Card № 14 Let’s talk about national character and stereotypes

Card № 14 Let’s talk about national character and stereotypes

1. Do you have any associations with “a typical British”, “a typical American”, “a typical Belarusian”?

Yes, I do. All nations have some typical qualities.Actually, the British are rather conservative, snobbish and reserved. They like to hide their feelings. They are reliable and always keep their word. It is probably no exaggerationto say that they have the best manners in the world. Americans are friendly, ambitious, a bit straightforward and too practical. The US people think their country is the land of opportunity, they believe in the American dream - it means every person can rise from the lowest position to the highest. A typical American is a real patriot of his country. As for Belarusians we are quite sociable. The countryside holds a special place in our hearts. Although Belarus is becoming increasingly urbanized['ɜːb(ə)naɪzd] and industrialized, there always remains a link to rural life. At weekends most Belarusians go to dachas. If I were limited to just overall characteristicto describe Belarusians it would be resourceful and peaceful.

2. Do you agree that stereotypes give a true picture of a national character? Prove your point of view.

Personally I don’t. Frankly speaking generalisations about nationalities can be a source of pride or bad jokes. On the other hand, there are some reasons for all stereotypes. They mostly concern appearance, language, attitudes and values.So stereotypes should be taken with a grain of salt. All people are individuals and we are living through a period of global transition. Across the globe, all communities face economic, social and environmental challenges. We can only advanceas a community of nations, recognizing that we share a common destiny. Tolerance is a necessity for reconciliation and sustainable[sə'steɪnəbl]future. In fact every national character is a combination of good and bad traits[treɪts],[treɪz] but still we should treatevery nation with equal respect.

3. Ask a British teenager what British people are like.

1. What are the main national characteristics of the British? 2. Do you prefer to have a traditional English breakfast or a European one? 3. How often do you talk about weather? 4. What is your favourite saying about the British?

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