1) Do

you agree that the advantages cars bring outweigh the disadvantage?

Someone has correctly said that – “The car has become an article of
dresswithout which we feel uncertain, unclad, and incomplete”. From my Comment [H1]: a piece of cloths =
something really necessay
perspective, the advantages of the car outstrip its disadvantages. Comment [H2]: like we do not have
enough and want to have something
Comment [H3]: =eclipse/outshine = be
On the one hand, the disadvantages of the car are only a few. The increase in more than

pollution, traffic jams and accidents are the natural sequel totheburgeoning Comment [H4]: The result of sth

populationof cars. Moreover, our over dependence oncars can lead to Comment [H5]: Increasing number of
Comment [H6]: Relying/depending too
decrease in practicessuch as walking and cycling and this has led to a much on sth
Comment [H7]: Make us do sth less and
number of diseases such as obesity. less

On the other hand, I believe the advantages of a car are more significant. The Comment [H8]: There are more
advantages
most important advantage is that it has given people freedom of movement. Comment [H9]: Can move easily or travel
easily around
The ease of transportationwhich a car brings is more than any other form of Comment [H10]: We can move easily
around
transportation. For instance, you can go from destination to destinationand
Comment [H11]: Go from one place to
another
no time is wasted waiting for the bus or train. Therefore, time and distance
are not a barrierany more. What is more, families can go out together. This Comment [H12]: We do not have to worry
about this =sth is no longer a barrier
becomes especially helpfulwhen there are elderly or the disabled and sick Comment [H13]: Really useful

members in the family. Comment [H14]: List vocabs : Those who

are not healthy

Furthermore, the automobile industryprovides jobs to millions ofworkers. Comment [H15]: Car industry
Comment [H16]: A lot of
Filling stations, restaurants, and other businessesthat serve automobile
Comment [H17]: List vocabs: = businesses
travelers are of major importance toa country’s economy. In addition, many Comment [H18]: Really important

developing nations have begun making automobiles to boost their economy. Comment [H19]: Improve their economy

Page 1
That is why India has promoted many automobile manufacturing industries Comment [H20]: Make sth widely known
so that it can grow
such as Tata and Mahindra.

On balance, the advantages to people’s lives and the economic impactcreated Comment [H21]: Effect on the economy

by the car definitely outweigh the disadvantages. However, we must know Comment [H22]: Indicate the extent
“=greatly/surely”
when and how much to use the car so that we can minimize the demerits to Comment [H23]: Reduce the bad things

some extent.

Page 2
2) Some people say that the government should not put money on
building theatres and sports stadiums. Others argue that they should
spend more money on medical care and education. Discuss both
views and give your opinion

Comment [H24]: A hot topic

It is a highly debatable issuewhether the government should spend money
on medicine and education rather than on theatres and sports stadiums. In my
opinion, all these things are important for the people and therefore, the
government should allocate equal resourcesfor both. Comment [H25]: Spend on these equally

Basic medical care is very important for the general public. If people are
healthy, there will be more work productivityand the country will prosper Comment [H26]: Ability to do well at one’s
work
as a whole. There are many people who live below the poverty lineand it is Comment [H27]: Develop
Comment [H28]: Be poor
the government’s responsibility that they should receive medical
aidwhenever needed. There are also the elderly who have paid taxes Comment [H29]: Get medical help

throughout their working life and now need good medical care.

Adequate education facilitiesare also the duty of the government. Today, Comment [H30]: Good facilities in
education
there are a number of children from deprived backgroundswho get Comment [H31]: responsibility
Comment [H32]: poor families
substandard education. They would definitely require a high quality of
Comment [H33]: bad education
education if they are to succeed in later life. What is more, an educated Comment [H34]: need better education

society has less crime and violenceand the country gets good Comment [H35]: society in which there
are a lot of educated people
recognitionin the whole world if its people are educated. Comment [H36]: “AND”
Comment [H37]: Known by other nations
On the other hand, theatres and sports stadiums are equally essential for
people. Art and entertainment is also a basic human need. Theatrical Comment [H38]: What we all need

showsprovide entertainment and at the same time preserve our culture and Comment [H39]: Good paraphrase

Page 3
tradition. Our artists earn name and fame forour country. Sports stadiums, Comment [H40]: Protect culture
Comment [H41]: Make the country famous
similarly, attract millions of spectatorsto watch matches every year. Many
Comment [H42]: Attract many people to
there
more millions watch games on television, read about them in newspapers, and
discuss them with their friends. Therefore, we cannot say that these are
unnecessary expensesand therefore the government should not ignore Comment [H43]: Waste money

them.

In conclusion, I believe that, medicine and education are needs that we

recognize, but theatrical or sports events are also basic needs. Therefore
governments should allocate resources for both these things. Comment [H44]: Spend money on

Page 4
3) Some people say that subjects like arts, music, drama and creative
writing are more beneficial to children and therefore they need more
of these subjects to be included in the timetable. Do you agree or
disagree?

Comment [H45]: Things we must learn at

Arts have little or no place in the educational curriculumso far because we school

have a feeling thattime spent on these things is time wasted. Recent studies, Comment [H46]: Feel sth

however, have shown that a good curriculum that includes arts education can
have multiple benefitswhich I shall highlight in this essay. Comment [H47]: Have many benefits

The most important benefit of arts in schools is that it contributes to making a

well-rounded student.Not only that, certain forms of arts Comment [H48]: A student who is good at
many things
instructionenhance and complement academic skillssuch as basic Comment [H49]: Some kind of teaching
arts
reading skills, language development and writing skills. So, children do Comment [H50]: Improve and make us no
longer lack some skills at school
well in other subjects also.
Comment [H51]: LISTING /AND

Another big advantage is that it encourages the pursuit of extra-curricular

activities. Children get a chance to show their creative expression. When Comment [H52]: Make students want to
join other activities outside the classroom
such hidden abilities are exposedin school time then those with Comment [H53]: =creativity
power/capacity
exceptional talent can be encouraged to adopt it as a professionlateron in Comment [H54]: Their abilities are known

life. It is a well known fact that people in such professions are earning Comment [H55]: Great ability
Comment [H56]: Do it as their job
telephone figure salaries nowadays.
Comment [H57]: Earn a lot a lot of money

Last but not least, such subjects are stress-busters. In the highly Comment [H58]: Make us less stressed

competitive era of today, pressure of academic subjects is too high. Arts like Comment [H59]: In a competitive world

music, drama and creative writing break the monotony of tough academic
studies. Comment [H60]: Make us feel less bored
with subjects at school like maths, physics

Page 5
In conclusion, I believe that, our educational curriculum needs a serious
revisionand more of such subjects need to be added to the school curriculum. Comment [H61]: Need to be changed

They complement academic study, bring out hidden talentandbreak the Comment [H62]
Comment [H63]: Let us know our talent
ennui of tough academic studies. inside us
Comment [H64]: Make us less bored with
our study at school.

Page 6
4) In companies, promotions to high positions should be given to
employees inside the company and not to somebody outside the
company or new hiring. What is your opinion on this?

Comment [H65]: Very controversial issue

It is a highly debatable issue whether promotions should be given to
employees from withinor new hiring should be done. The given statement Comment [H66]: Inside the company

proposes to in-house hiring. It is necessary to look at the pros and cons of Comment [H67]: Hire somebody inside the
compnay
promoting from within the company before forming an opinion.

There are many benefits to hiring from within. To begin with, the employee is
familiar with the company. No special trainingneeds to be given. The person Comment [H68]: Teach them how to do it
in the beginning
knows about the general workings of the business. Moreover, employees Comment [H69]: How the business is done

feel that they will be rewarded for their extra effort and hard work. So, an Comment [H70]: Get some benefits if they
try harder and harder
employee who has been tested and excelled at a lower levelcan be shifted to Comment [H71]: Work well at a lower
position
an upper level. Comment [H72]: Moved to a higher
position

On the other hand, there are some disadvantages of hiring from within.
Sometimes, the established policy ofhiring from within makes some Comment [H73]: The policy made by the
company to
employees feel that they are entitled to promotionjust because they have Comment [H74]: Have the chance to get to
higher positions
spent time with the company. Secondly, this can hurt the feelings of other
employees who are not promoted. They may feel that they deserved the
position better.

In my opinion, a manager or business owner needs to remember that all the

hiring decisionsneed to be made with the idea of strengthening the Comment [H75]: Decisions to hire sb

business. This means that sometimes a person from within can be moved Comment [H76]: Make the business better

upand sometimes a highly qualified person can be hired from outside. Comment [H77]: Moved to a higer position

Page 7
In conclusion, I believe that, each promotion needs to be done on a case-to -
case basis and at all times the HR manager needs to do what is in the best Comment [H78]: Depend on a person’s
situation
interest of the company. Comment [H79]: The best thing for the
company

Page 8
5) Some people think that animals should be kept in men made cells.
What are the disadvantages of keeping animal in zoos

Comment [H80]: Cells made by men

I disagree that animals should be kept in man made cells. I feel that zoos are
an unsuitable environment for animals and therefore should be abolished.

Firstly, zoo animals are kept in very confined areascompared with their vast Comment [H81]: Narrow places

natural habitat. Due to this zoo animals develop unnatural Comment [H82]: Their natural
environment
habitslikepacing back and forth or swaying from side to side. For example, Comment [H83]: Start doing sth unnatural
Comment [H84]: AND
polar bears are given about 10 meters of walking space where as in their
arctic home they roam for hundreds of kilometers. Similarly, lions and tigers
are confined in cages where they lack exercise and stimulation. What is Comment [H85]: Do not have enough
exercise and feel bored
more, it is very common for visitors to tease and provoke caged animals. Commenttease andTrue đùa hay kíchthích
[H86]: provoke caged animals
animals that are put in cages
This also leads to unnatural behavior in animals. Comment [H87]: Animals become strange
in the way they behave

Secondly, the breeding programs taken up byzoos are not very successful. Comment [H88]: The program of raising
the animals by zoos
For instance, the ‘Panda Breeding Program’ has been very costly and
unsuccessful. Also, zoo life does not prepare animals for the challenges of Comment [H89]: AND

lifein the wild. They are provided good food in the zoos, but if left in the Comment [H90]: Make them ready to deal
with difficulties
jungle, they may die of starvationbecause they cannot hunt for themselves. Comment [H91]: Die because they have no
food to eat

Finally, the zoo is an unnatural environment that exposes animals to many

dangers. Diseases often spread between species that would never live Comment [H92]: Make animals face a lot
of dangers
together naturally. For example, many Asian elephants have died in African
zoos after catching herpes from African elephants.

In conclusion, I believe that, zoos are unnatural habitat for the wild animals Comment [H93]: There is no reason why
we should do sth
and there is no justificationin caging these marvelous creatures of God. Comment [H94]: Wonderful animals

Page 9
6) Many students have to study subjects which they do not like. Some
people think this is a complete waste of time. To what extent do you
agree or disagree with this statement?

Comment [H95]: A lot of knowledge

In today’s competitive world, a broad knowledgeis needed to succeed in
any field. Therefore, I disagree that it is a waste of time if students study Comment [H96]: To be successful in what
you are doing
subjects which are not of their interest. Comment [H97]: They do not like

Let us first examine the reasons why some people hold the opinion that
students should not have to study all the subjects and should be allowed to
choose the subjects they want to study. They opine thatin this case the Comment [H98]: They think that

students will probably be more enthusiastic about their study. In addition, Comment [H99]: Want to learn more

Comment [H100]: Don’t want to study any

if students are forced to study all subjects, they can easily lose interest in more

education. What is more, if all subjects are compulsory for studying, Comment [H101]: They have to study all
subjects
students will not have enough time to learn all of them properlytherefore Comment [H102]: Learn them correctly
Comment [H103]: Always feel stressed
they will be constantly under a lot of pressure.
Comment [H104]: Are really important
Comment [H105]: = well-rounded
However, I believe all subjects are of great importanceand for the holistic development : their overall development
Comment [H106]: When they enter
development of the students they need to study all subjects equally at school university

level. Later on, upon admission to the colleges, students can select the Comment [H107]: They like
Comment [H108]: Learn more about it
subjects of their choiceand can explore them further. At that age they are
Comment [H109]: They are old enough
mature enoughtodecide their subjects for themselves. At school level the Comment [H110]: Decide what they want
to learn by themselves
student may not know what his real interests are. Comment [H111]: They they really like
Comment [H112]: It is very difficult to get
a job
Furthermore, nowadays, the job market is very demandingand the
Comment [H113]: A person is hired
recruiters select studentswho are skilled in various fields. Having the Comment [H114]: Good at a lot of things

Page 10
basic knowledge of varied subjects during school time definitely widens Comment [H115]: Know many subjects
slightly
the horizons for the students. To add to it, it is a well known fact that most Comment [H116]: Will make them know
more about everything
subjects are related to each other in some way or the other. For example, a
basic knowledge of mathematics is needed to excel in computer languages. Comment [H117]: To be good at

Finally, I believe that it is up to the teachers to develop the interest ofthe Comment [H118]: Make students like sth

students in any subject. For instance, during my school days, my history

teacher was so good that a monotonous and repetitivesubject like history Comment [H119]: boring

was the favorite subject of the whole class.

In conclusion, I believe that, students should learn all subjects at school level
as they are not mature enough to know their real interests at school level and
a broad knowledge is also needed for their holistic development.

Page 11
7) Leisure is a growing industry, but people no longer entertain
themselves as much as they used to because the use of modern
technology has made them less creative. What is your
opinion?

I disagree with the statement that people do not entertain themselves as much
as they used to because of modern technology. I believe that modern
technology has not made people less creative. In fact it has changed the
definition of leisure and the lifestyle of people.

Modern technology has changed our definition of leisure. Earlier, leisure Comment [H120]: change the way we
think of leisure
meant going out and meeting people, playing outdoor games, going to Comment [H121]: in the past

cinema to watch movies and so on. However, today, leisure time is full of Comment [H122]: LISTING

choices. We have so many things to do within the four walls of our house. We
can watch countless programs on national and international channels; we Comment [H123]: A lot of

can play online games; we can chat with friends and relatives in any corner
of the world; we can do arm-chair tourismby which we can visit any Comment [H124]: Everywhere in the
world
historical place or museum sitting in our arm-chair. That is why perhaps it Comment [H125]: Don’t need to travel but
sit at one place but still learn many things
looks as if we people do not entertain ourselves as much as we used to in around

yesteryear. Comment [H126]: In the past

Another reason why people don’t entertain as much as before is also not
because of technology. Technology has, in fact, given us more time to enjoy
but we cannot strike a balance between work and play. We have become Comment [H127]: Don’t balance between
our work and leisure
workaholics. Life in the past was simpler. People worked for basic needs. Comment [H128]: Love working than
anything else
Now work is not just a way of life. It is for personal fulfillment. We set goals Comment [H129]: Work to have basic
things in life
Comment [H130]: Help us to get what we
want in life

Page 12
for ourselves such as a house or a car. We choose this way of life. Now we Comment [H131]: Plan to get something

have improved standard of livingbut this has come at a very high cost. Comment [H132]: Our life has become
better
Comment [H133]: It brings many
Finally, I would like to state that the given statement is flawed because drawbacks/ we pay a high price for it
Comment [H134]: Not correct
nowadays people specially take out time to entertain themselves. This can be
evident fromthe mushroominggrowthof leisure centers such as hotels, Comment [H135]: We can clearly see from
Comment [H136]: Rapid increase in
restaurants, fun parks and spas. Tourist places are full of people while train
and air reservations have to be madewell in advance. Comment [H137]: Some days or weeks
before

In conclusion, I believe that, technology has not made us less creative. We

entertain ourselves more than earlier timesbut the ways of entertainment Comment [H138]: More than in the past

are different and technology has given us more choices than before.

Page 13
8) Sending criminals to prison is not the best method of dealing with
them. Education and job training are better ways to help them. Do you
agree or disagree?

Comment [H139]: People have different

views about
Opinions are divided as tothe best way to reduce crime. The traditional
solution is to punish the criminals by putting them in prison. Some hold the Comment [H140]: The current way is to

Comment [H141]: Think that

view that education and job training are the long term solutionsto cut crime.
Comment [H142]: Better solutions
In my opinion, prison is the only answer in a few situations, but in most cases
education, vocational trainingandrehabilitation are better. Comment [H143]: Teaching them a job
Comment [H144]: Changing their
behaviour
Prison is the only answer in case of criminals who are a risk tothe society, Comment [H145]: Is dangerous to

such as murderers. They cannot be made to mix with society. Some people Comment [H146]: Live among others

also say that people would not be afraid of committing crime if fear Comment [H147] commit crime

of imprisonment is not there. But I still feel that in the majority of cases, Comment [H148]: If they know that they
wont be imprisoned if they do it
we can do without prisons. Comment [H149]: In almost all cases

In traditional prisons, people learn a lot about crime and so when they leave
prison they will commit even more crime. In other words prisons act as
Comment [H150]: Those who commit
universities of crime. So petty offenderslikeshop-lifters and pick- small crimes

pocketsshould be given some vocational training and education. It is a well Comment [H151]: LISTING
Comment [H152]: AND
not fact that the basic causes of crime are poverty, illiteracy and
Comment [H153]: LISTING
unemployment. So, if we provide education and job training then we would
Comment [H154]: Stop sth from
be removing the causes of crime. If criminals are rehabilitated by some happening

form of employmentthen they would certainly not re-offend. Comment [H155]: Giving them some jobs
to do
Comment [H156]: Commit the crime
again

Page 14
Furthermore, the prisons are expensive to maintain. The government can
spend that money on other important matters such as education and
healthcare. This would ease some burden from the government’s
shoulders. The petty and minor criminalscan also be employed in some Comment [H157]: Make sb less stressed
and worried
community service projectsafter providing education and vocational Comment [H158]: Those who commit
small crimes
training. Comment [H159]:community service

In conclusion, I believe that, we should hate the crime and not the criminal. To
fight crime we should focus on the causes of crime. Education and job training
Comment [H160]: Change them
help to rehabilitatethe criminals. So, people who commit less serious crimes
should not be sent to prison. Focus should be on reforming them. Comment [H161]: Change them

Page 15
9) Some people think the government should pay for health care and
education, but other people claim that it is the individual’s
responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion?

Nowadays, health care and education have become the focus of the people’s
concern. It is a highly debated issue as to who should pay for these services. Comment [H162]: Make people really
concerned
There are those who argue that the government should pay for them while
others think the costs should be shouldered by individuals. Personally, I Comment [H163]: People should pay them

think that basic health care and primary education should be on the
government but advanced health care and higher education should be borne
by the individual. Comment [H164]: Paid by individuals

It is irrefutable thatit is the government’s responsibility to make basic Comment [H165]: We cannot deny that

health care and primary education accessible to everyone. The reason is Comment [H166]: make sure people have
access to health care and education
that a nation’s prosperityvery much depends on the contribution made by its Comment [H167]: the growth/success of a
nation
well-educated citizenswhoare in good health. After all we all pay taxes and Comment [H168]: good citizens

so we are entitled to get something back in return. Private schools and Comment [H169]: healthy
Comment [H170]: should receive sth
private hospitals can be available for those who want and can afford it but the because we give sth to others

free schools and free government hospitals should always be there.

On the other hand, individuals should be responsible for their advanced

health care. Actually, the advanced medical and surgical treatmentsare Comment [H171]: health treatments
which are above the normal standard
very expensive. So, instead of depending on government we should take Comment [H172]: AND

some health insurance or save in any other way with the tomorrow in mind. Comment [H173]: Buy insurance

Page 16
Higher education, too, benefits the individual more than the nation. So it is
quite reasonable to pay for it from one’s pocket. Comment [H174]: They should

There are, of course, some sections of society who cannot afford their own
healthcare. The government should have some system of knowing their Comment [H175]: Cant pay for the care

financial statusandprovide free healthcareso that nobody dies for want of Comment [H176]: Whether they have a lot
of money or have no money
treatment. As far as higher education is concerned, the government can have Comment [H177]: Give them free
Comment [H178]: Die because they cannot
some system of interest free loansforthe needyandmeritorious students. receive the treatment
Comment [H179]: Lend them money
To sum up, basic education and primary education should be borne by the without too much interest
Comment [H180]: Poor people
government but advanced health care and education should be paid by the Comment [H181]: Excellent students ,
have high scores in their study
individual from his pocket.

