Easter

 

 Easter

I imagine most people are enjoying the Easter break (ok, so some of you are studying hard for the looming exams) and we’re lucky enough to be enjoying some fantastic sunshine here. So, what is Easter all about?

It’s one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world, and its origins are a fascinating mix of ancient traditions, seasonal change, and religious meaning. Long before it became a Christian celebration, spring festivals were held all over the place to welcome the return of longer, warmer days. These early festivals often included symbols of new life, such as eggs, flowers, and rabbits, many of which still make an appearance in Easter celebrations today. Go to any supermarket in the UK and you’ll see shelf upon shelf of chocolate eggs and bunnies, and a popular handicraft at school is egg-painting.

The name “Easter” is believed by some to come from Eostre, an ancient Germanic goddess of spring and fertility, though historians can’t quite agree about this. What’s clear is that by the second century, early Christians began using springtime to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, linking their faith to a time of hope and renewal. In many cities, Sevilla being a prime example, there are processions which reenact the Passion and Death of Christ.

However you choose to spend these days, I’m sure you’ll make the most of them to rest and enjoy some quality time with family and friends!

                          Easter Parade, Judy Garland and Fred Astaire

 

 

Giving unusual answers to usual questions

Today's C1 Open Cloze is inspired by a news item I heard on the radio this morning - King Charles joined the London Vegetable Orchestra to play the carrot recorder.

I had never heard of this ensemble, and as I dug a bit deeper, I found out that the original idea came from the Vienna Vegetable Orchestra, founded in 1998.  To my astonishment, I read that the band has released 5 whole albums!

Whether you would rather eat your veggies than play them, you have to admit that this is an original concept.  As I have mentioned before, the exercises here, or in any text book, contain ideas and information that you can use in your writings and speakings.  How delighted the examiner would be if, to the question, 'Have you been to any concerts recently?' you described a gig by the Vegetable Orchestra.  It would also be an excellent way to include some different vocabulary. Remember, what you say or write does not have to be true! I've said it before, and I'll say it again - make use of all that vocabulary you have learnt throughout the years!  The examiner won't know what you know if you don't prove it.

You'll see I've made some reading exercises, too - let me know what you think of them.  Also, if there are any topics you'd like me to cover in the Cloze and Open Cloze sections, I'm open to ideas! Have a great Friday!

                                 The Cure, Friday I'm in Love (1992 - unbelievable!)