Learning about your country in the UK is an important part of learning English. Without knowing the history, geographical location, traditions and customs of the people, it is difficult to imagine their culture, and therefore, to master the language.
Geographical position
It is logical to start studying British geography from the location of this state, since there are a lot of surprises here.
From a bird's eye view, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland resembles several bright spots washed by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
If you look at the map of Europe, you can see that the territory of Great Britain is small. Traveling from London to Edinburgh will take about six hours by fast train, and the journey from London to Plymaus by the same transport will last no more than four hours.
The UK is divided into four parts: England, with its capital in London, is the most populous of all, Scotland with its capital Edinburgh is the most distinctive, rich in traditions Wales with the capital Cardiff and the most eccentric Northern Ireland with the capital in Belfast.
The country is located not far from the continent and is separated from Europe by the North Sea and the English and Dover Canals. The width of the latter at its narrowest point is 32 km.
The location of the country is very favorable, since it has long been the point where maritime routes of sailors from all over the world converged. The sea connects Britain with countries such as Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Norway, Russia and some others.
UK Climate
British country studies in English at school do not go without mentioning the climate. And this is no accident, because for the inhabitants of Russia the climate of England is often associated exclusively with the word "fog". Indeed, the climate of Britain is mild and humid, it often rains. In the west and southwest it is often foggy.
The warm current of the Gulf Stream brings climate softening to the coast, giving coolness in summer and warm in winter. In winter, the temperature is usually not lower than zero, which allows meadows and fields to turn green all year round.
British character
Studying British geography in Russian allows people who do not know the language to plunge into the atmosphere of the country, see it from the other side, and feel the special spirit of the nation.
The British are very polite, although this type of behavior is just a mask that hides other feelings. They can behave respectfully to avoid quarrels and scandals. British public stereotypes do not allow openly expressing their emotions.
These people greatly value their personal freedom and independence. It is unacceptable for them to stand too close to each other in line, to push around. Relations between people are often formal.
The British are very punctual. On the one hand, this can be attributed to the manifestations of formality, and on the other, it is a form of respect and a desire to avoid confrontation.
Holidays of the UK
Holidays occupy a special place in the geography of Great Britain. There are more of them than in Europe. The most revered of them: Christmas, Mother's Day, Easter and Spring Bank Break - this is the day when all banks, offices and even shops are closed.
The most popular holiday is Christmas. Every year, residents of Norway give the British a gift - a huge spruce, which is set in the center of Trafalgar Square.
Celebrate already on December 24: children decorate the Christmas tree, hang stockings over the fireplace and near the beds in anticipation of gifts.
The New Year is not as popular with the British as Christmas, but in Scotland at this time the largest festival of the year takes place.
Country studies in the UK are a fascinating subject that should be given time, as you can learn a lot of interesting and useful things.