In this exercise, you will see a TWE prompt and a sample essay. You will need to revise the essay by creating topic sentences for the developmental paragraphs. The parts of the essay which need topic sentences will have a space where you can write in your own words. Be sure to use some of the key words from the thesis as you write the topic sentences. The purpose of this exercise is to help you learn how to write a controlling idea for a paragraph. This is a very important skill that you will need to use as you write academic essays if you attend an American university. After you are finished, click on correct answer to see a possible topic sentence for that paragraph.
Exercise 1
People attend school for many different reasons (for example, expanded knowledge, societal awareness, and enhanced interpersonal relationships). Why do you think people decide to go to school? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
In every society, there is a need to be educated. The reasons may vary from learning more about Geography to understanding how to set up a profitable small business. Other students may attend school to become more environmentally aware and to learn more about small business administration.
_______________________________________________________________.Case in point, a student studying Physical Geography can learn about how mountains are formed, thus developing in him a deeper respect for the environment. Consequently, the student may decide to take such a class in order to make sure that our earth is protected from neglect in future generations.
__________________________________________________________________________________________.One of my friends from Taiwan is studying in an MBA program right now, so he can return to work in his father's company. This student wants to attend school now so that he can develop the entrepreneurial skills which will help him grow his father's business. In short, these reasons show that many attend school in order to become more valuable, more productive citizens of a society learning more about the world in which we live as well as understanding about how to earn money in business.
Correct answer:
In every society, there is a need to be educated. The reasons may vary from learning more about Geography to understanding how to set up a profitable small business. Some students may attend school to become more environmentally aware and to learn more about small business administration.
School can offer a person knowledge about academic subjects such as Geography. Case in point, a student studying Physical Geography can learn about how mountains are formed, thus developing in him a deeper respect for the environment. Consequently, the student may decide to take such a class in order to make sure that our earth is protected from neglect in future generations.
Recognizing the need to earn money, many students attend school so they can learn small business administration. One of my friends from Taiwan is studying in an MBA program right now, so he can return to work in his father's company. This student wants to attend school now so that he can develop the entrepreneurial skills which will help him grow his father's business.In short, these reasons show that many attend school in order to become more valuable, more productive citizens of a society learning more about the world in which we live as well as understanding about how to earn money in business.
Exercise 2
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Coaches are the best teachers. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
If you ask people in their life who has had the most profound influence, many would say that it was a coach. At first glance, many might say that a coach is not a good teacher since he only focuses on sports. But in reality, a coach who teaches the athlete to perform well in an event is also teaching the athlete to perform well in the most important game called life. I remember well my cross-country coach who coached me in High School.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________He expected that we would begin with a warmup in which we would run several kilometers. Then we would go to the track to do intervals. Lastly, he taught us to finish our workout with a cool down, a relaxing 20 minute jog before we went home for the day.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Additionally, I learned how to pace myself, which means I have also learned how to accomplish big obstacles in life one step at a time. Finally, my coach taught me that true honest hard work would be rewarded. Because of our efforts, our cross-country team won a very big championship in my senior year in high school.
As you can see, coaches can be one of the best teachers a person can ever have. In fact, I still remember on my wedding day when I received a special card from my former coach. In it he said: "I wish you all the success in the world." Also, there was a $100 check inside the card.
Possible answer:
If you ask people in their life who has had the most profound influence, many would say that it was a coach. At first glance, many might say that a coach is not a good teacher since he only focuses on sports. But in reality, a coach who teaches the athlete to perform well in an event is also teaching the athlete to perform well in the most important game called life. I remember well my cross-country coach who coached me in High School.
My coach used to give my teammates and me workouts that we would perform so that we could prepare ourselves for competition. He expected that we would begin with a warmup in which we would run several kilometers. Then we would go to the track to do intervals. Lastly, he taught us to finish our workout with a cool down, a relaxing 20 minute jog before we went home for the day.
From these daily workouts, I learned the lesson of hard work, an important quality which has helped me to study English and also to work hard at my job. Additionally, I learned how to pace myself, which means I have also learned how to accomplish big obstacles in life one step at a time. Finally, my coach taught me that true honest hard work would be rewarded. Because of our efforts, our cross-country team won a very big championship in my senior year in high school.
As you can see, coaches can be one of the best teachers a person can ever have. In fact, I still remember on my wedding day when I received a special card from my former coach. In it he said: "I wish you all the success in the world." Also, there was a $100 check inside the card.
Exercise 3
Nowadays, with the invention of the microwave and with the popularity of fast food restaurants, food has become easier to prepare than ever. Do you think microwave ovens and fast food restaurants are beneficial to society? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
One thing is for certain: we must eat. However, how we eat and in what location we eat makes all the difference in the world. The microwave and fast food restaurants do not benefit our society since they contribute to obesity, and to the destruction of the family unit.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________And if a person eats a lot of high fat and sugary foods, he will become fat. It seems that recently in my country, more and more people are becoming overweight.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________So more and more families are eating dinner while watching television instead of having conversation with each other. Thus, the family unit is not as strong as it used to be. The divorce rate is up, and one main cause of that might be due to a lack of communication. This failure can in part be traced back to not eating together at the dinner table.
Perhaps, it might be better if we go back to the days where a family eats together at a dinner table instead of going out or using a microwave to cook unhealthy food. At least, we should consider using them less often.
Possible answer:
One thing is for certain: we must eat. However, how we eat and in what location we eat makes all the difference in the world. The microwave and fast food restaurants do not benefit our society since they contribute to obesity, and to the destruction of the family unit.
First, microwaves and fast food restaurants can contribute to obesity in that people who use them also tend to buy microwave dinners/meals which are often high in fats and sugars. And if a person eats a lot of high fat and sugary foods, he will become fat. It seems that recently in my country, more and more people are becoming overweight.
Also, that many people eat microwave dinners and that they frequent fast food restaurants indicates they are not having the traditional family dinner where the whole family sits around the table each day, eats a good meal, and then spends time talking to each other about the day's events. So more and more families are eating dinner while watching television instead of having conversation with each other. Thus, the family unit is not as strong as it used to be. The divorce rate is up, and one main cause of that might be due to a lack of communication. This failure can in part be traced back to not eating together at the dinner table.
Perhaps, it might be better if we go back to the days where a family eats together at a dinner table instead of going out or using a microwave to cook unhealthy food. At least, we should consider using them less often.
Exercise 4
It has been said, "Not all learning takes place in the classroom." Compare and contrast knowledge gained from personal experience with knowledge gained from classroom instruction. In your opinion, which source is more important? Why?
I heard once by someone that the purpose of an education is to find out what one does not know and spend the rest of one's life learning it. And so it is with learning, which in some cases takes place in the classroom, while in other cases, takes place through personal experience. Each of these methods of learning has similarities and differences.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________For example, a computer programmer is trained in writing software programs and in understanding the hardware components of a personal computer. The classroom instruction will give the programmer the basic skills by which to work. However, every programmer will encounter problems for which no solution was taught in the classroom, and he will have to use trial and error in order to solve the problem. And through personal experience, the programmer will learn to solve more and more complex problems. Two very important forms of knowledge, the classroom instruction and personal experience serve to help the programmer to become more and more advanced.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________A student must go to school for many years in order to learn what is taught in the classroom. But he will not need any formal education at all to learn personal experience knowledge.
Since our global economy is becoming more and more information based, it is more important than ever to get specialized instruction in the classroom in order to keep up with our ever changing technological advances. Consequently, classroom instruction is a more important source of knowledge.
Possible answer:
I heard once by someone that the purpose of an education is to find out what one does not know and spend the rest of one's life learning it. And so it is with learning, which in some cases takes place in the classroom, while in other cases, takes place through personal experience. Each of these methods of learning has similarities and differences.
Both classroom instruction and personal experience are similar in that they are necessary for one to survive in the workplace. For example, a computer programmer is trained in writing software programs and in understanding the hardware components of a personal computer. The classroom instruction will give the programmer the basic skills by which to work. However, every programmer will encounter problems for which no solution was taught in the classroom, and he will have to use trial and error in order to solve the problem. And through personal experience, the programmer will learn to solve more and more complex problems. Two very important forms of knowledge, the classroom instruction and personal experience serve to help the programmer to become more and more advanced.
