children. They can't spend their spare time with pleasure outside.

A Polish man has his position in a family. He is obliged to have a son, built home and plant a tree. According to song, which is called the real man never, cries. Polish men never cry. He plays a dominant role in his family. He always earns much more than his wife does. He plans his family's holiday and decides on main shopping etc. Polish man is very handsome and chivalrous.

-23-

Having older/younger brothers/sisters.

Having a brother or a sister has many advantages. First of all, it is definitely better to have at least one or one because:

• you can have secrets with your sister or brother;

• you can find more understanding when you have a problem;

• you can also rely on her or his help and advice.

Moreover, you have a heart to heart talk with your sister or brother. However; having a brother or a sister also has some disadvantages. For one thing, you have to help in his or her homework. Also, you often have to share your room with younger/older sister or brother. Despite the disadvantages, I think that child who has a brother or a sister is happier.

She or he becomes independent quicker that his or her friends of the same age who is the only child. In my opinion numerous families are psychologically better and socially healthier.

-27-

Pocket money for children (1).

In my opinion children should have their pocket money. That money (hey should get from their parents every week or every month. There are many reasons why I suggest it.

First of all they can buy books, notebooks, writing materials and all things which they want and need.

I think that children should learn this way - how to spend their money, although there are arguments for this suggestion and against it as well. So I think parents should control it.

On the other hand our children can buy drugs. Many teenagers take drugs because they think it is the best way-out. Drugs are dangerous for many reasons, they can drive to depression or even death. Secondly, having own money by children could help them to become more experienced in their future life.

Apart from all of I have mentioned above, children should have their own money in order to learn how difficult it is to save money and how to organise their spending.

When I was a student, I had a part-time job and I always worked during summer holidays. It really helped my family and me. Of course, I had also time for studying and entertainment, because I was trying to be well organised!

-24-

Pocket money for children (2).

Pocket money is the some of money, which we give our children regularly for example weekly or monthly.

It's good when we know what our children spend pocket money on, but on the other hand we should trust our children. Of course, there are some advantages and disadvantages of giving pocket money.

We teach them to save money. We teach them to appropriate the value of money. Our children learn how to economise the money. They learn to be responsible for their money. And they are learning that earning money is not easy.

Sometime children waste the money or spend it on harmful things e.g. drugs, cigarettes, alcohol.

Pocket money should be proper to the age of childhood. It's not good to give to much them. Sometime we don't give pocket money because we haven't got enough to live on. Some of children compare how much many they have.

I think that pocket money for children is a very good idea. However, the amount of them for our children should depend on their age. Older children can get more money then younger children.

-25-

Being an only child.

In my opinion being an only child is very difficult. An only child doesn't have any brothers or sisters so he or she may often feel very lonely. Such a child usually has problems with dealing with other people and it's possible he or she will be an egoistic person in the adult life. Parents of only children usually exaggerate in taking care of them and as a result, many such children are very spoiled.

What's more, a sad, lonely child doesn't have anybody to play with so its life may be boring sometimes. I think it's good to have a brother or a sister. Growing up in a family that has more than one child is much easier and more interesting than living as an only child.

-26-

If you had a choice to live in a city or in a town what would you choose and why?

If I had to choose to live in a city or in a town I would choose to live in a city. Life in a city is more interesting, exciting and comfortable than in a town or a country. A big city gives us opportunity (possibilities) to choose good school because there are many different schools. In a big city it is easier to find good and interesting job. There are cinemas, theatres, restaurants, clubs, parks and other places where people can spend their free time. There are also a lot of good shops and department stores where you can buy everything easily and quickly. These are advantages of living in a city, however living in a city has also disadvantages. There is heavy traffic in a big city. Fumes emitted directly into atmosphere pollute the air and environment. The noise never stops and there are many car accidents every day. It is very difficult to find a place to park your car (a parking place), especially in the centre. Very important problem in big cities is the crime. A lot of people never go out in the evening because they are afraid of being robbed.

Although living in a town or a country is easier, cheaper and healthier I want (prefer) to live in a city. I prefer to spend holidays, weekends, and to have a rest in a country or a town but I prefer to work in a city.

