Talking About Finland

Russell snydeR

ISBN 978-951-792-401-6

Copyright © Oy Finn Lectura Ab © Russell Snyder

Kansi Tarja PetrellValokuvat Russell Snyder, sivujen 62, 82 ja 84 kuvat Kuopion matkailupalvelu Oy, sivun 87 yläkuva Kirsi Koskelin, sivun 124 kuva Kolmilammin lavaTaitto Tarja PetrellPaino Esa Print Oy, Tampere 2009

Kustantaja Finn Lectura Rautatieläisenkatu 6 00520 Helsinki puhelin (09) 741 51 005 faksi (09) 1464 370 asiakaspalvelu@finnlectura.fi www.finnlectura.fi

Tämä teos on yhdistetty työ- ja oppikirja. Teos on suojattu tekijänoikeuslailla (404/61). Työkirjasivuja ei saa valokopioida lainkaan. Tekstisivujen valokopioiminen on kielletty, ellei valokopiointiin ole hankittu lupaa. Tarkista onko oppilaitoksellanne voimassaoleva valokopiointilupa. Lisätietoja luvista ja niiden sisällöstä antaa Kopiosto ry www.kopiosto.fi.

Teoksen tai sen osan digitaalinen kopioiminen tai muuntelu on ehdottomasti kielletty.

Forward

I know that Finns are proud of their nation and its achievements – and rightly so. Finland is full of interesting geography,

fascinating history and appealing culture. It is populated by inventive entrepreneurs, highly skilled workers and friendly people. The country has led the way in technology and design as well as in political and economic survival. Since moving to Finland in 1982, I’ve noticed, for the most part, that Finns are reluctant to discuss more than the basics of their country and the Finnish way of life to foreign visitors. That’s a shame because most visitors are extremely interested in learning about Finland. And they would be delighted to have a native enlighten them. Furthermore, when traveling abroad, every Finn serves as an unofficial ambassador whether he likes it or not. Talking about Finland is dedicated to help those who either need or want to talk about their country. The book is divided into 8 units with enlightening and humorous texts describing the country and its society. These texts are followed by dialogues, exercises, questions and discussion themes. Each unit has its own vocabulary section, and there is also a comprehensive vocabulary at the end of the book. This book is meant for both language study groups and individuals. Besides its value in schools, colleges and institutions, the book is of great benefit to people working in businesses, organizations and ministries who encounter and attend meetings with foreigners. Talking about Finland is reader-friendly and suitable for intermediate and advanced studies. Furthermore, foreign visitors and residents will find it both handy and practical to find out essential information about Finns and Finland. Talking about Finland is designed to foster creativity in its readers. Individual readers can freely go through the book emphasizing the parts that are most useful for their needs. Groups may choose to practice the dialogues, answer the questions and discuss suggested themes as well as use the imagination to produce supplemental activities.

25.11.2009 Rusty Snyder

Unit 1 This Is Finland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 A Bit of Geography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Reflections on the Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

At Home with the Aaltos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Unit 2 The Making of a Republic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 A Whirlwind History, Part 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

A Whirlwind History, Part 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Playing Politics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Unit 3 Making Capital and the Capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 That Thing Called Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Exporting Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

My Kind of Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Unit 4 life Outside Helsinki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 The Call of the North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

The Autonomous Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Turku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Tampere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Lahti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Oulu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Kuopio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Behind the Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Unit 5 Finnish Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Nice Forest You Have . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

The Pleasures of Steam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Spectators or Participants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Unit 6 eats and drinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Chowtime in Finland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

The Good and Bad of Drinking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Unit 7 How to Celebrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Have a Holiday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Keeping the Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Unit 8 Culture and Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Finns Stories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Do You Believe in Kalevala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Music in the Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Let´s Dance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Finland’s Top Celebrity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Vocabulary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 Correct answers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