However, the two modes of instruction are very different in that classroom instruction is explicitly taught, while personal experience knowledge is acquired naturally. A student must go to school for many years in order to learn what is taught in the classroom. But he will not need any formal education at all to learn personal experience knowledge.
Since our global economy is becoming more and more information based, it is more important than ever to get specialized instruction in the classroom in order to keep up with our ever changing technological advances. Consequently, classroom instruction is a more important source of knowledge.
Exercise 5
Your government has announced that it wishes to build a military base near your community. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this new influence on your community. Do you support or oppose the military base? Explain your position.
People in a society want to be protected and feel safe. Additionally, people appreciate a thriving economy where unemployment is low and job pay is high. Upon construction, a military base could provide some of these things but at what price to the community?
______________________________________________________________________________Many soldiers will live at the base, and they will go to the city to buy clothes, food, and entertainment, all of which will generate more revenue for the city. Moreover, the military base will provide a sense of security to the community and the nation since the soldiers who live there have taken an oath to protect my country and constitution at any cost.
______________________________________________________________________________ First, look at Okinawa as an example. Sometimes, some of the soldiers go into the city to drink and party, and then a young girl gets raped and some fights happen. Many are hurt and lives are shattered because of crime caused by the soldiers from the military base. There could also be an increase in pollution since many military vehicles emit harmful fumes to the environment. Noise pollution could also be a problem since military bases often engage in "war games" by setting off explosions and shooting machine guns.
All in all, however, I favor having a military base in my community. Some day I hope to own a small business in my community, and I think a military base could bring me more money. Additionally, the construction of a military base could bring more respect to my town.
Possible answer:
People in a society want to be protected and feel safe. Additionally, people appreciate a thriving economy where unemployment is low and job pay is high. Upon construction, a military base could provide some of these things but at what price to the community?
The advantages to building a military base near my community might be an increase in jobs ands a sense of security. Many soldiers will live at the base, and they will go to the city to buy clothes, food, and entertainment, all of which will generate more revenue/jobs for the city. Moreover, the military base will provide a sense of security to the community and the nation since the soldiers who live there have taken an oath to protect my country and constitution at any cost.
The disadvantages to constructing a military base could be an increase in crime and pollution. First, look at Okinawa as an example. Sometimes, some of the soldiers go into the city to drink and party, and then a young girl gets raped and some fights happen. Many are hurt and lives are shattered because of crime caused by the soldiers from the military base. There could also be an increase in pollution since many military vehicles emit harmful fumes to the environment. Noise pollution could also be a problem since military bases often engage in "war games" by setting off explosions and shooting machine guns.
All in all, however, I favor having a military base in my community. Some day I hope to own a small business in my community, and I think a military base could bring me more money. Additionally, the construction of a military base could bring more respect to my town.
Exercise 6
If you could change one important thing about your country, what would you change? Use reasons and specific examples to support your answer.
We all know that there is no perfect country in this world of ours. But at the same time, we all know there are things about our country that we would like to change. In considering this question, I thought about what change would have the most dramatic impact on people's lives in my country. The answer that I came up with is a reduction in taxes both for people and businesses.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Lowering the taxes would offer relief to these people, and they could give money back to the economy by buying more consumer products. The increase in the purchasing of products such as furniture, automobiles, appliances, and so on could give my country more economic strength. This in turn could help my country get out of its long ten-year recession.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Also, lowering the taxes would increase the company's profits, allowing them to expand their business to international markets.
Finally, giving both people and businesses tax breaks might just be the answer to create the near perfect country in which I have always hoped to live.
Possible answer:
We all know that there is no perfect country in this world of ours. But at the same time, we all know there are things about our country that we would like to change. In considering this question, I thought about what change would have the most dramatic impact on people's lives in my country. The answer that I came up with is a reduction in taxes both for people and businesses.
First, the people in my country have been paying higher and higher taxes in recent years despite the fact that we are in a recession. Lowering the taxes would offer relief to these people, and they could give money back to the economy by buying more consumer products. The increase in the purchasing of products such as furniture, automobiles, appliances, and so on could give my country more economic strength. This in turn could help my country get out of its long ten-year recession.
Second, if taxes are reduced for small and large businesses, they might be more inclined to hire more workers, which means that we could create more jobs in my country. Also, lowering the taxes would increase the company's profits, allowing them to expand their business to international markets.
Finally, giving both people and businesses tax breaks might just be the answer to create the near perfect country in which I have always hoped to live.
Exercise 7
How does advertising influence people's behavior? Use reasons and specific examples to support your answer.
If advertising had no effect on people's behavior, it is certain that we would not see all the television and radio commercials which so often invade our living rooms and automobiles on a daily basis. But how do the commercials influence our behaviors. Let's consider this question from a political and economical perspective.
___________________________________________________________________; that is the people in my country must know who he is and have heard about him before they will have confidence to cast a vote in his direction. Short thirty-second TV commercials are an very effective way for people in a country to become acquainted with a politician. Similarly, billboards and radio ads can influence people to vote for or against a particular political candidate.
______________________________________________________________________________In fact, many times a consumer will make an unconscious decision to buy a particular brand of toothpaste solely based on the fact that he has seen that product advertised. In a way, the consumer has been conditioned by the advertiser to buy that particular brand of toothpaste.
As one can see, we are affected by advertising for better or for worse. But above all, it is important to be critically aware of how advertising works so that we will not unknowingly do something we had not intended to do.
Possible answer:
If advertising had no effect on people's behavior, it is certain that we would not see all the television and radio commercials which so often invade our living rooms and automobiles on a daily basis. But how do the commercials influence our behaviors. Let's consider this question from a political and economical perspective.
Politically speaking, a politician must have name recognition in order to be elected; that is the people in my country must know who he is and have heard about him before they will have confidence to cast a vote in his direction. Short thirty-second TV commercials are an very effective way for people in a country to become acquainted with a politician. Similarly, billboards and radio ads can influence people to vote for or against a particular political candidate.
Economically speaking, a consumer will not buy a product that he is unfamiliar with. In fact, many times a consumer will make an unconscious decision to buy a particular brand of toothpaste solely based on the fact that he has seen that product advertised. In a way, the consumer has been conditioned by the advertiser to buy that particular brand of toothpaste.
As one can see, we are affected by advertising for better or for worse. But above all, it is important to be critically aware of how advertising works so that we will not unknowingly do something we had not intended to do.
Exercise 8
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The invention of the Internet has had negative effects on your civilization. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
First came the invention of the computer. Then came the invention of the microchip and the Internet. In some ways, the Internet can be bad for us since it is largely uncensored, and children and adults can have unlimited access to the pornography and other Web Sites which may have negative influences. Despite some of its pitfalls, the Internet is the best information tool we can use to stay abreast in our ever-changing economical and educational world.
______________________________________________________________________________ The Internet is the vehicle that people can use to conduct business in areas that they would have not had access if not for the Internet. For example, a bicycle company in Japan can start an E-commerce store on the Internet. Consumers from Thailand, Germany, and Russia can go the Web Site and place orders for bicycles. The Japanese bicycle company is able to expand its market internationally and significantly increase profits.
______________________________________________________________________________For example, an elementary school class which might be studying about different types of music could go to the Internet to listen to actual recordings of the artist. The students could get reinforced instruction from the Internet to help them remember the ideas being taught in the classroom. It has been said that hearing is good, seeing is better, but doing is best. The Internet provides many educational opportunities where children "see" and "do" things which will help increase in their knowledge.
In conclusion, because of the potentially valuable economic and educational opportunities, I strongly disagree that the Internet has had a negative effect on our civilization.
Possible answer:
First came the invention of the computer. Then came the invention of the microchip and the Internet. In some ways, the Internet can be bad for us since it is largely uncensored, and children and adults can have unlimited access to the pornography and other Web Sites which may have negative influences. Despite some of its pitfalls, the Internet is the best information tool we can use to stay abreast in our ever-changing economical and educational world.
