10th grade Advanced. Unit 7. Lesson 3. To be or not to be like Leonardo?

👉Communicative area:  discussing the merits and demerits of a genius, listening and reading for gist and detail 

👉Active vocabulary: quest, to question, fad, polymath, to procrastinate

👉Grammar revision: Conditional II

1. Does the title of the lesson imply that Leonardo had only positive qualities or both positive and negative qualities?

2. Leonardo da Vinci was an ultimate Renaissance man. Was he a) a scientist, b) a mathematician, c) an engineer, d) an inventor, e) an anatomist, f) a painter, g) a sculptor, h) an architect, i) a botanist, j) a musician, k) a writer? 

3. Who is a polymath?

Da Vinci decoded

Want “to break the Da Vinci Code”? Take the following steps to become a polymath.
Developing your curiosity. Great minds have one characteristic in common: they always ask questions. Leonardo’s quest for truth and beauty clearly demonstrates this.

• Keep a journal. Write your ideas and thoughts there.
• Choose a theme and observe things according to it. For example, for the entire day, observe every type and instance of communication you come across.
• Practise freewriting. Write your thoughts and associations without editing them.

Finding proof. Wisdom comes from experience. Do the following:

• Check your beliefs. Review them and verify them through experience. Find friends who can give you different perspectives.
• Look at the advertisements in your favourite magazine and analyse the strategy and tactics they use. Choose those that affect you most and find out why.
• Find “anti-role models” to learn from. Whose mistakes would you like to avoid?

Using your senses. According to da Vinci, we can best find proof of our ideas through our senses, particularly sight.

• Write a detailed description of an experience, e.g. sunrise, in your journal.
• Learn how to describe a smell. Learn to draw.
• Listen to different sounds around you. Learn to listen to different intensity of sounds, from the softest (e.g. your breathing) to the loudest (e.g. traffic).
• Live in the moment. Practice mindfulness. Carpe diem! (from Latin – catch the day).

Studying the mysterious. An essential characteristic of da Vinci's genius is his ability to handle a sense of mystery.

• Relate two opposites. For example, think about your happiest and saddest moments.
•  Practise the Socratic method by asking questions, not giving answers. Don’t assume that you or anyone knows anything for sure. Question every idea or theory.

Relating Art and Science. It is about “the development of the balance between science and art, logic and imagination”. This is thinking with the “whole brain”. Mind mapping is a powerful method that can help you combine logic and imagination in your work and life. The end result of mapping should be a web-like structure of words and ideas that are somehow related in the writer’s mind.

Knowing your body and keeping fit. Leonardo had amazing physical ability that complemented his genius in science and arts. Here is how you could keep fit:

• Develop your physical fitness: do flexibility, strength and aerobic exercises.
• Develop body awareness. Study anatomy. Try yoga. Dance. Do some contact juggling. Strengthen the connection between body and mind. 
• Leonardo could work with both his right and left hand and regularly switched between them. Cultivate ambidexterity by using your non-dominant hand for relatively simple tasks first, like brushing your teeth or eating your breakfast and later for writing.

Making connections. One main source of Leonardo’s creativity is his ability to … 

• link things that seem unrelated, e.g. geology and the Mona Lisa;
• think about how things originate. Take an object and think about what elements are involved in its creation and how.

Some other characteristics of Leonardo da Vinci that might be worth your attention are: charisma, generosity, love of nature, love of animals and the curiosity of a child.

