Exam Card 15

 Reading 

 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

MAKE YOUR HOME GREENER

Residential buildings are responsible for consuming 27% of the total amount of energy consumed within Europe and are the biggest source of global warming in the world. This is a fact that has, until recently, been overlooked by lawmakers trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, who have concentrated their efforts on industry and transport. The EU has now passed a new law which intends to cut considerably carbon dioxide emissions¹ from buildings. This means that each of us can now save the planet from the comfort of our own homes.

    The first things we can do are simple and easy. We can block up draughts², switch off unnecessary lights and make sure cold and hot water taps are not left running. The next step requires more planning and some expense, but as well as saving energy, we will also save on bills. Many homes have window and roof insulation³ but it is rarely enough. Full insulation can have a dramatic effect on energy consumption. We should use energy efficient light bulbs. These are usually expensive to buy but consume less than half the energy of standard bulbs. These bulbs last much longer than conventional light bulbs reducing the consumption of resources. Also, thermal solar panels are very efficient. They are capable of providing all the hot water you need.

       We can install a ‘grey’ water recycling system. At present water used to flush the toilets is of the same drinkable quality that comes out of the taps. This is an unnecessary waste of energy used in water purification. A grey water recycling system cleans water that has been used for washing and sends it through the toilet system reducing the use of clean drinking water.

      New buildings have more energy saving features in their design. They can have a wooden structure, extensive insulation, electronic environmental controls, triple glazing⁴, a non­polluting heating system and a turf⁵ roof. However, it is how we deal with our present homes that will determine housing’s contribution to global warming. It’s down to each of us, so get insulating!

¹ carbon dioxide emissions [ˈkɑːbən daɪˈɒkˈsaɪd ɪmɪʃnz] выбросы углекислого газа

² draught [drɑːft] сквозняк

³ insulation [ ˌɪnsjʊˈleɪʃn] изоляция, утепление

⁴ glazing [ˈɡleɪzɪŋ] остекление

⁵ turf [təːf] торф

2.  What energy saving features in the design of the building are used nowadays? Read aloud the extract which says about it.

3.  What can we do to cut carbon dioxide emissions from buildings?

4.  What is considered to be an unnecessary waste of energy used in water purification?

Listening

II. Listen to the tour guide and answer the questions below.

1.  What sort of tour is it?

2.  What will the tourists see on the tour?

3.  Why does the tourist ask to return the money?

Speaking

III. Let’s talk about outstanding people