Read the text and complete the sentences.

Childhood and youth yuri gagarin was born in 1934. his parents had four children in total. in september 1941 he went to school, but soon the village where he lived was occupied by the german army. only in 1943 yuri continued his studies at school.in 1951 gagarin entered the saratov industrial technical school and later joined local flying club. he completed his studies at the technical school with distinction, achieved much success and performed his first flight on a yak-18 trainer aircraft. in 1955 yuri gagarin joined the soviet army. later he was given the qualification of a military pilot. in 1959 gagarin was selected for the soviet space program. he underwent special training which tested his physical and psychological endurance. gagarin was chosen out of 20 candidates upon the commission's decision.

Tolya said they had had a grammar class the day before and they had discussed the use of articles in English.

Vera wasn't surprised and said they were the shortest and yet the most difficult words in English.  

Tolya added that he didn't think all English people understood how they should use the articles.

Vera agreed with him. She said in many cases they were a complete mystery. Then she asked Tolya if he thought one could realize the difference between the articles and if it was possible to learn how to use them.  

Tolya answered he was not quite sure, but their teacher said it was and they should simply have more grammar drills.  

Vera doubted if they would really help. She said grammar drills were so boring.

Tolya told her not to lose hope. He suggested that they should hope for the best.