TEST 37
Questions 1-7. Match the following headings (A-H) to the texts (Q1-Q7).
HEADINGS:
A) A big problem for a small country
B) At a cultural crossroads
C) Architectural landmark
D) Attractive to learners of English
E) The influence of Britain
F) Unpredictable weather
G) Blended cuisine
H) Making movies
Q1.
Malta is one of only a few truly bilingual countries. English language newspapers, books and magazines
are sold everywhere, many TV and radio
channels broadcast in English, movies are in English, and much
of the islands’ cultural programme is in English too. This, together with an excellent climate and the option
to
combine learning and holidays, makes Malta a popular place for studying English.
Q2.
To learn the history of a country, visit its libraries! But if you want to truly understand its people — try
their food! Lots of Maltese dishes are the result of the long relationship between the inhabitants of the
Malta’s and the many conquerors who occupied the Maltese Islands over the centuries. The island’s food is
an interesting
combination of Italian, African and English ingredients.
Q3.
The British ruled Malta for 150 years and independence came only in 1964. Naturally, the Maltese adopted
the British system of administration, education and legislation. Signs of British lifestyle are everywhere:
there
are English-style pubs, telephone booths and post boxes. There is even a British-style Labour Party
office on Republic Street — visitors are welcome! The British feel at home in Malta, as cars drive on the
left.
Q4.
In
recent years, Malta has become one of Europe’s most popular film and television locations. The Maltese
Islands, their beautiful, unspoiled coastlines and breathtaking architecture have been home to several
blockbusters such as
Gladiator, The Count of Monte Cristo, Troy and Munich as well as prestigious dramas
and sitcoms such as the BBC’s
Byron and ITV’s
Coronation Street, and more recently the TV series
Game
of Thrones.
