5 ) 1.29 Match the expressions in the box with the
definitions. Use the phrases in blue in the text to help
you. Then listen and repeat.
the point of no return repeat a sequence
the first/last step a decisive moment
do the same thing over give sb peace of mind
a break from your routine the first/last phase
1 sth different from what you normally do = a break
from your routine
2 an important point in time =
3 the first/last stage in a process =
4 the first/last action in a series of actions =
5 make sb feel calm =
6 the moment when you can no longer change
anything =
7 repeat one action =
8 do a series of actions again​

If you go to school or university, you are faced with a number of exams. Basically, these exams are supposed to test your knowledge and skills. Also, they may motivate you to study harder.

In my opinion, it is really the case that exams motivate students to study harder. Firstly, exams are often a pass to a higher level of education. If you get good marks in examinations, you are admitted to further education. If you fail, you do not get the admittion. So, you make every effort to keep the right to study further. Secondly, exams are a good way to assess your learning efficiency and detect possible gaps in your knowledge. Bad marks mean that your knowledge is flawed and you need to be more disciplined and work harder to do away with the flaws.

But there are people who believe that examinations do not give real motivation to a student. They say that being a good student with excellent marks does not guarantee future prosperity.

Nevertheless, I cannot assent to the foregoing opinion, because being a good student is the beginning of being a good employee or worker who can earn a good living. Highly qualified professionals are always in great demand in any business sector.

In conclusion, exams play an important part in our life, although any exam is a kind of pain. But the saying is: no pain, no gain!

In the morning my parents come to my place and say: "Happy Birthday!"

They give me presents. I enjoy getting them. Most people have a birthday party on this day.

This year I have my birthday party at home. My parents and I prepared for this day. We invited my friends and relatives to the party.

I celebrated my birthday on Sunday. I got up early in the morning. My father and I went to the shop and to the market to buy everything we needed for the party.

My mother stayed at home. She made cakes and laid the table. At four o'clock my relatives and friends came to congratulate me and I was glad to see them. They brought flowers, books, sweets and presents. I thanked them all.

We had a good holiday dinner on this day. During our merry party we sang songs, danced, made jokes and spoke about our life, hobbies, and future.

I enjoyed my birthday party.