-28-

Sport

Practising sports is a popular leisure activity. It is generally known that people who do physical exercises keep fit and healthy. Moreover, taking up a sport has also many psychological benefits. First, it relieves the stresses everyday life and second, it helps individuals identify with a group and replace their loneliness with the security of belonging.

Sports play a very important part in the Polish lifestyle. The president himself jogs every morning, plays tennis and is a leading advocate of fitness. The favourite Polish sports today are basketball and football. Jogging has also become very popular recently. The early morning joggers have their jogging shoes, their jogging suits, their jogging watches and even their jogging magazines.

However, even if they practice jogging out of sheer snobbery, it is still good that they make an effort to be in good condition. Unfortunately, many Poles prefer watching sports on television. About 15 million people watch football matches every year. Tennis, ice hockey and skating also attract millions of viewers.

However, it is important to remember that only active participation in sports activities may ensure fitness and well being.

-29-

Do you think Poland is attractive to foreigners?

Poland is situated in the central part of Europe between seven countries. On the North of our country there is the Baltic Sea witch very nice beaches. On the South there are mountains with beautifully views especially in spring and autumn. Rafting along the Dunajec River is an unforgettable experience for all people who like adventures. Moreover there are many wonderful historic monuments and interesting cities.

In my opinion Polish people are very friendly to the foreigners. Polish country is one of the cheapest places for people from Western Europe or America. Hotels and restaurants are now cleaner than ten years ago.

Poland is a good country for foreign investors because the workforce is cheaper than in Western Europe and market, especially the vehicle market is expanding very well. In 1999 Polish people bought a lot of new cars because many of the investors built factories and banks. Poland is one of the countries witch the biggest chance of joining the European Union in 2003.

Poland is worth visiting and investing.

-31-

A real man never cries.

I don't agree with this sentence. I think it isn't truth because the fact that you cry sometimes doesn't mean that you aren't a real man. It means that you're a human who has some problems. Sometimes is sad and sometimes is happy. A man who doesn't cry at all isn't a real man. He is only a cruel person without any feelings.

This is a life. There is a time when we are happy and time when we are sad and sometime cry.

This stereotype comes from TV, from not very ambitions movies and very popular but not very intelligent magazines (for women usually).

If real man never cries who needs him. I think that if the real man never cries there aren't any real man in the world.

-32-

Is a learning foreign language useful?

A learning foreign language, especially English is needed for many people. English language become more and more important in our life, and in our work. It is an intentional language. In every part of the world people learn English. English skills are connected with our job and of course with our personal life. Our country became a member of NATO and English language is necessary to communicate with soldiers from other country of NATO. The latest news we can only get from CNN or BBC. The speakers of these broadcasting stations give news only in English. If we want to know the latest news we must speak English. People who have to travel all over the world is blind if they don't speak English. Inside many places for example trains, plans, ships, ferries and other public transports every instructions are write In national language; and in English. Similar situation is in the restaurants, cinemas, theatres, operas etc. In restaurant for example if you don't speak English you can order meals which you don't like. I think that learning English is very useful for every man.

-30-

Why do people become famous?

People become famous from many reasons. Sportsmen become famous when they win championships or set up a record. Singers and musicians become famous when their song or melody is liked by the people, and are on tops on the charts. Actors are famous because of the film or performances they play in.

The other reason to be famous is people's skills or knowledge. Many scientists become famous when they make a great discovery. Sometimes they are known when they get The Nobel Prize.

Politicians are also very popular people. I think that everyone in Poland knows who Lech Wałęsa or Alaksander Kwaśniewski are. In England everybody knows the members of the Royal Family.

Press, radio or TV plays a very important role in making people famous. It's common that someone did something important but nobody knows about it, and on the other hand it also happens that somebody did nothing important but is created a star. In some cases people become famous doing horrible things. I think that many of us remember Oswald who assassinated President Kennedy in Dallas. Being famous depends on people's interests. People who are known to some of us are not necessarily known to all of us.

-33-

What makes you angry?