6 This Is Finland

7Unit 1

Unit 1

This Is Finland

8 This Is Finland

The Republic of Finland is located in Northern Europe, and is a member of the European Union. Strangely though, Finns often say, “I’m traveling to ‘Europe’ this

summer.” Finland is situated between the 60th and 70th parallel of latitude – which doesn’t say much. A quarter of the country lies north of Lapland – which says a lot. Finland is 1,160 km long, 540 km wide and has a total area of 338,135 square kilometers, making it the 6th largest country in Europe. Not very big compared to Russia or Australia, but it sure beats Liechtenstein or Andorra. There are 198,439 lakes thanks to the skillful carving of glaciers during the Ice Age. There are also hundreds of thousands of islands scattered around in lakes and in the sea ...and many people living in apartment buildings who act like islands. Finland’s neighbors include Sweden, Norway, Russia and “Waterworld” (the Gulf of Finland and Gulf of Bothnia). Seventy percent of the country is forested (although it seems like more if you get lost) making it the most forested country in Europe. Ten percent of the country is covered by water. So it’s very good to be a swimmer or possess a lifejacket...even better to own a boat...or still better, have a friend with a yacht. The average population density is only 17 persons per square kilometer. However, the most heavily populated area is the south (though to a Chinese or Indian it would probably look deserted). One quarter of the people live in the Capital Region. This includes Helsinki, Vantaa, Espoo, Kauniainen and a couple of bedroom suburbs that make people yawn thinking about them. The southern area of the country is rather flat (unless you’re riding a bicycle). In the central areas it becomes more hilly, and in the north there are huge mountains...not really, I mean small mountains....or rather, fells of respectable size...meaning you can ski on them.

Jim: Do you like living in Tampere?Pekka: Yes, somewhat, but I miss Ostrobothnia. Jim Then why not move back?Pekka: My wife loves city cultural life; and hates housework,

gardening and shoveling snow.

Jacques: It must be fantastic living around all these magnificent lakes here in Savo.

Eero: Yes, but for my holiday I like something completely different.

Jacques: What’s that?Eero: I travel to a dessert resort, or to the Alps, or to a huge city.

A Bit of Geography

9Unit 1

Sarah: These landscapes around Utsjoki are spectacular. The only thing that bothers me is the mosquitoes.

Jaana: They don’t bother those of us who live here. After all, we’re proud Samis.

Saari: Speak for yourself, Jaana. I hate mosquitoes, so give some more of that repellant spray.

Kati: I didn’t like living in an apartment in Helsinki, so I moved up here to Kajaani.

Wolfgang: What do you do?Kati: I make pottery. My latest exhibition, “Pieces” is on display at

that gallery. But my main income is from designing tourist mugs and plates. Would you like to order something with your name on it?

extra geographic vocabulary – Where can you find these in Finland?brackish water – murtovesi, fresh water – makea vesi, skerry – pikku saari, pond – lampi,

river – joki, stream – virta, spring – kaivo, swamp – suo, bog – neva, fen – kosteikko,

marsh – luhta, inlet – lahti, coastline – rantaviiva, peninsula – niemimaa, ridge – harjanne,

meadow – niitty, farmland – viljelysmaa

Vocabularyto carve – kaivertaa

to be situated – sijaita

parallel of latitude – leveyspiiri

to be scattered – sijaita siellä täällä

possess – omistaa

population density – asukastiheys

compared to – verrattuna jhk

fell – iso mäki

resort – lomanveittopaikka

mosquito repellant – hyttyskarkote

10 This Is Finland

Comment of these facts:

– Finland has 5.3 million inhabitants. (Is that too few, too many or just enough?)

– The official languages are Finnish 92.3%, Swedish 5.6% and 1600 Finns speak Sami. (Which languages do you speak?)

– In the far north the sun does not set for about 73 days in summer and in winter the sun remains below the horizon for 53 days. (How do these extremes affect people?)

– Finns Have on of the highest education levels in the world and have consistently scored at the top in international comparisons. (Why do you think Finnish students do so well?)

– The crime rate is relatively low. (What kinds of crimes are common in Finland?)

– Finland is a member of the European Union, but observes a policy of neutrality. (What are the advantages of being in the EU? Disadvantages? Why is Finland neutral?)