Most modern countries are changing from an industrial-based to information-based economies which use the Internet as a marketing tool. The Internet is the vehicle that people can use to conduct business in areas that they would have not had access if not for the Internet. For example, a bicycle company in Japan can start an E-commerce store on the Internet. Consumers from Thailand, Germany, and Russia can go the Web Site and place orders for bicycles. The Japanese bicycle company is able to expand its market internationally and significantly increase profits.
Aside from economic benefits, the Internet is a very powerful educational tool. For example, an elementary school class which might be studying about different types of music could go to the Internet to listen to actual recordings of the artist. The students could get reinforced instruction from the Internet to help them remember the ideas being taught in the classroom. It has been said that hearing is good, seeing is better, but doing is best. The Internet provides many educational opportunities where children "see" and "do" things which will help increase in their knowledge.
In conclusion, because of the potentially valuable economic and educational opportunities, I strongly disagree that the Internet has had a negative effect on our civilization.
Exercise 9
Some students prefer to attend a small university. Others prefer to attend a big university. Discuss the advantages of each. Then indicate which type of university you prefer? Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.
Making the decision to get an education is one of the most important decisions one can make in one's life. And equally important is which university one will decide to attend. The size of the university is one factor which will influence a person's choice. The question is should the university be big or small?
______________________________________________________________________________This type of student likes the small sized classes with the more personal teaching style of the professors. At this university, the student sees many opportunities to serve in clubs and leadership positions. Perhaps, in this type of university, the student has a real sense of belonging and camaraderie with others.
______________________________________________________________________________ This student doesn't want to stand out, doesn't mind the less intimate atmosphere, and prefers to not be involved in clubs and leadership positions. This student, however, does like the many parties and activities which may happen on a daily basis and may thrive on many types of campus facilities which may not be offered at a smaller university.
I guess I am a "big fish in a small pond" kind of student. Growing up in a small town in Thailand, I prefer a similar small town atmosphere at the university. I don't like to get lost in the masses of a large university.
Possible answer:
Making the decision to get an education is one of the most important decisions one can make in one's life. And equally important is which university one will decide to attend. The size of the university is one factor which will influence a person's choice. The question is should the university be big or small?
Attending a small university has its advantages for the student who likes to be a big fish in a small pond. This type of student likes the small sized classes with the more personal teaching style of the professors. At this university, the student sees many opportunities to serve in clubs and leadership positions. Perhaps, in this type of university, the student has a real sense of belonging and camaraderie with others.
The large university has its advantages for the student who likes to be a small fish in a big pond. This student doesn't want to stand out, doesn't mind the less intimate atmosphere, and prefers to not be involved in clubs and leadership positions. This student, however, does like the many parties and activities which may happen on a daily basis and may thrive on many types of campus facilities which may not be offered at a smaller university.
I guess I am a "big fish in a small pond" kind of student. Growing up in a small town in Thailand, I prefer a similar small town atmosphere at the university. I don't like to get lost in the masses of a large university.
Exercise 10
"When people succeed in life, it is because of hard work. Being lucky has nothing to do with success in life." Do you agree or disagree with the quotation above? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.
To many, the ambition is to create enough wealth so he can live comfortably with his family and not have to worry about how to pay bills on a monthly basis. This definition of success can be achieved but is it by hard work or is it by luck? The answer is neither. Success can be achieved by working smarter not harder, and luck plays no role in this calculated effort. So I disagree with this quote.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________This employee's efforts are creating more money for the owner of the company although perhaps sometime down the line, he may be rewarded for his efforts by a small raise. The extraordinary worker thinks on a different level by trying to find ways to make more money and by working smarter without having to work as long or as hard. This type of worker may take financial risks by starting a business where others do the work while he does quality control.
______________________________________________________________________________On the road to success, it has been said that to hit it big financially one needs to be in the right place, doing the right thing, and at the right time. Implied within this saying one might initially think that one must be lucky. However, is it luck when a businessperson researches out a market for his product and begins selling it at the most opportune time? It is not luck when a business designs a product better than any other on the market and then is financially rewarded for those efforts.
Consequently, the "work smarter" worker controls his financial future and creates opportunities to make wealth, all of which are deliberately planned.
Possible answer:
To many, the ambition is to create enough wealth so he can live comfortably with his family and not have to worry about how to pay bills on a monthly basis. This definition of success can be achieved but is it by hard work or is it by luck? The answer is neither. Success can be achieved by working smarter not harder, and luck plays no role in this calculated effort. So I disagree with this quote.
To the average worker, the key to success is by working harder: putting in more overtime and doing the job faster. This employee's efforts are creating more money for the owner of the company although perhaps sometime down the line, he may be rewarded for his efforts by a small raise. The extraordinary worker thinks on a different level by trying to find ways to make more money and by working smarter without having to work as long or as hard. This type of worker may take financial risks by starting a business where others do the work while he does quality control.
In an ownership type position, the "work smarter" worker has the capacity to make a lot more money while having to work less hours. On the road to success, it has been said that to hit it big financially one needs to be in the right place, doing the right thing, and at the right time. Implied within this saying one might initially think that one must be lucky. However, is it luck when a businessperson researches out a market for his product and begins selling it at the most opportune time? It is not luck when a business designs a product better than any other on the market and then is financially rewarded for those efforts.
Consequently, the "work smarter" worker controls his financial future and creates opportunities to make wealth, all of which are deliberately planned.
Exercise 11
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Universities should give the same amount of money to their students' sports activities as they give to their university libraries. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
"Education should not just be limited to the development of the intellect of a student, it should be an overall development of the student's personality. Along with academic growth, physical development of the students should be a part of the education a student gets. Therefore, universities imparting education to students should give equal attention to sports and academics.
___________________________________________________________________________Whether it is a team game or an individual sport, the chance to compete with others in the same group and the urge to perform well on a sports ground builds confidence in a student. Participating in a team sport enhances a student's ability to interact with people around and to coordinate with others. This confidence and ability to share holds them in good stead when they interact with others in the society. There have been many such examples of great sportsperson in the past, such as soccer star Pele or basketball champion Magic Johnson, who have gone ahead to become good ambassadors of sports in the society.
____________________________________________________________________________It may happen that a student not doing well in his studies might turn out to be a very able sportsperson. Teachers interacting with such students should be sensitive enough to identify such potential in the students and help them develop their talent in sports. The sports facilities available in the universities go a long way in creating interest among students towards sports. It would be rather sad if a talented student is not able to pursue his or her field of sport due to lack of facilities. Universities should make sure that proper infrastructure is provided to the students and students with potential are awarded for their achievements.
To conclude, I would say that for overall development of students, universities should spend equal amount of money on sports as they spend on acquiring books and other library material."
Possible answer:
"Education should not just be limited to the development of the intellect of a student, it should be an overall development of the student's personality. Along with academic growth, physical development of the students should be a part of the education a student gets. Therefore, universities imparting education to students should give equal attention to sports and academics.
Sports bring out the competitive spirit in a person. Whether it is a team game or an individual sport, the chance to compete with others in the same group and the urge to perform well on a sports ground builds confidence in a student. Participating in a team sport enhances a student's ability to interact with people around and to coordinate with others. This confidence and ability to share holds them in good stead when they interact with others in the society. There have been many such examples of great sportsperson in the past, such as soccer star Pele or basketball champion Magic Johnson, who have gone ahead to become good ambassadors of sports in the society.
A student's capability should not be judged alone on his or her academic results. It may happen that a student not doing well in his studies might turn out to be a very able sportsperson. Teachers interacting with such students should be sensitive enough to identify such potential in the students and help them develop their talent in sports. The sports facilities available in the universities go a long way in creating interest among students towards sports. It would be rather sad if a talented student is not able to pursue his or her field of sport due to lack of facilities. Universities should make sure that proper infrastructure is provided to the students and students with potential are awarded for their achievements.