Developing Your Curiosity

1. Why do great minds always ask questions, according to the text?

2. What is the purpose of keeping a journal in the quest to become a polymath?

3. How can choosing a theme for observation improve your curiosity?

4. What is freewriting, and why is it recommended?

Finding Proof

1. How can reviewing your beliefs help you gain wisdom?

2. Why does the text suggest analyzing advertisements in your favorite magazine?

3. What are "anti-role models," and how can they be useful?

Using Your Senses

1. According to da Vinci, why are our senses important for finding proof?

2. What exercises are suggested to improve your ability to describe sensory experiences?

3. How can practicing mindfulness help you live in the moment?

Studying the Mysterious

1. What role does handling a sense of mystery have in da Vinci’s genius?

2. How can relating two opposite experiences help your thinking?

3. What does practicing the Socratic method involve?

Relating Art and Science

1. What does “thinking with the whole brain” mean in this context?

2. How can mind mapping help combine logic and imagination?

Knowing Your Body and Keeping Fit

1. Why is physical fitness important for a polymath like Leonardo da Vinci?

2. What activities can help develop body awareness?

3. How can cultivating ambidexterity benefit your brain and body connection?

Making Connections

1. How did Leonardo’s ability to link unrelated things contribute to his creativity?

2. What does the text suggest about thinking on how things originate?

Other Characteristics of Leonardo da Vinci

1. Besides intellect, what personal traits of Leonardo da Vinci does the text highlight?

2. How could love of nature and animals influence creativity?

Prepositions Phrasal Verbs

10th grade Advanced. Unit 7. Lesson 1. Great minds think alike

👉Communicative area: talking about great people and geniuses of today; fine-tuning the definitions of the words “great” and “genius”

👉Active vocabulary:  genius

👉Vocabulary revision: great, brilliant, brainy, bright, gifted, smart, clever, intelligent

👉Grammar revision: Conditional 0

  

Centralized Testing 2025

 

Quiz created by Veronika Bebekh with GoConqr

Prepositions with a noun or gerund after a verbal phrase be/get + ADJ/PART. II

 

Topics for discussion: Imagine that you have a chance to contribute to the development of Belarus today. What would you do?

 

Belarus is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and a unique position in Eastern Europe. However, like many nations, it faces challenges that need positive change and development. If I had the chance to contribute to Belarus’s future, I would focus on several key areas: education, environmental protection, and economic innovation. These aspects are crucial for ensuring a better quality of life for everyone and for creating a sustainable, prosperous country.
Firstly, I believe that investing in education is fundamental. A well-educated population is the backbone of a strong nation. I would encourage reforms that make education more accessible and modern. This includes integrating new technologies into classrooms, promoting critical thinking, and supporting teachers with better training and resources. An educated youth will be better equipped to face future challenges and to contribute creatively to society. Additionally, I would promote international exchange programs so students can gain new perspectives and ideas, which can inspire innovation and unity within Belarus.
Secondly, environmental protection should be a priority. Belarus has beautiful forests, rivers, and wildlife that require careful preservation. I would support initiatives aimed at reducing pollution and promoting sustainable use of natural resources. For example, encouraging renewable energy like wind and solar power can lessen the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and help combat climate change. I would also promote awareness campaigns to educate citizens about environmental issues and how they can contribute to preserving Belarus’s natural beauty. Preserving the environment is not only good for nature but also vital for the health and well-being of all Belarusians.
Thirdly, I would focus on developing the economy through innovation and support for small businesses. Belarus’s economy has traditionally relied on industries like manufacturing and agriculture. To create new opportunities, I would encourage technological startups and provide support for entrepreneurs. This could include offering grants, training, and a simplified business registration process. Promoting entrepreneurship will create more jobs and help diversify the economy, making it more resilient to global changes. Furthermore, I would work on strengthening international trade relations and attracting foreign investment to boost economic growth.
Finally, I think fostering a culture of openness and dialogue among citizens and authorities is essential. A society that encourages free expression and participation will be more dynamic and capable of solving its issues effectively. I would support initiatives that promote civil society and community involvement in decision-making processes.
In conclusion, if I had the chance to contribute to Belarus’s development, I would prioritize education, environmental sustainability, economic innovation, and social openness. These areas are interconnected and essential for building a stronger, more prosperous Belarus where citizens can thrive, and nature can be preserved for future generations. Every effort counts, and with collective dedication, Belarus can reach new heights of success and harmony.

1. Does a person need to possess special qualities to become a good specialist? 

In my opinion, becoming a good specialist requires more than just technical skills. While knowledge and experience are important, qualities like dedication, patience, and adaptability are essential too. A good professional should be willing to learn continuously and handle challenges confidently. Also, good communication skills help in working effectively with others. Possessing a positive attitude and being responsible can make a big difference in professional growth. Therefore, although special qualities are not the only factors, they definitely help a person become a successful and respected specialist in their field.