– The country has the world’s best availability of scientists and engineers. (How has this helped Finland?)

– The Finnish language is one of the world’s most difficult. (What do you think is difficult about it? Could it be made easier?)

– Finns drink more coffee per capita than any other nation. (When and where do Finns drink coffee? Does anyone drink tea?)

Why do you think so much of the population and industry are concentrated in the south of the country? Would it be better to spread cities and businesses out to other regions?

How would you tell a foreigner about: Finland’s lakes? Islands? The attraction of having a summer cottage or a boat?

Group work

Group discussion

express yourself

1.1

1.2

1.3

Thoughts on Winter

T he Finnish winter is long, but people need to go outdoors for fresh air and exercise. That means dressing properly: long underwear, thick pants, a

wool sweater, a heavy jacket, an insulated hat, sturdy boots and a scarf. Don’t imitate certain Finns who put on a minimum of clothing and pretend it isn’t cold…unless, of course, you enjoy getting hypothermia. Slippery sidewalks can lead to humiliating falls and a sore bottom. Children and some adults have learned to avoid these problems by using a skating or sliding motion while ambling along. Little granite stones are spread out along the walkways, which definitely help the situation. However, if you get a stone inside your shoe, it’s miserable until you can get to a warm place to take it out. Sitting out in the snow on a clear, sunny day can be as pleasant as spending a day at the beach…minus the bikinis. Overall, winter is an excellent time to be in Finland. If you are a foreigner, Finns will be concerned how you are coping with the cold and may invite you for a hot beverage or a sauna. There are lots of get-togethers during this season, and that makes it convenient to make business or social contacts.

Ahmed: I don’t know how I’ll manage to get through the

winter. It’s so cold!Tommi: Well, –5 degree is not cold, it’s perfect. I remember

one winter in Helsinki when it was below –20 everyday for a month.

Vocabularyto be insulated – eristää

sturdy – vankka

hypothermia – alilämpö

humiliating – nöyryyttävä

amble – kulkea hitaasti

to be concerned – huolestunut

convenient – sopiva

numb – tunnoton

mulled wine – glögi

Unit 1 11

Reflections on The Seasons

Ahmed: Wow! How did you survive?Tommi: As long as it wasn’t windy, I was fine.

But one day the thermometer dropped to record cold, –35 degrees. That night I went to a party in Kuusisaari. I got off the bus too early and had to walk a bit. My hands, face and toes started going numb. I thought I was in big trouble, but I made it to my destination alive. They served hot mulled wine and that was like heaven to me.

12 This Is Finland

Night WalkWalking on a pathIt’s fifteen below zeroI’m wrapped upIn layersBut the wind penetratesThrough my clothesMaking me forget About the day’s pressuresSnowflakes floatUnder street lampsSparkling like crystalHypnotizing and soothingPedestrians flow byJoggers danceIn slow motionDogs bounceOver the snowThe great white blanketQuiets the cityAnd gives our nervesA rest

Exchange good and bad winter experiences and stories with a partner.

Comment on the following poem:

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

extra vocabularyhail – rakeet, snowflake –

lumihiutale, sleet – räntä, frostbite

– paleltuma, snow blindness –

lumisokeus, shiver – vapista

exercise

Pair work

Arto: When I was young I used to build snowmen, have

snowball wars, make snow angels, and dig snow caves.

Denisa: Don’t you miss all that?Arto: I did, until I had kids. Now I can do all those

activities with them.

1.4

1.5

13Unit 1

Describe the Finnish winter to a partner who will role play as a foreigner from a warm climate.