To conclude, I would say that for overall development of students, universities should spend equal amount of money on sports as they spend on acquiring books and other library material."
Exercise 12
Many people visit museums when they travel to new places. Why do you think people visit museums? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Buy a return ticket to London and get a complimentary visit to Madam Tussauds museum free' was what the advertisement said when my parents were planning to visit London. They immediately fell for the offer and bought the return ticket. The fact is that my parent never ever visited even a single museum out of hundreds in Delhi. But the question is why was the offer of a free visit to museum so alluring for them to fall for it.
___________________________________________________________________________ Many who visit cities harboring museums depicting art, culture and unique artifacts tend to pay a visit to these museums even if they were not even remotely interested in museums in their own countries. There are multiple reasons for this, which include learning about native art, culture or seeing new, different and innovative things as in the case of wax museum in London or butterfly museum in Vienna. The obvious fact is that these tourist would never find or see such artifacts in their own countries, which propels them to pay a visit.
___________________________________________________________________________Many countries and cities all over the world have built museums with the only aim of attracting tourist. These museums and their USPs are boldly advertised in the backdrop of national monuments, heritage and culture. This fosters a need for a potential tourist to visit these museums on their forthcoming trip.
The fact remains that many tourists who are not very interested in visiting museums in their own country do so while visiting another country because of need to learn and see a culture, art or things they are not able to see in their own country and due to a strong marketing strategy employed by the local tourist bodies while spreading information abut their country.
Possible answer:
Buy a return ticket to London and get a complimentary visit to Madam Tussauds museum free' was what the advertisement said when my parents were planning to visit London. They immediately fell for the offer and bought the return ticket. The fact is that my parent never ever visited even a single museum out of hundreds in Delhi. But the question is why was the offer of a free visit to museum so alluring for them to fall for it.
The same thing that happened to my parents applies to the many tourists who visit different countries during vacation in search for a break away from the maddening crowd and busy schedules. Many who visit cities harboring museums depicting art, culture and unique artifacts tend to pay a visit to these museums even if they were not even remotely interested in museums in their own countries. There are multiple reasons for this, which include learning about native art, culture or seeing new, different and innovative things as in the case of wax museum in London or butterfly museum in Vienna. The obvious fact is that these tourist would never find or see such artifacts in their own countries, which propels them to pay a visit.
The most compelling reason is the marketing strategy adopted by local tourism bodies in pulling tourists about the different tourist attractions, including museums. Many countries and cities all over the world have built museums with the only aim of attracting tourist. These museums and their USPs are boldly advertised in the backdrop of national monuments, heritage and culture. This fosters a need for a potential tourist to visit these museums on their forthcoming trip.
The fact remains that many tourists who are not very interested in visiting museums in their own country do so while visiting another country because of need to learn and see a culture, art or things they are not able to see in their own country and due to a strong marketing strategy employed by the local tourist bodies while spreading information abut their country.
Exercise 13
Some people prefer to eat at food stands or restaurants. Other people prefer to prepare and eat food at home. Which do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
A necessity for our survival, eating provides our bodies nutrients, from which we are able to carry out our daily life's tasks. Choosing where we eat is arguably one of the most important choices we may make in our lifetime. Eating at home is the better alternative of the two since it is less expensive, it is more convenient, and most importantly, it is healthier.
_____________________________________________________________________________A few months ago, I ate out twice a week for a while due to my busy schedule of going to school and holding down a full-time job. When I ate at Denny's, the cost for my meal was $8.50, including the tip. On other occasions, I ate at the Yamazato and the Mikado restaurants, both of which cost me more than $25 for each meal. That month my food bill was over three hundred dollars. On the other hand, the month after, I ate only at home, and my monthly grocery bill was only $90. These two examples suggest that over a period of a year, I could save approximately $2,000 if I stay at home to cook my food.
_____________________________________________________________________________During the winter, my city receives a lot of snow and during the summer, there seems to be a lot of automobile traffic from tourists. If I eat out, I know it will take me a long time to get to the restaurant, either because of problems with icy roads or because of traffic. And once I get to the restaurant, I will have to wait thirty for forty minutes before I am seated by the hostess. Easting at home eliminates all of those problems since I prepare my own food right in my own kitchen at whatever time is convenient for me.
_____________________________________________________________________________When I was a teenager, I used to eat out a lot with my friends (i.e., McDonalds, the Sushi Lounge, Burger King, Yoshinoya). Naturally since I got into the habit of doing this, I continued to eat out when I got into my twenties. But now I seem to gain weight easily when I eat out since many of these foods at restaurants taste very delicious but contain high amounts of fat. Consequently, I gained a total of 25 lbs between the ages of 20 and 25 years of age, at which point I made a decision to stop eating out except on very special occasions. I am happy to say that I have now lost 15 lbs, and I am feeling a lot healthier as a result.
From these reasons, I have decided to stay home and cook my food more often. In my case, I have a little more money in my pocket, more time to kill, and a great feeling of wellness. In fact, I think I will go cook some noodles after I finish this essay!
Possible answer:
A necessity for our survival, eating provides our bodies nutrients, from which we are able to carry out our daily life's tasks. Choosing where we eat is arguably one of the most important choices we may make in our lifetime. Eating at home is the better alternative of the two since it is less expensive, it is more convenient, and most importantly, it is healthier.
Eating out can be very expensive. A few months ago, I ate out twice a week for a while due to my busy schedule of going to school and holding down a full-time job. When I ate at Denny's, the cost for my meal was $8.50, including the tip. On other occasions, I ate at the Yamazato and the Mikado restaurants, both of which cost me more than $25 for each meal. That month my food bill was over three hundred dollars. On the other hand, the month after, I ate only at home, and my monthly grocery bill was only $90. These two examples suggest that over a period of a year, I could save approximately $2,000 if I stay at home to cook my food.
In addition to being expensive, it is inconvenient for me to eat out. During the winter, my city receives a lot of snow and during the summer, there seems to be a lot of automobile traffic from tourists. If I eat out, I know it will take me a long time to get to the restaurant, either because of problems with icy roads or because of traffic. And once I get to the restaurant, I will have to wait thirty for forty minutes before I am seated by the hostess. Easting at home eliminates all of those problems since I prepare my own food right in my own kitchen at whatever time is convenient for me.
Perhaps the best reason for eating at home is health reasons. When I was a teenager, I used to eat out a lot with my friends (i.e., McDonalds, the Sushi Lounge, Burger King, Yoshinoya). Naturally since I got into the habit of doing this, I continued to eat out when I got into my twenties. But now I seem to gain weight easily when I eat out since many of these foods at restaurants taste very delicious but contain high amounts of fat. Consequently, I gained a total of 25 lbs between the ages of 20 and 25 years of age, at which point I made a decision to stop eating out except on very special occasions. I am happy to say that I have now lost 15 lbs, and I am feeling a lot healthier as a result.
From these reasons, I have decided to stay home and cook my food more often. In my case, I have a little more money in my pocket, more time to kill, and a great feeling of wellness. In fact, I think I will go cook some noodles after I finish this essay!
Exercise 14
Some people believe that university students should be required to attend classes. Others believe that going to classes should be optional for students. Which point of view do you agree with? Use specific reasons and details to explain your answer.
Some people are of the opinion that students learn more only if they attend classes, and therefore, it should be mandatory for university students to attend classes. Others are of the opinions that by the time an individual is ready to go to university, the individual is responsible enough to decide how and when to study. Therefore, it is not essential for university students to attend classes. I am in agreement with the latter type of people who believe that it is not mandatory for university students to attend classes.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________For example, distance learning courses offered by universities make it possible for mothers who have small children and cannot leave the house to get a university degree. Similarly, the option of learning through correspondence makes it possible for people who have multiple jobs or a very busy daily routine to study as and when they find free time.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________For example, a correspondence course makes it simpler for a person who has only one leg to get an education as it saves that person the trouble of traveling from home to the university and from one class to another. Instead of having to worry about how to get to the university or from one class to another, such a person can concentrate and put in all efforts in studying.
______________________________________________________________________________This also makes it possible for a person in one country to virtually be part of a university located in another country.
