Вопрос:

Think of the most popular superstitions in Russia. Discuss them with your partner. Report to the class.

Ответ:

This is a speaking task, so there is no single correct answer. Here are some popular Russian superstitions you could use:
  1. Sitting down before a journey: Before a long trip, it's customary to sit down in silence for a moment. This is believed to bring good luck and ensure a safe journey.
  2. Whistling indoors: It's considered bad luck to whistle inside a house, as it's believed to whistle away money.
  3. Giving an even number of flowers: In Russia, even numbers of flowers are typically given only at funerals. Giving someone an even number of flowers on any other occasion is seen as unlucky.
  4. Looking in a broken mirror: Looking in a broken mirror is believed to bring seven years of bad luck.
  5. Not shaking hands over a threshold: Shaking hands over a doorway or threshold is considered bad luck. It't better to step fully into the room before shaking hands.

Remember to discuss these superstitions with your partner and prepare a short report for the class!