There are a lot of things that make me angry. The truth is that I'm very nervous person. For example I'm very angry when I watch the news or when I listen to it in the radio, especially political news make me angry. Very often I'm angry when I drive a car and another driver does some unexpected things, sometimes stupid and dangerous. My daughter always says that they drive without imagination. My daughter sometimes makes me angry when I tell her to do something and she does something different. Also very stubborn people who express your strange and not very logical opinions. When they aren't right and you can't explain them that they are wrong, it always makes me angry. I don't know why.

-34-

The more we have the more unhappy we are.

(Im więcej mamy, tym bardziej jesteśmy nieszczęśliwi).

I agree with this thesis. The rich are the true example of this, statement. They buy a big house with a beautiful garden. They spend every summer holidays in exotic countries where there are many interesting cities and wonderful beaches.

They have a lot of friends but they haven't one thing - authentic friends.

Although, they have everything, they are lonely and unhappy. Probably they can't be pleased with small pleasure and they don't know authentic love and sincerity.

So I think that the more we have the unhappy we are.

-35-

Why are people afraid of the dark?

Most people remember their own childhood when they heard many stories about magicians, monsters and other phantoms. Of course they all lived in the dark and were very dangerous. Now sometimes they come to life again in people's subconscious. Other people remember cruel movies especially horrors and creme movies fully of blood and dead bodies. All that remained in their subconscious too. The dark awakens people's imagination and calls up all forgotten phantoms and cruel stories. Completely different problem is the one the old people have with darkness. They connect the dark with the death of their friends or family members. The black colour tells them about the end their life and it remembers them about unknown future. People always frightened darkness others with in order to reach different profits. For example: church (Faraon); parents; books, film or TV.

-36-

Do you think people should dress up for important occasions?

It seems to me that people shouldn't look like a sack of potatoes when they take part in the important occasion. If somebody invites us to the party we should adapt the customs obligatory in his home. That's why people should dress up for special occasion. But on the other side how many times the voice is coming out from the room: We are going out tomorrow but I haven't got anything to wear? Women understand this problem very well. We often see important meeting, parties, and routs or even if government press conference when some people look as if then forgot to dress up. It looks sorrowfully, and causes comments everywhere next day. Of course in each society there is group of people who attach no importance to dressing up but I think we shouldn't follow their example. Everybody has important occasion in our life such as the final school examination, the wedding day, the first sacrament or declaration of love. How should we dress in those days? Casually or ceremonially with the tie and suit? I think that our knowledge, intelligence and intuition of concrete situation will prompt us with the answer to this question.

-37-

How do you study a foreign language? Give advice.

We know, that foreign language is a very important thing in contemporary world, especially English which became an international language. We understand, that learning English is necessary for our future and we know that only very hard and systematic work can bring good results.

In order to learn English fluently we must practise four basic skills: writing, reading, speaking and listening.

I think, that speaking and listening are the most important for learning English. Every day or every other day we must watch English TV for one or two hours, especially BBC News, Euro News, CNN, etc.

Also, from time to time we can speak with our friends at work, who have completed second or third level course of English. It is a good idea for improves English.

What's more, to have good results, we must write on many subjects. We can describe our life, our family, problems of people and other subjects. We must read English newspaper too.

I think, that due to above activities and hard work success is guaranteed.

-39-

Men make houses. Women make homes.

The polish proverb says „each man in his life has to build a house, have a son and plant a tree, but his woman has to make atmosphere in this house, cook meals and spoil children". It means that man builds and woman creates it's a special partition of duties.

A man has always been responsible for his family. Men went hunting, brought food and protected their women and children. They always worked very hard so that their families could live.

What about women? They stayed home, looked after their children, brought them up. Women were always at home when their husband's came back home after hard work.

At home a man could meet his waiting wife and smiling children. A woman was responsible for doing most of the housework. Nowadays a lot of women go to work because their husbands do not earn enough money. There are not special duties assigned only for a man or for a woman. They both have to bring up their children cook meals and clean up their home.

Today a man and a woman together build their home and create atmosphere inside it. Although our life is changing the title-statement is still valid.

-40-

The most difficult exam you have ever taken.