Page 17
10) Many employees may work at home with the modern technology.
Some people claim that it can benefit only the workers, not the
employers. Is it a positive or negative development?

Comment [H182]: With sb/sth helping

Working from home with the help oftelephone lines, or, in other words,
telecommuting has become very popular especially where internet Comment [H183]: Working from home

connections are fast and reliable.I, disagree with the given statement that it Comment [H184]: AND

can benefit only the employees and not the employers. Telecommuting is a
win-win situationfor both employers and employees. Comment [H185]: A situation that both
can benefit from

There are many advantages of telecommuting to employees. To begin with, it

saves time as no time is wasted commuting to and from the office. It also Comment [H186]: Travelling to and from
the office
saves money as no spending on private or public transporthas to be Comment [H187]: Cars, busses or trains

allocated. Furthermore, the workers can take care of their family

commitments like dropping the child to school, etc. Although most of the work
done by tele-workers is monitored, still a few minutes can be snatched at Comment [H188]: Watched by their
bosses
times. Finally, the tele-worker can do some side business side by side. Comment [H189]: Sometimes they can use
some minutes to do their own things

On the other hand there are many advantages to employers. Firstly, less office
space is needed as the workers are working from home. It is a fact that land
prices are exorbitant and it is very expensive to build large offices. Not only Comment [H190]: Too expensive

building but maintaining offices is also very costly. Then, it has been seen that
employees take less sick leaveand other leaves. This is also beneficial for Comment [H191]: Have fewer days off

employers.

Page 18
It would be worthwhile toconsider why some people opine Comment [H192]: We also should

thattelecommuting is not beneficial for employers. They argue that Comment [H193]: think

supervising tele-workers is difficult. Statistics have proved that

telecommuters take pains to work well from home as they realise the Comment [H194]: those who work at
home
benefits it has for them. Comment [H195]: make efforts to work
well

In conclusion, I believe that, telecommuting benefits both workers as well as

employers.

Page 19
11) The detailed description about crime will affect the people and
cause many social problems. Some people say that the media should
be strictly controlled. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Comment [H196]: there are many media

around us
Nowadays, we are surrounded by a variety of media like the Internet,
newspaper and TV, which are very informative, and in doing so give a Comment [H197]: give us a lot of
information

detailed description of crime. This causes many problems in society and Comment [H198]: describe crimes in a
detailed way
therefore some people opine that there should be censorship placed on
Comment [H199]
media. I feel that the media should be very judicious inselecting what to
Comment [H200]: wise, think carefully
report and how much to report. So, I agree with the statement. In this essay, I before

intend to support my views with my arguments.

Comment [H201]: news programmes

As I see it, the news outletsshouldpay more attention
Comment [H202]: think more about
totheaffairsthemselves, rather than the details of the crimes. To start with,
Comment [H203]: news
the details of crimes give a misleading picturetothe children and Comment [H204]: teach them wrong
things
adolescents who are curious about the process of committing crimes, and
Comment [H205]: want to know how to
are likely to copy the criminal actions blindly. Moreover, the excessive commit a crime
Comment [H206]: copy what the
violence and pornographic contents can also raise the adults’ criminal criminals do without thinking about its
negatives
tendencies. In the other words, detailed crime news can generate Comment [H207]: too many violent and
sex scenes
individuals’ potential desire to commit a crime, thus induce many social Comment [H208]: make the adults want
to commit crimes
problems. So, there should be some control imposed on the media. Comment [H209]: make them want to do
sth

Moreover, the detailed report of a crime does not show enough respects Comment [H210]: cause many problems
to society

tothe victims and their family. For example, if any murder or robbery has Comment [H211]: control put on the
media
taken place in someone’s house then if it is shown in detail on TV, the whole Comment [H212]: do not care about

Page 20
privacy of those people is lost. Another very strong argument in
favourofcensorship of media is that sometimes this detailed description can Comment [H213]: supporting

help the criminals also. For instance, when terrorists attacked Hotel Taj in
Mumbai, the media reported details of the commandos’ position on TV. This
was also viewed by the terrorists hiding in the hotel. They changed their
positions accordingly. Had there been some regulating authority, the
terrorists could have been caught much earlier.

However, the opponents claim that we have a right to know every detail and
so media should report every detail. I still feel that it would lead to more Comment [H214]: let the public know
everthing
problems. I think the media has an obligation toshow the right direction to Comment [H215]: have to do sth

the public. It should report news in an objective mannerratherthan high- Comment [H216]: in a way that is not
influenced by their own emotions and
feelings
lighting the detailsof the crime.
Comment [H217]: make the details look
clearer and obvious to the viewers
In conclusion, I believe that, although it is the duty of the media to keep us
informed, the details of crime should not be shown and for that censorship of Comment [H218]: give us information
what is happening around
the media is a must. Comment [H219]: is a thing we have to do

Page 21
12) Some people think that people moving to a new country should
accept new culture in the foreign country. Others think that they
should live as a separate minority group with different lifestyle.
Discuss both views and give your opinion

Comment [H220]: when time passes

Today, with the passage of timeeach and every country is on the path of
development, and with this development there is a growing trend ofvisiting Comment [H221]: continue to develop
Comment [H222]: a increasing trend
different places in different countries. It is a highly debated issue whether
immigrants should do and behave as the people of the host countryor should Comment [H223]: the country we visit

they stick to their traditional lifestyleandlive as a separate minority. It is Comment [H224]: keep their own lifestyle
Comment [H225]: live in our own
necessary to look into pros and cons of both situations before forming an community

opinion.

There are many benefits of adopting host countries’ customs. Firstly, it Comment [H226]: do and behave like the
local people
decreases chances of misunderstanding and embarrassment. For e.g. in Comment [H227]: less likely to
misunderstand others or feel embarrassed
the UK it is offensive to ask about pay to anyone, which is common in India. because we behave wrongly

Secondly, a nation’s customs and traditionsare fascinating and offer a deep Comment [H228]: AND

insight into that country. People move to other countries to broaden their Comment [H229]: Help us understand
more
horizon. So, if immigrants copy the customs of host country, they learn more
about them and that too in an interesting way. Finally, visitors establish a
rapport with local peoplebecause people feel respected when their customs Comment [H230]: Have a good
relationship with
are understood and imitated. They become a member of the host country Comment [H231]: AND

and so they don’t suffer from any culture shock. Comment [H232]: Feel shocked because
the culture is different

Page 22
On the other hand there are many advantages of making a minority group. If a
person is from a country with strong and old traditions, it will be difficult for
him to adapt to the new customs. He can’t break the old customs such as Comment [H233]:

food habits and wearing certain types of clothes. In such cases if he retains
his old customsand lives with his own community as a separate minority, he Comment [H234]: Keep his old customs

won’t suffer from homesickness.

On balance, I feel that someone who is moving to another country should

respect the customs, culture, traditions etc. of that country. This is Comment [H235]: LISTING

necessary because a newcomer is like a guest in someone else’s home. So he is

expected to follow the rules of that country. However, it should not be Comment [H236]: should

obligatory for him to follow those customs and change himself altogether. As Comment [H237]: he should not be forced
to
time passes and he gets to know the hosts better then he can decide if he
wants to adopt any custom or stick to his own. After all being a cosmopolitan
is the need of the hour.

In conclusion, I believe that, mutual understanding between both the visitor Comment [H238]: understanding each
other
and the host is necessary to maintain harmony. A cosmopolitan society in
which everyone is tolerant ofeach other’s customs and traditions is the need Comment [H239]: feel that we can forgive

of the day. After all, today, we are part of a small global villageand not a big Comment [H240]: a small world

planet Earth.

Page 23
13) It is more important for a building to serve a purpose than to look
beautiful. Architects shouldn’t worry about producing building as a
work of art. Do you agree or disagree?

Comment [H241]: useful

It is true that buildings should be more utilitarian than beautiful. However, I
disagree that architects should not make efforts about making artistic
Comment [H242]: try to make beautiful
buildings
buildings. I believe that today’s architects have the expertiseand the
Comment [H243]: knowledge = know how
resources to design buildings which are both – beautiful and useful. to
Comment [H244]: have to be = if there are
not those three things, the building is not
A good building should satisfy the three principlesofdurability, utility and good
Comment [H245]: last long, be useful and
beauty. It should stand up robustlyandremain in good condition. It should beautiful

be useful and function wellfor the people using it. It should delight people Comment [H246]: be strong
Comment [H247]: still last long without
and raise their spirits. A good architect should strive to fulfill each of these being destroyed
Comment [H248]: be useful
three attributes as well as possible.
Comment [H249]: make people happy
Comment [H250]: make them feel very
To begin with, the burgeoning populationandthe scarcity of landtoday happy
Comment [H251]: try to meet those
have raised the debate whetherthe buildings of today should only be useful factors

and not beautiful. However, the skyscrapers of today are the answers to both Comment [H252]: more and more people
Comment [H253]: not enough of land
these problems. They accommodate a lot of peopleinthe least amount of Comment [H254]: make people debate

space and these skyscrapers are architectural marvelsin terms of beauty. Comment [H255]: the solutions to the
problems
Comment [H256]: many people can live in
Secondly, the natural resources are limited and it is the need of the hour to Comment [H257]: don’t need much space

make energy efficient buildings. For example, using solar panels and Comment [H258]: beautiful buildings
Comment [H259]: buildings that do not
other energy saving measures are the need of the day. Today’s architects need much energy
Comment [H260]: AND

Page 24
have been successful in designing aesthetically appealingsolar panels which Comment [H261]: beautiful

need less space. The climate change that is taking place because of global
warming need buildings that need less air conditioning and yet remain
cool. Comment [H262]: do not need
airconditioning but is still cool

In conclusion, I believe that, it is commendable for architects to understand

function, and aestheticsboth. It is a big responsibility to have buildings Comment [H263]: how it works and
whether it is beautiful or not
which are both useful and beautiful and architects of today have the
capability to do so Comment [H264]: can do

Page 25
14) Some people believe they should keep all the money they have
earned and should not pay tax to the state. What is the purpose of
taxes? Why do some people refuse to pay taxes and explain the effects
on society?

I disagree with the statement that individuals should not pay taxes to the
state. The government runs the country from the taxes it collects. Taxes are Comment [H265]: the government
Comment [H266]: gets
collected only from those who earn above a certain minimum limit. It is our
Comment [H267]: when their salary is
over a certain level
moral dutyto pay taxes.
Comment [H268]: we have to do it
because of moral reasons
Tax money collected by government is used to fund basic amenities, provide Comment [H269]: pay for some basic
necessary things
various services to citizens and for government administration and
projects, running of jails and defense system, and many other operations. Comment [H270]: running and plans to
run the country
It is not wrong to say that “taxes run a country.” Thus, it is very important for Comment [H271]: prison and protection of
the country
a government to make people pay taxes.

Let us analyze why people do not want to pay taxes. The main reason is their
dissatisfaction withgovernment in serving them. They blame government for Comment [H272]: not feeling happy with

things like a lack of infrastructure, poverty and unemployment, but they Comment [H273]: do not have enough
infrastructure
are not completely wrong as tax revenueismisused in some or the other way Comment [H274]: money from taxed
Comment [H275]: not used correctly
in every country. In developed countries, however, because of higher
Comment [H276]: how government
satisfaction from government’s functioning, citizens may be more willing to control the country
Comment [H277]: another reason that
pay taxes. Another factor generating dissatisfactionis the tax structure makes people not happy

itself. Often the tax system is complex and it drives people away from paying Comment [H278]: make people don’t want
to do sth

Page 26
taxes. It is also felt thatthe tax rates are high and tax slabs are unequal. So Comment [H279]: people also feel that
Comment [H280]: grouping of the income
they feel it is not unethicalif one goes for tax avoidance or tax evasion. is not equal
Comment [H281]: good
Not paying taxes can drastically affecta country’s revenue generation, my Comment [H282]: try to escape from
paying taxes
own country, India, for that matter. But then, it is desired Comment [H283]: greatly affect

thatgovernmentcome up with a fair tax structureand also make people Comment [H284]: people want that
Comment [H285]: have a fair system of
aware where the taxes are being diverted.Evenlowering the tax ratescan paying tax
Comment [H286]: spent on
help a country increase its tax collection as it would increase compliance
Comment [H287]: reducing the amount of
among the taxpayers. Tax reformshould also be fast so that no public taxes
Comment [H288]: make people want to
grievance or non-compliance remains for long. A proper tax pay taxes
Comment [H289]: changing the way tax is
systembacked up withstrict tax laws can produce the best results. collected
Comment [H290]: people will not feel
angry or don’t want to listen to the
In conclusion, I believe that, it is the duty of every citizen to pay tax and the government

duty of every government to use it appropriately in public interest. Comment [H291]: good
Comment [H292]: supported by
Comment [H293]: bring the best results
Comment [H294]: for the benefit of the
people

Page 27
15) Some people claim that public museums and art galleries will not
be needed because people can see historical objects and works of art
by using a computer. Do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Comment [H295]: no one can deny that
It is irrefutable thatnowadays, because of technology, arm-chair
tourismthrough which we can see historical objects and works of arton a Comment [H296]: don’t need to travel but
just sit in front of the television and do the
travelling via programmes on tv
computer, has gained popularity. However, I disagree, that public museums
Comment [H297]: AND
and art galleries will no longer be needed. In fact, I believe that their Comment [H298]: Become more popular

popularity will grow even further. Comment [H299]: AND

Comment [H300]: Become more and more
popular
First of all, computers can never replace real public museums and art
galleries. No matter how real and vivid computer imagesare, they are only Comment [H301]: AND
Comment [H302]: Real and colourful
images and can never be likened tothe historical objects and works of art pictures on the computer
Comment [H303]: Be compared with
that we see in real or even might be allowed to touch with our fingertips.
Comment [H304]: Feel that things by our
The difference can be compared to seeing the picture of a mango rather than hands

actually eating it.

Secondly, visiting real museums and art galleries is a rewarding Comment [H305]: A thing that we should
try once
experiencein many respects.For one thing, it is a good exercise. While we Comment [H306]: In many ways
Comment [H307]: Go to
are making the trip to a museum or art gallery and then strolling
Comment [H308]: Go here and there in the
aboutonthe site, we get some exercise which does a lot of good to our museum
Comment [H309]: Is healthy
health. We generally go with family and friends and enjoy a lot. We also learn
Comment [H310]: often
about the culture and tradition of the place. All this broadens our Comment [H311]: AND
Comment [H312]: Make us know more
horizonswhich can never be done by the passive activityof seeing something things

on the computer screen. Comment [H313]: Sitting at one place

without much going out

Page 28
Finally, I believe that after seeing these objects and museums, our craving to Comment [H314]: Really want to do sth

actually see these increases even more and so we make efforts togo and see Comment [H315]: Try our best

these places. This can be proved bytheoverwhelming number oftourists to Comment [H316]: For example // to be
more specific
these places that has been increasing year after year. At certain times, Comment [H317]: A lot a lot of
Comment [H318]: Each year
especially when it is temporarily impossible forus to visit museums and art
Comment [H319]: Sometimes
galleries in person, we can get a rough picture ofwhat are on displayon site. Comment [H320]: We cannot

However, what we see from a computer screen is, after all, not exactly the Comment [H321]: By going their by
ourselves
same as what we see and feel with our own eyes on site. Comment [H322]: Know a bit
Comment [H323]: being displayed

In conclusion, arm-chair tourism is there today but museums and art galleries
will still be needed

Page 29
16) An American film actor once said, “Tomorrow is important and
precious.”Some people think individuals and society should pay more
attention to the future than to the present. Do you agree or disagree?

I certainly support the view. One should most definitely keep the future in
mind and not fritter awayeverything to enjoy the present. One should always Comment [H324]: should really think
about the future

remember that the present would one day transform intothe future, and Comment [H325]: wate time/money
Comment [H326]: becomesth
when it eventually does, it should be safe and secure. The same holds true impressive/big/better
Comment [H327]: safe
forsocieties. Let us consider why it is so important to be prepared forthe
Comment [H328]: is true for
coming time. Comment [H329]: be ready for
Comment [H330]: fewer people have died
The mortality rate has come downandthe span of life is generally longer, Comment [H331]: people can live longer
and longer
but the period of earning is comparatively limited. Nobody knows how Comment [H332]: the time we spend on
earning money is not long enough
long he would live, but the age of retirement is generally fixed. One cannot
Comment [H333]: wecan not work more if
we reach 65 , for example
work indefinitely. Therefore, during his earning span, he has to make sure
Comment [H334]: for forever
that he puts aside enough moneythat will hold him in good steadin his Comment [H335]: when a person is young
to earn money
later years, when he will be able to work no more. Further, the requirements
Comment [H336]: save enough
in old age sometimes exceed a person’s needsduring the period of his Comment [H337]: help/support them
(financially)
youth. Deteriorating health translates intohigher medical bills and Comment [H338]: when he is old

hospital charges. Being weak and infirm, one needs to spend more on Comment [H339]: more than they need
Comment [H340]: when he is still young
commuting. He will need to hire assistants to help in the house. Comment [H341]: bad heath means
Comment [H342]: AND
Next come the needs of the family. One has to provide for the education and Comment [H343]: AND = weak

marriage expenses of the dependent members of the family, like children Comment [H344]: AND
Comment [H345]: Members who are still
and even grandchildren. One has to pay one’s insurance premiums, and young or cannot work
Comment [H346]: Pay insurance costs

Page 30
even for the day-to-day needsof the younger members of the family, till such Comment [H347]: Everyday costs

time as they are employed and earning. Moreover, one may incur extra Comment [H348]: AND

expenditure on leisure activities. People generally travel more after Comment [H349]: Have to pay more on

retirement to meet their relatives and friends who may be settled and
staying far away from them. There would also be the usual expenses on Comment [H350]: AND

house maintenance and repair, and the payment of personal and Comment [H351]: AND

property taxes. Comment [H352]: Have to pay taxes

The societies should also think about tomorrow. Neighbourhoods should be

planned nicely. Everyone should participate in community projects. Good Comment [H353]: Help others in the
community
educational institutes and health centresshould be there in all areas. If only Comment [H354]: AND

today is looked into and no planning is done for tomorrow then crime and
violence would increase in society and everyone would suffer. Comment [H355]: AND

Therefore, it is imperative that people and societies plan wisely for the future. Comment [H356]: carefully

If one has saved enough, one can sit back and enjoy peace and comfortin Comment [H357]: relax peacefully and
comfortably
ones later years and even witness the smile of joy on the faces of one’s
children. If he has saved not, then the journey ahead would be dreary and Comment [H358]: see our children happy

dismal indeed. Comment [H359]: very bad

Page 31
17) Teachers used to convey information, but now with wide resources
of information. Some people think that there is no role for teachers to
play in modern education, others disagree. Discuss both views and
give your opinion?

Comment [H360]: have become less

I disagree with the view that teachers have lost their importancein important

education because of the abundantresourcessuch as the internet. I firmly Comment [H361]: because there are a lot
of resources
believe that teachers are as important as before and even more so. Both sides
of the argument will be explained.