2. Is it important to design one’s education and career goals? 

Yes, it is very important to plan and set education and career goals. Having clear goals helps you stay focused and motivated. When you know what you want to achieve, you can choose the right courses and gain relevant skills. It also allows you to avoid wasting time on unnecessary options. Moreover, planning helps you prepare for future challenges and make informed decisions. Without goals, you may feel lost or stay unsure about your future. Therefore, designing your education and career goals is essential for personal growth and success.

3. What are the factors that influence career choice? 

Several factors influence a person's career choice. First, personal interests and passions are very important, as people tend to choose jobs they enjoy. Second, family and friends can play a role, providing advice or encouragement. Third, a person's skills and abilities influence what they are suitable for. Economic factors, like job availability and salary, also matter. Additionally, societal expectations and cultural values can affect decisions. Finally, personal goals and future plans help determine the right career path. All these factors together shape the decision of which career to pursue.

Centralized Exam 2025

 

Quiz created by Veronika Bebekh with GoConqr

8th grade. Unit 6. Lesson 10. Project: New Belarusian Festival

👉 Communicative area: present a new Belarusian festival

Click here to edit the project 8A, 2026

Click here to edit the project 8B, 2026

Topics for discussion: Exams are the best way of testing students’ knowledge, aren’t they?

      Exams have been a traditional method of evaluating students' understanding for many years. Many educators and parents believe that examinations are the best way to measure what students have learned during their studies. However, others argue that exams are not always a fair or accurate way to assess knowledge. I will discuss both sides of the argument and give my opinion on whether exams are truly the best method.

           On the one hand, supporters of exams say that they are an effective way to test students' knowledge quickly and objectively. Exams usually consist of a set of questions that cover the main topics studied, and they help teachers see how much students have understood each subject. For students, preparing for exams encourages discipline and study habits. Additionally, exams can motivate students to revise their lessons regularly. Moreover, exam results are often used to decide whether a student can advance to the next level or get a diploma, which makes exams an important part of the education system.

      However, critics argue that exams have many disadvantages. Firstly, they can create a lot of stress and anxiety for students, which can affect their performance negatively. Not everyone performs well under pressure, and some students may know the material well but still do poorly because they are nervous. Secondly, exams usually focus on memorization and recall rather than actual understanding or critical thinking. This can discourage creativity and independent thought, which are also important skills for the real world. For instance, students might focus on rote learning rather than exploring topics deeply. Lastly, exams do not always reflect a student's overall abilities or potential. A student who performs poorly in an exam may be talented in other areas, such as art, sports, or practical skills, which are not measured in traditional tests.

In my opinion, while exams have their benefits, they should not be the only way to test students' knowledge. Education is a complex process, and learning success cannot be measured only by test scores. Other methods, such as projects, presentations, or coursework, can provide a more complete picture of a student’s abilities. For example, group work encourages teamwork and communication skills, which are important in real life. Combining exams with practical assessments can help develop a wider range of skills and reduce the pressure on students.

In conclusion, exams are a useful tool for testing knowledge, but they are not perfect. They can quickly evaluate what students have learned, but they often do not show the full picture of a person’s abilities or potential. Therefore, I believe a mix of different assessment methods is the best way to understand a student’s true capabilities. This approach would ensure that exams support learning rather than hinder it, and help prepare students better for life beyond school.

1. What difficulties do you experience as a learner?

As a learner, I face several difficulties. One common challenge is staying motivated, especially when topics become difficult or boring. Sometimes, I struggle to understand complex concepts, which makes studying frustrating. Time management is also a problem; I find it hard to balance studying with other activities. Additionally, I sometimes lack confidence, doubting my abilities and fearing failure. Distractions from social media and everyday life can interrupt my focus, making it harder to concentrate. Despite these challenges, I try to stay positive and find better ways to learn, such as setting clear goals and taking regular breaks.

2. What type of a learner are you?

I consider myself a visual learner because I learn best through images, charts, and videos. When studying, I usually take notes with diagrams or highlight important parts to remember them better. I find that seeing information helps me understand and retain it longer. However, I also enjoy listening to lectures or recordings, which helps me reinforce my learning. I try to combine visual and auditory methods to improve my skills. Being aware of my learning style allows me to choose effective techniques, making studying easier and more enjoyable. Overall, I think understanding how I learn helps me become a better student.