Exams are for many of us a real horror. They are usually accompanied by a sense of uncertainty and the powerlessness to control the situation. The negative stress reaction is heightened, The heart pounds, the breathing quickens and the body pumps out adrenaline. In my opinion, the most difficult exam I have ever taken and I will ever have to pass is life at itself. It is stiff because we prepare to it the whole time. And in spite of it we can't be sure what it will be about. It's even impossible to prepare some cribs. All of us prepare ourselves individually. After hearing the results we can't correct it. There is only one chance to pass it. We won't be told about the results. There won't be a list of best students. The only consoling fact is that everybody has to enter an examination. Without any exceptions

-38-

NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) was established in 1949 year. Contemporary NATO consists of 19 member's states. NATO is a defensive alliance based on political and military co-operation among member's countries. The main tasks of this organisation are:

Keeping of peace and stability throughout Europe and North America;
Committed to safeguarding the freedom, common heritage and civilisation of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy;
Individual liberty and the rule of law.

Head Quarters is situated in capital of Belgium in Brussels. NATO decisions are taken on the basis of consensus, after discussion and consultation among the member's countries. Last time NATO have extended their co-operation to new partners in Central and Eastern Europe.

-41-

Money rules the world.

I think that money has many advantages. First of all, it gives me satisfaction. When I have a lot of money I can buy everything. Also, I can travel all over the world and I can have many hobbies.

However, money has some disadvantages. For one thing, rich people can buy only material things. It makes them lonely because they can't buy love, health and happiness.

I fully agree with the sentence that money rules the world, because the politics and money walk together. Generally is said “people rule money and money rules the world". Well, old people say, "not silver, not gold but the most important is to be younger".

In my opinion money itself can't give me happiness but it can help in finding it.

-43-

The worst teacher you're ever had.

If we want to talk on the above topic we must give a definition what „the worst teacher" means. When we went to school we reckoned a strict teacher to be the worst teacher. This opinion is variable. We think quite differently when we become grown up. We remember very long the teachers who had, very big requirements, who forced us to learning. It is true that they just taught us the most. I remember really only my very strict teachers and just now I understand what they did for me. Finally I think that all teachers are good. Being a teacher is a very difficult and responsible job. So, everybody who becomes a teacher must do it out of vocation.

-47-

Poland and NATO.

NATO it is the military pact. Its full name says North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. NATO started its activities in 1949. The Pact was signed in Washington. Its main task is to keep peace in the northern part of the world. At present there are 19 members in NATO. Poland, Czech Republic and Hungary joined NATO this year. Russia is the main opponent of Poland's joining NATO because its western frontier will be too close to the Pact. That's why Russia is afraid of expanding NATO structures. We hope that membership of NATO will be an interesting and rewarding experience and the opportunities to contact Western officers will contribute to the development of our language skills and exchange of opinions. There were the conditions of Poland's membership in NATO. We had to fulfil certain requirements to join NATO such as:

- ensure civilian control over the armed forces

- reduce the army from 220 000 to 180 000 people

- ensure interoperation capability of Polish units with the NATO forces

- modernise our weapons and communications equipment

- develop our language skills

- adjust procedures to NATO standards

-42-

Good ways to lose weight.

Nowadays many people especially in rich countries feed badly. They eat too much meat and grease. If people eat these dishes they should work very hard. This let them keep fit. Science shows us that only fit people can be healthy. Overweight is a cause of many diseases. If people are overweight, they have to lose it. Good ways to lose overweight are the following:

- don't eat too much;

- eat less meat and grease but more vegetables and fruit;

- train every day to improve the fitness;

- don't drink beer and other alcohol too much; '

- after diner or supper don't go to bed;

- often go for a walk;

- eat regularly;

- eat often but a little;

- a starving isn't a good way to lose weight.

I think that a few above advises help us to lose weight.

-44-

Qualities of perfect soldier.

A perfect soldier must be disciplined, fit, and courageous. Only a disciplined soldier is reliable. He can carry out each order. Discipline is the main quality of good soldiers.

A perfect soldier must be fit. He must train every day to improve his fitness and develop his agility, strength and endurance. Good soldier must be able to survive in the field and use his weapon perfect.