How should a foreigner dress during the winter in Southern Finland, Central Finland and Lapland?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Why do some Finns wear the minimum of clothing in winter? What are the risks of under dressing?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What is the “perfect” winter temperature? When is it too cold? Can it be too warm?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What are your favorite memories of winter?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pair work

Questions 1.6

1.7

Thoughts on Spring

One of the first things you notice about spring is that the days keep getting longer, warmer and brighter. This causes people to start shedding as many

winter clothes as possible. Sometimes too soon, and that is probably why there are so many colds during this season. In early spring, you may see sun-hungry Finns going through a strange ceremony. Whenever the sun breaks through the clouds, they will stop, tilt their heads back, close their eyes and smile; until the sun disappears again and they quickly go on their way once more. It’s time to get back in shape. You can’t hide under those layers of clothes anymore. Reducing that protruding stomach and those flabby thighs becomes a priority. Men and women go out jogging, visit the local gyms and try out new diets. They are hoping to squeeze into last year’s bathing suit. As the temperature rises and the snow starts melting, streets and sidewalks become a slushy mess. You have to shine your shoes constantly and wash light-color clothing often. And then you are standing on a street corner and…suddenly…WATCH OUT! Too late! That car splashed half melted snow and street dirt all over you. Just when you believe all of the snow has disappeared and you are ready to say good-bye to the cold season, winter strikes back (takatalvi). This may happen several times…in the same day. This is the time you notice the appearance of pretty girls/handsome men. Everywhere you look! Where were they hiding all winter? The mating season begins. When the weather is beautiful people become energetic and excited. They sometimes have difficulties concentrating on work. They would rather be outside. If you have any business negotiations or a presentation to make on a nice day, try to be brief and to the point. Or, let the sun work in your favor and suggest to your colleagues that you continue discussions at an outdoor café.

Janne: Spring is my favorite season. Roni: At the beginning of spring the landscape looks a bit bleak.Janne: But if you check closely, you’ll see flowers popping up, bits

of green, and hear the sound of birds. Roni: People certainly look satisfied during that season. Janne: Yes, we feel like we made it through a long winter and are

being rewarded.

Nadia: Do you sense love in the air during spring?Erika: I notice pollen and dust in the air. I have allergies. Nadia: You’re not very romantic.Erika: I am, but only during winter and autumn.

Talking About Finland14

15Unit 1

exercise

What are the signs that winter is over?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Do you have trouble concentrating in spring?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What things do you like and dislike about spring?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Name some of your favorite spring activities?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Find another word for:

Shed a. display b. rub c. cast off

Tilt a. move b. lean c. twist

Protrude a. stick out b. to bounce c. to attract

Flabby a. strong b. loose c. shapely

Vocabularyto shed – karistaa

ceremony – seremonia

tilt – kallistaa

protruding – pullottava

flabby – veltto

priority – tärkein tehtävä

slushy – loskainen

constantly – säännöllisesti

bleak – paljas

Questions 1.8

1.9

Thoughts on Summer

During summer, it seems as if Finns are moving around at double speed, talking vigorously, smiling excessively. They look like they just returned from

a seminar on positive thinking. Don’t worry, this condition is temporary and will soon pass…as soon as the autumn begins. Summer means bright days, white nights and outdoor barbeques. Thriving plants, colorful flowers, and chirping birds. Sparkling seas, glimmering lakes, and beach parties. It also means hoards of tourists in the cities and hoards of insects in the countryside. This is a time to sample freshly picked strawberries, munch on sweet peas straight from the pod, devour sausage right from the grill and savor fish fresh from the smoker. The sea and lakes warm up enough to accommodate hours of pleasant bathing and swimming. And no sharks, stinging jellyfish or crocodiles to worry about – although there is an occasional angry pike. In July Finns desert the cities like desperate refugees, so this may not be the best time to come to Finland on business. However, it’s a fine time to spend your holidays here. Remember that summers aren’t always like they are portrayed in tourist brochures. It can rain for days at a time or it can be miserably hot (but not very often). So bring a variety of clothes and be ready for anything.

Jari: Most Finns take their holiday during the

summer, but I like to work then. Nikolai: Why is that?Jari: Because it’s so quiet at the office, I have

no trouble getting things done. Nikolai: But don’t you miss going to the beach or

having a picnic in the park?Jari: That’s no problem. It’s still light and

warm after I leave work, and can still do those things.