It is irrefutable that computer and internet have made possibledistance Comment [H362]: we cannot deny that
Comment [H363]: makesth happen
education and on-line education. In this regard, computers are a
Comment [H364]: AND
boonforthe handicapped, those living in remote areas and those in job. Comment [H365]: Because of this
Comment [H366]: A benefit
They can study any time of the day or night with the internet access. This has
Comment [H367]: AND
made education approachable for manywho cannot for some reason or Comment [H368]: Many can learn

the otherattend a college or university. Comment [H369]: For some reason

However, I still feel that teachers can never lose their importance. In learning
and practice of more complex ideas, the computer is not adequate. It can tell Comment [H370]: Difficult things
Comment [H371]: enough
if the answer is right or wrong but it cannot tell where the student went
wrong. Tasks involving reasoningcannot be taught using computers. Comment [H372]: questions which the
students have to think logically
Moreover, teachers add their own knowledge gained through experienceto Comment [H373]: their knowledge they
get from teaching for many years
that of books and other resources.

Furthermore, teachers can stimulate students’ interestand it is an Comment [H374]: make the students want
to study
undeniable fact that stimulated people tend to learn more. They can keep

Page 32
students focused on study. A student studying by himself may get bored and Comment [H375]: make them focus on
their study
stop studying. Teachers can provide a faster and simpler waytopresent Comment [H376]: AND
Comment [H377]: give
information to the students. They can come down to the level of a student and
so are definitely better than computers. What is more, teachers are role
models for students. They are scholars in action. They not only teach Comment [H378]: someone the students
can copy
academic subjects, but also many social skills.

In conclusion, I believe that, there is no doubt that modern resources have

changed education from a teacher-oriented one to a student-centred one, Comment [H379]: students are more
important than teachers
but teachers will always hold their importanceand can never be replaced by Comment [H380]: are still important

any technology.

Page 33
18) Rich countries should not employ skilled labor from poor
countries, as poor countries need the workers more. Do you agree or
disagree?

Comment [H381]: depend much on the

workers from other countries
Rich countries depend heavily on cheap imported labortoincrease their
Comment [H382]: have more profit
profit margin. This demand for outsourcingincreased further during
Comment [H383]: the need to hire others
recession faced by USA. Although poor countries may need their skilled to work on certain tasks

Comment [H384]
workers to help them develop as a nation, it is felt that overall greater
benefit is reaped when their skilled workers are employed by rich countries. Comment [H385]: there are more benefits

This essay shall analyze how the employment of cheap foreign laborhelps Comment [H386]: cheap workers

the developing countries also by giving them chances for skill development
Comment [H387]: chances to develop
and economic growth. their skills and the economy

Comment [H388]: give work to

Firstly, when developed countries outsource work, requiring skilled labor to developing countries to do

developing countries, a demand is created in those poor countries which leads

to higher education in those poorer nations. For example, in the late twentieth
Comment [H389]: there is a lot of
century, India saw a huge influx ofsoftware development work from the
Comment [H390]: this results in a growth
United States and this corresponded positively to an equal growthin the in

Indian tech-related education sector. This example shows that if developing

countries make their skilled labor available for hire tothe world, they also Comment [H391]: good workers can be
hired
develop their internal infrastructure such as good educational institutes.
Thus, developing countries also benefit when an openness to foreign
employment is embraced. Comment [H392]: they become more
open

Page 34
In addition to this, the economies of developing countries are given new
avenues in which to grow when a working partnership with developed Comment [H393]: more chances to
develop
countries is established. Again, take the relationship between the United Comment [H394]: agree with developed
countries in exchanging workers
States and India as an example. Currently, English-speaking receptionists in
India handle telephone supportfor many different American products. Comment [H395]: do the job of supporting
customers by telephone
These employment options encourage more and more Indians to study
English, which in turncreates all sorts of new opportunities forbusiness Comment [H396]: which then
Comment [H397]: give more opportunities
relationships between the two countries. Thus, the idea that poor countries for

should close their doors to foreign interest in their skilled labor is not
supported.

It has also been seen that workers from poor countries earn more from rich
countries than they would from employment within their country. Most of
them invest that money in their own country and this improves the overall
economy of the poor countries. Comment [H398]: make the economy
better

In conclusion, I believe that, poorer countries are in most cases better by

making their skilled labor available to developed countries. This trend is in no
way detrimental to their own development. Comment [H399]: not negative

Page 35
19) Individuals should not be allowed to carry guns. To what extent do
you agree or disagree with this statement?

Comment [H400]: having a gun

There are some who hold the opinion that gun ownershipshould be
restricted, as it is in many countries, and that people in generalshould not be Comment [H401]: people

permitted to keep them. There are a number of reasons to agree with this
point of view, as will now be discussed.

A major reason why governments should not allow people to have guns is
because of the potential for accidents. In America, for example, you can Comment [H402]: accidents may happen

legally shoot people if you find them robbing your house, but this can lead to Comment [H403]: killsb without being put
in prison
people dying over cases of mistaken identity. In addition, there are crimes Comment [H404]: in which you shoot sb
wrongly
where people act rashly or in anger, so guns that were intended for Comment [H405]: without thinking
carefully and just do it angrily
defenceare often used aggressively. Comment [H406]: used only to protect
oneself
Comment [H407]: used in an angry
There is also the intentional damagecaused by guns. It is statistically manner
Comment [H408]: damage caused by
evident that the number of gun-related crimesis higher in countries where someone who wants to do it

firearm ownership is legal. Countries like America, for example, suffer from Comment [H409]: it is clear (with
numbers of death cases)
a disproportionately high number of fatal shootingsin comparison with Comment [H410]: crime caused with
guns
most other countries. Comment [H411]: it is ok to have a gun
Comment [H412]: tootoo many
Some people, however, argue that shooting is a sport, thus being prevented Comment [H413]: death by guns

from owning their own firearmis both unjust and violation of our rights. Comment [H414]: have their own gun
Comment [H415]: not fair and violate our
rights

Page 36
Yet this must be balanced with the overwhelming number of peoplewho Comment [H416]: a lot of people

use guns for criminal purposes. Comment [H417]: to commit crime

To sum up, it is clear that the proliferation of gunsleads to injury and Comment [H418]: increase in using guns

deathbothintentionally and unintentionally. Although there are points to Comment [H419]: AND
Comment [H420]: Cốtìnhvàvôtình
support gun ownership, they are weak in comparison with the rising tide of
Comment [H421]: Support those who
want to carry guns
gun crime, a situation which will only continue to worsen.
Comment [H422]: Rising number of
people who use guns to commit crime
Comment [H423]: Become worse and
worse

Page 37
20) The subjects and lesson contents are decided by the authorities
such as the government. Some people argue that teachers should
make the choice. Agree or disagree?

Comment [H424]: Curriculum

In almost all parts of the world, there is a national curriculumdecided by the
Comment [H425]: Teachers feel it hard to
government which is followed in all schools. Some people however feel that it
Comment [H426]: Satisfy what the
students need
restricts the teachers’ freedom to respond to the students’ needsand so
Comment [H427]: Decide what subjects
teachers should decide the school curricula. I believe that the national the students will learn
Comment [H428]: Have been good for
curriculum is good enough and has withstood the test of timebut some many years
Comment [H429]: Teachers should do it
portion of the curriculum should be left in the hands ofthe teachers.
Comment [H430]: Only mean that every
students learn the same things
Having a national curriculum merely standardiseswhat is taught across the Comment [H431]: Everyone can study
Comment [H432]: Stop using / do not use
country, giving equal opportunity toall. If we abolish the national ..any longer

curriculum, anything could be taught and students would have even less Comment [H433]: Fewer
Comment [H434]: Make a and b more
equal opportunities. This would also worsen the gap betweenthe different from each other
Comment [H435]: AND
government and private schools. It may also imply thatreligious schools
Comment [H436]: It also means that
could teach only religion and ignore science and therefore many students Comment [H437]: Do not care about
Comment [H438]: Know different subjects
would not receive a well-rounded education. , have deep knowledge of various things
Comment [H439]: Do not allow a school to
On the other hand, it is also true that the national curriculum does not allow change their subjects
Comment [H440]: Learn important things
for enough local variation. It is important for children to learn the values Comment [H441]: AND

ofthings such as local history, accents and dialects. We are not all the same Comment [H442]: Consider sth / think
about sth
and school should reflect on that. The present problem is thatthe Comment [H443]: It is true that

IELTS speaking and writing Corner

Page 38
curriculum is too comprehensive. It tries to squeeze all children into the Comment [H444]: Including nearly all
subjects
same mould. Comment [H445]: Make children learn the
same things like others

What is actually needed is a more flexible policytoallow for individual Comment [H446]: A better policy that can
be used in different cases
aptitudes and interests. However, there should still be a limited core Comment [H447]: Consider their ability
and what they would like to learn
curriculum which should be decided by the government. Then the teachers Comment [H448]: Some important
subjects
should be given some freedom to offer any other subjectswhich the pupils
Comment [H449]: Give some other
subjects
and their parents want. Young people of all ages would be much more likely to
thoroughly enjoy school, learn effectively, develop their individual Comment [H450]: Really love going to
school
talents, and gain a love of learning which will illuminate their whole lives. Comment [H451]: AND : learn well ,
develop talent, love studying
Teachers would ‘walk tall’ in our society and establish their proper Comment [H452]: Make their future bright

roleasguardians of the future. Comment [H453]: Act in a confident and

proud way
Comment [H454]: Play their role well
In conclusion, I believe that, a national curriculum should be there but there Comment [H455]: Person who makes sure
that the kids can develop well
should also be room for teachers to have their saywherever needed.
Comment [H456]: Chances for teachers to
express their opinions

Page 39
21) Money for postgraduate research is limited. Some people think
that financial support from governments should be provided for
scientific research. Do you agree or disagree?

Comment [H457]: It is true that

There is no doubt thatpostgraduate research can provide a lot of wealth
toa country. However, it is a matter of debate whetherall these researches Comment [H458]: Bring a lot of money
Comment [H459]: People have different
should be funded by governments. I agree with the statement that views as to
Comment [H460]: The government should
government should fund only scientific research and the less useful research pay for it

should be sponsored bysomeprivate agencies. Comment [H461]: Funded by

Comment [H462]: Private organizations

There is a strong argument whyonly scientific researches should be done by Comment [H463]: It is true that

the government. Government has so many other responsibilities on its

shoulders. It has to provide infrastructure such as transportation, Comment [H464]: Have a lot of
responsibilities
hospitals and education institutesto the citizens. Then it has to support the Comment [H465]: AND

defence services and even maintain law and orderin the country. Comment [H466]:

It is, however, important to identify areas where only the government should
carry out and controlscientific research. Firstly, researches into nuclear Comment [H467]: AND

technology and national defence are very crucial. They cannot be left into Comment [H468]: AND

the hands of private companies. Secondly, some researches are only for the Comment [H469]: Sb cannot do it
Comment [H470]: To discover more
advancement of knowledge. In such research the private companies have knowledge rather than for money
Comment [H471]: Have no benefit if they
no incentive. So the government should take the leading role. do it
Comment [H472]: Lead / be responsible

Page 40
There are many benefits if private companies participate in postgraduate
researches. To begin with, researches are done more efficiently by private
companies because they are profit driven.Every dollar is spent Comment [H473]: Do sth because it brings
them money
wiselytoensure maximum benefitsand every resource is used effectively Comment [H474]: Used in a correct way
Comment [H475]: Get as many benefits as
to avoid waste. Also, researches by private companies are closely possible

associated with market needs. Private companies are market orientedso Comment [H476]: Effective and not
wasteful
they always come up with inventions that have practical valuesthat can Comment [H477]: Related to what people
want
increase productivity and improve life. For example, researches in Comment [H478]: Focus on the market as
their main aim
cosmetics and cough medicines. Comment [H479]: Invent something
Comment [H480]: Be practical
In conclusion, I believe that, governments should identify areas of scientific Comment [H481]: AND

research which cannot be left in the hands of private companies and leave the Comment [H482]: AND

other less important researches in the hands of private companies.

Page 41
22) Television has changed the quality of life for the ordinary person.
Do you agree or disagree?

There is probably no greater influence on social issues and society itself

than the television. It has become arguably the greatest invention of the Comment [H483]: TV has the most
influence on …
past century. There is no doubt that it has significantly changed the life of an Comment [H484]: It may be argued that

ordinary citizen. The point to be pondered over is thatas television has Comment [H485]: Normal people
Comment [H486]: What we need to think
saturated our lives, has it always resulted toward our betterment? about is that
Comment [H487]: Enter our lives

With TV, we have witnessed countless historical events: Inaugurations of Comment [H488]: Make our lives better
Comment [H489]: Have seen many things
presidents; man’s first steps on the moon; even disasters as they happen. happening in the pst

We watch TV in the morning to receive the daily news. We eat watching it. We Comment [H490]

watch it before they go to bed. While enjoying the entertaining programs Comment [H491]: AND

aired on television, we hardly give thought to its detrimental effects, Comment [H492]: Broadcast on TV

especially on young children. Comment [H493]: Think about

Comment [H494]: Negative sides

The box has made us get rid of courtesies. When we have a guest, we Comment [H495]: Tv has make us less
polite
cannot even conceal our lack of interestandattentionin what they are Comment [H496]: Hide the fact that we
don’t like them/guests
saying, let alone turning the volume down or switching it off altogether. Comment [H497]: Turn down or off the TV

We never think twice beforeturning the TV on at about 12:30 in the Comment [H498]: It is our usual habit to

morning at a high volume. The half-literate domestic helperwatches TV Comment [H499]: Person who helps in
the house (not well educated)

Page 42
serials when she is free, whereas she would try hard to read the newspapers
had it been a few years ago. And the list can go on. Comment [H500]: A few years ago

In earlier timeswomenspent their idle afternoonsvisiting their neighbors Comment [H501]: In the past
Comment [H502]: Spend their free
and men socialized with their friends and colleagues. In today’s afternoons
Comment [H503]: Go out with friends and
competitive world people are willing to work for longer hoursfor a better colleagues
Comment [H504]: Ready to work longer
future. It’s already hard for the modern urban Indian to spend time even with
their family. But in spite of that, the television eats up from the few hours
Comment [H505]
one gets to stay at home. Such meager interaction increases the distance
between spouses, and more importantly, between children and their parents, Comment [H506]: Not talking to each
other enough make husband and wife
distant
which has been found to harm the way they grow up and form
relationships. What is more, the advertisements succeed in giving rise Comment [H507]: Have negative effect on
their growth and relationship
tostrong materialistic wantsin people, which must be one of the reasons Comment [H508]: cause

why our society is becoming increasingly consumerist. Comment [H509]: make people want to
own more and more things
Comment [H510]: want to buy as much as
possible
Therefore, moderation is quite important to ensure that the television is used
Comment [H511]
as a source of healthy entertainmentand for enhancing knowledge. So, it Comment [H512]: a useful thing

is better to set a time limit for watching television. Children should be Comment [H513]: improve our knowledge
Comment [H514]: limit the hours we
encouraged to participate in activities like playing and reading books. Before watch
Comment [H515]: consider
allowing children to watch television programs, the parents should take into
Comment [H516]: AND: how people think
about it and the number of people who
account the program reviews and television ratings. They should be watch it

encouraged to watch programs that reinforce family values. As parents are Comment [H517]: Make family members
closer togeither

the role models for their children, hence it is equally important to limit Comment [H518]: Children copy and
learn from their parents
your own television watching,toset an example forthem.
Comment [H519]: Reduce the hours they
themselves watch
To sum up, it can be said that television has changed the life of the ordinary Comment [H520]: Be a good example for
Comment [H521]: A lot that it is hard to
man beyond recognitionin both negative and positive ways. We must ration realize
Comment [H522]: Allow a fixed number
our TV viewing hours in order to escape from its cons. of hours

Page 43
23) Some people think typical teaching of a teacher and students in the
class will not exist by the year 2050. Are you optimistic or pessimistic
about this view?
Comment [H523]: Technology is
Technology is progressing at an exponential paceand this makes it very developing very fast

difficult to predict what the schools and the teacher-taught relation of 2050
will be like. However, I do agree with the given statement that the typical
teaching of a teacher and students in the class will not exist by 2050.

Education will be driven by technology and learning will be able to happen Comment [H524]: Supported by
technology
anytime and anywhere. Students will also be able to make choices inhow Comment [H525]: choose

they learn the content. Learning will be based on individual interest and
need. It will no longer be the ‘one size fits all’ approach. Technology will Comment [H526]: each individual can
learn anything they like and need
serve as a means toaccess the resources that students will be able to utilize Comment [H527]: all people study the
same things
in order to broaden their learning. Comment [H528]: have their role in
Comment [H529]: use
Teachers will become facilitators of knowledgeandno longer the only Comment [H530]: people who help
students get knowledge more easily
experts because of the rapid and constant changesand additions to Comment [H531]: the one who has the
most knowledge
information that can be found. For example, the amount of medical
Comment [H532]: AND
knowledge doubles every eight years; it is said that half of what an Comment [H533]: There are twice more
stuff we have to learn
engineering student learns in their first year is obsolete or revisedby the Comment [H534]: Can not longer be used
or be slightly changed
time they graduate. The teacher will still guide students through learning but
it will be impossible for teachersto have all the knowledge with technology Comment [H535]: The teachers will not be
able to

Page 44
that is capable offinding more than can be learned. The teacher will still be Comment [H536]: can

needed to help students learn where to locate informationand help students Comment [H537]: find information

evaluate sites and resources for validity. Comment [H538]: whether the sites and
resources can be trusted

Specialists in technology will need to be part of the educational

environmenttoconstantly enrich the learning environmentfor students. Comment [H539]: school/classroom
Comment [H540]: always try to make a
Each child will have a portable computerand textbooks will not exist. good place for students to learn
Comment [H541]: a laptop
Teachers will use tablet PCs and projectorstocall up imagesat the front of
Comment [H542]: AND
the classroom at the touch of a button, with the old sound of chalk on a Comment [H543]: Show the images

blackboard being replaced by the hum of desktop computers. Comment [H544]: When they touch the
button
Comment [H545]: The sould of writing by
To sum up, I believe that, despite all the new technology in 2050, school would Chalk and blackboard is replaced by the
sound of a computer running
still remain a study environmentand teachers would still be there even if Comment [H546]: Place to study

their way of imparting knowledgewould be driven by technology. Comment [H547]: The way they teach
Comment [H548]: Affected by technology

Page 45
24) In several years many languages die out. Some say it is not
important because if we speak fewer languages life would be easier.
Do you agree or disagree?

Comment [H549]: Say :ướctính

The United Nations estimates that approximately 6,500 languages are Comment [H550]: about

spoken in the world today. By the end of this century, many linguists estimate
that over half of those 6,500 languages will be gone. Some opine that it is
futile to save these languages because it is more convenient to have fewer Comment [H551]: there is no point in
doing sth
languages today. I agree with this view.

The reason why the possibility of a language dyingraises so much concern Comment [H552]: the chance that it dies

for sociolinguists is that language is directly related to culture. It is said Comment [H553]: language and culture
are related
that, “When a language dies, a culture dies”. Secondly, these languages are a
significant part oftheir speaker’s identity. Beyond preserving culture and Comment [H554]: an important part of
Comment [H555]: protecting
using language as a part of the speakers’ identity, a very practical reason for
Comment [H556]: the reason why we
should
wanting to save a dying language is that archaeologists and
anthropologistscanget a wealth of information abouta society from its Comment [H557]: AND:
nhàkhảocỗvànhànhânloạihọc
language. If a language dies out, so does our access to direct Comment [H558]: Get a lot of information
about
knowledgeabout its customs, folk tales, and vocabulary for describing the Comment [H559]: = disappear/vanish

world. Comment [H560]: Getting knowledge

about
Comment [H561]: AND
However, languages that lose their communicative purposesandare Comment [H562]: No longer used for
communication
abandoned by speakers should disappear from the public arena. The truth of
Comment [H563]: Are not used by
“when a language dies, a culture dies” does not implythe truth of when a Comment [H564]: Does not mean

Page 46
language is saved, a culture is so saved. The change of culture is a normal part
of the law of change and we should welcome this change. The only thing that Comment [H565]: Think it is a positive
change
can be achieved by saving a language is for intra-linguistic studiesand Comment [H566]: Research about the
languages
nothing more.