Courage means the ability to control fear in a situation that may be dangerous. If a soldier is not brave, he can't do his job properly and lets his comrades down.

-45-

Having older (younger) brother or sister.

I think that only one child in a family must feel lonely. Usually he tends to be selfish or very self-confident.

In my opinion most of us have brothers or sisters but having on older or younger brother (sister) has a lot of advantages and of disadvantages. Generally speaking it is definitely better to have at least one sister or brother. You can share secrets with your brother or sister. I have the older brother.

When I was young he was an example for me. He often looked after me and taught me lot of new things. He defended me also when I needed. My older brother taught me how to ride a bike and swim. He also bought me sweets and chocolate. However that situation had some disadvantages, because our parents often bought new things for me brother (especially clothes). Now we both have our own families. We often visit each other and we speak about our childhood.

Unfortunately I do have a younger brother or sister. I think that if had younger brother or sister I would to teach him new things and looked after him. I am sure that he would be proud of me.

Generally speaking numerous families (about 3 children) provide a better psychological and socially healthier environment for development.

But on the other hand these days families usually have only a child.

-46-

Women in the army.

The role of women in the modem world is very important. Today women are educated and they often do the same things as men. A traditional role of women has changed as well. Women have succeeded in any job you care to name. As politicians soldiers, doctors university professors, scientists and presidents of state. Poland does not have tradition of fulfilling professional military service by women. In the Polish army women were conscripted only during wars. They worked as liaisons officer, communications service and nurses. Professional military service requires a lot of physical effort and mental strength. The women can endure and tolerate what in a tang time. The modern battle field requires skills, instant concentration, effort and making a decision in the short time. Women can have problems with this.

In NATO this problem looks quite different and the percentage of women is the following:

- US of America -13%

- Canada -12%

- Greece -7%

- France -4%

- Spain -1%

In Poland women were for the first time allowed to study on WAT (Military Academy of Technology). At present 30 women started education, but I'm sure that in the future their number will increase.

-48-

A person you will never forget.

A person who I will never forget is the Pope John Paul the Second. I met him during the pilgrimage of the Pope to Poland last year. It has been a very important event in my life, which was impressive for me. The Pope's real name is Karol Wojtyła but he is called John Paul the Second. He is the most important person of Catholic Church and he is the head of Vatican.

He has been the Pope for 21 years now. He was elected in l978. It was a very important event for each Pole. The Pope visited Poland seven times. His visits help to keep peace all over the world. In his speeches he touches on many very important social problems: unemployment, poverty, violence, lack of understanding, love to other people, etc.

Every time in his speeches he pays a great attention to young people who are the future of the nation.

The Pope speaks 16 languages fluently but in fact he knows more. He is friendly to people and he has a sense of humour. The Pope is a politician who spreads well of Poland all over the world. I think he is a perfect politician. I admire him.

-49-

Administrative division of Poland.

Poland is a country in middle Europe. The capital of Poland is Warsaw. Poland has about 40 million habitants (citizens). Two years ago Administrative division of Poland was changed, At present our country is divided into 16 province. Provinces consist of districts and districts are divided into municipalities.

This division has been introduced to improve management in Poland. It was a very controversial issue, which has divided our society and our politician. Most people in our country were definitely against new administrative division.

-50-

Qualities you must admire in people.

It is a very interesting topic but very difficult to understand. In my opinion many people have good qualities but unfortunately they are not visible. I would you like to say that of all qualities in people, I admire honesty and ambition. I like people who are outgoing, sociable and have common sense. As far as I am concerned the most important qualities are friendship and enthusiasm. I have a great admiration for people who are friendly and helpfully. Our life is much easier when we meet a person who is sensitive and reliable. I prefer dealings with people who are organised and polite than people who are lazy and rude.

I admire intelligent and hard working people. I hate people who are impolite and dishonest

-51-

The perfect wife.

The perfect wife for me is of course my wife. The first thing, which I notice about her, is her hair - it is very dark. Her eyes are black and her face is pretty. As I remember, she was a nice girl, when she was younger and still she is.

