Page 16 - English 10 | Activity Book 3-4

Reading Activity 2

2 A. Read the passage and answer the questions below.

TURKISH TRADITIONS OF THE OLD DAYS

Customs are unwritten rules accepted in society since ancient times. These concepts, also known as tradition and

custom in the colloquial language, reflect the characteristics of the society. Our traditions and culture shape Turkish social
life. They are based on a deep-rooted history and resisting the modern age. The virtues of Turkish traditions represent

benevolence, solidarity, helping those in need, and kindness. Some of the old traditions have changed over time while
some others forgot some of them throughout time.

Here is a list of interesting customs and traditions that used to come to life in the past:

- Credit book (called 'Veresiye / Zimem Notebook' in the past)
During the days of Ramadan, the rich used to go to shops such as grocers and

greengrocers and ask them to take out the 'Zimem Notebook'. Grocers used to
write the credits in these notebooks. The rich used to take a random page from

the notebook, and they used to say "Delete your debts, may Allah accept them." In
short, the rich used to help the poor shopkeepers.

- Secret Message in Turkish Coffee

One of the most familiar traditions is Turkish coffee. It has survived to the present
day. In the past, the host used to bring water with the coffee. When the guest used

to take the coffee first, it meant he/she was full. Yet, he/she used to take the water
first when he/she was hungry. Thus, the owner of the house used to understand

immediately whether the guest was hungry, and he/she used to set the table
accordingly.

- Doing everything so that the guest will feel at home…
People often used to go on a visit to each other both during the day and at night.

As soon as the doorbell rang, the excitement wave used to begin with a mother's
call: "Come on!" and this interest used to continue with serving after serving,

persistence after insistence.
“Oh my lord, who has come! / I will be offended if you don't eat.”

“If you don't drink, I'll remember. / Have you come to catch fire, sit a little longer.”
“Where are you going, stay overnight. / No, I swear I won't send you.”

- Flowers in the window
People used to put yellow or red flowers in the window facing the street. When you

see yellow flowers in the window facing the street, it means “There is a patient in
this house, do not make noise in front of the door or in the street.” The red flowers

say, “There is a single girl in this house, and she has reached the age of the bride.
While passing the house, don't swear and watch your speech out.”

ORTAÖĞRETİM 16 ENGLISH-10
GENEL MÜDÜRLÜĞÜ