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

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.

Lomakkeen yläreuna

WORDS TO BE EXPLAINED IN CLASS NEXT TIME: 

·       Lomakkeen alareuna

• ·       snow cover
• ·       seed
• ·       seedling
• ·       sow
• ·       essential
• ·       prune
• ·       increasingly
• ·       continuous
• ·       soil
• ·       flower bed
• ·       daffodil
• ·       bloom
• ·       fast-growing
• ·       blackcurrant
• ·       wider variety
• ·       impressive
• ·       hedge
• ·       meaningful
• ·       fountain
• ·       foxgloves
• ·       spectacular
• ·       cultivate
• ·       half-jokingly
• ·       exaggeration
• ·       dedication

Listening

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2602/260216-elephant-whiskers-5l.html#google_vignette

Music

 

listening

https://english-practice.net/practice-listening-english-exercises-for-b2-sights-and-sounds/#google_vignette 

HOMEWORK for Monday 9 February 2026

 WINTER OLYMPICS

The Winter Olympic Games are held every four years under the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and feature sports practiced on snow and ice. Before the first official Winter Games, several winter sports were included in the Summer Olympics, such as figure skating in 1908 and ice hockey in 1920. As winter sports gained popularity in Nordic countries and beyond, the first dedicated Winter Olympics were held in 1924 in Chamonix, France, where Finland quickly established itself as a strong competitor, particularly in cross-country skiing and ski jumping. The Winter Olympics were canceled in 1940 and 1944 due to World War II but resumed in 1948 in St. Moritz, Switzerland.

Over the decades, Finland has won 175 Winter Olympic medals: 45 gold, 65 silver, and 65 bronze, ranking among the top medal-winning nations. Cross-country skiing has been Finland’s greatest strength, producing legendary athletes like Veikko Hakulinen and Eero Mäntyranta, while Mika Myllylä dominated in the 1990s. Finnish women also left their mark, with Marja-Liisa Kirvesniemi winning three gold medals in 1984 and Marjo Matikainen claiming gold in 1988, helping define a golden era of Finnish skiing. In ski jumping, Matti Nykänen became an icon with four Olympic golds in 1984 and 1988, while more recently, Iivo Niskanen continued Finland’s skiing legacy with gold at the 2018 PyeongChang Games.

Ice hockey has also become a key area of Finnish success. The men’s team (Leijonat) earned seven Olympic medals, including its first gold in 2022, alongside silver and bronze, reflecting decades of development and competitive excellence.

The Winter Olympics have not only showcased remarkable athletic achievements but also sparked controversies and dramatic moments. Figure skating has faced judging disputes, most famously at Salt Lake City in 2002 when judges were caught favoring one pair over another, prompting reforms to the scoring system. Political tensions have also influenced the Games, from Nazi Germany’s propaganda in 1936 to various boycotts in the late twentieth century. Even weather and eligibility issues have occasionally caused disputes, reminding everyone that the Olympics are as unpredictable as they are inspiring.

Over the years, new events such as snowboarding and freestyle skiing have been added, while traditional sports like skiing, ski jumping, and ice hockey remain central. Finland continues to excel in its traditional sports, while countries like Norway, Canada, the Netherlands, and China have made their marks in cross-country skiing, ice hockey, speed skating, and short-track events. Even nations with little winter tradition, such as Jamaica, have captured global attention with their bobsleigh team, inspiring fans worldwide.

At the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Finland is represented by 103 athletes competing across nine sports. Finnish athletes are strong contenders in cross-country skiing, ski jumping, and ice hockey, where NHL players are back in Olympic competition for the first time since 2014. Fans around the world are eagerly watching to see how new achievements will add to Finland’s proud Olympic legacy.

From the early days in Chamonix to the present, the Winter Olympics have grown into a global celebration of sport, endurance, and human achievement. Finland’s long history of success highlights the country’s deep connection to winter sports, while remarkable athletes and memorable moments from other nations remind us that the Games are a stage for both triumph and drama. Beyond medals, records, and controversies, the Winter Olympics continue to promote international cooperation, cultural exchange, and the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and fair play.