My wife is not very tall and not thins either. She likes fashionable cloths, sweaters and blouses, which she knits by herself. She is very clever! Her favourite colours are blue, red and white. She also sews skirts, dresses, blouses and so on. But the whole family admires her cakes, cookies and sweets, which she bakes very often. All of them are delicious! She even baked cakes at my birthday party and many people remember them up till now.

I like spending time with my wife and I am never bored staying with her.

All in all, the perfect wife should have a good reputation for being very warm and generous person.

-52-

Your attitude to technology.

I think that technology is very important thing for us, because gives us many useful things which can help us in our life.

A new technology has revolutionised many way of people's work. The best example of this is computer. I think it is the best invention in the world. Computer seems to be indispensable in our live. Computers are having an enormous impact on science and technology. Computers have many applications in factories where they are used for controlling and analysing many industrial processes. Medicine, banking, telecommunication, energetic, architecture, engineering, and railway system are dependent on computer design.

Nowadays no one can imagine life without useful invention, such as television. Television is a powerful force because it keeps us information about catastrophes, accidents, crimes, and wars. TV increases our knowledge about the world, people, their couture, traditions and so on.

Also very useful for people are mobile phones. They can help us when we are in dangerous situations. They are being used in business where quick decisions sending them as soon as possible very important issue.

Frankly speaking, I think that we can not imagine our life without computers, television and mobile phones. They have become one of the most powerful forces in modern society.

-55-

A film you'd like to play in.

If I was an actor I would play in a film „With fire and a sword" by Jerzy Hoffman. I'd like to play the part of Skrzetuski. I think Skrzetuski was a very colourful person and interesting character. I would like to play the role of him also because he was a soldier and I am the one too.

Skrzetuski's adventures were something I dreamt about when I was a child and I was reading the book by Sienkiewicz. What's more, I'm interested in the events the film and the book are based on.

The role of Skrzetuski is very difficult but at the same time fascinating. He's very fit, he rides a horse and fights a lot. I'd like to play the part of him also because of Izabela Scorupco.

-53-

Coping with stress (radzenie sobie ze stresem).

Nowadays, we live at a great pace. Such a kick pace has made us adopt to a very stressful live. We are open to it at school, at work at home. Stress is the cause of illness, psychical deformity, unhappy family life, problem at works etc.

Stress is typical for such professions are directors, managers, pilots, doctors and professional soldiers. Another groups subject to stress are people who have been brought up in strict discipline and who never tested real love in their childhood. So far medicine has not found any remedy of stress. However, there are some ways to cope with it.

Here are a few pieces of advice:

Don't try to be perfectionist at cost of your health;
Take your time. Slow down if you live too fast;
Keep distance to yourself. The most important things are not so important as you think;
Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Have a rest, exercise, go for a walk and don't abuse alcohol, cigarettes and coffee.

My conclusion is the following - we should believe that the way in which we react to stress depends only ourselves.

-59-

Encourage a foreigner to visit your city.

Poland is situated in the central part of Europe between seven countries On the North of our country there is the Baltic Sea with very nice beaches and very interesting cities for example Szczecin or Gdańsk. On the South there are mountains with beautiful views especially in spring and autumn. Personally I believe that one of the most wonderful places in our country is Warsaw. Every year a lot of tourists come to Warsaw. Warsaw is the capital of Poland. Warsaw became the capital in 1611. It lies on the River Vistula in the very centre of Poland. During the Second World War this city was in ruins. Now Warsaw is a beautiful city. The population of Warsaw is about two million people. It is not the biggest city in Europe but it is very interesting. Warsaw is famous for many things. Tourists come from all over the world to visit this historic city. Warsaw has many sights for the tourist to see. There is the Old Town with beautiful 14 Th century buildings and pretty little streets.

This is one of the popular sights for tourists in Warsaw. There are many beautiful parks. One of the best times to visit Warsaw's parks is in the summer. In Warsaw we can see the famous Royal Castle and Sigmund's Column. There are 18 theatres, an opera, and an operetta. There are also good restaurants, bars and department stores. I like Warsaw very much and I love the atmosphere of the Old Town. In my opinion, Polish people are friendly to the foreigners.

Polish country is one of the cheapest places for people from Western Europe or America. I think that the tourists who come to Poland, especially to Warsaw, find a lot of interesting sights.