Even though some people believe that it is essential for university students to attend classes, I am of the opinion that attending university classes should be optional. Not having to attend classes and learning through distance programs makes it possible for students who have genuine problems in attending classes to also get a university degree.
Possible answer:
Some people are of the opinion that students learn more only if they attend classes, and therefore, it should be mandatory for university students to attend classes. Others are of the opinions that by the time an individual is ready to go to university, the individual is responsible enough to decide how and when to study. Therefore, it is not essential for university students to attend classes. I am in agreement with the latter type of people who believe that it is not mandatory for university students to attend classes.
First, the option of not attending classes and learning through correspondence makes it possible and easier for people who have other responsibilities, other than just studying, to study. For example, distance learning courses offered by universities make it possible for mothers who have small children and cannot leave the house to get a university degree. Similarly, the option of learning through correspondence makes it possible for people who have multiple jobs or a very busy daily routine to study as and when they find free time.
Second, studying by not attending classes makes it possible for handicapped people who find it difficult to travel from one place to another to get an education. For example, a correspondence course makes it simpler for a person who has only one leg to get an education as it saves that person the trouble of traveling from home to the university and from one class to another. Instead of having to worry about how to get to the university or from one class to another, such a person can concentrate and put in all efforts in studying.
Finally, distance learning programs make it possible for people who are located very far away from a university to take advantage of the training offered by the university. This also makes it possible for a person in one country to virtually be part of a university located in another country.
Even though some people believe that it is essential for university students to attend classes, I am of the opinion that attending university classes should be optional. Not having to attend classes and learning through distance programs makes it possible for students who have genuine problems in attending classes to also get a university degree.
Exercise 15
Neighbors are the people who live near us. In your opinion, what are the qualities of a good neighbor? Use specific details and examples in your answer.
Love thy neighbor as thyself is what one of the ten commandments says. Even though we cannot choose our neighbors, we can choose how to live with them. Good neighbors are always welcomed because they have many good qualities. The qualities that good neighbors have are that they are helpful in times of need, they provide company when we are alone, and they provide security in the neighborhood.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Good neighbors, such as Mike has, always stick out a helping hand when it comes to a crisis. One can always look forward to their help and share joys and sorrows with them.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________They did more than that. One member of the neighbor's family would sit with old lady throughout the day and watch TV with her and talk to her and listen to her stories. Never did Nicky's mother feel alone during those two days. Good neighbors give us company and remove our loneliness by talking to us, being around, sharing things, feelings and moments of life with us.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Immediately, the entire neighborhood was awake and the suspect fled. This example was aired all over the state and country as a model for the neighborhood watch program. Good neighbors provide security and think of their neighbors as a cohesive family.
Good neighbors are more than just occupants of next door; they provide help when we are in need, provide us company and share our thoughts and feelings, and most importantly consider us as part of their family in times of danger and threat.
Possible answer:
Love thy neighbor as thyself is what one of the ten commandments says. Even though we cannot choose our neighbors, we can choose how to live with them. Good neighbors are always welcomed because they have many good qualities. The qualities that good neighbors have are that they are helpful in times of need, they provide company when we are alone, and they provide security in the neighborhood.
Jane, Mike's wife, is in hospital since last weekend and during this period his neighbors have not only called him over for dinner everyday but also have provided him support to overcome emotional trauma. Good neighbors, such as Mike has, always stick out a helping hand when it comes to a crisis. One can always look forward to their help and share joys and sorrows with them.
Good neighbors also give us company and remove our loneliness by talking to us, being around, sharing things, feelings and moments of life with us. For instance, Nicky had to go out of town for two days on a business deal. She called her neighbors to look after and pay a visit to her old mother at least once a day. They did more than that. One member of the neighbor's family would sit with old lady throughout the day and watch TV with her and talk to her and listen to her stories. Never did Nicky's mother feel alone during those two days. Good neighbors give us company and remove our loneliness by talking to us, being around, sharing things, feelings and moments of life with us.
Steve saw a strange man standing in front of his neighbor's house yesterday night. He immediately called both, the police and his other two neighbors. Immediately, the entire neighborhood was awake and the suspect fled. This example was aired all over the state and country as a model for the neighborhood watch program. Good neighbors provide security and think of their neighbors as a cohesive family.
Good neighbors are more than just occupants of next door; they provide help when we are in need, provide us company and share our thoughts and feelings, and most importantly consider us as part of their family in times of danger and threat.
Exercise 16
In general, people are living longer now. Discuss the causes of this phenomenon. Use specific reasons and details to develop your essay.
A hundred years ago, the average life span of a human was a little more than fifty years in most developed countries. In the year 2002, on the other hand, Japan has an average life span of 82 years for women. The United States has a life span almost as high. In fact, many countries have experienced similar increases. What accounts for this dramatic increase in longevity? Cures against disease, more accessible medical research on preventative medicine, and developed countries drive against world hunger are three reasons to explain this phenomenon.
______________________________________________________________________________For example, when my great grandfather became stricken with small pox, his doctor worked very hard to help treat the symptoms. But because there was no cure for small pox, he died a few weeks after being exposed to the virus. Nowadays, all children are required to receive a vaccination against small pox, making the occurrence of such an illness almost nonexistent. During the middle ages, thousands of people died in Europe because of the Bubonic Plague. This and other diseases, significantly causing death to people of young ages (i.e., Polio, Measles, Chicken Pox), are now eliminated due to simple vaccinations given to children.
______________________________________________________________________________A current popular information medium on preventative medicine is the Internet. A useful Web Site titled WebMD has a wealth of information on cancer, obesity, maintaining a daily exercise routine, diabetes, sexual disfunction, and so on. People can now learn how to prevent disease by reading medical journals and articles available at a click of a mouse. In the past, this type of information was only available to those in the medical community.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Michael Jackson and other singers, a few years ago, wrote a song titled "Feed the World," which raised millions of dollars for starving children in Africa. Many nonprofit organizations to feed starving children in many countries spawned from that drive. It is not uncommon to see television ads in the US soliciting donations from Americans in an effort to feed those inside and outside the borders of the United States. Consequently, many children who would have otherwise died due to starvation are given vitamins, staple foods, and preventative medicines to help extend their life-spans and quality of life.
Cures for once uncurable diseases, easier access to medical research on how to prevent disease, and more food and money to children in starving countries now give many the opportunity to live longer and healthier lives. Perhaps in 3002, at our current rate of medicinal innovation, the average life-span may extend to 150 years to those living in developing countries.
Possible answer:
A hundred years ago, the average life span of a human was a little more than fifty years in most developed countries. In the year 2002, on the other hand, Japan has an average life span of 82 years for women. The United States has a life span almost as high. In fact, many countries have experienced similar increases. What accounts for this dramatic increase in longevity? Cures against disease, more accessible medical research on preventative medicine, and developed countries drive against world hunger are three reasons to explain this phenomenon.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, doctors could not cure many diseases. For example, when my great grandfather became stricken with small pox, his doctor worked very hard to help treat the symptoms. But because there was no cure for small pox, he died a few weeks after being exposed to the virus. Nowadays, all children are required to receive a vaccination against small pox, making the occurrence of such an illness almost nonexistent. During the middle ages, thousands of people died in Europe because of the Bubonic Plague. This and other diseases, significantly causing death to people of young ages (i.e., Polio, Measles, Chicken Pox), are now eliminated due to simple vaccinations given to children.
In contrast to the past, modern society has ready access to medical research on preventative medicine. A current popular information medium on preventative medicine is the Internet. A useful Web Site titled WebMD has a wealth of information on cancer, obesity, maintaining a daily exercise routine, diabetes, sexual disfunction, and so on. People can now learn how to prevent disease by reading medical journals and articles available at a click of a mouse. In the past, this type of information was only available to those in the medical community.