Vocabularyvigorously – voimakkaasti

thriving – hyvinvoiva

hoard – iso määrä ihmisiä

munch – napostella, pistää

poskeensa

pod – palko

devour – syödä

accommodate – sovittaa,

mukauttaa

portray – kuvailla

This Is Finland16

17Unit 1

Are you a summer person? Why or why not?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What are the dangers of the sun?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Are there any other summer hazards?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Describe some summer delicacies.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What do you like to do for your holiday?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Complete the sentence and make up a little story.

I’ll never forget the summer when . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

exercise

Questions 1.10

1.11

18 This Is Finland

Thoughts on Autumn

In early autumn the leaves turn spectacular colors, there are beautiful sunsets (when it’s not raining) and the air becomes fresh and crisp.

Cities come alive again and the business atmosphere returns to normal. Finns become motivated and start ambitious projects, study in the evenings and get involved with their hobbies. This is the time for berry picking, mushroom gathering and hunting. As the days get shorter and colder, people disappear under layers of clothing and umbrellas. Finns seem to eat more during the autumn (probably because a few extra kilos won’t be noticed). Many like to spend time inside cozy cafés sipping a cappuccino, reading a magazine or chatting with friends. During autumn’s gloom, the cultural atmosphere blossoms. Museums have special exhibitions, theaters have premier performances and operas are often sold out. Classical, rock and jazz music concerts are everywhere; and for those who love nightlife, there is plenty of it to go around. This is the time when people are most open to new ideas. It is the season of endless possibilities and opportunities. A great time to do business in Finland!

Monika: Every year, at the beginning of autumn, I walk through

the fallen leaves. Niki: Not my idea of fun, but I sure am fascinated by those

colors.Monika It’s even better up north. They have a special name for it,

ruska. Niki: Then next autumn, I’ll certainly travel to Lapland to

experience ruska. Monika: And if you walk through the leaves, the experience will

even be better.

Abraham: These dark days are getting me down. Taru: I know what you mean. It takes me longer to get anything

done. Abraham: I need something to give me more

motivation.Taru: Try using one of those bright lights like I

have on my desk.Abraham: All right, I will. Any other suggestions?Taru: Yes, come on the company cruise to

Sweden. It’s bound to cheer you up.

Vocabularyspectacular – mahtava

crisp – viileä

atmosphere – ilmapiiri

ambitious – suurisuuntainen

blossom – kukoistaa

19Unit 1

Match the words

1. spectacular collect

2. ambitious dark

3. gather comfortable

4. cozy fantastic

5. gloom challenging

What are your favorite autumn activities?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

exercise

Opinion

1.12

1.13

20 This Is Finland

Six years ago Jaana and Pekka Aalto moved into a 110-square-meter, four-room, brick row house. It is located just outside the town of Jyväskylä

in central Finland. They bought the little two-story house from Pekka’s grandmother after she moved into a retirement home. Jaana and Pekka met fifteen years ago while they were both studying at the University of Jyväskylä. They each had a little 15-square-meter room in a student dormitory, which included simple furniture, a one heating plate, and a mini refrigerator. Soon after graduating, they rented a small city owned flat in a big apartment house. After having their first child, Carola, they rented a larger flat on the private market. Finally, a year after their second child, Timo, was born, they were able to take out a substantial loan and buy Grandma’s house. It didn’t take them long to get comfortable in their new dwelling, and they gradually started fixing it up to their liking. They painted some of the rooms white, and Pekka tried to wallpaper other rooms himself. Happily he found Jussi, a skilled handyman, who finished the job. Jussi also refinished the old, wooden parquet floor. Jaana hung up Marimekko curtains, got a set of Arabia dishes and Hackman silverware, purchased as many Artek chairs and tables as they could afford, and scattered around a few Iittala vases and Toikka glass birds. Fortunately, the fire place and the sauna were in good condition. In the future, however, Jaana would like to have locally-made granite counters installed in the kitchen, and a soapstone heater put in the living room. The adults have the largest bedroom, but Pekka complains that with all Jaana’s shoes, handbags and jackets, there isn’t enough room for his things. In Carola’s room, posters of Finnish rock bands, Finnish actors and Elvis Presley cover the walls. She also has hundreds of toy stuffed animals all over the floor. Timo’s room has posters of Finnish hockey players, rally drivers and pesäpallo (Finnish baseball) players. His floor is covered with toy cars, trucks, motorcycles, airplanes, ships and trains. Both kids have their own computer. The Aaltos have a small garden space in both the front and back yard. There is a short but intense growing period in Finland during which Pekka proudly raises potatoes, onions and strawberries. Jaana concentrates on growing various colorful flowers which she uses to brighten up her own house and to give away to neighbors and friends. During the summer Carola spends hours in the garden reading and swaying on their handcrafted, wooden swing, and Timo goes around bug and bird spotting. Often in good weather (and sometimes bad, too) the family barbeques sausages, fish or steaks and they have their meal outdoors.

