Практический английский для жизни. Лексика, темы и практика

© Том Сториз, 2026

ISBN 978-5-0070-4301-4

Создано в интеллектуальной издательской системе Ridero

Введение

Данное издание предназначено для изучающих английский язык на уровне А2 и ориентировано на развитие лексических и коммуникативных навыков в рамках повседневного общения. В книге представлены темы, отражающие реальные жизненные ситуации, с которыми сталкивается широкий круг взрослых обучающихся вне зависимости от их профессиональной или социальной принадлежности.

Основной принцип организации материала заключается в системном освоении лексики через контекст. Каждая глава включает связный текст, построенный на естественном разговорном английском языке, что позволяет формировать навыки понимания и воспроизведения речи в типичных коммуникативных условиях. Отбор языкового материала осуществлялся с учетом частотности употребления и практической значимости.

Особое внимание уделено устойчивым выражениям и коллокациям, поскольку именно они составляют основу беглой и естественной речи. Представленные в книге лексические единицы сопровождаются переводом, что способствует более точному усвоению значений и облегчает процесс самостоятельной работы. Раздел с речевыми моделями направлен на формирование готовых структур, которые могут быть использованы обучающимися в собственных высказываниях.

Практическая часть каждой главы включает задания, ориентированные на развитие продуктивных навыков. Вопросы предполагают личностную вовлеченность и стимулируют формирование развернутых ответов. Образцы ответов демонстрируют возможные способы использования изучаемой лексики и структур, что облегчает переход от восприятия материала к его активному применению.

Структура книги выстроена таким образом, чтобы обеспечить постепенное и последовательное расширение словарного запаса. Тематическое разнообразие позволяет обучающимся работать с материалом в соответствии с их интересами, а также возвращаться к отдельным разделам для повторения и закрепления.

Цель данного издания состоит в формировании устойчивых навыков использования английского языка в повседневной коммуникации. Книга может быть использована как для самостоятельного обучения, так и в рамках учебных курсов.

Slow Mornings and Busy Starts

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Some people love slow mornings, while others have very busy starts to the day. I think most of us want a calm morning, but real life is often different. Sometimes we wake up early and feel relaxed, but on other days everything feels rushed.

On a good day, I wake up before my alarm, so I don’t feel stressed. I stay in bed for a few minutes and think about my plans. Then I get up, open the window, and let some fresh air in. It helps me wake up slowly. I like to make a cup of coffee and sit quietly for a short time. Although I don’t always have much time, I try to enjoy these small moments.

After that, I start getting ready. I take a shower, brush my teeth, and get dressed. I usually choose comfortable clothes because I want to feel good during the day. If I have time, I prepare a simple breakfast. I might eat toast with cheese or eggs, and I always drink something warm. A good breakfast gives me energy, so I can start my day in a better mood.

However, not every morning is like this. Sometimes I wake up late because I turn off my alarm and go back to sleep. When this happens, everything changes. I don’t have time to relax, so I have to hurry. I get out of bed quickly, skip breakfast, and try to get ready as fast as possible. It feels stressful, and I often forget something important.

Busy mornings can be difficult, but they are very common. For example, if I have an early meeting or an important task, I feel nervous. I check the time again and again, because I don’t want to be late. I try to do everything quickly, but sometimes I make mistakes. Although I know that planning helps, I don’t always follow my own advice.

One thing that helps me is preparing the night before. I choose my clothes, pack my bag, and think about my schedule. So in the morning, I don’t need to make too many decisions. It saves time and makes my morning easier. I also try to go to bed earlier, because enough sleep makes a big difference.

In the end, mornings are different for everyone. Some people enjoy slow mornings every day, but others often have busy starts. I think it’s important to find a balance. Even if your morning is busy, you can still find a few quiet minutes. These small moments can change how you feel for the rest of the day.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