To further reduce the amount of people dying at younger ages, many developed countries have been educating its citizens about world hunger. Michael Jackson and other singers, a few years ago, wrote a song titled "Feed the World," which raised millions of dollars for starving children in Africa. Many nonprofit organizations to feed starving children in many countries spawned from that drive. It is not uncommon to see television ads in the US soliciting donations from Americans in an effort to feed those inside and outside the borders of the United States. Consequently, many children who would have otherwise died due to starvation are given vitamins, staple foods, and preventative medicines to help extend their life-spans and quality of life.
Cures for once uncurable diseases, easier access to medical research on how to prevent disease, and more food and money to children in starving countries now give many the opportunity to live longer and healthier lives. Perhaps in 3002, at our current rate of medicinal innovation, the average life-span may extend to 150 years to those living in developing countries.
Exercise 17
We all work or will work in our jobs with many different kinds of people. In your opinion, what are some important characteristics of a co-worker (someone you work closely with)? Use reasons and specific examples to explain why these characteristics are important.
The majority of our life we spend at work. While working, we communicate with the people surrounding us. There are as many characters as are people in the world. I prefer to work with a communicable, generous and clever colleague.
______________________________________________________________________________Every day at work we meet the same people. So, each worker must help to support a friendly atmosphere and a feeling of commandship at the working place. Being one team allows workers to solve problems sooner and more effectively. For example, at surgical operations, all medical persons should work cooperatively as one brigade to successfully complete the procedure. Medical nurses and hospital attendants should help and create the best conditions for the surgeon, thus benefiting all from their work.
______________________________________________________________________________For all of us is the usual feeling of jealousy to the people surrounding us. But this sense is harmful not only for us, but for all team members as well. For instance, a jealous colleague may be rewarded for more than he deserves, sometimes infringing on the valid contributions of others in the company. These false accomplishments could lead to false rumours about his co-worker, and, as a consequence, to the dismissal of his more fortunate colleague. In the end, all team members suffer from this action because of having to overburden themselves with additional job tasks from the discharged worker. So, it is important to be helpful to each other and to not be jealous of others.
______________________________________________________________________________Colleagues' mind and wisdom are important in resolving tasks. Otherwise, they will appeal for help to you. For instance, a colleague asks one to help him to write a new project. After waiting some time, he will eventually receive help. And while he spends his working and free time until finishing this work, his own work is postponed. Ultimately, the work of both workers will be delayed. Therefore, it's necessary to have clever colleagues to support the further development of an organisation.
In conclusion, I would say that such characteristics as communicability and sociability, generosity, and mind and wisdom are the important qualities for colleagues, leading to cooperative, fruitful, and progressive work in an organisation.
Possible answer:
The majority of our life we spend at work. While working, we communicate with the people surrounding us. There are as many characters as are people in the world. I prefer to work with a communicable, generous and clever colleague.
First of all, the most valuable people for me are the communicable and friendly ones. Every day at work we meet the same people. So, each worker must help to support a friendly atmosphere and a feeling of commandship at the working place. Being one team allows workers to solve problems sooner and more effectively. For example, at surgical operations, all medical persons should work cooperatively as one brigade to successfully complete the procedure. Medical nurses and hospital attendants should help and create the best conditions for the surgeon, thus benefiting all from their work.
Another quality of people's nature is their generosity. For all of us is the usual feeling of jealousy to the people surrounding us. But this sense is harmful not only for us, but for all team members as well. For instance, a jealous colleague may be rewarded for more than he deserves, sometimes infringing on the valid contributions of others in the company. These false accomplishments could lead to false rumors about his co-worker, and, as a consequence, to the dismissal of his more fortunate colleague. In the end, all team members suffer from this action because of having to overburden themselves with additional job tasks from the discharged worker. So, it is important to be helpful to each other and to not be jealous of others.
In addition, co-workers should be wise. Colleagues' mind and wisdom are important in resolving tasks. Otherwise, they will appeal for help to you. For instance, a colleague asks one to help him to write a new project. After waiting some time, he will eventually receive help. And while he spends his working and free time until finishing this work, his own work is postponed. Ultimately, the work of both workers will be delayed. Therefore, it's necessary to have clever colleagues to support the further development of an organization.
In conclusion, I would say that such characteristics as communicability and sociability, generosity, and mind and wisdom are the important qualities for colleagues, leading to cooperative, fruitful, and progressive work in an organization.
Exercise 18
In some countries, teenagers have jobs while they are still students. Do you think this is a good idea? Support your opinion by using specific reasons and details.
At an important cross-roads in their life where they are learning how to become independent citizens of a country, teenagers must balance their time among various activities, some of which may include school, social interaction, extra curricular activities, and church. But is it a good idea for these youngsters to set aside time for a job as well? Trying to hold down a part-time or full-time job is disadvantageous for three reasons: First, it takes away vital studying time; second, it leaves the teenager with less time for extracurricular involvement in school activities; and third, the extra money may distract the teenager from more important priorities.
_____________________________________________________________________________Most high school students take five classes each semester (i.e., Chemistry, Language, Biology, Mathematics, and so on.) In order to succeed in these classes, a teenager will need to study approximately 20 to 25 hours weekly. And that is in addition to the daily classes he or she must attend from 8:00AM to 3:00 PM Monday through Friday. Due to this heavy schedule, he/ she will need to study 3-5 hours outside of class each day if he/she wants to stay competitive with his/her peers. Working at a part-time job would interfere in this routine, hence causing the student to not have enough time to study. Consequently, the student's grades would decline and for what---a few extra dollars of spending money each week?
______________________________________________________________________________For example, in order to become more well-rounded, a student may join a football team or may choose to become part of the school band. Either way, the student learns to become part of a team and learns a skill that may later on become his/her lifelong hobby. Another advantage to having the time for extracurricular activities is that many universities consider such involvement as an important factor in the admissions process. Few universities ever ask on the application form if a student has had a job as a teenager. They look at the student's grades and his/her extracurricular involvement. Having a part-time job would not allow time for this type of involvement.
______________________________________________________________________________Most teenagers are not responsible enough to handle money. Once they begin to make money, their priorities change. I had a friend in high school who got a job, so he could buy a truck. He thought that buying a truck would make him popular among his friends. After he bought the truck, he then bought a stereo, some new tires, and a tool box. In a short time, he had accumulated too much debt and instead of concentrating on his studies, he had to work overtime to keep ahead of his monthly payments. It was no surprise to me that he decided not to attend college after graduation since his priorities had changed so much after getting his job. Though he was popular during his high school years, he is not longer popular as a young adult. Most of his friends decided to go to college.
To sum up, a teenager has his/her whole life to work. But there are only a few precious years in which he/she can become educated. As a result, it is more important to focus on studying as a teenager so that he/she can prepare for a career. A job would cause a teenager to study less, have a loss of priorities, and prevent involvement in school activities.
Possible answer:
At an important cross-roads in their life where they are learning how to become independent citizens of a country, teenagers must balance their time among various activities, some of which may include school, social interaction, extra curricular activities, and church. But is it a good idea for these youngsters to set aside time for a job as well? Trying to hold down a part-time or full-time job is disadvantageous for three reasons: First, it takes away vital studying time; second, it leaves the teenager with less time for extracurricular involvement in school activities; and third, the extra money may distract the teenager from more important priorities.
First, a part-time job takes away from a student's studying routine. Most high school students take five classes each semester (i.e., Chemistry, Language, Biology, Mathematics, and so on.) In order to succeed in these classes, a teenager will need to study approximately 20 to 25 hours weekly. And that is in addition to the daily classes he or she must attend from 8:00AM to 3:00 PM Monday through Friday. Due to this heavy schedule, he/ she will need to study 3-5 hours outside of class each day if he/she wants to stay competitive with his/her peers. Working at a part-time job would interfere in this routine, hence causing the student to not have enough time to study. Consequently, the student's grades would decline and for what---a few extra dollars of spending money each week?
Second, the little remaining time that a student does have should be dedicated to extracurricular involvement in school activities, not working at a job. For example, in order to become more well-rounded, a student may join a football team or may choose to become part of the school band. Either way, the student learns to become part of a team and learns a skill that may later on become his/her lifelong hobby. Another advantage to having the time for extracurricular activities is that many universities consider such involvement as an important factor in the admissions process. Few universities ever ask on the application form if a student has had a job as a teenager. They look at the student's grades and his/her extracurricular involvement. Having a part-time job would not allow time for this type of involvement.
