Ukraine

Ukraine is a country located in Eastern Europe with a rich cultural heritage. The official language of Ukraine is Ukrainian, with Russian also being widely spoken. The capital of Ukraine is Kiev, which is known for its iconic architecture and historical landmarks. The country is divided into several main territories, including the western and central regions, the Crimea Peninsula, and the Carpathian Mountains.

Ukrainian cuisine is hearty and filling, with dishes such as borscht, a soup made with beets and vegetables, varenyky, boiled dumplings filled with potatoes or cottage cheese, and perepichka, a popular street food made of fried dough and filled with cheese or meat. These dishes are a staple of Ukrainian cuisine and are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Activity 1: Read the text and answer the questions: 

1. What is the official language of Ukraine?

2. What is the capital of Ukraine?

3. What are the main territories of Ukraine?

4. What is borscht?

5. What is varenyky?

6. What is perepichka?

Activity 2. Match the words in column A with the correct definitions in column B.

A. historical landmark

B. hearty food

C. cottage cheese

D. street food

E. staple food

1. a type of cheese made from the milk of a cow or goat

2. a type of food that is popular and sold by vendors on the streets

3. a food that is a basic staple in a person's diet

4. a food that provides a lot of energy and nutrition

5. a place or structure of historical importance or interest

Activity 3: Further reading - Go online and find interesting things about Ukraine in order to answer these questions:

Trivia questions about Ukraine: 

1. What is the most famous Ukrainian folk dance?

2. What is the largest river in Ukraine?

3. What is the most iconic architectural landmark in Kiev?

4. What is a popular Ukrainian dish made with eggs, potatoes, and cheese?

5. What is the most popular street food in Ukraine?

6. What is the name of the mountainous region in western Ukraine?

7. What is the largest city in Ukraine besides Kiev?

8. What is the name of the Ukrainian traditional instrument similar to a lute?

9. What is the main religion in Ukraine?

10. What is the name of the Ukrainian independence movement in the early 20th century?