wake up early — просыпаться рано

feel relaxed — чувствовать себя расслабленно

feel rushed — чувствовать спешку

get up — вставать

let fresh air in — впустить свежий воздух

wake up slowly — просыпаться постепенно

have a cup of coffee — выпить чашку кофе

small moments — небольшие моменты

get ready — собираться

comfortable clothes — удобная одежда

have time — иметь время

skip breakfast — пропускать завтрак

be in a hurry — спешить

forget something important — забыть что-то важное

busy morning — занятое утро

feel nervous — нервничать

be late — опаздывать

make mistakes — делать ошибки

plan ahead — планировать заранее

go to bed earlier — ложиться спать раньше

make a difference — иметь значение

find a balance — найти баланс

Useful Patterns

I usually start my day with… — Я обычно начинаю свой день с…

I try to… but sometimes… — Я стараюсь…, но иногда…

If I have time, I… — Если у меня есть время, я…

I don’t have time to…, so I… — У меня нет времени…, поэтому я…

It helps me to… — Это помогает мне…

One thing that helps me is… — Одна вещь, которая мне помогает, это…

I feel… when… — Я чувствую себя…, когда…

I prefer… because… — Я предпочитаю…, потому что…

Practice: Answer the Questions

What is your morning usually like?

Model answer: My morning is usually a bit busy because I often wake up late and have to hurry. I try to get ready quickly and not be late.

Do you prefer slow mornings or busy mornings? Why?

Model answer: I prefer slow mornings because I feel more relaxed and ready for the day. It helps me stay in a good mood.

What do you usually do first after you wake up?

Model answer: I usually check my phone and then get up. After that, I go to the bathroom and start getting ready.

Do you often skip breakfast?

Model answer: Sometimes I skip breakfast because I don’t have enough time. On better days, I try to eat something simple.

What helps you have a better morning?

Model answer: Planning ahead helps me a lot because I don’t waste time in the morning. I also try to go to bed earlier.

How do you feel when you are in a hurry?

Model answer: I feel nervous and stressed when I am in a hurry. I also make more mistakes.

Expand Your Answer

Try to give a longer answer. Use at least 2—3 expressions from the vocabulary list and add one reason or example.

Example answer: I usually prefer slow mornings because I don’t like to be in a hurry. I try to wake up early and have a cup of coffee. For example, when I have time in the morning, I feel more relaxed and don’t make mistakes.

Practice: Complete the Sentences

I usually wake up ______ because I need time to get ready.

In the morning, I try to ______, but sometimes I feel rushed.

If I don’t have time, I often ______ breakfast.

One thing that helps me is to ______ ahead.

When I am in a hurry, I often ______ mistakes.

When Plans Change

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We often make plans for the day, the weekend, or even for the whole week. We decide what to do, where to go, and who to meet. Planning helps us feel organized and in control. However, things don’t always go as expected, and sometimes our plans change.

For example, you may plan to meet a friend in the evening, but your friend cancels at the last minute. Or you want to go for a walk, but it starts raining. These situations are very common. Although it can be frustrating, it is important to stay calm and think of another option.

When my plans change, I usually feel a bit disappointed at first.

I imagine how things will go, so I don’t like it when everything is different. But I try not to get upset for too long. Instead, I ask myself what I can do next. Sometimes a small change can lead to something better.

For instance, if I can’t go out, I stay at home and relax. I might watch a movie, read a book, or cook something new. It’s not the same as my original plan, but it can still be enjoyable. In fact, I sometimes need a quiet evening, although I don’t always realize it.

There are also times when changes are more serious. For example, if I have a lot of work and can’t finish it on time, I have to change my schedule. I may move some tasks to another day or ask for more time. It’s not always easy, but it helps me manage my responsibilities better.

One important skill is being flexible. It means you can accept changes and adapt to new situations. Flexible people don’t panic when something goes wrong. They look for solutions instead of focusing on the problem. So when plans change, they can still have a good day.

Another helpful thing is to have a backup plan. For example, if your plan is to go outside, you can also think about something to do at home. If one option doesn’t work, you already have another idea. It saves time and reduces stress.

In the end, we cannot control everything. Plans change, people cancel, and unexpected things happen. Although it can be annoying, it is a normal part of life. If you stay positive and open to new ideas, you can turn a bad situation into a good one.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

make plans — строить планы

go as expected — идти по плану

plans change — планы меняются

at the last minute — в последний момент

cancel plans — отменять планы

feel frustrated — чувствовать раздражение

stay calm — сохранять спокойствие

another option — другой вариант

feel disappointed — чувствовать разочарование

get upset — расстраиваться

think of something else — придумать что-то другое

stay at home — оставаться дома

original plan — изначальный план

be enjoyable — быть приятным

have a lot of work — иметь много работы

change your schedule — менять расписание

move tasks — переносить задачи

ask for more time — просить больше времени

be flexible — быть гибким

adapt to — адаптироваться к

look for solutions — искать решения

backup plan — запасной план

unexpected things — неожиданные вещи

stay positive — сохранять позитивный настрой

Useful Patterns

I planned to…, but… — Я планировал…, но…

When something changes, I… — Когда что-то меняется, я…

At first, I feel…, but then I… — Сначала я чувствую…, но потом…

If I can’t…, I usually… — Если я не могу…, я обычно…

One thing that helps is… — Одна вещь, которая помогает, это…

It’s not always easy, but… — Это не всегда легко, но…

I try to stay… — Я стараюсь оставаться…

Instead of…, I… — Вместо…, я…

Practice: Answer the Questions

How do you feel when your plans change?