Furthermore, it is irrefutable thatwhat actually kills languages is the choices Comment [H567]: We cannot deny that

of the speakers. The momentthe speakers of a language realize that their Comment [H568]: when

language does not have a global functionality, they begin to abandon it. In Comment [H569]: cannot be used in the
world
today’s global village, it is far more convenient to have a few languages. There Comment [D1570]: a lot more

is better communication and also more promising job prospectsworldwide Comment [D1571]: more chances to get a
good job
with fewer languages. Even the technology of today is more comfortable to
learn with fewer languages. So, such languages that have limited potential at
the global stage, and they thus come under threat or even die, it would be Comment [D1572]: are not useful in the
world
better to let them die. There is no need to preserve them. Comment [D1573]: is threatened

In conclusion, I believe that, the idea of saving threatened languagessounds Comment [D1574]: =save endangered
languages from the verge of extinction
good but it is difficult to achieve because the speakers have a right to shift
toanother language. Once this happens, there is no logical basis forsaving a Comment [D1575]: Can change to
Comment [D1576]: It is impossible to
past linguistic behavior. What is more, globalization will continually lead
Comment [D1577]: A language
to language shift. This trend is not likely to abate. Therefore, it is not Comment [D1578]: Always make the
language change
important to save endangered languages. Comment [D1579]: This trend will
continue

Page 47
25) People find it very difficult to speak in public or to give a
presentation before an audience. Do you think public speaking skill is
really important? Give reasons.
Comment [D1580]: Power of convincing
Public speaking and oratory are the most valued skills that an individual others
Comment [D1581]: important
can possess. These skills can be used for almost anything. The most Comment [D1582]: have

influentialprophets and leaderswere those who could sway their Comment [D1583]: can influence others
Comment [D1584]: AND
audiences verbally. The powerful oratory skillsof many leaders have won
Comment [D1585]: Influence people by
their words
wars, averted mass panicand saved companies from financial
Comment [D1586]: Skill of convincing
disaster.Unfortunately, speaking in public is one of the most feared others by words
Comment [D1587]: Prevent bad things
activities today. In the following paragraphs, I shall delve into the like wars from happening
Comment [D1588]: Difficult financial
importanceof the skill of public speaking. I believe that it should definitely be situation

a part of the school curricula. Comment [D1589]: People are afraid to

give a speech
Comment [D1590]: Go into detail about
To begin with, public speaking is interrelated with communication the importance of
Comment [D1591]: A subject taught at
skillsand can be described as a form of communication. Public speaking school
Comment [D1592]: Related to
does not always mean that you have to give a speechtoa large audience. communication skills

When you go for an interview, and speak to a group of interviewers or when Comment [D1593]: A way to communicate
Comment [D1594]: Say something in the
you are giving a class presentation; all these are also a form of public public
Comment [D1595]: A lot of people
speaking. In such situations, if you have the ability to communicate
properly,it can help you shape up your future. Secondly, it helps to Comment [D1596]: Can communicate well
Comment [D1597]: Have a good future
overcome fear. Surveys have revealed that most people are afraid of public (because you can get the job)
Comment [D1598]: Make you no longer
speaking more than their fear of death. The major reason is that one has to feel afraid

Page 48
gather a thorough knowledge of the subject matter on which one has to Comment [D1599]: Find information
about what we are going to talk about
speak. Once a person goes into the depth of any topic, he realizes that his Comment [D1600]: Learn more about sth
in a deeper way
anxieties and fearsassociated with it go down quite remarkably. Comment [D1601]: AND
Comment [D1602]: Can be reduced greatly
Furthermore, this skill helps in personality development. When a person Comment [D1603]: Help us have a good
personality
successfully delivers a good speech, it gives a sense of self-worthiness. A Comment [D1604]: Give a good speech

positive response from the audience can help a person feel more confident. Comment [D1605]: We feel that it is worth
doing it
Thus, it can bring about a lot of improvement in one’s overall personality. Comment [D1606]: If other people like
your speech
Last but not least, the art of public speakingimproves relationships. Once a Comment [D1607]: Improve your
character
person develops good public speaking skills, a marked improvement can
Comment [D1608]: How to speak well in
front of a large audience
be seen inhisinterpersonal skills, which in turn, will help him maintain a
Comment [D1609]: Can speak well
healthy relationship withhis friends and family. Even in one’s professional Comment [D1610]: You can find that sth
improves greatly
life, an effective interactionwith one’s boss, clients or subordinatescan Comment [D1611]: Ability to
communicate with others = communication
help a person enhance the possibility of advancement in his chosen skills

profession. Comment [D1612]: Get along well with

Comment [D1613]: A good relationship
with
In our present teaching system, writing and reading seems to be the main Comment [D1614]: AND: boss, customer
and lower workers
focus of literacy, and oratory skills are not stressed.The system needs to Comment [D1615]: You can get promoted
in your work
be changed, so that it can focus more of its resources on teaching how to
Comment [D1616]: At school, what we
interact in the world. Almost all jobs require an interview, and if one does not learn is
Comment [D1617]: The only things that
know the working of a job interview, he will probably do poorly. But if the are taught to help us more educated
Comment [D1618]: Public speaking is not
schools teach the skills of public speaking, appearing for an interview would taught or emphasized
Comment [D1619]: Know how sth is done
be no longer a challlenge.
Comment [D1620]: No more difficult //
they can do it easily
In conclusion, I believe that, the art of public speaking is very important in
today’s society. If today’s children overcome glossphobia or the fear of Comment [D1621]: The fear of speaking

speaking in public, they would stand a much better chance in the highly Comment [D1622]: Have more chances

Comment [D1623]: Competitive today

competitive global village of today. society

Page 49
26) Wild animals have no place in the 21st century, and the protection
is a waste of resources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Comment [D1624]: unnecessary
I disagree with the notion that wild animals are redundant in the current
century and therefore we need not waste our precious resources
inprotecting them. I believe that the conservation of these species should be Comment [D1625]: Waste time and money
in
our top priorityas they are our most precious resources. In the following Comment [D1626]: protection
Comment [D1627]: what we should do
paragraphs I shall put forth my arguments to support my views. first
Comment [D1628]: very important
The most important reason for saving wild animals is that they are part of Comment [D1629]: explain my view

our ecosystem. Every species of wildlife plays a role to maintain the Comment [D1630]: a member of the world

Comment [D1631]
balance of life on Earth. Thus, the loss of any species can affect us directly
or indirectly. Let us consider species to be like a brick in the foundation of Comment [D1632]: AND

Comment [D1633]: an important/

a building. We can probably lose one or two or a dozen bricks and still have a essential part

standing house. But by the time we have lost 20 per cent of species, we are
going to destabilize the entire structure. That’s the way ecosystems work. Comment [D1634]: Make the whole
building fall off/destroyed

Secondly, wild animals provide many valuable substancessuch as medicine Comment [D1635]: Give us many
important hings
and fur. The horn of the rhinoceros has medicinal valueand the fur of the Comment [D1636]: AND
Comment [D1637]
mink is very valuable. The recreational viewing of animals at zoos is also
Comment [D1638]: People can earn
a source of revenue. Thus, the financial valueof wild species is important to money when open zoos for visitors to watch
the animals
the economies of many nations. Comment [D1639]: The money they give
us

Finally, wild animals have aesthetic appeal. They are beautiful creatures of Comment [D1640]: Are very cute and
beautiful

natureand are a part of our bio-diversity. Their beautiful and mysterious Comment [D1641]: animals
Comment [D1642]: make life more varied

Page 50
life has enchanted mankindsince the dawn of evolution. Scientists have Comment [D1643]: attracted people
Comment [D1644]: for a very long time
been awed byobserving their behavior. Such study has helped scientists Comment [D1645]: impressed greatly by

understand how the human body functions and why people behave as they Comment [D1646]: watching how they
behave
do. Scientists have also gained medical knowledgeby studying the effect of Comment [D1647]: knowledge about
medicine
many drugs on these animals.

In conclusion, the protection of wild animals in the 21st century is by no

means a waste of resources. In fact it should be the most important global Comment [D1648]: not wasteful

Comment [D1649]: the world should place

priority today. I pen down by a quotation– “Scientists know we must more importance on it

protect species because they are working parts of our life-support system”. Comment [D1650]

Page 51
27) Tobacco is a kind of drug. People have been free to use it. Some
people think that it should be illegal to use it comparing with other
drugs. To what extent do you agree or disagree? What is your opinion?
(Against banning)
Comment [D1651]: smoking
Comment [D1652]: breathe the smoke
from others without wanting

Every year, thousands of people worldwide die from both smoking Comment [D1653]: ban it
Comment [D1654]: control how it is used
tobaccoandinvoluntarily breathing it in. Despite this, I do not agree that it
Comment [D1655]: if we consider that it is
harmful to our health
should be made illegal. However, I also believe that there should be a
Comment [D1656]: we cannot deny that
regulation on its use, considering its harm to health. In the following Comment [D1657]: AND

paragraphs, I shall put forth my arguments to support my views. Comment [D1658]: Lạmdụngthuốc
Comment [D1659]: Tácđộngnguyhạitiềmt
àng
It is irrefutable thattobacco products, especially cigarettes, could cause lung Comment [D1660]: AND

cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses.Drug abuse also has many Comment [D1661]: Those who use drugs
too much
potentially harmful effectsnot only on individuals but also on family, Comment [D1662]: Commit a crime
Comment [D1663]: Have money to pay for
friends, work and society. Frequent drug usersmayturn to crimetomeet this habit

the increasing expense for their habit. Continued drug usemaycause Comment [D1664]: Using drugs for a long
time
personality changes. Some users lose interest in school or work, or have Comment [D1665]: Make us become a
different person because our personality
difficulty meeting the responsibilities of a jobor family. changes
Comment [D1666]: Do not like to go to
school or work
Nonetheless, it costs society far more to prohibit a drug than it does to Comment [D1667]: Find it hard to do our
job
regulate it. And I’m not talking about just money. Prohibition creates
Comment [D1668]: Controlling drugs is
less costly for society than banning it
organized crime, and with it you get street wars, and police corruption.
Comment [D1669]: If we ban, more people
With more violence comes more police, and that means more cost. Regulation will form groups and commit crime
Comment [D1670]: AND
on the other hand, works quite well. The government should decide who gets Comment [D1671]: control

Page 52
to make it, who sells it, and who it is sold to. There should be controls on
tobacco regarding potency, packaging, advertising, and a lot of other Comment [D1672]: AND : how strong it is ,
how it is packaged and advertised
things. This is definitely better than banning a drug which leads to organized
crime.

Moreover, tobacco has long been a source of money for the governments in
many countries. This income comes from taxes on the manufactured
products. Excise taxesalso come from tobacco that arrives from other Comment [D1673]: Taxes on the products
made
countries. Finally, I believe that it is better to educate people about the harms Comment [D1674]: Taxes on goods in a
country
of tobacco. This approach has worked better in many countries and there has
been a reduction in the sale of tobacco products.

In conclusion, I believe that, banning tobacco is not a good idea. Drug

prohibition has been the most failed social policyand banning tobacco is a Comment [D1675]: Is a failure

step backwards. However, there should be control on the manufacturing and Comment [D1676]: Just make the country
lag behind
sale of tobacco.

Page 53
28) Tobacco is a kind of drug. People have been free to use it. Some
people think that it should be illegal to use it comparing with other
drugs. To what extent do you agree or disagree? What is your opinion?
(For banning)

Every year, thousands of people worldwide die from both smoking tobacco
and involuntarily breathing it in. Therefore, I agree that it should be made
illegal considering its harms to health. In the following paragraphs, I shall put
forth my arguments to support my views.

It is irrefutable that tobacco products, especially cigarettes, could cause lung

cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses. Smoking tobacco kills more than
alcohol, drug abuse, car crashes, murders, suicides, and fires combined. Comment [D1677]: ANS

World-wide some 3 million people die from smoking each year, 1 every 10
seconds. Smokers are more than 20 times more likely to developlung cancer Comment [D1678]: Have/suffer from

than non-smokers, and smoking can lead to a host of other health problems, Comment [D1679]: many

including emphysema and heart disease. Comment [D1680]: AND

The detrimental effectsof cigarette smoke are not just on the active Comment [D1681]: The negative effects

smoker, but also on the passive smoker. Smoking tobacco not only gives the Comment [D1682]: Those who actually
smokes it
smoker a high chance of an early graveit gives those around him/her the Comment [D1683]: Those who breathes
the smoke
same chances due to second hand smoke. What is more, a child born to a Comment [D1684]: Make the smokers die
soon
woman who has actively or passively smoked during pregnancyhas chances Comment [D1685]: Breathing the smoke
from smokers
of developing congenital defects. Comment [D1686]
Comment [D1687]
Drug abuse also has many potentially harmful effects not only on
Comment [D1688]: AND
individuals but also on family, friends, work and society. Frequent drug

Page 54
users may turn to crime to meet the increasing expense for their habit.
Continued drug use may cause personality changes. Some users lose interest
in school or work, or have difficulty meeting the responsibilities of a job or
family.

In conclusion, I believe that, one of the main responsibilities of any

government is to ensure the safety of its population, that is why taking
tobacco should be made illegal.

Page 55
29) Some people believe that tourists should accept social and
environmental responsibility while others believe that tourists
should not accept any responsibility at all. What is your opinion?

It is irrefutable that tourism industry has become the backbone of many

economies of the world. No wonderall countries are opening their doors Comment [H689]: Have an important role
in the economy
totourists. The negative social and environmental impactsof tourism have Comment [H690]: There is no doubt that
Comment [H691]: Welcome
led many to suggest thattourists should accept the responsibility forthis. I
Comment [H692]: Bad effects on society
and the environment
definitely agree with this notion. Eco-tourism, sustainable-tourism,
Comment [H693]: Make many people
responsible-tourism, modern-tourism or whatever name you may like to think that
Comment [H694]: Be responsible
give it, is the need of the hour.In the following paragraphs, I intend to put Comment [H695]: Tourism which is
friendly to the environment
forth my arguments to support my view.
Comment [H696]: A thing that is needed
now
The most important reason why tourists should be responsible is that many
tourist destinationsare endangered now because of the litter and pollution Comment [H697]

spread by the tourists. For example, the Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh, which is Comment [H698]: Tourists throw
garbage and cause pollution
a popular tourist spot, once got so badly damaged by the wrappers and
plastic bottleswhich tourists threw that no boating could be done there and it Comment [H699]: AND

smelled so bad that people stopped going there. It took months to get it
cleaned up and restore tourism there. The local people and the governments
cannot handle such asituationeffectively unless the tourists themselves lend Comment [H700]: Deal with a situation

a handby being careful. Comment [H701]: help

Comment [H702]: using too many
resources
Secondly, there is over-consumption of resourcesby tourists such as of Comment [H703]: means that the
tourism will not develop for a long time
water and fuel and this is incompatible with sustainable development. Comment [H704]: tourists’ need

Tourist demandfor resources such as water and food may also compete with Comment [H705]: state of being unfair
Comment [H706]: the people who are
the needs of local people and may lead to injustice with the locals. For native to a coutry

Page 56
example, in Shimla, a popular hill station, tourists stay in five star
accommodationandtake two showers a day whereas the people outside are
short of drinking water. To add to it many tourism activities such as Comment [H707]: do not have water to
drink
skiing, boating, motorised water-sports, and trekkingrepresent a stress Comment [H708]: AND

to fragile ecosystems. Who will welcome the tourists to those places if Comment [H709]: Threaten the weak eco-
system
tourists do not accept responsibility? Instead of five star accommodation, they
could live with the locals and be satisfied with one shower a day.

Finally, if tourists do not respect the local people’s culture and

environment, then the natives would be hostile towardsthem and the Comment [H710]: Care about the culture
and the environment
whole purpose of tourism would be lost. For example, in our religious Comment [H711]: The local people
Comment [H712]: Not friendly to
places, it is customary tocover our head and take off our shoes. If tourists fail
Comment [H713]: We get nothing from
to do so, they would not be welcomeed by our people there. So, the onus is travelling
Comment [H714]: It is common to
onthe tourist to know beforehandthe norms ofthe place and fortunately
Comment [H715]: Sb must take
responsibility
nowadays, everything is available on the net or one can get all information
Comment [H716]: Know before they come
from the tour operators. Comment [H717]: The customs of
Comment [H718]: Those who organize
tours
Responsible tourism is everyone’s responsibility. The well-beingof the
Comment [H719]: The good condition
destination is not only the responsibility of the tourism sector– it is also the Comment [H720]: =The tourist industry

responsibility of the tourist. That is why it has rightly been said that – ‘ A good
tourist is one who leaves behind nothing, but footprints; and takes away
nothing, but photographs. Comment [H721]: GOOD SAYING

Page 57
30) Everyone should stay in school until the age of eighteen. Evaluate
the arguments both and against this before reaching an opinion?

In many countries, school attendance is mandatory for all children up to a

specific age. In India this is 14 years of age. In the UK and many other Comment [H722]: Children must go to
school until a certain age
countries it is 16, although the UK government now has plans to raise the
school leaving age to 18. I agree that children should be in school till the age Comment [H723]: Make the students
study until they turn 18
of 18. In the following paragraphs, I intend to put forth my arguments to
support my views. Comment [H724]: The period that they are
the most easily influenced

The most important reason for raising the school leaving age to 18 is that, the Comment [H725]: =During these teenage
years
age of 14-18 is the most impressionable age of a child’s life. During this Comment [H726]: Have some changes in
their body and hormones
period of adolescence, the children undergo physical and hormonal Comment [H727]: Suffer a lot

changesbecause of which they are under a lot of pressure. Therefore, Comment [H728]: Making them study at
school for longer
lengthening compulsory schoolinghelpsprotect childhood. While at school Comment [H729]: Make them a good child
Comment [H730]: They can spend their
students will be protected from some of the pressures in life. They have the adult years to work

rest of adulthood to work, earn a living and make choices. Providing them Comment [H731]: Earn money and choose
for themselves
with space to grow for as long as possible can make them better prepared Comment [H732]: Make them more ready
to become an adult later
for adult life. Comment [H733]: Help them get more
skills
Comment [H734]: choices
Secondly, more education provides the opportunity to acquire more
Comment [H735]: people who receive
skillsand therefore more options. It has been shown many times that those more education
Comment [H736]: often
with more education find it easier to find work and that they are more Comment [H737]: feel happy working =
gain a sense of satisfaction at the workplace
likely tofind that work satisfying. What is more, raising the school-leaving
Comment [H738]: important to the future
age is a crucial investment in society’s future. Doing so increases the of a society
Comment [H739]: bring benefit to the
economic potential of the future workforce, and so will bring increased economy
Comment [H740]: more taxes for the
tax revenues in the long term. country in the future

Page 58
However, the opponents claim that extending the period of compulsory
educationrequires a huge investmentin teachers, books and new school Comment [H741]: making students study
at school longer
buildings which would be very expensive. They also say that many families Comment [H742]: means they have to
invest a lot of money on
need their children to make an economic contribution tothe family income Comment [H743]: earn money to support
the family
and working early can help these families to survive. Finally, just being in
school does not guarantee thata student is learning. Unwilling Comment [H744]: does not mean that

studentsbecomedisruptive and damage the education of othersin their Comment [H745]: those who don’t want to
learn
class. Comment [H746]: pháphách
Comment [H747]: affect others’ study
In conclusion, I believe that, as every garden has weeds, similarly compulsory
schooling also has some drawbacks. However, these drawbacks are nothing Comment [H748]: forcing them to go to
school
as compared to the vast benefits this approach would bringand the cost Comment [H749]: a lot of benefits it brings

needed to implement would be negligible if compared to the huge Comment [H750]: carry out sth
Comment [H751]: little
economic potential of the future workforce. Therefore, I believe that
Comment [H752]: the amount of money
received
everyone should stay in school until the age of eighteen.