Finally, the extra money that a teenager might make at a job might distract him/her. Most teenagers are not responsible enough to handle money. Once they begin to make money, their priorities change. I had a friend in high school who got a job, so he could buy a truck. He thought that buying a truck would make him popular among his friends. After he bought the truck, he then bought a stereo, some new tires, and a tool box. In a short time, he had accumulated too much debt and instead of concentrating on his studies, he had to work overtime to keep ahead of his monthly payments. It was no surprise to me that he decided not to attend college after graduation since his priorities had changed so much after getting his job. Though he was popular during his high school years, he is not longer popular as a young adult. Most of his friends decided to go to college.
To sum up, a teenager has his/her whole life to work. But there are only a few precious years in which he/she can become educated. As a result, it is more important to focus on studying as a teenager so that he/she can prepare for a career. A job would cause a teenager to study less, have a loss of priorities, and prevent involvement in school activities.
Exercise 19
A person you know is planning to move to your town or city. What do you think this person would like and dislike about living in your town or city? Why? Use specific reasons and details to develop your essay.
Choosing where to live is an important decision since a person may end up living there with his family for the remainder of his life. If a person were to move to my town, he would like the cool summers and mild winters, he would enjoy the many entertainment choices available, and he would like the low crime rates of my city. However, he may not like the traffic and expensive housing of my hometown. So before this person moves to my hometown, he should consider each of these pros and cons.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________So the temperatures during the summer reach into the mid seventies and dip down into the sixties during the winter. Thus, the temperature stays almost the same throughout the year with little fluctuation. Only on rare occasions when we have an offshore breeze from the deserts does the temperature ever get above eighty degrees F.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Since we are so close to the beach, the most popular activity is to go down to the pier to fish, swim, surf, and play volleyball and other types of sports in the sand. There are also many shopping malls and plazas in my hometown. Despite the expensive prices for dresses, suits, purses, wallets, it is fun to shop in search of a good deal. Since there are so many stores in direct competition for consumer dollars, there are sales. Often I find clothes at very inexpensive prices.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The citizens of my city are quite wealthy and pay taxes to the city. Consequently, the city has a very experienced police department with more than enough officers to patrol the streets for a city with a population base of 55,000. To illustrate, my city has not had a murder in more than five years.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________There is often traffic congestion in my hometown on both the surface streets and on the freeways. Despite the seemingly small population of 55,000 permanent residents of my city, there is often more than 150,000 people working, driving, and shopping in my city during the week. And on the weekend, many people who live in the inland areas and in the deserts come to my city, so that they can swim at the beach.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ And when the demand is high, the prices skyrocket. The prices of residential houses have gone up dramatically in the last thirty years. Fortunately, my parents were able to purchase our home in the late seventies before the price shot up. Even though my parents paid only $150,000 for our house some thirty years ago, it is now worth $980,000. Many people who choose to live in my city are either very rich or they have chosen to live in a very small house, condominium, or apartment since that is all that is within their price range.
In the final analysis, it is important for a person to consider these advantages (i.e., temperate climate, entertainment variety, low crime) along with the disadvantages (i.e., traffic and expensive housing) before deciding to move to my city. The important thing is that the person make the best decision for the benefit of his family.
Possible answer:
Choosing where to live is an important decision since a person may end up living there with his family for the remainder of his life. If a person were to move to my town, he would like the cool summers and mild winters, he would enjoy the many entertainment choices available, and he would like the low crime rates of my city. However, he may not like the traffic and expensive housing of my hometown. So before this person moves to my hometown, he should consider each of these pros and cons.
Since my hometown is only three miles from the beach, we experience an onshore ocean breeze almost every afternoon. So the temperatures during the summer reach into the mid seventies and dip down into the sixties during the winter. Thus, the temperature stays almost the same throughout the year with little fluctuation. Only on rare occasions when we have an offshore breeze from the deserts does the temperature ever get above eighty degrees F.
In addition to the nice climate, there are many entertainment choices available to the residents of my city. Since we are so close to the beach, the most popular activity is to go down to the pier to fish, swim, surf, and play volleyball and other types of sports in the sand. There are also many shopping malls and plazas in my hometown. Despite the expensive prices for dresses, suits, purses, wallets, it is fun to shop in search of a good deal. Since there are so many stores in direct competition for consumer dollars, there are sales. Often I find clothes at very inexpensive prices.
Another incentive to move to my town would be its low crime rates for robberies, rape, murder, and grand theft auto. The citizens of my city are quite wealthy and pay taxes to the city. Consequently, the city has a very experienced police department with more than enough officers to patrol the streets for a city with a population base of 55,000. To illustrate, my city has not had a murder in more than five years.
But before moving to my hometown, a person should also consider some of my city's drawbacks, for there is no flawless city. There is often traffic congestion in my hometown on both the surface streets and on the freeways. Despite the seemingly small population of 55,000 permanent residents of my city, there is often more than 150,000 people working, driving, and shopping in my city during the week. And on the weekend, many people who live in the inland areas and in the deserts come to my city, so that they can swim at the beach.
Another disadvantage to moving to my hometown would be the price of housing. Since most of the houses are close to and sometimes have a view of the beach, real estate is in great demand. And when the demand is high, the prices skyrocket. The prices of residential houses have gone up dramatically in the last thirty years. Fortunately, my parents were able to purchase our home in the late seventies before the price shot up. Even though my parents paid only $150,000 for our house some thirty years ago, it is now worth $980,000. Many people who choose to live in my city are either very rich or they have chosen to live in a very small house, condominium, or apartment since that is all that is within their price range.
In the final analysis, it is important for a person to consider these advantages (i.e., temperate climate, entertainment variety, low crime) along with the disadvantages (i.e., traffic and expensive housing) before deciding to move to my city. The important thing is that the person make the best decision for the benefit of his family.
Exercise 20
It has recently been announced that a large shopping center may be built in your neighborhood. Do you support or oppose this plan? Why? Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.
Upon hearing news that a shopping center would be built in my neighborhood, I would immediately feel joy. Having a large shopping center close to my house would bring much needed jobs, would make my shopping more convenient and cost-effective, and would cause the real estate on my and my neighbors' properties to appreciate.
______________________________________________________________________________I have three teenage children who have been looking for jobs in the area. However, most of the retail stores in which my children would like to work are simply too far away from our house. If a shopping center were built in my neighborhood, my children could get jobs and not have to take the bus to get there. Also, many of my neighbors who are looking for work could also find gainful employment at the shopping center.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Currently, I have to drive to Ontario Mill's Mall in order to do my shopping. However, the drive is more than 30 miles from my house. It would be much more convenient if I could drive less than a mile to a shopping center. That way I could spend less time driving and more time shopping! As one can imagine, driving a total distance of 60 miles for one shopping trip is costly, especially since gas is so expensive. The gas for my shopping trips right now cost approximately $6.00. As a result, it would be a lot more cost-effective to have a shopping center in my neighborhood. I would be able to spend that additional savings of $6.00 on shopping instead of on gas.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Also, my neighbors' properties would increase in value as well. If we ever had to sell our houses, we would be able to sell them at huge profits. In other words, a nice shopping center in our neighborhood would make our houses more valuable.
To sum up, I hope that sooner or later, someone will decide to build a nice shopping center in my neighborhood. A favorite hobby of mine, shopping allows me to get out of the house. The benefits of bringing more jobs, providing me convenience while allowing me to save money on gas, and making my real estate appreciate are all reasons why I would welcome the shopping center.
Possible answer:
Upon hearing news that a shopping center would be built in my neighborhood, I would immediately feel joy. Having a large shopping center close to my house would bring much needed jobs, would make my shopping more convenient and cost-effective, and would cause the real estate on my and my neighbors' properties to appreciate.