WORDS TO BE EXPLAINED IN CLASS NEXT TIME:

1.     Endurance

2.     Dedicate

3.     Fair play

4.     Dispute

5.     Golden era

6.     Eligibility

7.     Legacy

8.     Spark

9.     Controversy

10.                   Bobsleigh

11.                   Contender

12.                   Unpredictable

13.                   Triumph

14.                   Nation

15.                   Values of excellence

16.                   Scoring system

17.                   Favor

18.                   Various

19.                   Deep

20.                   Respect

Listening

 https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2601/260129-bamboo-superfood-l.html

Olympics

Music

HOMEWORK for Monday 2 February 2026

Read the text The King Herself on page 123 and do exercise 2 and 3 on page 122. Below are the words to be explained in class next Monday.

HOMEWORK for Monday 26 January 2026

Read the text about talented people. Below the text are the words to be explained in class next Monday.

TALENTED PEOPLE

Talented people have always played an important role in the development of society. Through their skills, creativity, and determination, they influence the way we think, work, and express ourselves. Talent can appear in many forms, including science, art, sports, popular culture, and everyday life, and it often develops when individuals are given the opportunity and support to improve their abilities.

Throughout history, many well-known figures have shown how talent combined with effort can lead to remarkable achievements. Albert Einstein transformed our understanding of the universe through innovative thinking and persistence, while Leonardo da Vinci demonstrated exceptional ability in both art and science. In the arts, Frida Kahlo and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart left a lasting impact by turning personal experiences and emotions into powerful works that continue to inspire people today.

In modern society, talent is also clearly visible in sports, entertainment, and popular culture. Athletes such as Lionel Messi and Serena Williams are admired for their outstanding skills, discipline, and mental strength. In entertainment and popular culture, celebrities like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Leonardo DiCaprio have achieved global recognition through talent, creativity, and hard work.

However, talent is not limited to famous individuals. Ordinary people can also be talented in many ways, such as learning languages, solving practical problems, supporting others, or developing creative hobbies. These abilities often grow slowly and require patience and consistency rather than instant success.

People can add talent to their lives by staying curious and open to new experiences. Trying new activities, setting realistic goals, and practicing regularly help develop skills over time. Learning from mistakes, accepting feedback, and staying motivated are also essential. In addition, surrounding oneself with supportive people and positive role models can encourage personal growth and confidence.

These examples show that talent alone is rarely enough to achieve long-term success. Dedication, resilience, and a willingness to learn play a crucial role in turning potential into real achievement. When people actively develop their abilities, they enrich not only their own lives but also the communities around them.

Listening

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2512/251204-retiring-in-greece-l.html 

HOMEWORK for 18 January 2026

 Read the text about Greenland. Below the text are the words to be explained in class next Monday.

Greenland: A Remote Island with Global Importance

Greenland is the world’s largest island, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Although it is geographically part of North America, Greenland is politically and culturally linked to Europe. It is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, with its own government that manages most domestic affairs. About 56,000 people live in Greenland, mainly along the coast, because the interior is covered by a massive ice sheet.

Greenland has been connected to Denmark for several centuries. Danish-Norwegian explorers began settling in Greenland in the early 18th century, building on earlier Viking settlements from the Middle Ages. In 1814, after the breakup of the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway, Denmark officially kept control of Greenland. Over time, Denmark established colonial rule, which lasted until the mid-20th century. In 1979, Greenland gained home rule, and in 2009 it received expanded self-government, although Denmark still controls foreign policy and defense.

One of Greenland’s most striking features is its natural environment. Around 80% of the island is covered by ice, which can be up to three kilometers thick in some places. This ice sheet plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate. However, due to global warming, Greenland is losing ice at an alarming rate. Rising temperatures are causing glaciers to melt faster than ever before, contributing significantly to global sea-level rise. This has consequences not only for Greenland but also for coastal communities around the world.

Climate change is also transforming life in Greenland itself. Traditional activities such as fishing and hunting are becoming more difficult as sea ice forms later and melts earlier. At the same time, new economic opportunities are emerging. Melting ice makes it easier to access natural resources such as rare earth minerals, oil, and gas. These resources are in high demand for modern technologies, including renewable energy systems and electric vehicles.