Page 59
31) Some people argue that individuals can do nothing to improve the
environment. Therefore, only governments and large companies can
make a difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion?

Everyone is becoming aware that the environment is a serious issue. There is

bad air and water pollution everywhere and we also know that the
greenhouse effect is changing our weather and that the hole in the ozone
layer is causing skin cancer. However, not enough is being doneto solve Comment [D1753]: AND
Comment [D1754]: Nothing has been done
these problems, because most people seem to think that they can do nothing.
They think that only governments and large companies can combat this
massive problem. I feel that the responsibility for protecting the Comment [D1755]: Solve this big issue

environment must be shared by everyone. Individuals can and should do Comment [D1756]: Everyone should be
responsible for protecting the environment
many things to help to solve the problem.

First of all people can make sure that they are responsible in the way that they
dispose of waste. If people throw rubbish like plastic into rivers and oceans, Comment [D1757]: Throw away waste

it always stays there, and causes fish and sea-birds to die. It is also important
to make sure that we do not buy goods that have too much wrapping on them,
especially plastic wrapping, because if we do we are adding to the huge
amounts of waste. Comment [D1758]: Increase the amount
of waste

People also need to be responsible in the way that they use water. In some
countries, like Australia, an enormous amount of water is wasted for
swimming pools, washing cars and so on. Most countries are running out
offresh water. If people used their cars less this would help to prevent the Comment [D1759]: Have less and less

greenhouse effect. Everyone can try to use public transport more, or use
bicycles, or even walk, instead of using their cars for even short trips.

Page 60
Finally, the most important thing that individuals can do is to let their
governments know that they want something to be done about the
environment. It is obvious that the governments will not do anything unless
the people force them to.

It is therefore clear that individuals must take responsibility for the

environment, otherwise it will soon be too late, and we and the next
generation will suffer from serious consequences.

Page 61
32) Today, majority of children are raised by their grandparents due to
the fact that their parents are busy working. To what extent do you
think it affects the whole family?

It is irrefutable that both parents are working nowadays and as a

resultchildren have to be raised by either maids or grandparents. Comment [H760]: so
Comment [H761]: AND
Definitely, grandparents are better than any other option and this situation
affects the family in both positive and negative ways which I shall Comment [H762]: Have both positive and
negative effects on
highlight in this essay.

On the positive side, looking after the grandchildren keeps the grandparents
energetic and vibrant. Grandparents bathe, feed and even read books Comment [H763]: Have more energy and
active
tothe child. This leads to a sort of symbiotic relationshipin which both Comment [H764]: AND
Comment [H765]: Relation in which both
grandparents and grandchildren can profit from. In other words we can say sides get some benefits

that it is a win-win situation for both. Grandparents will no longer suffer Comment [H766]: Benefit from
Comment [H767]: Situation in which both
from loneliness and depressionwhich is very common at that age and sides get some benefits
Comment [H768]: AND
children are also well looked after.

Moreover, such a situation encourages joint family system. Therefore, all Comment [H769]: Make every member do
something to help the family
the benefits of a joint family are there. There is security in the family as we all
know that there is security in numbers. Another big advantage is that Comment [H770]: Safety when there are
many people around
grandparents teach moral valuesto children. If grandparents do not look Comment [H771]: Teach good things

after children then parents use TVs as baby-sittersand children can become Comment [H772]: Allow them to watch TV
to take care of themselves
couch potatoes. Comment [H773]: Like to sit at one place
and do not want to go out and play

On the negative side, it is generally seen that grandparents are over-doting

Comment [H774]: Because they love them
and, out of love, may pamper and spoil the grandchildren. Another Comment [H775]:
pamperNuôngchiềuvàgâyhưhỏ
and spoil
ng

Page 62
disadvantage is that if there is not enough harmony between the parents and Comment [H776]: agreement

grandparents then it can lead to frustrationandspoil the whole Comment [H777]: feeling of
disappointment and not knowing what to do
atmosphereof the house. In such cases children are the worst sufferers. Comment [H778]: destroy the atmosphere
in the house
Comment [H779]: those who have to
In conclusion, I believe that, it is very beneficial if grandparents look after suffer the most

their grandchildren. Grandchildren learn moral values, are looked after well
and grandparents enjoy themselves and don’t suffer from loneliness and
depression

Page 63
33) Fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) are the main sources in many
countries, but in some countries the use of alternative sources of
energy (wind energy and solar energy) are encouraged. To what
extent do you think it is a positive or negative development?

It is irrefutable that fossil fuels are the main source of energy in many parts of
the world, but some nations are taking a step forwardand using renewable Comment [H780]: take action to develop
more
sources like wind, solar and tidal energy. Definitely,it is a positive Comment [H781]: AND
Comment [H782]: No doubt
development. In the following paragraphs I intend to support my views with
my arguments.

The main advantage of using alternate sources is that the conventional Comment [H783]: traditional

sources like coal and oilarenon-renewable. They take millions of years to Comment [H784]: AND
Comment [H785]: Cannot be recycled
form and we are consuming them at an alarming rate. This means that if we
Comment [H786]: Using them too much
use up the existing resourcesthey will be gone forever as far as our and the Comment [H787]: Use all the resources
that are now available
coming many generations are concerned. Energy from the wind, the sun Comment [H788]: If we think about us and
the next generations
and the sea is an everlasting source of power. So, more and more
Comment [H789]: Energy that lasts
forever/that never runs out
governments should come forward in promotingthese sources.
Comment [H790]: Try to make these
things popular
Another big advantage of these non-conventionalsources is that they do not Comment [H791]: Not traditional

pollute the environment. We all know that global warming and damage to
the protective ozone layer are caused by carbon-dioxide and other by- Comment [H792]: AND

products of fossil fuels. If urgent stepsare not taken towards the use of Comment [H793]: CO2 and other
chemicals
natural sources like sun and wind, then the time is not far when the whole Comment [H794]: Quick steps

earth will transform into a boiling pot. Comment [H795]: Become a too hot place
to live

Comment [H796]: Renewable sources

Although the use of these alternative sourceshas some hurdles such as the
Comment [H797]: difficulties
initial cost of setting up solar panelsand wind farms is very high and these Comment [H798]: the very first costs
when you install solar panels

Page 64
are also dependent on the geographical locations. However, once the Comment [H799]: depend on whether the
country has the geographical condition or
not
initial cost has been met with, their maintenance is practically negligible.
Comment [H800]: the costs to repair is
very little
In conclusion, I believe that, the use of these alternative sources is a very
positive development. It should be the global priorityto invest in such Comment [H801]: the world should think
of it first
research and development.

Page 65
34) The society would benefit from a ban on all forms of advertising
because it serves no useful purpose, and can even be damaging.
However, others argue that there are still some advantages of adverts.
Discuss both views and give your opinion?

Comment [D1802]: common

Advertising in modern society is ubiquitous – on the radio, TV, the internet
and in our letterboxes. While advertising has many disadvantages, the positive
influence of advertising outweighs the negative. So, I disagree that there
should be a ban on all advertisements.

It is true that advertising provides us with information on new products. If it Comment [D1803]: give us

were not forelectronic and print advertising, many products would not be Comment [D1804]: without
Comment [D1805]: advertising on the
bought. In this way, advertising provides an important service to internet and in the newspapers

manufacturers and some consumers. Additionally, it fuels the advertising

industry, creating jobs for thousands of people. In this respectit is the Comment [D1806]: promote/help to
develop

backbone of many economies of the world. Comment [D1807]: in this way

Comment [D1808]: an important part of

Furthermore, advertisements touch social issues. For example, when Comment [D1809]: mention things that
happen in our society

Amitabh Bachhan tells people to bring their children for polio immunization, Comment [D1810]

Comment [D1811]: the action of causing

people listen. Then there are ads against female feticide which are very the death of a fetus.

informative. Advertisements also teach a lot about the country from where Comment [D1812]: give us a lot of
information
the ads come. This is because through satellite TV we can see ads from all over
the world. When we see a Japanese advert of a lady in a kimono, we come to
know about the clothes of Japan.

However, Adverts also have a downside. Television commercials are a great

example of this. Just as we are enjoying a TV program, a commercial break

Page 66
occurs, forcing us to listen. Advertising can also promote consumerism. People
can become greedy for a new product and they can become discontent
withwhat they already have. In the end, the consumer is never really satisfied, Comment [D1813]: not satisfied

always wanting ‘newer and better’ products. Then, ads show dangerous
stuntswhich may be copied by children and they may get hurt. Finally, some Comment [D1814]: dangerous actions

ads target childrenand so children pester parents tobuy things which can Comment [D1815]: focus on
Comment [D1816]: annoy their parents by
upset the family budget. telling them to buy sth
Comment [D1817]: affect badly the money
of a family
On balance, I believe that as every rose is accompanied by thorns, ads too have
their disadvantages. Overall, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.
So we should not ban ads. The government can, however, ban some ads which
show stunts or which make false claims.

Page 67
35) Food can be produced much more cheaply today because of
improved fertilizers and better machinery. However, some of the
methods used to do this may be dangerous to human health and may
have negative effects on local communities. What are the advantages
and disadvantages?

Comment [H818]: what seemed unreal has

Yesterday’s fiction is today’s reality. Such colossal developments have become real
Comment [H819]: big growth
taken place in agriculture which we could not even think of earlier. It is a Comment [H820]: in the past

highly debated issue as to whether these improvements in fertilizers and

technology are a blessing or a curse. In my opinion, there are both pros and Comment [H821]: positive or negative

cons of this situation but the advantages are much more than disadvantages. Comment [H822]: have many different
choices
Comment [H823]
On the positive side, farmers now have a wide range of selections, in terms
Comment [H824]: people no longer have
of seeding, irrigation and use of pesticides and fertilizers. Technology has to do boring work
Comment [H825]: while/whereas
saved people from tedious workandin the meantimeincreased the
Comment [H826]: can produce more and
more crops
production markedly. Machines save the cost of laborand also save time,
so productivity has increased dramatically. All this is needed to meet the Comment [H827]: don’t have to hire
workers because of the machinery
demands of the burgeoning population. Comment [H828]: become more efficient
Comment [H829]: produce enough foods
for the rising number of people
Furthermore, genetic modification of foodshas given us such species which Comment [H830]:

need little or noinsecticides and no fertilizers. The quality of food has also Comment [H832]: AND

improved. For example, fish gene has been added to tomato to make it frost Comment [H833]

resistant. A nut protein has been added to soya bean to increase the protein Comment [H834]: Increase the amount
of protein inside the soya bean

content. We have more choices and even the color and shapecan also be
Comment [H835]: AND
changed. We have sweeter fruits and square watermelons and yellow Comment [H836]: AND

colored ones. Finally, factory farming, in which animals are fed nicely so as Comment [H837]: Raise animals in large
numbers
to increase their meat, is also the need of the hour. Comment [H838]: What is needed now

Page 68
On the downside, such technology has reduced the need for manpowerand Comment [H839]: Don’t need workers

many people are now jobless. This has a negative effect on communities. Comment [H840]: Having no job

Comment [H841]:
Genetic modificationis also considered unnatural and as it is relatively
Comment [H842]: thought
new, people are also concerned aboutitslong-term harmful effects. Some
Comment [H843]: quite
methods are also dangerous to the environment as there is contamination of Comment [H844]: worried about

the neighboring crops by the alteredgene pool. Last but not least, the rich Comment [H845]: bad sides in the
future Comment [H846]: pollution
countries can use this technology and further increase the gap between the Comment [H847]: nearby

rich and the poor. Comment [H848]: changed/modified

Comment [H849]: source of genes
Comment [H850]: make the rich richer
In conclusion, I believe that, as every garden has weeds, such developments
and the poor poorer
have their pros and cons. We should know where to draw the lineandtake Comment [H851]: create a balanced

maximum advantage of this technology minimizing its harmful effects. Comment [H852]: make the best use of
Comment [H853]: reducing

Page 69
36) The spread of English as a “global language” is an issue nowadays.
To what extent do you think the advantages outweigh the
disadvantages?

Comment [H854]: world language

English has become the lingua francain many parts of the world. Because of
this, I agree with the given statementthat the spread of English as an Comment [H855]: the above topic

international language will have more pros than cons.

Second, English is easier to learn than any other language. Unlike Chinese, for
example, English has only 26 alphabets which are combined to make words
and sentences. It is easy even for non-native speakers to read written
English. In addition, a number of English words have been borrowed from
many other languages, and many English words have been adopted by many Comment [H856]: used

languages and are used as part of their own languages. Therefore, many
people in different countries already know some of the English. So, it could be
the easiest language to learn.

Furthermore, it is the language of global businessand also jobs. It is the Comment [H857]: =international trade

language of technology. You can make the best use ofinternet if you know Comment [H858]: Use sth in the best way

English as many websites are written in English. Knowledge of English makes

travel easier. There would also be no need ofexpensive translations. Finally, Comment [H859]: We would not need

English will be the most promising language. Since English is used in many Comment [H860]: Give you a lot of
chances
fields such as economics, politics, and academics, more and more people Comment [H861]: AND

will study English in the future. If you have an international meeting in any
field, it will probably be done in English. The demand of English will never
stop. Comment [H862]: More and more people
will want to learn this language

Page 70
As every garden has weeds, there would be some disadvantages also. Many
people fear that local languages would die out and with that, local cultures
would die outbecauselanguage and culture are inter-related.Moreover, it Comment [H863]: disappear
Comment [H864]: related to each other
is bound to bedivided into dialects. Comment [H865]: is likely to be
Comment [H866]:
In conclusion, I believe that, there are more advantages than disadvantages of
English as a global language. Its popularity and demandwill increase more Comment [H867]: AND

and more in the future.

Page 71
37) Many people are optimistic of the 21st century and see it as an
opportunity to make positive changes to the world. To what extent do
you share their optimism? What changes would you like to see in the
new century?
Comment [H868]: Experience a lot of
Change is but natural. Everything undergoes a sea of changesover a period. changes

Many changes are expected in the 21st century. I am an optimistic person and
I believe there will be many beneficial changes which I would like to see in Comment [H869]: good

the 21st century.

To begin with many positive changes are expected in the medical field. Our
researchers are working day and nightto find treatment of various types of Comment [H870]: working hard

cancers and other fatal diseases such as AIDS. Because of advanced Comment [H871]: AND

diagnostic techniques like MRI and nuclear scan, many diseases can be Comment [H872]

detected so early that treatment is now possible. Advances are also going Comment [H873]: AND
Comment [H874]: discover or notice sth
on forcell transplant instead of organ transplant. If this becomes true,
Comment [H875]: There are also some
advances in
transplant surgerieswillbecome a thing of the past.
Comment [H876]

Furthermore, terrorism and warswill be there only in history books. The

Comment [H877]
whole planet Earth has already shrunk into a global village. National Comment [H878]: No longer exist
Comment [H879]: AND
boundaries will disappear completely. We will also have better
Comment [H880]: No longer exist
alternativesto energy sources. Global warming will be dealt with effectively Comment [H881]: Become more
connected
and everyone will have the basic amenities of life. Comment [H882]: There is no longer
distance between nations
Comment [H883]: Better choices
Finally, illiteracy and poverty will be wiped out. Everyone would be
Comment [H884]: Have basic things in life
educated and contented and therefore there would be peace, harmony and Comment [H885]: Destroyed/eradicated

happiness all around. Holidays in space might be common. Change is Comment [H886]

Comment [H887]: AND

Page 72
imminent in every sphere of human life. What is certain is thatthose who Comment [H888]: Likely to happen
Comment [H889]: Every aspect of our life
accept changes, instead of those resisting them, will be more successful.
Comment [H890]: It is sure that
Comment [H891]: Refuse to accept
In conclusion, I believe that, all this might sound too optimistic, but I would
surely wish to see all these in the 21st century.

Page 73
38) The government is responsible for protecting a nation’s cultural
identity. Thus, some people believe new buildings should be built in
traditional styles. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion?

Comment [H892]: Style of architecture

Every city has its architectural character, and this architecture represents Comment [H893]: =symbolize/epitomize/
signify
the culture of the place. However, I disagree that modern buildings should be
built in traditional styles. In the following paragraphs I shall put forth my
arguments to support my views.

Comment [H894]: There is little land

Firstly, in most large cities, land is scarceandconsequentlyit is very
Comment [H895]: And so
valuable. This has led to the construction oftall buildings which occupy only Comment [H896]: the building of
Comment [H897]: need
a small area of landwhileproviding lots of floor spacewhere people can live
Comment [H898]: a little land
or work. We also have to meet the needs of the growing population Comment [H899]: give people a lot of
space
forwhich tall buildings are the answer. Moreover, there is no need for
Comment [H900]: satisfy people’s need
deforestation to provide more land.

Secondly, modern materials are more practical.Now we use concrete and Comment [H901]: useful

Comment [H902]:
steel instead of stone, timber or brick. Because of these things buildings can
Comment [H903]
be built comparativelyquickly using prefabricated materials. They do not
Comment [H904]: quite
use local materials, such as stone, timber or brick, which used to give Comment [H905]: materials that are
made beforehand
character to those buildings. Finally, changes are taking place in climate and
energy sources are depletingfast. So we need energy efficient houses. Comment [H906]: are running out
Comment [H907]: houses that do not
Modern buildings use double glass front walls and POP( Plaster of Paris) need much energy

ceilings which lessen the energy requirements. Moreover, now we need Comment [H908]: AND
Comment [H909]: Do not need much
smaller houses as family structure is changing. energy
Comment [H910]: There are fewer family
members

Page 74
However, I believe that every city should preserve the already existing Comment [H911]: protect

historic buildingswhichgive character and identityto the city. The various Comment [H912]: current/present
buildings
forts and palacesin Rajasthan, India have been preserved and are being used Comment [H913]:

to attract tourism. I agree with this kind of initiative taken by the Comment [H914]
Comment [H915]: Attract more tourists
government. Comment [H916]: Idea/method

Comment [H917]: Modern

In conclusion, I believe that, it is the need of the day that modern buildings be
built in today’s contemporary styles and to give identity to a place one or two
historic buildings may be there in every city.

Page 75
39) Some people think that the news media nowadays have influenced
people’s lives in negative ways. Others disagree and say that it is also
positive. Discuss both views and give your opinion

I disagree with the given statement that media has a negative influence on our
lives. In the following paragraphs, Both views will be discussed.

There are many positive effects of media. To begin with, the usefulness of the
media in almost instantly providing information about events around the Comment [H918]: rapidly

world is undeniable. It is because of the media that today we do not belong to

a big planet Earth; we belong to a small global village. Furthermore, media
also shapes our opinions. It is a link between the government and the people. Comment [H919]: change what we think

Our conceptions ofour elected officials spring fromtelevision images and Comment [H920]: what we think about
Comment [H921]: come from
newspaper stories. Most of us will never meet prime ministers or
presidents, but anyone who is regularly exposed to the mediawill know Comment [H922]: AND
Comment [H923]: Usually watch TV.listen
about them. When it is time to cast our vote, we will make our decision based to radio

on the media coverage ofcandidates. Comment [H924]: What the media show
about

The media are also influential inthe way they facilitate the spread of Comment [H925]: Also affects
Comment [H926]: Make sth faster/easier
culture and lifestyle. Today, the popularity of Indian culture is an example of
Comment [H927]: AND
the media’s enormous impact. It is the media which highlights the good Comment [H928]: Its big impact
Comment [H929]: Make it clearer to the
points of our own culture through programs such as ‘Vietnam’s got Talent’. audience = stress/emphasize

What is more, the reality shows of today have given exposure and fame
Comment [H930]: Give chances to sb and
tothe common manwith talent today. Indeed, with technological make them become famous
Comment [H931]: Normal citizens
advancements such as the Internet bringing even more forms of electronic
Comment [H932]: Technological
development

Page 76
media to our homes and workplaces, it is likely the media’s influence will Comment [H933]: = the e-
newspapers/magazines
grow even stronger. Finally, the media also helps in providing justice tothe Comment [H934]: AND
Comment [H935]: Make it fair
common man. Who has not heard of the Jessica murder case and the case of
Nithari killings? Were it not for the media, Jessica’s parents would have never
got justice.