First, the shopping center would bring jobs to my family and my neighbors'. I have three teenage children who have been looking for jobs in the area. However, most of the retail stores in which my children would like to work are simply too far away from our house. If a shopping center were built in my neighborhood, my children could get jobs and not have to take the bus to get there. Also, many of my neighbors who are looking for work could also find gainful employment at the shopping center.
Second, having a shopping center in my neighborhood would make my shopping more convenient and cost-effective. Currently, I have to drive to Ontario Mill's Mall in order to do my shopping. However, the drive is more than 30 miles from my house. It would be much more convenient if I could drive less than a mile to a shopping center. That way I could spend less time driving and more time shopping! As one can imagine, driving a total distance of 60 miles for one shopping trip is costly, especially since gas is so expensive. The gas for my shopping trips right now cost approximately $6.00. As a result, it would be a lot more cost-effective to have a shopping center in my neighborhood. I would be able to spend that additional savings of $6.00 on shopping instead of on gas.
Third, if the shopping center has high end stores like Macy's, Nordstrom's, and Gottschaulks, the real estate on my property would appreciate since many people would want to move close to the shopping center. Also, my neighbors' properties would increase in value as well. If we ever had to sell our houses, we would be able to sell them at huge profits. In other words, a nice shopping center in our neighborhood would make our houses more valuable.
To sum up, I hope that sooner or later, someone will decide to build a nice shopping center in my neighborhood. A favorite hobby of mine, shopping allows me to get out of the house. The benefits of bringing more jobs, providing me convenience while allowing me to save money on gas, and making my real estate appreciate are all reasons why I would welcome the shopping center.
Exercise 21
It has recently been announced that a new movie theater may be built in your neighborhood. Do you support or oppose this plan? Why? Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.
A movie theater is a place that gives entertainment to many people. But, if a new theater is built in my neighborhood, I will oppose this plan due to the potential hazards of its construction, the noisy traffic it would create in my residential area, and the unsightly trash the movie goers are likely to throw by my house.
______________________________________________________________________________ For example, the dirt from construction may fall on my house, making it difficult for me to breathe. Perhaps, I might have allergies and sicknesses as a result. And as the workers lay concrete or destroy existing concrete in the process of making a foundation for the theater, pieces may fall on my house, thus destroying a part of my house such as my windows.
______________________________________________________________________________After the new movie theater opens, it will probably stay open until midnight everyday. Consequently, many people who go to the movie theater at midnight will not finish watching the movie until two or three in the morning. After they depart from the theater, they will go back to their cars, sometimes talking and laughing with their friends. This late night socializing will be annoying to me, and I may have difficulty trying to sleep at night.
______________________________________________________________________________For instance, when some people go out of the movie theater, they may throw trash away in front of my house. This would be a terrible nuisance to me and may even make the value of my property plummet in the real estate market.
For these three reasons I will oppose this plan. In my opinion, the movie theater should be built near a mall, an amusement park, or a place that people around there love to go and watch movies. A movie theater is a commercial piece of property and should be built near other types of commercial, not residential, areas.
Possible answer:
A movie theater is a place that gives entertainment to many people. But, if a new theater is built in my neighborhood, I will oppose this plan due to the potential hazards of its construction, the noisy traffic it would create in my residential area, and the unsightly trash the movie goers are likely to throw by my house.
If a new movie theater is built, it may pose dangers to my house. For example, the dirt from construction may fall on my house, making it difficult for me to breathe. Perhaps, I might have allergies and sicknesses as a result. And as the workers lay concrete or destroy existing concrete in the process of making a foundation for the theater, pieces may fall on my house, thus destroying a part of my house such as my windows.
The theater will generate noisy foot traffic as well, which will be an annoyance to me as well as other residents in my neighborhood. After the new movie theater opens, it will probably stay open until midnight everyday. Consequently, many people who go to the movie theater at midnight will not finish watching the movie until two or three in the morning. After they depart from the theater, they will go back to their cars, sometimes talking and laughing with their friends. This late night socializing will be annoying to me, and I may have difficulty trying to sleep at night.
Because so many people will go to the movie theater, they may sometimes make the front of my house dirty. For instance, when some people go out of the movie theater, they may throw trash away in front of my house. This would be a terrible nuisance to me and may even make the value of my property plummet in the real estate market.
For these three reasons I will oppose this plan. In my opinion, the movie theater should be built near a mall, an amusement park, or a place that people around there love to go and watch movies. A movie theater is a commercial piece of property and should be built near other types of commercial, not residential, areas.
Exercise 22
Some people believe that the Earth is being harmed (damaged) by human activity. Others feel that human activity makes the Earth a better place to live. What is your opinion? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Since mankind has lived on the Earth, the environment on the planet has seriously changed by influence of the human activity. Some people suggest that the alterations has improved our environment, while others oppose this opinion. Human's life activity leads to the air pollution, the destroying of the nature, and the exhausting of the resources. That is why I believe that the Earth is being more damaged than improved by people's activity.
_____________________________________________________________________________Many factories have been constructed to provide the increased population with the goods and food. While working, they produce many undesired scraps. For example, with the production of the plastic, acrid smoke and toxic products are byproducts. As the production of fabrics increases, there is more contamination to the environment, hence causing more damage to our planet. As the city grows, more transportation vehicles are used there to make communication sooner and easier. Cars pollute air with gases. Consequently, the atmosphere is damaged, and the ozone hole appears.
______________________________________________________________________________Many forests were cut down to supply our wood and paper industry. Rivers, especially nearby the cities, were blocked with dams to change the water level or even to alter the direction of the waterflow. As a result of destroying the natural habitat, several species of animals and plants either diminished in number or disappeared from the population altogether.
______________________________________________________________________________To improve the lifestyle, people create many innovations, which demand more and more rare minerals and oar. For instance, with the discovery of the electricity the oil extraction has soared, more minerals are used to construct the mining equipment, and a greater number of chemicals are applied in the production of electrical devices.
Therefore, the human activity leads to contaminating the air we breathe, diminishing the population of animals and plants that surround us, and decreasing the natural resources we use in everyday life. In the end, our harmful activity worsens our living conditions through the damaging of our environment.
Possible answer:
Since mankind has lived on the Earth, the environment on the planet has seriously changed by influence of the human activity. Some people suggest that the alterations has improved our environment, while others oppose this opinion. Human's life activity leads to the air pollution, the destroying of the nature, and the exhausting of the resources. That is why I believe that the Earth is being more damaged than improved by people's activity.
Nowadays, advanced technology leads to more polluted air as a result of industrial scraps. Many factories have been constructed to provide the increased population with the goods and food. While working, they produce many undesired scraps. For example, with the production of the plastic, acrid smoke and toxic products are byproducts. As the production of fabrics increases, there is more contamination to the environment, hence causing more damage to our planet. As the city grows, more transportation vehicles are used there to make communication sooner and easier. Cars pollute air with gases. Consequently, the atmosphere is damaged, and the ozone hole appears.
Another reason against the harmful activity of people is the destroying of animal and plant species. Many forests were cut down to supply our wood and paper industry. Rivers, especially nearby the cities, were blocked with dams to change the water level or even to alter the direction of the waterflow. As a result of destroying the natural habitat, several species of animals and plants either diminished in number or disappeared from the population altogether.
Finally, the natural resources that were formed many thousand years ago are exhausted. To improve the lifestyle, people create many innovations, which demand more and more rare minerals and oar. For instance, with the discovery of the electricity the oil extraction has soared, more minerals are used to construct the mining equipment, and a greater number of chemicals are applied in the production of electrical devices.
Therefore, the human activity leads to contaminating the air we breathe, diminishing the population of animals and plants that surround us, and decreasing the natural resources we use in everyday life. In the end, our harmful activity worsens our living conditions through the damaging of our environment.
Exercise 23
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Face-to-face communication is better than other types of communication, such as letters, E-mail, or telephone calls. Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.
While some people like to take e-mail, telephone calls or letters as their common communication means, others contradict this; they consider face-to-face communication the better choice. I personally prefer the latter one because face-to-face communication can eliminate misunderstanding immediately, make solid relationships, and encourage continued interaction.