3. What is your attitude to cheating?

I believe that cheating is wrong and dishonest. It may seem like a quick way to get good grades, but it damages trust and integrity. When students cheat, they do not learn the material properly, which can cause problems in the future. Cheating also unfairly disadvantages others who work hard honestly. I think it’s better to study and prepare properly rather than rely on dishonest methods. Respect for oneself and others is very important. In my opinion, honesty is the best approach in school and life. Cheating might bring short-term benefits, but it leads to long-term consequences and loss of self-respect. 

AEF 1. Grammar 3C: Word order in questions

 Grammar: Present Simple Questions 1

Grammar: Present Simple Questions 2

8th grade. Unit 6. Lesson 4. Unexpected visitor

👉Communicative area: describing Belarusian family customs  and traditions
👉Active grammar: sequence of tenses

Prepositions with an object after verbs

 

 

10th grade. Unit 6. Lesson 1. Sci Tech

👉Communicative area: discussing advantages and disadvantages of the scientific progress, writing an opinion paragraph

👉Active vocabulary: app, data, digital, genius, technology, vehicle, web

What do you think when you hear science and technology?

Listen to some questions about science and technology and think of your answers. 

Listen to the answers. Do you agree with the answers?

Read the article below. What is its main idea?

Moving with the Gear Train of Modern Science

By Ajeet Khurana

Fire was the first discovery and wheel was the first invention. Since that time, we have travelled far. Science has taken us to territories we could not have imagined some centuries ago. The 20th century was when science really came into its own. Half of our present day inventions were unthinkable a century ago.

Science has brought great changes in every field but the one place where it has really shone is technology. Today, we have access to some of the most advanced technical inventions. A few centuries ago, a genius called Leonardo da Vinci made the first blue-print for an aeroplane. Today, even the economy class, domestic flights have become passe. It is time for the new inventions.

Some time ago, NASA launched a Space Shuttle called Discovery. Imagine, a metallic object run on hydrogen fuel, in space, thousand miles away, bringing us news, data and newer means of improvement.

It’s not only about the air.

Vehicleswhich run on land are packed with newer inventions of the day. All modern cars have technology written all over them. These are the mechanical devices which have made us a Nano-race.

We have come into a digital age. Computers have given way to laptops and then to notebooks and palmtops. LCDs and Plasmas have replaced picture-tube televisions.    

The mobiles have turned into a complete island of entertainment and communication.

Internet has brought the impossible within means. Web has made online education possible. A teacher in Spain can teach a student in Nigeria with the help of computer apps and Voice 

Chat modules.

Science has really beautified life. Today, you can visit your distant relative on the other side of the globe within a day. You can look at an award ceremony held in London, sitting in a shelter in Algeria. You can put thousands and thousands pages of text into a pin size chip and still have plenty of space left.

You cannot come back from the dead but that’s probably the only thing you cannot do. The borders of time and space are certainly shrinking.

1. What were the first discovery and the first invention according to the text?

2. How does the author describe the progress of science from earlier times to the 20th century?

3. Who was Leonardo da Vinci, and what was his contribution related to aviation?

4. What recent space mission is mentioned, and what is its significance?

5. How have vehicles changed with technological advancements, according to the text?

6. What does the text say about the evolution of computers and televisions?

7. How has the internet transformed communication and education?

8. What examples are given to show how science has beautified life?

9. According to the author, what is the only thing science cannot do?

10. What does the phrase "the borders of time and space are certainly shrinking" mean in the context of the passage?

Prime Time 3. Module 3. Lesson 3i. Curricular: Geography

 

Click here to do the the test on caves

10th grade Advanced. Unit 6. Lesson 2. Scientists are only human

👉Communicative area: talking about science and scientists; inferring meaning from context; retelling

👉Active vocabulary: deadline, curiosity, plagiarism, colleague

👉Revision grammar: Past tenses

 

Quiz created by Veronika Bebekh with GoConqr

The English Language Day 2026: A Belarusian Woman to Admire

9th-11th grades

Click here to test your knowledge about celebrities with Belarusian roots

7th-8th grades

5th-6th grades

AEF 3. Vocabulary Bank 3B. Dependent Prepositions

Click here to do the exercise on 

"Dependent Prepositions"