-54-

What qualities I expect to find in a teacher?

Teacher's job has been known as long as the mankind exists. It has always been needed to the people. A teacher has always been a guide for people who wanted to comprehend their world. Nowadays a good teacher has almost the same qualities like a teacher had many hundred years ago. But the teacher's job tools have changed.

Contemporary teacher can use many kinds of modern devices like TV and computers. However, the main qualities, I expect to find in a teacher, are the same.

First of all, he should be well educated and his character should be friendly, quiet, respectful and tolerant. Secondly, he should have very good methodical skills because in this job it is a key to a pedagogical success. Thirdly, he traditionally should be demanding, patient and obstinate. Moreover he should be passionately fond of his job. In addition he should have many other passions perhaps music, poetry, sport, etc.

Finally the ideal teacher should be a colourful figure having an imagination and great professionalism with the range of his subject.

-56-

Books, TV, radio - if you had to do without one of these, which would you, rather give up.

Books, TV, radio are very important parts of our life. Every day you watch TV, listen to the radio or read for example newspapers not only because you want, to know what happened in the country or all over the world.

I don't think I could live without TV. I don't know why, maybe because I like watching it very much. I can't or just I don't want to do anything to change it, so I won't give up TV.

Every year fewer people read books maybe because they don't have time or they prefer watching TV. I don't read much either, but I like doing it and only if I have time I read something so I thing I won't give it up. This means that I rather give up radio. It's my decision.

-57-

Stereotype of Polish nationality.

The image of Polish nationality was created for many years. Personally I think that this stereotype is changing for the better. For a long time Polish nationality was famous for courage, high morale and hospitality.

On other hand they had a reputation of being lazy, nationalistic, impatient and drunk as a lord. At present a very characteristic feature of Polish nationality is being religious. In my opinion stereotype of Polish nationality is not similar to one of other country. The difference opinion as far as the stereotype of Polish nationality depends on who is speaking.

-58-

Young people's problem.

In fact I don't know about it because it was a lot time ago when I was a young person. But all young people have many problems sometimes rather silly, but sometime very serious. They have problems at school or contact with their friends. Sometime their parents don't understand them or they don't understand their parents. Very often they have problems with their first relationships. They have also silly problems like new original clothes or something like that. Nowadays many people have very bad habits. They're depending on drugs, cigarettes or alcohol. It's very serious problem, not only for these young people but also for their families and friends. It happens very often, too often I think.

-60-

What do you think about TV?

In my opinion TV is a useful invention and it has significant place in our life. It's a major source from which people get the news and knowledge about the world. Sometime adsorb the mind and it has educational possibilities.

I quite rarely watch TV program. My favourite programs that I watch are documents films, nature films, news and weather forecast. I hate advertisement at all. In my opinion there're very silly.

TV has both advantages and disadvantages. As a result we must choose what is good to our children or us and we should know which programs we can ignore or not. It's always up to us - our likes or dislikes. Thanks TV we sometimes cut off from the real world.

-61-

Why is positive thinking and healthy lifestyle very important in our live?

Whether we live long and happily very much depend on how we thinking and how we treat our bodies. It seems that the most important are a good diet, vigorous exercise and positive thinking. Everyone can achieve happiness in live but it only depends on us. Positive thinking and healthy lifestyle is positive quality of many people and they also depend on a human nature. By the healthy lifestyle we prevent illness. There are very important to eat a lot of fruit and vegetables because they contain vitamins and minerals. We also should eat regularly several times a day and many smiles. Another important things for our health are sleep and rest. We also should know that only relaxed and positive thinking have a chance to keep healthy. Equally important is giving up such bad habits as drinking alcohol or smoking. However many doctors prescribe to drink two drinks a day. Positive thinking enable to relieve stress. People who are thinking positive and their lifestyles are healthy are very self-confidant. They can enjoy life more. We should avoid fat-building sweets, ice creams, cookies and crisps.

-62-

What do you think is the ideal proportion between work and leisure?