As every rose is accompanied by thorns, the media too has its downside. The
paparazzi can invade the privacyof famous people. Sometimes violence and Comment [H936]
invade the privacy

vulgarity is shown and at times it can shape our opinionin negative ways. Comment [H937]
Comment [H938]: Change the way we
For that my counter argument is thatonce the person becomes famous then think
Comment [H939]: the reason why I
his private life becomes publicand he has no right to complain about the disagree is that
Comment [H940]: no longer private
paparazzi. People can choose what they want to see and technology has
provided them the tools to block those channels which they do not want
their children to see. Finally, God has given us brains to judge what is right
Comment [H941]
or wrong. The media is just doing its job by providing us with the latest
information.

In conclusion, I would like to reiterate by saying that the influence of media Comment [H942]: repeat

on our lives is largely positive. Comment [H943]: mostly

Page 77
40) Many people say that we have developed into a “throw-away”
culture, because we are filling up our environment with so many
plastic bags and rubbish that we cannot fully dispose of. To what
extent do you agree with this opinion and what measures can you
recommend reducing this problem?
Comment [H944]: people who want to
Environmentalists today are campaigning for “reduce, recycle and re- protect the environment

use”in a bid tosave the world, but we as a nation, have adopted “replace” as Comment [H945]: AND
Comment [H946]: In an attempt to
our mantra. This and many other factors are leading to a throw-away
Comment [H947]: Buy new products as
our slogan
society. In this essay, I shall discuss some steps that can be taken to solve this
problem.

To begin with, modern lifestyle has contributed greatly tothe increasing Comment [H948]: Help to make sth

Comment [H949]: AND

amount of waste and garbagewe produce every day. In other words, we have
Comment [H950]: Society in which we just
turned into a materialistic and mass-consumption societywhere we use buy and consume things too much
Comment [H951]: Obtained/get
more and throw away more than ever before. Once new things are acquired,
Comment [H952]: Thow away
we disposeofthese “unwanted” things to second-hand shops or just in the Comment [H953]: AND
Comment [H954]: What we can do is to
trash cans. The solution lies inchanging our attitude. We should get old
Comment [H955]: There are many x things
things repaired and try to use them as long as possible. in the market
Comment [H956]: Things that you throw
away after using once
Secondly, the markets today are flooded withcheap, single-use-only Comment [H957]: More bought than

itemsthat are more in demand thanhigh priced quality items. Our houses Comment [H958]: Expensive and good
quality things
and closets seem to be overflowing with goodsthat are more in quantity Comment [H959]: Have/contain many
things
and less in value. Then, there is too much packaging done by the companies Comment [H960]: A lot and not expensive

in a bid tomake their things more attractive. Here too, the onus lies with us. Comment [H961]: Trying to
Comment [H962]: We should be
We should not buy things with excessive packaging. This will deter responsible
Comment [H963]: Too much
companies from resorting totoo much packaging. We can also bring our
Comment [H964]: Prevent sb from
own personal shopping bags instead of using plastic bags provided by Comment [H965]: Doing/ using

IELTS speaking and writing Corner

Page 78
stores and shops. Besides, the government can enforce stricter laws Comment [H966]: enforce stricter laws

on companies to use biodegradable packaging. Comment [H967]: Packaging that is

friendly to the environment

Furthermore, plastics, waste metal, glasscan be recycled. Companies can Comment [H968]: AND

also contribute by developing new raw material which is recyclable and will Comment [H969]: Can by recycled

ultimately lead to less garbage. Comment [H970]: Finally/eventually

In conclusion, I believe that, individuals, business and the government can

share the responsibility toreduce the amount of waste material and to save Comment [H971]: Together do sth

the earth. If we do not take steps to tackle this problem on a war footing, our Comment [H972]: Like we are preparing
for a war
Earth will become un-inhabitable. Comment [H973]: We will not be able to
live on earth any more

Page 79
 41) Some people argue that companies and private individuals,
rather than governments, should pay for pollution. To what extent
do you agree or disagree?

Environmental pollution is a burning issue these days and to save our planet
Earth, it has to be tackled on a war footing. Some individuals are of the Comment [H974]: Solved with our
greatest efforts
opinion that businesses and individuals should pay for the bill of pollution Comment [H975]: think
Comment [H976]: pay for
rather than the governments. Although it seems reasonable to ask them to
Comment [H977]: it seems a good idea to
do so, it would not be easy. Therefore, I disagree with the above statement. In
the following paragraphs, I shall put forth my arguments to support my views.

First of all, it may not be possible to say who is to blame. For instance, in my Comment [H978]: who should be
responsible
home town, there is a sugar mill, a starch mill and a textile mill. All are Comment [H979]: AND

adding to pollution in their own way. It would be very difficult to pin point
the extent to which each one has to pay for pollution. Such businesses will Comment [H980]: Determine how much

find loopholes to avoid heavy bills. Therefore, the government should take Comment [H981]: Try to find means to do
sth illegally
the onus of handling the pollution costs. Comment [H982]: Avoid paying too much
Comment [H983]: Be responsible for
Secondly, the big companies may be unwilling to accept the responsibility of Comment [H984]: May not want to

paying the additional bill of pollution by saying that they are already paying
heavy taxes to the government. They could also argue that they are assisting
the governments indirectly by aiding many charity organizations. Comment [H985]: Helping sb indirectly
Comment [H986]: Helping many charity
organizations
Moreover, in places where governments have tried this policy and
successfully prosecuted the companies who violated the law, it took years
to get the result. Therefore, it would be very unpractical to make companies Comment [H987]: We should not do sth
because it is not practical
and individuals to pay the bill of pollution. The governments could, however,
make it mandatory for companies to set up effluent treatment plants and Comment [H988]: Force sb to do sth
Comment [H989]: effective

Page 80
subsidize them greatly so as to increase compliance of the companies to set Comment [H990]: make them willing to do
sth
them up.

In conclusion, I believe that, pollution is a serious issue and the government

should not leave it to the individuals and companies to pay its bill. It
can however, make it mandatory for the companies to set up effluent
treatment plants so that pollution is minimized.

Some scientists believe that studying the behavior of 3-year-old children

can tell which children would grow up to be criminals. To what extent in
your opinion is crime a product of human nature or is it possible to stop
children from growing up to be criminals?

Comment [H991]: Think that

Comment [H992]: hereditary characteristic
Some scientists are of the opinion that hereditary characteristics Comment [H993]: Behavior/character
Comment [H994]: therefore
are responsible for the person’s temperament and hence future
Comment [H995]: is surely important
career. I disagree with this notion. I believe that genes do play a role but Comment [H996]: the main and most
important factor is
the primary determinant is nurture – education and bringing up. Comment [H997]: = education and
bringing up
Comment [H998]: Shape what they think
It is definitely possible to mould a child into any direction by in a certain way

proper bringing-up. If we adopt the mindset that if parents are criminals so Comment [H999]: Bringing them up in a
good way

will the children be then we are limiting or even damaging an Comment [H1000]: Think that
individual’s basic rights to achieve his very best. Children can rise above Comment [H1001]: Prevent them from
doing sth that they should be allowed to do
the gene pool and rise to great heights. Even if a child is born to criminal Comment [H1002]: Achieve what they
can do
parentsbut brought up away fromthat environment and provided quality Comment [H1003]: Not affected by
others’ opinions that the genes affect them
education, he will not be a criminal. and then they can achieve greater things
Comment [H1004]: A child has parents
who are criminals
Comment [H1005]: Not in / far from
Comment [H1006]: Good education

Page 81
The debate on nature versus nurturehas been raging for agesand no clear Comment [H1007]: natural character and
character that you receive by bringing up

cut answer has come forward. A child prodigycan be born to ordinary Comment [H1008]: has been debated for a
long time
parents and many intelligent parents can have ordinary children. A talented Comment [H1009]
Comment [H1010]: normal/not special
person can go unnoticedin the absence oftheright environment and
Comment [H1011]: can be ignored/not
recognized
upbringing and an ordinary person can reach great heights with proper
Comment [H1012]: without
training. So, interplay between hereditary and environmental Comment [H1013]: AND

factorsmust be there. Comment [H1014]: The combination

between two things

It has been seen that children born to intelligent parents also are intelligent
Comment [H1015]: AND
and successful. But it is also possible that such parents provide an
Comment [H1016]: Help them develop
environment which nurtures the developmentof their children. When we more

see some programs such as ‘India’s Got Talent’ and ‘Little Champs’, we notice
Comment [H1017]: Very talented
some extremely gifted childrenwho are born with talent and also some who children

have accomplished with great perseverance and proper coaching. Comment [H1018]: patience
Comment [H1019]: good instruction

In conclusion, I believe that, both nature and nurture play a part in

determining the character of a person. It can also be concluded that both are Comment [H1020]: deciding

inextricably linked witheach other. But nurture weighs overnature and it is Comment [H1021]: closely related to
Comment [H1022]: is more important
definitely possibleto prevent children from growing up to be criminals. than
Comment [H1023]: we can easily

Page 82
42) Children who grow up in families which are short of money are
better prepared with the problems of adult life than children who are
brought up by wealthy parents. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?

Role of family atmosphere in a child’s development is a cause of concern.

However, I disagree with the notion that children of poor familiesarebetter Comment [H1024]: poor children

equipped in dealing with the challenges of adult lifethan those of rich Comment [H1025]: more prepared/ready
Comment [H1026]: the difficulties they
families. No doubt, adversity is a good teacher of life, but rich parents can also have to deal with when they grow up
Comment [H1027]: bad living
prepare their children to confront the problems of adult life by good environment//hardship

education and good nurturing. Comment [H1028]: face

Comment [H1029]: AND

A child of poor family has more situations to solve a problem or make a Comment [H1030]: decide
Comment [H1031]: because
decisionasboth parents are working to make both ends meetand children
Comment [H1032]: earn money
have to look after themselves. They realize the value of moneyas they have Comment [H1033]: know that money is
really hard to earn
to live with the barest minimumand as a result they find it less difficult Comment [H1034]: live with very little
money
later onin life when they encounter financial challenges. In contrast, the Comment [H1035]: can easily live in the
future
children of wealthy families are born with a silver spoon in their mouth.
Comment [H1036]: have difficulties like
They are completely ignorant ofthe value of money as everything is lacking money
Comment [H1037]: with good condition
provided for them in their youthandexpect the same situation in Comment [H1038]: don’t know anything
about
adulthood.
Comment [H1039]: when they are young
Comment [H1040]: think that that
On the other hand, children of rich families study in the best schools and get situation will continue when they become
an adult
the best quality higher education. They can learn problem solvingin such Comment [H1041]: how to solve a
problem
academic institutes. What is more, a wealthy child may be well trainedby a Comment [H1042]: universities or
colleges
parent who himself has a lot of knowledge of money. Such parents themselves
Comment [H1043]: rich
Comment [H1044]: taught

Page 83
know money managementbetter and can pass on those skills totheir Comment [H1045]: how to manage money
Comment [H1046]: teach that to
children.

Life experiencesalso play a role. Children can have an innate ability toface Comment [H1047]
Comment [H1048]: anybody is able to do
problems of life. They may have personality traitssuch as being optimistic, sth
Comment [H1049]: characteristics
outgoing, confident and open-minded. Due to these abilities they can solve
Comment [H1050]: AND
problems in a better way.

In conclusion, I believe that, a poor child may learn to get along without
wealth and a wealthy child may be well trained by a parent to face hurdles of Comment [H1051]: Be ok without being
rich

life by effective education. Therefore, I disagree that the economic Comment [H1052]: difficulties

situationof the family has a role in problem solving skills. Comment [H1053]: whethersb is rich or
poor
Comment [H1054]: the skills to solve
problems

Page 84
43) The only way to improve the safety on our own road is to have
stricter punishment for driving offenders. To what extent do you
agree or disagree?

Comment [H1055]: driving carelessly

It is irrefutable that careless drivingandviolation of traffic
Comment [H1056]: break the traffic law
rulescertainlyresult in a large number of accidentsandstricterforms of Comment [H1057]: lead to many accidents

penaltiesare necessary to reduce them. However, there are also certain other Comment [H1058]: punishment
Comment [H1059]: is equally or more
measures that have equal or more effectiveness inensuring road safety. effective in
Comment [H1060]: make sure that there
are no accidents
In the first place, there are certain accidents that occur not because of traffic
Comment [H1061]: to be specific
violations. To explain it further, poor road conditionis considered a major Comment [H1062]: bad roads
Comment [H1063]: accidents
reason for road casualties. For example, narrow roads and sharp
Comment [H1064]
curvesoften force even law-abiding driversmakes mistakes. Therefore, it
Comment [H1065]: those who follow the
should be noted thatdrivers alone cannot be blamed for such mishaps and traffic law
Comment [H1066]: we should take into
giving them stricter punishments in these cases is no solution. A more consideration that

effective strategy by the government would be to straighten accident- Comment [H1067]: unfortunate things

prone curvesandwiden narrow roads. Larger number of road signs and Comment [H1068]: method

Comment [H1069]
proper traffic signals can also be effective in diminishing accidents on
Comment [H1070]: make roads bigger
roads. Comment [H1071]: AND
Comment [H1072]: reducing
Furthermore, poor climate conditioncan be a major cause of accidents. For Comment [H1073]: bad weather

instance, poor visibility due to dense mist and rain, slipperyroadson Comment [H1074]: drivers cannot see
clearly
Comment [H1075]: AND: sươngdàyvàmưa
account ofsnowfall cause make driving difficult and cause serious accidents
Comment [H1076]: trơn
in many countries. Stricter punishment for drivers is a futile Comment [H1077]: due to/because of

exerciseinhandling such problems. Modern technological Comment [H1078]: a useless thing to do

Comment [H1079]: solving
innovationsshould be used to deal with such emergency situations.
Comment [H1080]: technology
Comment [H1081]: serious situations

Page 85
On the other hand, reckless driving, speeding and breach of traffic rulesby Comment [H1082]: carelessdriwing
Comment [H1083]
careless drivers have caused many accidents. Moreover, drunken and
drowsy drivinghave also resulted in serious traffic mishaps. While we Comment [H1084]

admit that more stringent punishment for drivers would be an effective Comment [H1085]: cause serious
unfortunate accidents
measureto an extent, it should not be considered the only way towards road Comment [H1086]: strict
Comment [H1087]: approach
safety.
Comment [H1088]: for some reason

In summary, there are certain situations where drivers are not responsible for
a particular accident. Hence apart from punishing drivers with heavier
Comment [H1089]: punish them
penalties other effective measures should also be taken. more strictly

Page 86
44) The speeding up of life in many areas such as travel and
communication has negative effects on society at all levels—
individual, national and global. Evaluate the effects?
Comment [H1090]: big changes in internet
It is irrefutable that the IT revolution and faster means of travel Comment [H1091]: ways that help us
travel faster
have affected society at all levels. However, I disagree that all these
effects are negative. The society has also benefited enormously from this Comment [H1092]: receive a lot of
benefits from
speeding up of life which in other words we can say globalization. Comment [H1093]: faster lifestyle

At the individual level, we have more choices, more opportunitiesto travel, Comment [H1094]: AND

better job prospects and more awareness and tolerance ofother Comment [H1095]: More jobs to do
Comment [H1096]
cultures. Due to better communication, people are connected with their near
and dear ones and distances are no longer a barrier. There has been a fall Comment [H1097]: People they love (like
parents)
in face-to-face communication but the social network of
Comment [H1098]: Living far away is not
a problem any more
friendsthatthe young generation of todayhas is far more than ever
Comment [H1099]: Speaking with each
other in real life
before in the history of mankind.
Comment [H1100]: Your friends on
facebook
At the national level, countries are getting closer and the boundaries are Comment [H1101]: Young people
nowadays
vanishing. Because of this fast era of today, nations are developing strong Comment [H1102]: Than before
Comment [H1103]: The distance is
bondsdoing successful trade witheach other. The rich nations are opening disappearing
Comment [H1104]: Fast society
Multi National Companiesin developing countries and thus providing job
Comment [H1105]: Become closer by
opportunities to millions. This is narrowing the gap between the rich and Comment [H1106]: Selling and buying
goods
the poor. No doubt the people working in such companies are underpaid, but Comment [H1107]: Côngtyđaquốcgia

it is definitely better than being unemployed. Because of this, the economies of Comment [H1108]: Give many people jobs

Comment [H1109]: Nớilạikhoảngcáchgiàu

the poor countries are improving. nghèo
Comment [H1110]: Not paid much

At the global level, nations are joining hands to fight evils such as poverty, Comment [H1111]: Together fight bad
things
disease, terrorism and global warming. Who has not heard of the Kyoto Comment [H1112]: AND

Page 87
Protocol.The major feature ofthe Kyoto Protocol is that it sets binding Comment [H1113]: What we need to
know about
targets for37 industrialized countries and the European community for Comment [H1114]: Forces the member
countries to follow
reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Comment [H1115]

In conclusion, I believe that, the accelerating pace of life has both negative as
well as positive effects. However, the positive effects are much more than
negative effects.

Page 88
45) As global trade increases between different countries, many daily
necessities are produced in other countries. Such goods are usually
transported a long distance. Do the benefits of this trend outweigh its
drawbacks?

Comment [H1116]: Changed completely

Globalization has revolutionized our world in many aspects. Now, we don’t Comment [H1117]: In many ways

belong to a big planet Earth. We belong to a small global village. Everything Comment [H1118]: Live in a smaller world

is available everywhere. There are many advantages and disadvantages of

transporting goods over a long distance. In my opinion, the advantages
outweigh the disadvantages.

On the positive side, transporting goods over a long distance gives us a lot of
choices. We can taste a variety offruits and vegetables from all parts of the Comment [H1119]: A lot of

world. For example, about ten years ago, we hardly saw kiwi fruit which is
from New Zealand. But, now it has a place on every fruit stand. Earlier, we Comment [H1120]: Place you can buy =
sạp
had very few shoe brands like Bata and Carona but now the market is
flooded with Reeboks, Nike, Adidas and other foreign brands. Comment [H1121]: There are many x at
the market

Secondly, many people get employment inthis field. Small businesses have a Comment [H1122]: Are employed

chance to expand globallyand it increases the overall economy ofthe Comment [H1123]: Their business
becomes bigger

country. Finally, it helps in developing good relations between countries Comment [H1124]: Improve the economy

Comment [H1125]
which helps in international co-operation and peace. If countries are
dependent upon one another’s economic successthenarmed conflictwould Comment [H1126]: Depend on

be less likely. Comment [H1127]

Comment [H1128]: war

On the downside, importing goods can have a negative effect on the local
culture. This can be seen in countries such as Japan where imported food has

Page 89
become more popular than traditional, local produce, eroding people’s Comment [H1129]: the products made by
japan
understanding of their own food traditions. A second major disadvantage Comment [H1130]: making people forget
and don’t care about what foods their
country has
is pollution. When goods are transported thousands of milesby road, sea and
Comment [H1131]: a long distance
air, it increases pollution from exhaust fumes. Comment [H1132]

In conclusion, I believe that, importing goods has both merits and demerits
but the pros outweigh the cons.

