Reading

| The following generalizations about Thai culture come from the travel guide. Notice how we use “It” to introduce generalizations. Model: ■ It is important to take your shoes off! ■ It is not usual to shake hands.

2. | GW. Find some more information about customs and traditions in different countries and prepare a presentation looking through the "Remember" box.

| • In Azerbaijan it is acceptable to wait for all family members to come and sit around the dinner table. As in all customs Azerbaijanis also say “Nush olsun”, which means “Have a nice meal!” (Bon appetit) before starting to eat. • In Great Britain and in most countries it is polite to ask permission to leave the table after a meal, especially in the case of children. • In many countries it’s important not to point at people with your finger. • In Mongolia it’s polite to lick own bowl from which you’ve eaten. • The French think it is impolite not to carry on a conversation at the dinner table. • The Japanese think it is impolite to talk very much at mealtimes. So do Chinese people. In Japan it’s important that you don’t wear shoes indoors. • In many Asian countries it is important not to eat with your left hand.

3. PW. Complete the following sentences according to the text.
1. Couples have to share ... .
2. The ballet is still popular ... .
3. In social behaviour of the two ... .
4. For many southern countries ... doesn’t even start ... .
5. It is impolite to talk very much ... .
6. It is important in many Asian countries not ... .
7. It is polite to lick the bowl ... .