Model answer: I feel a bit disappointed when my plans change, especially at the last minute. But I try to stay calm and think of another option.

What do you usually do if your plans are canceled?

Model answer: If my plans are canceled, I usually stay at home and relax. I might watch something or read a book.

Do you like making plans in advance?

Model answer: Yes, I like making plans because it helps me feel organized. But I understand that things don’t always go as expected.

Are you a flexible person?

Model answer: I think I am quite flexible because I can adapt to changes. I try not to get upset and look for solutions.

What is your backup plan when you can’t go out?

Model answer: My backup plan is to stay at home and do something enjoyable. For example, I cook or watch a movie.

Have you ever had a day when everything changed?

Model answer: Yes, I have had days like that. I had a lot of work, so I had to change my schedule and move tasks.

Expand Your Answer

Try to give a longer answer. Use at least 2—3 expressions from the vocabulary list and add one reason or example.

Example answer: I don’t like it when plans change at the last minute because I feel disappointed. However, I try to stay positive and think of another option. For example, if I can’t go out, I stay at home and do something enjoyable.

Practice: Complete the Sentences

I planned to go out, but my friend ______ at the last minute.

When my plans change, I try to stay ______ and not get upset.

If I can’t follow my original plan, I think of ______ option.

One useful thing is to have a ______ plan.

Flexible people can easily ______ to new situations.

Small Talk That Actually Works

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Small talk is a big part of everyday communication. We use it when we meet new people, talk to colleagues, or even speak to someone in a shop or on public transport. It may seem simple, but for many people it is not easy to start or keep a conversation going.

Small talk is not about deep or serious topics. It is about simple, friendly communication. For example, people often talk about the weather, daily plans, or something around them. It may sound basic, but it helps people feel comfortable and relaxed.

When I meet someone for the first time, I usually start with a simple question. I might say, «How is your day going?» or «What do you do?» These questions are easy to answer, so the other person does not feel stressed. Then I listen carefully and try to ask more questions. This shows interest and helps the conversation continue.

One important thing is to keep the conversation natural. You don’t need to ask too many questions one after another. It is better to react to what the other person says. For example, if they say they are busy at work, you can say, «That sounds stressful» or «What kind of work do you do?» So the conversation feels more real and not like an interview.

Body language is also very important. A smile, eye contact, and a friendly tone can make a big difference. Even simple phrases like «That’s interesting» or «Really?» can show that you are listening. Although these expressions are short, they help the other person feel heard.

Sometimes conversations can feel difficult. For example, there may be a long silence. In this case, you can change the topic or ask a new question. You can also talk about something around you, like the place, the music, or the event. It is a simple way to continue the conversation without pressure.

Another useful idea is to share something about yourself. Small talk is not only about asking questions. If you only ask and never answer, the conversation can feel one-sided. So it is good to give short answers and add a little information. For example, if someone asks about your weekend, you can say what you did and how you felt.

It is also important to know when to finish the conversation. Small talk is usually short. You don’t need to talk for a long time. You can say something like, «It was nice talking to you» or «I have to go now, but it was great to meet you.» This sounds polite and natural.

In the end, small talk is a skill that improves with practice. You don’t need to be perfect. If you stay relaxed, show interest, and use simple phrases, you can have a good conversation in many situations.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

small talk — непринуждённый разговор

everyday communication — повседневное общение

start a conversation — начать разговор

keep a conversation going — поддерживать разговор

feel comfortable — чувствовать себя комфортно

ask a question — задать вопрос

listen carefully — внимательно слушать

show interest — проявлять интерес

keep it natural — говорить естественно

one after another — один за другим

sound like an interview — звучать как допрос

body language — язык тела

make eye contact — устанавливать зрительный контакт

friendly tone — дружелюбный тон

make a difference — иметь значение

feel heard — чувствовать, что тебя слушают

long silence — долгая пауза

change the topic — сменить тему

without pressure — без давления

one-sided conversation — односторонний разговор

share something about yourself — рассказать о себе

short answers — короткие ответы

finish the conversation — закончить разговор

sound polite — звучать вежливо

Useful Patterns

How is your day going? — Как проходит твой день?

