Ex. 31. a) Read and tell the text.

b) Explain the functions uf the modal verbs in the text.

c) Are the problems mentioned in the text common for Russia today?

The problems American teenagers face-daily reflect problems in American society: drugs, guns, violence, poverty and depression. However, there are a few problems, which are prevalent mainly among America's youth. Underage drink­ing (drinking alcohol under the age of 21), gang membership, and the lack of a voice in today's society arc among the many issues teenagers must deal with. Not all American teenagers can cope with the problems because not all Ameri­can families can afford to have good clothing, adequate food, and housing.

So, some American children are raised in poverty. Many of these children find other means of supporting themselves ortheir families. Very often poor or underprivileged children have to sell drugs or join gangs. Gangs, violence, and drugs are issues which go hand in hand, In other words, where one finds a gang, one is most likely to also find drugs, guns and violence. As a result many young girls and boys are murdered in shootings and gang wars. While these problems are serious for poor teenagers middle class and wealthy American teenagers may also face the same problems like drugs, underage drinking and smoking. Drugs are destroying minds, family and friend relationships, and arc killing America's youth.

If in the past schools and colleges were able to ensure discipline, in the past few years violence in schools and colleges has become an increasing prob­lem. Occasions when American students have shot and killed their classmates no longer sound unfamiliar.

Yet another problem of American youth is connected with cars. Because teenagers can drive at the age of 14 and because many are careless or perhaps drunk drivers, the number of deaths behind the wheel may continue to grow.

Words you may need

raise v — .id, воспитывать (детей) underprivileged adj - неимущий, бедный

Social English 1. Meeting people after a long time

A: 1 haven't seen you for ages. Where have you been? B: I've been away on business. How have you been all this time? A: Just fine, thank you. Where did you go?

B: To Glasgow. There was an interesting seminar there. I got back the day before yesterday. By the way how is your brother keeping?

Unit I

A: He's been off work for a day or two. B: What's wrong with him?

A: He's gone down with flu. He's running a high temperature. B: Give him my best regards and tell him to take things easy. A: That's very kind of you. I'll pass it on. He'll be pleased to hear you asked after him.