English courses: Kristiina Latvanen / Järvenpään opisto

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

HOMEWORK for Monday 2 March 2026

Positive Developments Around the World and in Finland

Although global news often focuses on conflicts and crises, there are many encouraging developments both worldwide and in Finland. When we take a broader perspective, we can see progress in science, environmental protection, social equality, and humanitarian work.

Across the world, medical research continues to advance rapidly. New technologies such as artificial intelligence are helping doctors diagnose diseases earlier and more accurately. Researchers are developing more personalised treatments for cancer and other serious illnesses, improving survival rates and quality of life. In addition, renewable energy production is increasing every year. Wind and solar power are becoming more affordable, and many countries are reducing their dependence on fossil fuels. These environmental efforts demonstrate that long-term sustainability is becoming a global priority.

International cooperation also remains strong. Organisations such as the United Nations coordinate humanitarian aid, peacekeeping missions, and development programmes in many parts of the world. Global partnerships in education and public health help reduce poverty and expand opportunities for millions of people. These collective efforts show that even in difficult times, countries recognise the importance of collaboration.

Finland offers several additional reasons for optimism. The country invests heavily in education, research, and technological innovation. Finnish companies are developing sustainable solutions in clean energy, circular economy models, and digital services. Finland also consistently ranks among the happiest nations in the annual World Happiness Report. Experts often explain this by pointing to strong social trust, equal access to education and healthcare, low corruption, and a good balance between work and private life. Access to clean nature — forests, lakes, and fresh air — also plays a significant role in people’s well-being.

Well-known international celebrities contribute to positive change as well. For example, Taylor Swift has donated millions to food banks, disaster relief efforts, and education initiatives during her tours. Leonardo DiCaprio has funded major environmental projects through his foundation, supporting wildlife protection and climate action worldwide. Their influence raises awareness and encourages fans to support charitable causes.

Finland also has many public figures who use their influence responsibly. Former president Martti Ahtisaari dedicated decades to international peace mediation and received the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in resolving conflicts around the world. His work strengthened Finland’s reputation as a country that supports diplomacy and dialogue.

In the field of culture and entertainment, several Finnish celebrities are active in charity and advocacy. Darude has supported children’s hospitals and taken part in fundraising events. Saara Aalto has promoted equality and LGBTQ+ rights, encouraging openness and acceptance in society. Formula One legend Mika Häkkinen has supported road safety campaigns and children’s charities.

Another example is Cheek, who has participated in charity concerts and fundraising initiatives, using his popularity to gather support for social causes. Television presenter Ellen Jokikunnas has been involved in animal welfare campaigns and humanitarian projects. Even in sports, athletes such as Teemu Selänne have supported children’s hospitals and youth sports programmes both in Finland and internationally.

At the same time, positive change does not depend only on famous names. Across Finland, thousands of volunteers work with organisations, support elderly neighbours, mentor young people, and organise local fundraising events. These everyday acts of kindness form the foundation of a strong and caring society.

Taken together, these examples show that progress happens at many levels — international, national, and individual. Scientific innovation, environmental responsibility, peace mediation, and charitable work all contribute to a more hopeful future. Despite ongoing global challenges, there are clear signs that cooperation, generosity, and determination continue to shape a better world — both globally and in Finland.

WORDS TO BE EXPLAINED IN CLASS NEXT TIME:

1. encouraging

2. equality

3. accurately

4. renewable energy

5. solar power

6. affordable

7. long-term sustainability

8. collaboration

9. consistently

10. annual

11. donate

12. disaster

13. wildlife protection

14. charitable cause

15. resolve

16. fundraising event

17. openness

18. humanitarian

19. act of kindness

20. peace mediation

21. ongoing

22. generosity

23. innovation

24. poverty

25. volunteer

Monday, 23 February 2026

Listening

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2602/260226-birdwatching-l.html

Music

Monday, 16 February 2026

HOMEWORK for Monday 23 February 2026

GARDENING

Spring is often considered the most exciting season for gardeners, yet the experience of gardening can be very different depending on the climate. In northern countries such as Finland, February and March are usually still cold and snowy, while in milder countries such as England, the first clear signs of spring often appear much earlier. Comparing these two regions shows how strongly climate influences gardening activities, plant choices, and even garden design.

In Finland, late winter often means frozen ground and thick snow cover. Gardens seem to be asleep, but in reality, the gardening season has already begun—just indoors. February is a time for careful planning. Gardeners order seeds, design planting plans, repair tools, and clean pots. Because the Finnish growing season is short but intense, preparation is essential. Many people start sowing vegetables such as tomatoes, chili peppers, and celery under grow lights to give them a long enough growing period. Greenhouses are also very popular in Finland, as they help extend the season and protect plants from cold temperatures.

As March arrives, the days become noticeably longer in the north. The increasing daylight supports seedlings growing indoors. On milder days, gardeners may prune fruit trees or gently remove heavy snow from branches to prevent damage. Although it is still too early for most outdoor planting, hardy vegetables and flowers are carefully planned so that they can be sown as soon as the soil warms up. When spring finally arrives, Finnish gardeners must work efficiently to make the most of the long summer days, when there is almost continuous light.

In England, the situation is quite different. Winters are generally milder, and the soil rarely stays frozen for long. Snow is less common and usually disappears quickly. As a result, gardeners can often begin outdoor work earlier. In February or March, they may prepare flower beds, prune roses, and plant hardy vegetables directly into the ground. Flowers such as daffodils and crocuses often bloom early, bringing color to the landscape while Finnish gardens are still covered in snow.

The climate also influences the types of gardens that are common in each country. In Finland, many people grow practical kitchen gardens with fast-growing vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, onions, and lettuce. Berries—especially strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackcurrants—are extremely popular. Gardeners often choose hardy perennials and native plants that can survive long winters.

In England, the milder climate allows for a wider variety of garden styles. Traditional cottage gardens are well known for their colorful mix of flowers, herbs, and vegetables growing closely together. Formal gardens with carefully shaped hedges and lawns are also common, as well as large landscape gardens surrounding historic houses. Roses, lavender, foxgloves, and climbing plants grow particularly well. Apples are among the most popular fruits, and many gardens include at least one apple tree.

Europe is also home to some of the most famous gardens in the world. The impressive gardens of the Palace of Versailles in France are admired for their symmetry and fountains. In England, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew are internationally respected for their scientific research and plant collections. Meanwhile, Keukenhof in the Netherlands attracts millions of visitors every spring with its spectacular tulip displays. These examples show that gardening can be both an art form and a scientific discipline.

Beyond practical and aesthetic aspects, gardening plays an important role in mental well-being. Working with plants reduces stress, improves concentration, and creates a sense of calm. Caring for a garden gives people a feeling of purpose and connection to nature. There is a famous saying, often attributed to the writer Voltaire: “We must cultivate our garden.” In his novel Candide, this phrase suggests that people should focus on meaningful, constructive tasks in their own lives. Some gardeners even say, half-jokingly, that nothing in life is truly important except gardening. Although this is clearly an exaggeration, it expresses how deeply gardening can influence emotional balance and personal happiness.

In conclusion, gardening in Finland requires patience, careful planning, and quick action during a short but bright growing season. Gardening in England benefits from a milder climate and a longer period of outdoor activity. Yet despite these differences, gardeners in both countries share the same dedication and passion. Whether tending seedlings indoors during a snowy February in Finland or planting flowers outdoors in an English March, gardening connects people to nature, to tradition, and to themselves.

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