What do you do? — Чем ты занимаешься?

That sounds… — Звучит…

Really? Tell me more. — Правда? Расскажи больше.

What about you? — А ты?

I usually… — Я обычно…

It depends, but… — Зависит, но…

It was nice talking to you. — Было приятно поговорить с тобой.

Practice: Answer the Questions

Do you find small talk easy or difficult?

Model answer: I find small talk a bit difficult because I don’t always know what to say. But I try to stay relaxed and ask simple questions.

What do you usually talk about with new people?

Model answer: I usually talk about work or daily life because it is easy and natural. It helps people feel comfortable.

Do you like asking questions or answering them?

Model answer: I like asking questions because it helps me keep the conversation going. I also show interest this way.

What do you do if there is a long silence?

Model answer: If there is a long silence, I try to change the topic or ask a new question. It helps continue the conversation.

How do you show that you are listening?

Model answer: I show that I am listening by making eye contact and reacting. I say things like «That’s interesting.»

How do you usually finish a conversation?

Model answer: I usually say something polite like «It was nice talking to you.» Then I say goodbye.

Expand Your Answer

Try to give a longer answer. Use at least 2—3 expressions from the vocabulary list and add one reason or example.

Example answer: I think small talk is important for everyday communication because it helps people feel comfortable. I try to start a conversation with simple questions and show interest. For example, I often ask about someone’s day and listen carefully.

Practice: Complete the Sentences

Small talk helps people feel more ______ and relaxed.

I usually start a conversation by ______ a question.

It is important to ______ interest and listen carefully.

If there is a long ______, you can change the topic.

At the end, it is good to sound ______ and friendly.

Running Late Again

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Being late is a common problem for many people. Even when we try to be on time, something often goes wrong. We plan our morning, set an alarm, and think everything is under control, but then we end up running late again.

On a typical day, I try to wake up early, so I have enough time to get ready. I turn off my alarm, get up, and start my routine. However, sometimes I feel too tired, so I stay in bed for a few extra minutes. These minutes feel short, but they can make a big difference. Because of this, I suddenly don’t have enough time.

When I realize that I am late, I start to hurry. I move faster, skip small things, and try to do everything quickly. I may skip breakfast or forget to check my bag. Although I try to save time, I often make mistakes. For example, I might forget my keys or leave something important at home.

Running late also affects how I feel. I feel stressed and nervous, especially if I have a meeting or an important plan. I check the time again and again, because I don’t want to be late. Sometimes I even feel a bit embarrassed when I arrive late and have to say sorry.

There are many reasons why people are late. Some people don’t plan well, while others underestimate how much time they need. For example, getting ready may take longer than expected, or traffic may be worse than usual. So even small problems can cause delays.

One thing that helps is preparing in advance. I try to get everything ready the night before. I choose my clothes, pack my bag, and think about what I need for the next day. This way, I don’t waste time in the morning. It also helps me feel more relaxed.

Another useful habit is leaving earlier than necessary. If I think I need 30 minutes, I try to leave 10 minutes earlier. This gives me extra time in case something goes wrong. Although it is not always easy, it helps me arrive on time more often.

Of course, it is not possible to be on time every day. Sometimes unexpected things happen, and we cannot control them. In these situations, it is important to stay calm and be polite. If I know I will be late, I try to send a message and explain the situation. People usually understand if you communicate clearly.

In the end, being late is something many people experience. But with better planning and simple habits, it is possible to improve. Even small changes can help you feel more in control and start your day in a better way.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

be on time — быть вовремя

run late — опаздывать

something goes wrong — что-то идет не так

be under control — быть под контролем

feel too tired — чувствовать сильную усталость

a few extra minutes — несколько дополнительных минут

make a difference — иметь значение

realize — осознавать

be in a hurry — спешить

skip breakfast — пропускать завтрак

make mistakes — делать ошибки

forget something — забыть что-то

feel stressed — чувствовать стресс

feel nervous — нервничать

arrive late — приходить поздно