Exercise1.

Match the highlighted words or word combinations in the text with their definitions.

1. give something in order to help achieve or provide something;

2. the state or fact of having a duty to deal with something or of having control over someone;

3. a university degree such as an MA or an MSc which is of a higher level than a first degree and usually takes one or two years to complete;

4. time or set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something;

5. evaluation of a student’s progress throughout a course of study, as distinct from by examination;

6. a large important organization;

7. inspiring respect and admiration; having high status;

8. the action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone or the state of being so represented;

9. a new thing or a new method of doing something;

10. the subjects that are studied in a particular course.

Exercise2.

You have been asked to give a short presentation to students visiting your University from America. Work in pairs. Give a short presentation on one of these topics:

1. Higher education in Russia;

2. The Northern Arctic Federal University is one of the leading players in the Shtokman gas condensate field development project;

3. Research opportunities at The Northern Arctic Federal University.

Exercise3.

Discuss these questions in pairs.

• Where would you prefer to study? In Russia or abroad? Give your reasons;

• What are the advantages of studying abroad? What about disadvantages?

• Is it easy to find a job in Russia? In America? In Norway?

• What factors are essential in university prestige?

Exercise4. Read the dialogues. Who might say them and in what situation? Work in pairs. Complete the dialogues with your own phrases.

1. A: - Are you still learning English?

B: - Yes, but I don't always get enough time for it. I have so many other problems to solve.

A: - S o have I. I can read English well now but it's difficult for me to speak English. And I can't always understand people when they speak English.

B: - Do you try to listen to native English speakers?

A: - Of course, I do. It helps me to understand English. But I want to speak English too.

B: - Then you must speak English with your friends all the time. It's the best way to master the language.

A: ………………………………………………………………………..

2. A: - John, listen, why don't we relax tonight. Take a night off and come out with me.

B: - I can't. I have got to study for an exam.

A: - What exam are you taking?

B: - It's one of the most important problems now - descriptive geometry.

A: - Oh, I remember it. This exam is really very difficult. At University, it is quite different from being at school because you have to rely on your own motivation.

B: - Well, I'm in real trouble if I don't pass.

A: - I know you’ve made a very good drawing and you were given a good mark. Is it really so?

B: - ……………………………………………………………………………

A: - John, calm down, there's nothing to worry about. Everything will be O.K. Good luck.

B: - Thanks.

Answer the following questions.

1. What is the exact date of foundation of NArFU?

2. What is the one of the greatest problems of University life?

3. What activities do you enjoy doing at your English classes? Why?

4. Do you know anything about Foreign Languages Center «Lingua»?

5. Is your English good enough to study abroad?

6. Which do you think is the best way to practice a foreign language?

7. How many English classes per week are there at your University? Are there German and French classes?

8. Should lessons be devoted more to practical skills and training for job?

9. When does a typical university day start? Are classes divided by short breaks?

10. How many days of holiday do you have? When?

11. Are all Russian Universities state institutions?

12. What do you know about «assessment system» at your University?

13. Should assessment depend wholly upon examination, or should weekly or monthly assessment also be taken into account?

14. Do students learn which lecturers are generous with their marks and which are harsh? How?