Studying the UK is an important part of mastering the English language. Without knowing the history, geographical location, traditions and customs of the people, it is difficult to imagine their culture, and therefore master the language.
Geographic location
It is logical to start studying UK country studies from the location of this state, as there are a lot of amazing things here.
From a bird's eye view, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland resembles several bright spots washed by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
If you look at the map of Europe, you can see that the territory of Great Britain is small. The journey from London to Edinburgh will take about six hours by fast train, while the journey from London to Plymouth by the same transport will take no more than four hours.
Great Britain is divided into four parts: England with its capital in London is the most populous of all, Scotland with its capital Edinburgh is the most distinctive, rich in traditions Wales with its capital Cardiff andthe most eccentric Northern Ireland with the capital in the city of Belfast.
The country is located near the continent and is separated from Europe by the North Sea and the English and Dover Canals. The width of the latter at its narrowest point is 32 km.
The country's location is very favorable, as it has long been a point where the sea routes of seafarers from all over the world converged. The sea links Britain with countries such as Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Norway, Russia and some others.
UK climate
UK Country Studies in English at school is not complete without mentioning the climate. And this is no accident, because for the inhabitants of Russia, the climate of England is often associated exclusively with the word "fog". Indeed, the climate of Britain is mild and humid, it often rains. It is often foggy in the west and southwest.
The warm Gulf Stream brings climate mitigation to the coast, keeping the climate cool in summer and warm in winter. In winter, the temperature is usually not below zero, which allows meadows and fields to turn green all year round.
British character
Studying UK country studies in Russian allows people who do not know the language to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the country, to see it from the other side, to feel the special spirit of the nation.
The English are very polite, although this type of behavior is just a mask to hide other feelings. They can behave respectfully to avoid quarrels and scandals. Public stereotypes in Britain do not allow you to openly express your emotions.
These peoplehighly value their personal freedom and independence. It is unacceptable for them to stand too close to each other in line, to push. Relationships between people are often formal.
The British are very punctual. On the one hand, this can be attributed to manifestations of formality, and on the other hand, it is a form of respect and a desire to avoid confrontations.
UK holidays
Holidays occupy a special place in the country studies of Great Britain. There are more of them here than in European countries. The most revered of them: Christmas, Mother's Day, Easter and Spring Bank Holidays - this is the day when all banks, offices and even shops are closed.
The most popular holiday is Christmas. Every year, the people of Norway give the British a gift - a huge fir tree, which is installed in the center of Trafalgar Square.
Celebration begins already on December 24: children decorate Christmas trees, hang stockings over the fireplace and near the beds in anticipation of gifts.
New Year's is not as popular with the British as Christmas, but Scotland has the biggest festival of the year at this time.
UK Country Studies is a fascinating subject worth spending time on, as you can learn a lot of interesting and useful things.