At Home with the Aaltos

21Unit 1

There are 20 homes that belong to the Aalto’s housing company. The owners have a meeting once a year to elect a board and to discuss various ways to make improvements for the benefit of all. Twice a year the company organizes an event called “Talkoot,” where the residents volunteer to dig, plant, paint, clean, build etc. in order to make the area a nicer place to live. After the labor part is over, they have a little celebration where food and refreshments are served generously. This is an excellent way to get to know new neighbors and socialize with old ones. The Aaltos are generally happy where they live, but they sometimes like to talk about future family plans. “Maybe someday we’ll move to the west coast town of Rauma and buy an old wooden house,” says Pekka. “I’d rather live in North Karelia and buy an old farm house,” says Jaana. “My dream would be to live in a big cottage in Lapland, where there are mountains and reindeer and even gold.” says Timo. “I want to move to a nice flat in Helsinki. That’s where all the top bands play,” adds Carola. “Then again, perhaps we’ll just stay here,” Pekka says, “It’s easier that way.”

Vocabularyrow house – rivitalo

heating plate – keitinlevy

substantial – merkittävä

dwelling – asumus

refinish – antaa uusi pintakäsittely

curtains – verhot

counter – tiski

raise – kasvattaa

sway – keinua

swing – keinu

22 This Is Finland

Group discussion

– Is 110 square-meters a good size for a family like the Aaltos?

– How important is a garden for the average family?

– Why do most Finns feel they have to own their home rather than rent?

– How difficult is it to find dependable plumbers, carpenters, painters, electricians and other professionals?

– Describe the Finnish “dream home.”

Hua: I’m renting a room in a large apartment. It’s a comfortable

place and the people there are friendly; almost like having a second family.

Carl: I’m living in a dormitory. We have four separate cells, plus a common living room and kitchen space. I get on well with two of them, but one girl is so shy she hardly comes out of her cell.

Marie: I just went to my first “talkoot” and it was great. We all pitched in to rake leaves and clear out the cellar. Afterwards, we grilled sausages and had refreshments. Everyone was unusually friendly.

Eeva: Yes, it is a good way of meeting people. Where do you think I met my boyfriend.

Rene: My parents live in an old wooden house in Hanko.Yolanda: Oh, that sounds wonderful. Rene: They have plenty of space, a roomy backyard, and they are

very near the sea.Yolanda: I guess you’ll want to live there one

day.Rene: Well, I don’t know, it needs

constant attention and repairs. Besides, it makes lots of creaking and squeaking sounds at night. I prefer something modern.

Vocabularypitch in – osallistua

creak – narista

squeak – vinkua

1.14

23Unit 1

Look at the photos of various habitations. Work in pairs or small groups and make up a story about the people who live in each one.

Tell something about each of the Finnish design brands mentioned in the previous text. Can you name any more?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Discuss the stereotype in this joke:

– How can you tell an extroverted Finn?

– While talking with you, he looks at your shoes, not his own.

extra

Group discussion

Pair work 1.15

1.16

1.17