Christmas is Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. For millions of Christians throughout the world it is the happiest and the busiest time of the year. No one knows the exact date of Christ's birth but most Christians celebrate Christmas on December 25. The word Christmas comes from Christes masse, an early English phrase that means Mass of Christ.
People of different countries celebrate Christmas in various ways. People in the United States and Canada decorate their homes with Christmas trees, wreaths and ornaments. City streets are filled with coloured lights; the sound of bells and Christmas carols can be heard everywhere.
Children write letters to Santa Claus and tell him what presents they would like to get. Many department stores hire people to wear a Santa Claus costume and listen to children's requests. People send Christmas cards to relatives and friends. Many companies give presents to their employees.
A Christmas tree is one of the main symbols of Christmas in most homes. Relatives and friends may join in trimming the tree with lights, tinsel, and colourful ornaments. Presents are placed under the tree. On Christmas Eve or Christmas morning, families open their presents.
Many children believe that Santa Claus arrives on Christmas Eve in a sleigh pulled by a reindeer and brings presents. Some children hang up stockings so Santa Claus can fill them with candy, fruit and other small gifts.
In many parts of the United States and Canada groups of people walk from house to house and sing Christmas carols. Some people give singers money or small gifts or invite them for a warm drink.
Many people attend church services on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning. They listen to readings from Bible and singing Christmas carols.
A traditional Christmas dinner consists of stuffed turkey, ь mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and a variety of other dishes. Some families have ham or roast goose instead of turkey. Pumpkin pie, plum pudding, and fruitcake are favourite desserts.
2. In Siberia there are many long rivers: the Ob, the Irtysh, the Yenissei, the Lena and the Amur.
3. The Altai Mountains are higher than the Urals.
4. the Shetland Islands are situated to the north of Great Britain.
5. The USA is the largest country in America.
6. The Crimea is washed by the Black Sea.
7. Paris is the capital of France.
8. Gogol was born in Ukraine in 1809.
9. Europe and America are separated by the Atlantic Ocean.
10. Which are the highest mountains in Russia?
11. Bill Robins was very rich man.
12. Pete is the tallest boy in our class.
13. February is the shortest month of the year.
14. In May the days are longer than in April.