Because of this, Greenland has gained strategic importance in global politics. Major powers like the United States, China, and Russia are increasingly interested in the Arctic region. They see Greenland as a key location for military security, trade routes, and resource access. The Arctic is becoming more accessible due to melting ice, opening new shipping routes that could shorten travel time between continents.

Despite these global interests, many Greenlanders are focused on protecting their environment and culture. There is an ongoing debate about how to balance economic development with sustainability and independence. Greenland’s future decisions will not only shape the lives of its people but also influence global efforts to address climate change.

In today’s interconnected world, Greenland is no longer a distant, isolated place. It has become a symbol of how climate change, politics, and environmental responsibility are deeply linked on a global scale.

U.S. President Donald Trump has recently renewed his strong interest in Greenland, stating that the island is strategically crucial for American and global security. He argues that the United States must increase its influence there to prevent Russia or China from expanding their presence in the Arctic. Greenland and Denmark have firmly rejected these statements, stressing that Greenland is not for sale and that its future must be decided by its own people. The situation has increased diplomatic tensions and underlined Greenland’s growing importance in today’s world politics.

Listening

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2512/251229-mood-food-l.html#google_vignette 

Bat Echolocation

HOMEWORK for the first lesson on 12 January 2026

Read the text about winter. Below the text are the words to be explained in class next time.
 
Winter and Its Effects on People

Winter is the coldest season of the year and occurs between autumn and spring. It is characterized by low temperatures, reduced daylight hours, and, in many regions, snow and icy conditions. From an academic perspective, winter has a significant impact on human health, psychological well-being, and social behavior, making it an important subject of study in environmental and social sciences.

One of the most significant effects of winter is on physical health. Exposure to cold temperatures places additional stress on the human body, which must work harder to maintain a stable internal temperature. This can weaken the immune response and partly explain the seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses such as influenza. Furthermore, hazardous weather conditions, including ice and snow, raise the risk of injuries caused by falls or traffic accidents. Limited sunlight during winter months can also contribute to vitamin D deficiency, which has been linked to weakened bones and reduced immune function.

Winter also affects mental health and cognitive performance. Shorter days and lower levels of natural light can disrupt circadian rhythms, influencing sleep patterns and energy levels. In some individuals, this leads to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression associated with seasonal changes. Symptoms may include persistent low mood, lack of motivation, and difficulty concentrating. Reduced opportunities for outdoor activity during winter can further intensify these psychological effects.

In addition to health-related impacts, winter influences social life and economic activity. People tend to spend more time indoors, which can reduce social interaction and physical movement. At the same time, winter increases energy consumption due to heating needs and may disrupt transportation and work schedules. Nevertheless, winter also has positive social and cultural dimensions, as it is associated with holidays, seasonal traditions, and recreational activities such as skiing and ice skating.

Interesting Facts about Winter

• The Earth is actually closest to the Sun during winter in the Northern Hemisphere; the season is caused by the planet’s tilt, not distance from the Sun.
• Cold temperatures can improve sleep quality for some people, as the body naturally sleeps better in cooler environments.
• Snow acts as a natural insulator, helping to protect soil and plant roots from extreme cold.
• Human metabolism can slightly increase in winter as the body uses more energy to stay warm.
• People tend to consume more calories in winter, partly because cold weather increases appetite and partly because comfort foods become more appealing.

• Humans are not the only ones affected by winter fatigue—studies show that many animals also sleep longer during colder months.
• Cold temperatures can cause smartphones to lose battery power faster, meaning winter affects modern technology as well as human biology.
• In very cold weather, eyelashes and eyebrows can freeze, temporarily sticking together—an inconvenience experienced mainly in extreme climates.
• People often underestimate how slippery ice is; as a result, emergency rooms regularly report a noticeable increase in “winter fall” injuries after the first snowfall.
  
  

In conclusion, winter is a complex season with wide-ranging effects on individuals and societies. While it presents physical, psychological, and logistical challenges, understanding these effects allows people and institutions to adapt more effectively and take advantage of the season’s benefits.