Theme: So many countries so many customs. Grammar: Modal verbs. Text: Customs and traditions in Great Britain. Time for tea; British character. Halloween; April fools day

BRITISH CHARACTER

One of the most striking features of British life is the self-discipline and courtesy of people of all classes. There is little noisy behavior, and practically no loud disputing in the street. People do not rush excitedly for seats in buses or trains, but take their seats in queues at bus stops in a quiet and orderly manner.

The British are naturally polite and are never tired in saying "Thank you", "I'm sorry", "Beg your pardon". If you follow anyone who is entering a building or a room, he will hold a door open for you. Many foreigners have commented on a remarkable politeness of the British people.

The British don't like displaying their emotions even in dangerous and tragic situations, and ordinary people seem to remain good-tempered and cheerful under difficulties.

They don't like any boasting or showing off in manners, dress or speech.

Sometimes they conceal their knowledge: a linguist, for example, may not mention his understanding of a foreigner's language.

HALLOWEEN

You should be very careful on the night of October 31. This is the night when witches and ghosts come out!

Halloween is the most famous of witches' festivals. They ride on brooms through the midnight air to meet with the Devil. Black cats, their best friends, usually accompany them.

Poor cold ghosts come out of the lonely woods and fields and warm themselves in people's houses.

Ghosts and witches are not the only ones who come out at Halloween. From their hiding places come hundreds of demons, skeletons, goblins and other supernatural creatures.

Children in the US, Great Britain and Ireland like Halloween very much.

In the weeks before October 31, they decorate the windows of their houses and schools with pictures of witches, black cats and bats.

They make lanterns out of pumpkins. They are called jack-o'-lanterns.

Black and orange are traditional Halloween colors.

On October 31, children dress up as ghosts and witches, skeletons and Dracula’s, and have noisy parties.

Sometimes they go to the people's houses and ring at the door, shouting "Trick or treat!" The person who opens the door must give the children a treat — some sweets or cookies. If not, the children play a trick on them. For example, they can throw flour at the window or draw a funny picture on the door.

Halloween parties are great fun.