1. Are you afraid of spiders or any insects?

2. Do you get angry with your friends or family about small things?

3. Have you ever apologised to someone for a mistake you made?

4. Do you argue with your classmates about homework or projects?

5. Can you ask someone for help when you don’t understand something?

6. When do you usually arrive in your town or city?

7. Do you arrive at the station or airport early or just on time?

8. Does this bike belong to you or someone else?

9. Do you believe in luck or that everything happens for a reason?

10. Are you able to choose between going to the cinema or staying at home?

11. Are you close to your family or friends?

12. Does your mood depend on the weather sometimes?

13. How is your school different from your previous school?

14. Do you often dream about exciting adventures?

15. Are you excited about your upcoming exam or holiday?

16. Do you get fed up with doing the same routine every day?

17. Are you famous for anything in your town or school?

18. Are you fond of playing sports or music in your free time?

19. Are you happy with your current grades or school situation?

20. Are you good at cooking or painting?

21. Is this activity good for your health or studies?

22. Are you interested in learning new languages or hobbies?

23. Are you kind to animals or younger children?

24. Do people often laugh at your jokes or stories?

25. Are you looking forward to your next holiday or trip?

26. Are you married to someone or do you want to get married someday?

27. Do you often pay for things with your own money?

28. Are you passionate about dancing or reading books?

29. Are you proud of your achievements at school/work or in sports?

30. Does your friend remind you of someone you know?

31. Are you rude to people sometimes, even if you don’t mean to?

32. Do you like to spend money on clothes or gadgets?

33. Are you tired of studying all day?

34. Do you worry about your exams or the future?

10th grade Advanced. Unit 6. Lesson 1. A career in a science?

👉Communicative area: discussing scientific careers

👉Active vocabulary: matter, to apply, variety, discipline, field, branch, object, level, research, related

👉Active grammar: word formation (suffixes -ist, -(ic)al)

Present Simple vs Present Continuous

 

Present Simple

(Настоящее простое время)

+ S V1/Vs(es) - S don’t/doesn’t V1 ? Do/Does S V1 ? Short answers: Yes, I do. / No, she doesn’t. Passive: am/is/are V3 Time expressions: usually, often, always, rarely, seldom, sometimes, on Mondays, at weekends, at the weekend, in the morning, in the afternoon, in the evening, every day/week/month/year, at night, every other day, as a rule Usage:  1) Для постоянных состояний, повторяющихся действий и ежедневной рутины; 2)для общеизвестных истин и законов природы; 3)для расписаний (самолетов, поездов ….) и программ; 4)для спортивных комментариев, обзоров, рецензий и повествования; 5) для инструкций или указаний (вместо повелительного наклонения); 6) Conditional 0 (General Facts) If Present Simple, Present Simple. - If the sun shines, the snow melts.         if-clause          main clause 7) Conditional I (Real Present) Условие реально и относится к настоящему или будущему If Present Simple, Future Simple. - If the weather is good, we'll go for a  walk.         if-clause           main clause Present Continuous (Настоящее продолженное время) +  S am/is/are Ving -   S am not/isn't/aren't Ving ?  Am/Is/Are S Ving ? Short answers: Yes, I am. / No, she isn’t. Passive:  am/is/are being V3 Time expressions: now, at the moment, at present, these days, still, nowadays, today, tonight, currently Usage:  1) Для действия, кот. происходит сейчас, в момент речи; 2) для временных действий, т. е. действий, кот. происходят не в момент речи, а в настоящее время (these days, at present…); 3) c наречиями always, constantly, continually  для действий, кот. происходят слишком часто и обычно вызывают раздражение, критику и даже гнев. (бесит!). Часто ставится восклицательный знак; 4) для запланированных мероприятий в ближайшем будущем, особенно когда место и время определены; 5) для изменяющихся и развивающихся ситуаций, особенно с двумя сравнительными степенями State verbs (click to learn more) В английском языке существуют глаголы, которые не употребляются во временах группы Continuous или длительного времени. Эти глаголы относятся к группе, которую мы называем Stative verbs или State verbs. Они обозначают не действие, а состояние или положение. Их еще часто называют non-continuous verbs, non-action verbs, non-progressive verbs.

10th grade. Unit 5. Project: Decoding a Photo

👉Communicative area: decoding aphoto and speaking about it

👉 Challenge: make a presentation decoding a photo, listen to your classmates and give feedback.

Click here to edit your project 10B