Page 90
46) The main purpose of public libraries is to provide books and they
shouldn’t waste their limited resources and space on providing
expensive hi-tech media such as computer software, videos and DVDs.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Comment [D11133]: should serve sb
Since centuries libraries are in the service ofman. These libraries are the
repositories ofnever ending knowledgeknown as books. Some people Comment [D11134]: the thing that
store/storage
opine that libraries should only provide books and not other hi-tech media Comment [D11135]: endless knowledge
Comment [D11136]: think
such as computer software, videos and DVDs. I, however, believe that such hi-
tech media should not be treated as a rival tobooks. Rather, it should serve Comment [D11137]: thought as something
that competes with
as a complementary role. Comment [D11138]: both can be
combined together

Because of technology, books are now being converted intodisc forms such Comment [D11139]: changed into

as CDs and DVDs. Even the availability of booksin the form of electronic Comment [D11140]: although there are a
lot of books
media on NET is putting in dangerthe importance of the libraries. Moreover, Comment [D11141]: threatening

a person can sit comfortably in his study as the availability of reference books
in the form of CDs and DVDs makes him reluctant toleave his study for Comment [D11142]: make him not want
to
library.

However, one should keep in mind thata person goes to a library not only to Comment [D11143]: we should remember
that
search and get information from books but also to sit and study there. The
ambience and the peaceful and scholarly atmosphereof the library help Comment [D11144]: atmosphere
Comment [D11145]: quiet and give others
one to concentrate more on one’s work and study. Thus, libraries will a feeling that you are really hard-working
with your study
never become redundant. They will always be there to indicate the Comment [D11146]: will not disappear

presence of a well-read and educated society. Comment [D11147]: show that there is
somebody or something
Comment [D11148]: AND
Another important point is that it is very difficult to always read books from
the computer monitor. Traditional books can be issued from the library and Comment [D11149]: Computer screen
Comment [D11150]: borrowed

Page 91
read in the comfort of your bed. Hi-tech media can be accessed only by those Comment [D11151]: while you are lying
comfortably in your bed
who are computer literate. The access to such media can be affected by Comment [D11152]: know something
about how to operate a computer // have
power cuts and network failures. Moreover, in a traditional library you some knowledge of computer
Comment [D11153]: youcan not use them
are guided by the librarians if you need any help in searching for the book. when there is no electricity or the internet
connection has problems

In conclusion, I believe that, advancement should be welcomed in every

fieldbut the importance of the libraries for their fundamental role cannot be Comment [D11154]: we should feel happy
about new things
put aside. This tendency will add more crowns of success to the Comment [D11155]: basic and important
Comment [D11156]: ignored
importance of libraries.
Comment [D11157]: make it more
important

Page 92
47) Some people believe that air travel should be restricted because it
causes serious pollution and uses up the world’s fuel resources. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is irrefutable that air travel causes pollution and uses a lot of fuel, but I
disagree that air travel should be restricted. Restricting air travel would solve
Comment [D11158]: fewer fossil fuels and
some problems but would lead to many other problems. the earth is becoming hotter and hotter
Comment [D11159]: only make people not
want to travel by plane
At a time when people all over the world worry about the decreasing level of
Comment [D11160]: travelling across
fossil fuels and global warming, it is right to take action to save the planet nations has played an important role in
many countries’ economies
earth. However, to simply discourage flightsis not the answer. Comment [D11161]: get money from
tourism
International tourism has become the backbone of many economiesof Comment [D11162]: AND
Comment [D11163]: Rely on
the world. Many countries are earning from tourism. Many people are
Comment [D11164]: Make it worse than
employed in this industry. Many businesses like hotels and leisure before
Comment [D11165]: Have no money
centersare dependent ontourists. So, if we discourage international tourism,
Comment [D11166]: Have no jobs
it would create new and even worse problems. Many businesses would go Comment [D11167]: Help people share
their culture
broke and many people would be without jobs. Comment [D11168]: The appearance of
Comment [D11169]: A cheap ticket
Air flight also enables intercultural exchangesbetween countries. The Comment [D11170]: often
Comment [D11171]: to travel to wherever
advent ofcheap air faremakes it possible for people the world over to travel and do whatever

regularly, regardless of the purpose of the trip. Therefore, people have the Comment [D11172]: can
Comment [D11173]: learn more and
opportunities tolearn from different cultures and have a better understand more
Comment [D11174]: didn’t know in the
understanding ofcountries they used to be unfamiliar with. This, in turn, past

enhances cultural communicationsbetween countries. Comment [D11175]: as a result

Comment [D11176]: understand more of
each country’s culture
It is true that air travel consumes oil, but other modes of transportationare Comment [D11177]: uses

also causing pollution and using fuel. Discouraging private cars and Comment [D11178]: other ways we travel
Comment [D11179]: AND

Page 93
encouraging people to use public transport could help save the
environmental resources in a big way. Therefore it would be a very Comment [D11180]: Save things like
oil/gas/…
unpractical decision to restrict air travel at the cost of people’s mobility, Comment [D11181]: We should not
Comment [D11182]: That affects
or worse, at the cost of the development of the economy. Technology could negatively people’s travelling

also be used to produce more environmentally friendly and fuel efficient

engines. Comment [D11183]: Make engines that do
not pollute the environment and use less
fuels
In conclusion, I believe that, instead of restricting air travel, we should
develop more efficient engines that produce more energy outputwithless Comment [D11184]: Make more energy

fuel and fewer major air pollutants. We should also focus on limiting Comment [D11185]: Less coal/gas/petrol
but do not pollute the environment
private vehicles and encouraging public transport. Comment [D11186]: Limit cars
Comment [D11187]: Encourage people to
use bus/trains/…

Page 94
48) One long-distance flight consumes fuel which a car uses in several
years’ time, but they cause the same amount of pollution. So some
people think that we should discourage non-essential flights, such as
tourist travel, rather than to limit the use of cars. To what extent do
you agree or disagree?

It is irrefutable that the fuel consumed by one long-distance flight is

consumed by a car in several years’ time, and the amount of pollution it Comment [D11188]: used

produces is also more. Therefore, some people suggest that non-essential

flights, including international travel, should be discouraged. I totally disagree
whit this statement. I feel that even though cars produce less pollution and
use less fuel, still we should focus on limiting the number of cars. Discouraging
flights would lead to many other problems.
Comment [D11189]: fewer fossil fuels and
the earth is becoming hotter and hotter
At a time when people all over the world worry about the decreasing level of
Comment [D11190]: only make people not
fossil fuels and global warming, it is right to take action to save the planet want to travel by plane
Comment [D11191]: travelling across
earth. However, to simply discourage flightsis not the answer. nations has played an important role in
many countries’ economies
International tourism has become the backbone of many economiesof Comment [D11192]: get money from
tourism
the world. Many countries are earning from tourism. Many people are Comment [D11193]: AND
employed in this industry. Many businesses like hotels and leisure Comment [D11194]: Rely on
Comment [D11195]: Make it worse than
centersare dependent ontourists. So, if we discourage international tourism, before

it would create new and even worse problems. Many businesses would go Comment [D11196]: Have no money
Comment [D11197]: Have no jobs
broke and many people would be without jobs. Comment [D11198]: Help people share
their culture

Air flight also enables intercultural exchangesbetween countries. The Comment [D11199]: The appearance of
Comment [D11200]: A cheap ticket
advent ofcheap air faremakes it possible for people the world over to travel Comment [D11201]: often

regularly, regardless of the purpose of the trip. Therefore, people have the Comment [D11202]: to travel to wherever
and do whatever
opportunities tolearn from different cultures and have a better Comment [D11203]: can

Page 95
understanding ofcountries they used to be unfamiliar with. This, in turn, Comment [D11204]: learn more and
understand more
enhances cultural communicationsbetween countries. Comment [D11205]: didn’t know in the
past
Comment [D11206]: as a result
What we should do is to limit the use of cars. The number of cars is increasing
Comment [D11207]: understand more of
at a staggeringpace.This is posing too many problems. Cars are using too each country’s culture
Comment [D11208]: very fast
much of fossil fuels; they are creating a lot of pollution; they are leading to Comment [D11209]: cause a lot of
porblems
traffic congestion on the roads and they are also causing accidents.

In conclusion, I believe that, traveling by air should not be discouraged.

Instead, the use of cars should be limited.

Page 96
49) Housing shortage in big cities can cause severe social
consequences. Some people think only government action can solve
this problem. What is your opinion?

Comment [D11210]: draw/attract people

there
Big cities act as magnets for everyone. Therefore it is increasingly difficult
Comment [D11211]: normal people
for ordinary peopleto have somewhere to call home in big cities due to Comment [D11212]: shortage

housing scarcity,especiallythe lack of affordable housing. Some people Comment [D11213]: no cheap places to
live

think only government has the power tosolve this problem. I completely Comment [D11214]: can do
Comment [D11215]: growing number of
agree with this statement. people living in the cities
Comment [D11216]: become worse

The main reason for housing shortage in large cities is the burgeoning urban Comment [D11217]: a lot of people go to
the cities to look for a job
population. The situation goes from bad to worseas each year millions of Comment [D11218]: hope to find a job
luckily
job seekers rush intothe city to try their lucky break and the majority of Comment [D11219]: live in the city
Comment [D11220]: worse
them eventually get settled down, which makes housing shortage even more
Comment [D11221]: we should carefully
serious. Careful planning of cities is requiredto address the issue and plan the cities

obviously, only the government are in a positiontoaddress this problem. Comment [D11222]: can
Comment [D11223]: we can actually
control the population
Even if the population were indeed under control, we still need more Comment [D11224]: give them a place to
live in
apartment buildings to house people who have already worked and lived in Comment [D11225]: with no good place
to live in
the city without decent housing. Again, only the government can decide Comment [D11226]: destroyed

which old buildings should be demolished to make way fornew ones and Comment [D11227]: give space to build

Comment [D11228]: used

which area could be designatedfor residential housing development. Of
Comment [D11229]: to develop more
houses for people to live in
course, individuals can have their voice heard, but the final decision has to
Comment [D11230]: express what they
be made by the government. think

Comment [D11231]: government will

Another reason that causes housing shortage is those in the real estate decide it
Comment [D11232]:
business raise the cost of housing exorbitantly. To stop those profit- Comment [D11233]: expensive to buy/
rent a house

Page 97
making housing developers and real estate brokers from pushing up the Comment [D11234]

prices of housing, effective rules and regulationsare needed, which can be Comment [D11235]: increase the price of
houses
done by the government. As for the housing projects for low-income
Comment [D11236]: AND
families, we can only depend on the government, too. Comment [D11237]: Poor families

In conclusion, I believe that, only the government action can solve the
problem of housing shortage in big cities.

Page 98
50) The best way to solve the world’s environmental problem is to
increase the price of fuel. To what extent do you agree or disagree
with this statement?

Comment [D11238]: More traffic and bad

Excessive traffic and increasing pollutionare affecting every major city in pollution

the globe.Tolessen the severitysuch problems, some people say that Comment [D11239]: In the world
Comment [D11240]: Make them less
governments should raise the price of fuel such as petrol and diesel.It may serious
Comment [D11241]: AND
help to some extent but I disagree that it is the best solution to solve the
Comment [D11242]: It is helpful in some
problem of environment. ways

To begin with, the number of cars in a country directly depends on the Comment [D11243]: The number of those
who are rich enough to have a cars

proportion of the population affluent enough to own cars. As a result, Comment [D11244]: increases
Comment [D11245]: make those people
raises in gas price could invoke hard feelings among this segment of feel difficult
Comment [D11246]: make them change
peoplebut would not drastically change their behaviorin using cars. Even if the way they do sth

the number of cars on road is reduced due to higher gas cost, this is not the Comment [D11247]: make the car
manufacturing businesses suffer
best way to solve traffic problems. Such a policy would hurt the auto Comment [D11248]: increase the costs
Comment [D11249]: those who are having
industry, place higher costs oncurrent and prospective car owners, and a car or will buy a car in the future

be detrimental tothe economy of a nation. In the long run, the final way Comment [D11250]: affect badly
Comment [D11251]: in the far future
out could be the construction of better roads and more effective use of Comment [D11252]: the only solution

available transport facilities. Comment [D11253]: AND: build good

roads and use effectively buses and trains
Comment [D11254]: It is true that
Secondly, there is evidence thatwaste gas from cars is not the leading
Comment [D11255]: The thing that makes
the air polluted
cause of air pollution. The culpritmay be the discharge of polluting
Comment [D11256]: The cause
substances into the atmospheredue to the rapidly growing Comment [D11257]: Emit bad gases into
the air around
manufacturing industry. As a result, reduction of the number of cars would Comment [D11258]: Fast industrialization
/ more and more factories
not return us a blue sky and fresh air.Wecould better handlethis problem
Comment [D11259]: Reduce poluution
Comment [D11260]: Can do it better

Page 99
if we could increase control overindustrial waste dischargeandadopt Comment [D11261]: Control more and
more
more environmental friendly materials and production equipment. Comment [D11262]: The waste that
factories throw away into the
water/atmosphere
Finally, other measures like the application of cheaper and cleaner energy Comment [D11263]: Use materials and
equipment that do not pollute the
resourcescould also be a better solution. For example, we now have the environment too much
Comment [D11264]: Using cheaper and
ability to make cell-powered or even solar-powered cars. Such energy is cleaner sources of energy

completely clean and plentiful. Comment [D11265]: AND

Comment [D11266]: It is clean and there
is a lot of it
In conclusion, I believe that, it is not the best way to control traffic and
pollutionby increasing gas price because such an action will hurt
consumers and economy without achieving what it is aimed for. Measures Comment [D11267]: Get what we want

such as construction of better transport facilities and development of

new energy resources could be more effective solutions. Comment [D11268]: AND

Page 100
51) It is better for students at university to live far away from home
than to live at home with their parents. What are the advantages and
disadvantages, and give your own opinion?

It is a highly debated issue whether it is better for university students to live

far away from home than to live at home with their parents. There are pros
and cons of both approaches.It is necessary to look at both sides of the Comment [D11269]: METHODS

argument before forming an opinion. Comment [D11270]: Discuss both sides

and give my opinion

There are definite benefits of staying at home. To begin with it is much more
economical to stay at home than to stay near the university. If you choose to Comment [D11271]: A lot cheaper

stay at the university then you either stay at the university dormitory or
rent your own apartment. Both university options are more expensive as Comment [D11272]: choices

compared to home. Then you have to do your own cooking and Comment [D11273]: compared with

cleaningwhichis not the case if you stay at home where your mother looks Comment [D11274]: cook and clean by
yourselves
after all these things. You do spend some time commuting to and from the Comment [D11275]: you don’t have to do
it
universitybut then you save your time on cooking and cleaning. The Comment [D11276]: go to university and
go home from niversity
disadvantage of staying at home is that you may be disturbed by siblingsand
Comment [D11277]: affected by your
brothers or sisters
you have to help in household chores.
Comment [D11278]: do the housework

There are many advantages of staying near the university. University

education is a time for you to mix withpeopleof different backgrounds and Comment [D11279]: get to know

cultures. This cultural exchange usually occursafter class hours. If you Comment [D11280]: of different places
and cultures
have to return home then you miss out on this golden opportunity. Comment [D11281]: you can find out
about others’ cultures
Secondly, there are good study facilities such as library, computer lab etc. Comment [D11282]: miss this valuable
chance
if you are on or near the campus. You also get to experience some
Comment [D11283]: AND
independence. The downside is that it is expensive and to cut the costyou Comment [D11284]: Be independent
Comment [D11285]: Reduce the cost
may have to share your apartment with someone you might not like.

Page 101
In my opinion, it is definitely worthwhileto live at the university than with Comment [D11286]: You should really do
sth
your parents even if you have to shell out some extra moneyfor that Comment [D11287]: Pay a bit more

because it is a golden opportunity to interact with people of different Comment [D11288]: A very good chance

parts of the world and you get to enjoy the benefits of facilities like the
library and sports stadiums and gyms.

In conclusion, I believe that, there are benefits and drawbacks of both

approaches and the decision is purely subjective. However, in my opinion Comment [D11289]: The students should
decide themselves
staying near the university is better.

Page 102
52) Earlier technological developments brought more benefits and
changed the lives of ordinary people more than recent technological
developments. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Comment [D11290]: development

Earlier technological progress had been great with many far-reaching
breakthroughs, especially in the early period of the last century. However, Comment [D11291]: great achievements

the benefits and changes brought by the earlier technological developments

to the lives of ordinary peoplecannot compare withthose brought by Comment [D11292]: people’s life
Comment [D11293]: not the same as
recent ones. Therefore, I disagree with the given statement. In the following
paragraphs, I intend to support my opinion with my arguments.

Undoubtedly, recent technological developments have benefited and changed

our life so much that we enjoy almost all the comforts and conveniences
that life can ever offer. Today, we can breakfast in Japan, lunch in Singapore Comment [D11294]: can enjoy may
different things
and dine at New Delhi. This is all because of the faster means of travel. The Comment [D11295]: can travel faster

Internet has revolutionized communication. Today we send and receive e- Comment [D11296]: change the way we
communicate greatly

mails at the click of a mouse. We chat and do video conferencingwith our Comment [D11297]: use emails
Comment [D11298]: chat and video chat
kith and kinin any part of the world. These are just two examples of how Comment [D11299]: friends and relatives

dramatically recent technological developments have benefited and Comment [D11300]: the great benefits we
can get from such developments
changed our life.
Comment [D11301]: equipment
Furthermore, in the field of medicine, we have gadgetsto diagnose Comment [D11302]
Comment [D11303]: early and we can
cancersand many other diseases at such early stages that almost complete treat the diseases

cures are possible. Also, if we look at the means we use to go to work, the Comment [D11304]: type of transport
Comment [D11305]: things like tv ,
electrical appliances we use at home, the devices we use in offices, the washing machine,…
Comment [D11306]: there is no doubt that
facilities and equipment we use in factories, we can say with certainty
Comment [D11307]: change our lives so
much that we can hardly believe
thatrecent technology has transformed our lives beyond imagination.

Page 103
Admittedly, earlier technological developments did benefit and change the
lives of ordinary people from the time when they were achieved, especially
after the Industrial Revolution. However, it is self-evident as towhat Comment [D11308]: it is obvious

benefited and changed people’s life more, telegraph or mobile phone,

Phonograph or Mp4, Steam train or the monorail? Comment [D11309]: great examples of old
and new tech

In conclusion, I believe that, recent developments of technology have certainly

benefited and changed our lives more than the earlier ones did.

Page 104
53) In order to learn a language well, we should also learn about the
country as well as the cultures and lifestyles of the people who speak
this language. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion?
Comment [D11310]: closely linked to each
Language and society are as inextricably linked as a chicken and an egg. other

Language is the verbal expression of culture. I strongly agree that in order Comment [D11311]: they way we express
the culture by words
to learn a language ‘well’ you must also know the culture and lifestyleof the Comment [D11312]: AND

people who speak that language. In the following essay I intend to support my
views with my arguments.

It is true that some successful language learners have never learned about the
culture and lifestyle of the native speakers. Such learners probably have a
gift for learning languages and would be successful under any Comment [D11313]: Are talented in

circumstances with regular effort. For most people, however, learning in a Comment [D11314]: in whatever they do
without much effort
social context is the key to learn the language well. Comment [D11315]: in the society where
the language is spoken

Language is much more than just a means of communication. It is an art, a Comment [D11316]: more than a way we
communicate
science, a culture, an identity and a vision. It is a lifestyle. It is like seeing Comment [D11317]: AND

the world through different eyes. For instance, the Eskimos have 24
different words for snow like – ‘aput’ means snow on the ground, ‘gana’ means
drifting snow. Snow has a greater impact ontheir culture than ours and so is Comment [D11318]: Is more important

their language. So definitely learning about their culture and lifestyle would Comment [D11319]: Of course

help understand the importance of these meanings.