Many scientists think over and try to find a universal proportion between work and leisure. I think there isn't simple answer for the question. We can generalise but the answer is true only in relation to a dozen percentage of population. All proportions relate to a kind of job we do. Workaholics e.g. spend most of their free time working. It's similarly among computer programmers, politicians, businessmen and farmers. The proportion is completely different in the midst of various aged groups of people. I would like to read books, design and built up simple electronics devices; repair TV sets and computers but I have enough spare time. Television is also interesting. It's not only stupefying, as many people think but also we can be taught with it. I like watching natural and document films and news of course. It's properly from time to time to watch a good film especially if good actors and actress play. I like to read sometimes newspapers and magazines too, because they introduce problems more detailed then television. It would be nice to have much free time but I can't afford it. I try not to loose my free time, I think it is a very good way do develop our personality.

However if I would have to find the proportion between work and leisure I would accept as follows seven hours of works, five to eight hours of sleep, three to four hours of household duties and the rest free time being with children.

-63-

Capital punishment.

I'm afraid the problem is much more complicated than it seems. I think our government has serious problems to solve with delinquency because it becomes more and more general. The police don't cope with little matters. The serious problem is organised delinquency. Contemporary the delinquency rate is very high and the detection rates very low. In my opinion in this case should be solve rules of work the police and jurisdiction. Except essential matter are co-operation citizens with the police. This matter should be also dissolved.

In my opinion our low is constructed very badly. It contains too many inaccuracies; e.g. funny matter is that citizens don't have to defend own properties (house and grounds). There are many events that victims stand up in the dock as an accused.

Unemployment rate is more and more high. Many people, especially young people don't have job. They want to make an impression but they don't have many. As a result they begin to brake low. Citizens are weakness and defenceless.

I'm advocate of capital punishment. I think that should be enlarged penalties for crimes committed with special cruelty and more serious economic crimes. In my opinion the capital punishment should be support in Poland.

I most however wish that in Poland all people were equal in low, without regard on possessed goods and social position.

-64-

SPIS TREŚCI

.What job would you do if you .were not an army officer?.........................7

How I learn English........................8

Do you like the town you live

in? Why/why not?...........................9

Does money make people

happy?...........................................10

What is the crime situation in

Poland? What can be done?..........11

My good and bad habits................12

Does money give happiness

or not?...........................................13

What are your career

ambitions?.....................................14

SPIS TREŚCI

What qualities would a person

need to do your job?.....................15

Old age as a social problem..........16

What makes for an ideal

holiday?........................................17

My favourite month/season of

the year.........................................18

The country I would choose to

live in the other than my

own...............................................19

The most significant event in

my life...........................................20

The ideal home.............................21

A film (play) book you have seen/read recently.........................22

Polan

d and NATO.............................................................................................43

Money rules the world.....................................................................................44

Good ways to lose weight...............................................................................45

Qualities of perfect soldier..............................................................................46

Having older (younger) brother or sister.......................................................47

The worst teacher you're ever had.................................................................48

Women in the army..........................................................................................49

A person you will never forget........................................................................50

Administrative division of Poland..................................................................51

Qualities you must admire in people.............................................................52

The perfect wife...............................................................................................53

A film you'd like to play in..............................................................................54

Encourage a foreigner to visit your city........................................................55

Your attitude to technology............................................................................56

What qualities I expect to find in a teacher?.................................................57

Books, TV, radio - if you had to do without one of these, which would you, rather give up.........58

Stereotype of Polish nationality.....................................................................59

Coping with stress (radzenie sobie ze stresem)..........................................60

Young people's problem................................................................................61

What do you think about TV?........................................................................62

Why is positive thinking and healthy lifestyle very important in our live?...........63

What do you think is the ideal proportion between work and leisure?.....64

Capital punishment.........................................................................................65

SPIS TREŚCI

The most difficult exam you

have ever taken.............................38

How do you study a foreign

language? Give advice..................39

Men make houses. Women

make homes..................................40

NATO...........................................41

Poland and NATO........................42

Money rules the world..................43

Good ways to lose weight............44

Qualities of perfect

soldier...........................................45

Qualities of perfect .................................46

Having older (younger) brother or sister.......................................................47

Women in the army......................48