North Ireland profile - Overview

17 January 2013Last updated at 11:40 ET Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, is emerging from a period of conflict known as "the Troubles" and is attempting to implement an historic peace deal. Security has returned - though not without occasional reminders of the bad old days - and Northern Ireland has begun to reap the economic and social benefits. But divisions persist, finding physical form in the barriers that separate some communities. Preferences in schooling, sport and culture often follow ethnic and religious fault lines. Northern Ireland is made up of six counties and forms part of the province of Ulster. Giant murals became one of the main symbols of Northern Ireland's divisions Continue reading the main story Politics: Efforts to overcome the long conflict between pro-UK Unionists and pro-Ireland Nationalists has led to a devolved power-sharing government involving both sides. Profiles compiled by BBC Monitoring Religious and cultural traditions meld with politics.

Ireland in the Movies Whether you are planning a holiday or just interested in Ireland in general, movies can be a great way to explore the country from your armchair. Here are my ten top picks of movies you should see ... but be aware that this a very personal list! Some classics such as "Ryan's Daughter" and "Man of Aran" are missing, as are "The Field" with the inimitable Richard Harris and the rather uneven "Patriot Games" based on Tom Clancy's novel. Michael Collins Liam Neeson stars as the "Big Fellow" himself while Alan Rickman delivers an icy performance as ally-turned-enemy de Valera. The Quiet Man John Wayne is the famed boxer returning from the USA to Connemara to live a quiet life - which local rivals try to hinder and the flame-haired Maureen O'Hara considerably complicates. Angela's Ashes Limerick still has the nickname "Stab City" due to numerous incidents involving sharp, pointed implements - but is has come a long way from the depressing greyness of Frank McCourt's childhood. Waking Ned Devive

England profile - Overview 13 December 2012Last updated at 11:48 ET England is the largest constituent part of the United Kingdom, and accounts for 83 per cent of its population and most of its economic activity. Issues affecting the United Kingdom as a whole therefore also apply to England in particular, especially in the case of identity politics. England's continuing contribution to world civilisation is significant, ranging from language to sport, music and law. The various kingdoms set up by Germanic settlers in the 5th-6th centuries were finally united into the Kingdom of England between 927 and 954. The Norman Conquest of 1066 brought in a new ruling class from northern France and heavily influenced the language, culture and European orientation of the country. Oxford University is England's oldest university Continue reading the main story Politics: England has no governmental institutions separate from those of the UK. Country profiles compiled by BBC Monitoring Identity Culture Law

Burren National Park - Homepage British Culture, Traditions and Customs This page has moved to ProjectBritain.com our new British life and Culture website Britain is full of culture and traditions which have been around for hundreds of years. British customs and traditions are famous all over the world. Enjoy! United Kingdom country profile - Overview 12 November 2014Last updated at 07:38 ET The United Kingdom is made up of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. It has a long history as a major player in international affairs and fulfils an important role in the EU, UN and Nato. The twentieth century saw Britain having to redefine its place in the world. Two world wars and the end of empire diminished its role, but the UK remains an economic and military power, with considerable political and cultural influence around the world. Britain was the world's first industrialised country. The Palace of Westminster is home to one of the world's oldest parliaments Continue reading the main story At a glance Politics: Prime Minister David Cameron, from the centre-right Conservative Party, heads a coalition with the UK's third party, the Liberal Democrats. Country profiles compiled by BBC Monitoring Special Report: United Kingdom Direct But this did not stop the centrifugal trend. Diversity There has also been a debate about immigration.

Let's talk about the UK (still with Scotland) At the beginning of the new school year teachers usually explain to their students what they are going to study. Sometimes efl teachers not only teach grammar but also British culture, so one of the first cultural topics they discuss with their students are the geography of the UK and its form of government. Here you can find an interactive mindmap, a digital poster and a collection of useful websites, just to simplify the work. Click on the Glogster digital poster below, you will find general information about the United Kingdom and some videos. Now take a look at my Cacoo mindmap below about the UK form of government. You can also click on the following link to enlarge the above image: Last September, 18th Scottish people voted for Scotland independence. Scottish referendum explained for non-Brits If you want more general information about the Uk government, the Queen and the Royal Family, open my Blendspace lesson.

British Life and Culture in the UK - Woodlands Junior School