There are dialects, nuances and idioms of a languagewhich can only be Comment [D11320]: AND

learnt if we learn about the culture and lifestyle of the people. For example,
Punjabi is the mother tongue of people who live in Punjab. It has two dialects

Page 105
which mean ways of pronunciation and speaking. The two dialects are quite
different and can only be learnt if you spend time with those people or learn
about their culture. Then there are the nuances in a language which means
subtle shades of meaningwhich can also not be learnt without knowing the Comment [D11321]

lifestyle of people. Finally it is more enjoyable to learn a language if we learn

about the culture and lifestyle. We are more motivated to learn another Comment [D11322]: We feel we want to
learn more
language.

In conclusion, I believe that, it is definitely needed to know about the culture

and lifestyle of people if you have to learn a language well. It makes learning
fun and it helps to understand the dialects and nuances of the language

Page 106
54) Multi-cultural societies, in which there is a mixture of different
ethnic peoples, bring more benefits than drawbacks to a country. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?

Comment [D11323]: there is a mixture of

I definitely agree with the statement that cosmopolitan societiesare better different ethnic peoples

for the overall progress ofa country. That is perhapswhy nations such as Comment [D11324]: the
development/growth of
the U.S.A., Canada and Australia, which are primarilymulti-cultural Comment [D11325]: that may be
Comment [D11326]: mainly/mostly
societies,enjoy great prosperity, stability and harmony. In the following
Comment [D11327]: are rich, stable and
paragraphs I shall provide arguments to support my views. harmonious

Apparently, a multi-cultural society can bring a wide variety of benefitsto a Comment [D11328]: bring many beenfits

nation in terms of economic, cultural and social development. To begin Comment [D11329]: because it can
develop the economy, culture and society
with, the majority of immigrantsfrom different cultural Comment [D11330]: most immigrants

backgroundsarehigh achievers, including experts, scholars, engineers, Comment [D11331]: from different
cultures
business people and other well-trained people.Their arrival means an Comment [D11332]: those who achieve a
lot in their study and work
inflow ofexpertise, experience, investments as well as a dynamic labour Comment [D11333]: AND

force, which are all key factors to the increase of competitiveness, Comment [D11334]: They arrive with
their …
efficiency and productivity of a nation’s economy. Comment [D11335]: Active workers for
the market
Comment [D11336]: Important to a
What is more, the new arrivals know very well the importance of respecting nation;s economy

the local traditions and customs. Therefore, they co-operate and Comment [D11337]: AND

collaborate well withthe natives. They work very harmoniously side by Comment [D11338]: Do /try sth together
Comment [D11339]: The local people
side in offices, factories and schools. In addition, with a rich blend of
Comment [D11340]: Get on well
peoples, cultures and lifestyles, people in multi-cultural societies tend to be Comment [D11341]: With many people
from different races and cultures
more open-minded and tolerant ofother people’s customs and religions. Comment [D11342]: AND
Comment [D11343]: AND

Page 107
However, multi-societies also have some problems. Sometimes, people from
overseas will try to maintain their unique ethnic cultureswith their own Comment [D11344]: Stick to their own
cultures
distinctive characteristics. These differences many seem trivial, but they Comment [D11345]: Something that is
their own not others
can cause some conflictsthat make it difficult for immigrants to become Comment [D11346]: small

assimilated into the mainstream of the local social life. But multi-cultural Comment [D11347]: cause some
misunderstanding
societies are usually based on equality and diversity, so these problems Comment [D11348]: mix with their life
there
can eventually be dealt with successfully. Comment [D11349]: AND
Comment [D11350]: These problems can
be solved
To sum up, after what I have discussed, the advantages of multi-cultural
societies far outweigh the disadvantages. That is the reason so many countries
make great efforts to attract more immigrants from abroad.

Page 108
55) Some people think the main purpose of schools is to turn the
children into good citizens and workers, rather than to benefit them
as individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion?
Comment [D11351]: =the major
objective/purpose of
I definitely agree with the statement that the primary aim ofschools is to
turn the pupils into good citizens and workers rather than benefit them as
individuals. I feel that schools have to fulfil both things but the primary aim is
towards the welfare of societyand the benefit to the individual Comment [D11352]: A good society

automatically ensues. Comment [D11353]: Will come then right

away

Schooling can do a lot for shaping children. Firstly, school is a system with so Comment [D11354]: Going to school

many possibilities for a child to grow into what he or she actually is. For
example, teachers are able to mould children by identifying their hidden Comment [D11355]: Shape them

strengths, and the same strength may later make the child what he actually is Comment [D11356]: Find out what they
are good at
in this world for.

Secondly, since children spend a sizeable amount of their timewith Comment [D11357]: Spend a lot of time

teachers and a community of boys and girls from different faiths, statuses
and family values – there is great possibility for a child to undergo a Comment [D11358]: From different
backgrounds
transformation into a good human being. Teachers are a great force to Comment [D11359]: They will
Comment [D11360]: Change themselves
influence children. and become a good person

Of course, learning academic subjects is the main aim for what students go
to schools. Definitely, the job market requires professional knowledge the
most. But it is also true that if students become good citizens and workers, Comment [D11361]: You have to get
knowledge to find a job nowadays
they themselves equally benefit too.

Page 109
In conclusion, I believe that, raising children into real human
beingsinvolves several factors. Among them, the prominent one is good Comment [D11362]: Make them a real
human in its sense
schooling. Schools’ main function is to make students good and responsible Comment [D11363]: Most important
Comment [D11364]: Good teaching
workers and the personal benefit to students also takes place
Comment [D11365]: AND
simultaneously. Comment [D11366]: At the same time

Page 110
56) Throughout the history, male leaders always lead us to violence
and conflict. If a society is governed by female leaders it will be more
peaceful. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

In the history of mankind there have been many records of violence and
conflicts in the form of wars. Some people think that if a society were Comment [D11367]: AND

governed by female leaders, it would be more peaceful. However, if we look

into the past history we can get numerous examples when there have been Comment [D11368]: many

wars and conflicts even during the rule of women rulers. So, I disagree with Comment [D11369]: under the control of
women leaders
the statement.

If we had female only rulers, we probably would not be alive today. Sure most
wars were caused by men, but that is only because more than 90% of rulers
were men. Female rulers have also caused wars and their fraction is a lot Comment [D11370]: the number of wars
they cause
higher than male rulers. For example, during the Tang Dynasty, the first
female ruler of China, Wu Zetian who was well-known for her tyranny and
cruelty, launched a series of warsto expand the territory of the empire. Comment [D11371]: AND
Comment [D11372]: Start many wars
This didn’t happen only in China. It was Queen Victoria who invaded India,
China and many other countries in close succession. Even our late Prime Comment [D11373]: One after another

Minister, Indira Gandhi, led India in a war against neighboring Pakistan which
resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, formerly East Pakistan.

It is understandableif you say that generally,womenare more affectionate, Comment [D11374]: It can be true
Comment [D11375]: Women tend to be
thoughtful and gentle as compared with men. They are also less ambitious
Comment [D11376]: AND
and aggressive. However, politics is decided by the interest. If you are the Comment [D11377]: AND

leader of a society, you surely have the required leadership qualities

Page 111
regardless of the gender. Apparently,leaders, male or female, will have to Comment [D11378]: Must have the ability
to lead others whether you are female or
male
make a decision according to the citizens’ interest.
Comment [D11379]: It seems that

In conclusion, I believe that, a society will not necessarilybecome more Comment [D11380]: Will not need to

peaceful merely becauseit is governed by a female leader because, Comment [D11381]: Only because

essentially,there is no difference between female and male leaders when it Comment [D11382]: Basically speaking

comes to politics.

Page 112
 57) With the increase in the use of mobile phones and computers,
fewer people are writing letters. Some people think that the
traditional skill of writing letters will disappear completely. To
what extent do you agree or disagree? How important do you think
is letter-writing?

Comment [D11383]: In today’s high tech

It is irrefutable that in today’s era of modern technology, many people world

struggle to produce lettersand often avoid writing letter altogether. Comment [D11384]: Try hard to write a
letter
Nevertheless, I don’t agree that this skill is gradually disappearing. In this
essay I shall put forth arguments to support my view and also talk about the
importance of letter writing.

Firstly, let us consider the reasons why writing letters is less frequent
nowadays. This is because of modern technology. These days we are much
more likely to email someone than write a letter. In addition our business Comment [D11385]: Tend to

communications have become more informalthan in the past. As a result a Comment [D11386]: We tend not to be too
polite in doing business
less formal style of writing is more acceptable. Other forms of Comment [D11387]: informal

communication such as text messaging have reduced our need towrite Comment [D11388]: means that we don’t
need
letters even more.

However, in my opinion, there are times when there is no alternative Comment [D11389]: we have to
Comment [D11390]: often
towriting a letter. Letters are generally more formal and carefully
Comment [D11391]: carefully prepared
composedthan emails. This makes them more suitable for occasions when Comment [D11392]: AND
Comment [D11393]: The person who
they are likely to be kept and re-read, perhaps several times, by the receives

recipient, as with formal letters of thanks or sympathy. Letters provide a Comment [D11394]: AND
Comment [D11395]: Letters are
written record, unlike telephone calls, so they are also a better way of something we can keep
Comment [D11396]: Organize sth in
setting out an important or complex argument, as in the official writing, which is difficult or important

Page 113
complaints or legal matters. Moreover, that time is still very far Comment [D11397]: AND

wheneveryone will have a computer and internet connection. Till that time Comment [D11398]: It is not likely that
Comment [D11399]: AND
letter writing can never disappear.

So, it can be seen that letter writing is a very important skill to learn because
there are many parts of the world where it is very important to be formal. This
is particularly true if you are involved in international business. Because of Comment [D11400]: Doing international
business
globalization the business world is becoming more and more international
and it is not always possible to pick up the telephoneto talk to people. Comment [D11401]: Call sb

Consequently I believe that letter writing will never die outcompletely. And Comment [D11402]: disappear

even though these letters may be written on computers rather than by hand
we still need to learn and practise this skill.

In conclusion, I believe that, there are fewer times when we need to write
letters than in the past. On the other hand, I feel there are still some important
occasions when a letter is the most appropriate form of communication. Comment [D11403]: best way to
communicate

Page 114
58) When international media (including movies, fashion shows,
advertisements and other TV programmes) convey the same
messages to the global audience, people argue that the expansion of
international media has negative impacts on cultural diversity. What
is your opinion?

As international media companies expand across the world, the growing

popularity and uniformity of some media programmes (such as TV shows, Comment [D11404]: their popular and
similarity
movies, fashion shows) is causing worldwide concern. Many people have Comment [D11405]: make people in the
world worried
strong views toward this trend. In my opinion, international media is closely
Comment [D11406]: making cultural
linked to cultural globalisation and cultural homogeneity. values popular in the world and making
them the same
Comment [D11407]: the control
The dominance ofinternational media is a sign of Western cultural
Comment [D11408]: the control of
imperialism and has the potential to thwart cultural diversity. It is not a western culture
Comment [D11409]: prevent the
secret that international media is owned and operatedby a handful of giant differences in cultures
Comment [D11410]: AND
corporations, such as Time Warner. They control large sectors of the media
Comment [D11411]: afiew
market and place national media companies at risk.The contraction inthe Comment [D11412]: big companies

number of media owners will cause a proportional reductionin the variety Comment [D11413]: threaten the media
companies in the country
of programmes broadcasted. For example, painting, music and movies Comment [D11414]: the
reduction/decrease in
accessible in the media have a small number of genres, imposing Comment [D11415]: reduce in a similar
amount
restraints on one's knowledge of artworks of different cultural Comment [D11416]: that can be watched

backgrounds. Comment [D11417]: a few kinds

Comment [D11418]: limit one’s
knowledge
In addition to seizing control overthose creative industries, global
Comment [D11419]: art from different
cultures
entertainment companies affect cultural diversity by reshaping the
Comment [D11420]: having control
perceptions, beliefs and norms of ordinary citizens in different countries. Comment [D11421]: make the citizens
think and believe in a new way
Most of the cultural values and ideals promoted by the leading
Comment [D11422]: AND

Page 115
mainstream media are of American origin. American culture values Comment [D11423]
Comment [D11424]: By American people
individuality, maximisation of one's benefits and material wealth, rather
Comment [D11425]: Get as much benefit
and money as they can
than communal life and family solidarity, the values and norms previously
Comment [D11426]: The neighbours and
the bond between family members
treasured in many Asian countries. Unfortunately, many Asian people now
Comment [D11427]: Protected and valued
imitate American people, causing the alteration of their perceptions
Comment [D11428]: Make them change
offamily. This radical change can be attributed tothose movies and TV the way they think

programmes that portray the success of American individuals or Comment [D11429]: This big change is
caused by

corporations. Comment [D11430]: describe

The loss of media diversity is also responsible for people's narrow sense of
Comment [D11431]: don’t know much
ways of life. The ruling classof many countries speaks English, favours about the culture

Western food, wears Western-style jackets and even prefers Western Comment [D11432]: the rulers, those
who control
weddings. Young people are captivated byAmerican basketball and some
Comment [D11433]: prefer
Comment [D11434]: interested in
even daubing the names of NBA stars on their school sweatsuits. All these
Comment [D11435]: these changes are
transformations in life are the result of the audience's exposure to caused by watching

Hollywood movies, TV shows and sports reports. The loss of media diversity
will lead to degradation of cultureand to a minimisation of cultural Comment [D11436]: decrease in the
value of culture
diversity. It is a worrying trend, as people need cultural diversity to preserve Comment [D11437]: reduced cultural
diversity
and pass on their valuable heritage to future generations, including Comment [D11438]: leave something to
their children
lifestyle.

As shown above, international media, controlled by a handful of

transnational media corporations, is exporting Western culture worldwide
and putting many indigenous cultures at the risk of extinction. The Comment [D11439]: make local cultures
disappear forever

uniformity of media programmes has led to that of artworks, norms and

ways of life wherever international media goes. Comment [D11440]: AND

Page 116
 59) Team activities can teach more skills for life than those
activities which are played alone. Explain the benefits of each and
give your own view?
Comment [H1441]: AND
Both teamwork and individual work require different skills and teach
different things. Most of our daily life depends on teamwork like doing a job
and raising a family. Therefore, I agree with the given statement that team
activities teach more skills for life than solo activities. In the following Comment [H1442]: =independent/solitary
activities
paragraphs, I shall support my view with my arguments.

Some important skills of life are communication skills, co-operation and

conflict management skills. All these are only learnt through teamwork. In Comment [H1443]: AND

solo activities, we do not need to communicate and so we do not learn these

skills. However, when we step into daily life, we realize that communication Comment [H1444]: Go into society

skills are the most needed skills. We also have to co-operate also with our Comment [H1445]: We need
communication skills the most
family members, colleagues, friends and neighbors in daily life. When we Comment [H1446]: AND

do team activities, we learn co-operation also. Conflict management skills are

also learnt when we do team activities. You have differences of opinion and
you learn to manage tough situations very diplomatically. All these are Comment [H1447]: Deal with difficult
situations using your ability to negotiate
very necessary skills of life.

Furthermore, we also learn leadership skills, decision making and critical Comment [H1448]: AND: how to make a
good decision, and how to think critically
thinking skills while doing team activities. We learn how to make our voice Comment [H1449]: Have our opinions
expressed
heard and we also learn how to accept the correct suggestions of others. Comment [H1450]: Accept what other
suggest to us to imrpove
Finally, we learn sportsman-spirit which is a very good trait. We learn to
Comment [H1451]: = sportsmanship :
accept victory with modesty and defeat with grace. This is an important fairness
Comment [H1452]: characteristics
life skill. Comment [H1453]: not too proud when
we win and not too embarrassed when we
lose

Page 117
On the other hand, we learn many skills of life through solo activities also. We
learn a sense of competition and perseverance through individual Comment [H1454]: how to compete
against others and be patient
activities. All life skills are important for us. We cannot forget that man is a Comment [H1455]: solo/independent

social animal and cannot live alone. So, what we learn in teams can be Comment [H1456]: we need to be with
others, not alone
applied more in our daily lives.

In conclusion, I believe that, team activities and individual activities – both

teach important skills of life but team activities are definitely better teachers Comment [H1457]: no doubt

of life skills than solo activities.

Page 118
 60) Some people argue that the government should spend money
on public services and facilities, but not on the arts. Do you agree
or disagree?

The role of arts in modern life is unique, providing people with entertainment Comment [H1458]: the only one of its kind

and yielding various psychological rewards, such as relief from stress. Comment [H1459]: beneiit us a lot
pyschologically
Despite these benefits, the arts have been taken as luxury goods in many Comment [H1460]: feel relaxed from
stressed
cases. It is suggested that public money of a city should be concentrated in Comment [H1461]: considered as
something expensive
projects like public facilities, which are more likely to bring immediate
Comment [H1462]: people think that
benefits to the public, rather than the arts. There are a number of facts
indicating that this position is right.

Public facilities, widely accepted as one of the main precursors to a city's Comment [H1463]: the main factor that
makes sure sth happens
development, should be one of the highest priorities. Those underdeveloped Comment [H1464]: most focused on

cities in particular, should direct sufficient funding toward public facilities. Comment [H1465]: invest enough in

While municipal office buildings, courthouses and post offices are essential Comment [H1466]: city buildings

components of public services, libraries, hospitals, parks, playing fields, Comment [H1467]: important part of

gymnasiums and swimming pools are available to the public for social,
educational, athletic and cultural activities. By boosting spending on Comment [H1468]: AND
Comment [H1469]: Investing more
public facilities, cities are more capable of satisfying the needs of citizens
Comment [H1470]: Better at meeting
and improve their standard of living.

In addition to social benefits, there are economic merits that public facilities Comment [H1471]: Economic benegits

can offer to communities. An integrated transport network (maritime, land

and inland waterways transport and civil aviation), for example, Comment [H1472]: AND

promises the smooth and speedy movement of goods and people in a city. Comment [H1473]: Make goods move
easily and people travel easily
Industrial products, as well as agricultural produce of a city, can be Comment [H1474]: Agricultural foods

Page 119
delivered to other cities in exchange for steady income. Of equal Comment [H1475]: To get a good income

importance are public Internet facilities. Providing access to information by Comment [H1476]: Sth is also important

improving Internet and other telecommunications facilities has relevance Comment [H1477]

to the ease with which businesses in a city receive, process, utilise, and Comment [H1478]: Is related to

send information. It is no exaggeration to say that entrepreneurs, either Comment [H1479]

from home or abroad, will first examine the infrastructure of a city before Comment [H1480]: It is true that
Comment [H1481]: businesspeople
deciding whether to pursue business opportunities there.
Comment [H1482]: look at the
infrastructure
The arts, by comparison, although enabling people to see the world and the Comment [H1483]: do business
Comment [H1484]: help them to see
human condition differently and to see a truth one might ignore before, do not
Comment [H1485]: deserve to be
merit government spending. The first reason is that the arts — referring to invested by the government

music, film and literature altogether—are more likely to attract the Comment [H1486]: combined/in total

Comment [H1487]: tend to be invested by

investment of the private sector than public facilities. Businesspeople
Comment [H1488]: with the hope of
continue to invest in the arts in the expectation of earning lump sum
Comment [H1489]: earning a lot of
income and the arts in return, continue to flourish without the government money
Comment [H1490]: grow
spending. Meanwhile, the arts are a key component of a culture and
Comment [H1491]: an important part of
culture
naturally passed down from one generation to another. Unlike public
Comment [H1492]: be passed to their
facilities, they require no money to survive. children

It is therefore clear that construction of public facilities should be given the

foremost consideration. The concern about the well-being of individual Comment [H1493]: given the most
attention
citizens and that of a city is more acute than the apprehension about the Comment [H1494]: living standard of a
citizen
survival and prospects of the arts, something that businesses have a stake Comment [H1495]: worry
Comment [H1496]: the future
in.
Comment [H1497]: invest in

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