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Topic 1:As computers are being used more and more in education, there will be soon no role for
teachers in the classroom.
There have been immense advances in technology in most aspects of people’s lives, especially in the
field of education. Nowadays, an increasing number of students rely on computers for research and to
produce a perfect paper for school purposes. Others have decided to leave the original way of learning
and to get knowledge through online schools. These changes in the learning process have brought a
special concern regarding the possible decrease of importance of teachers in the classroom.
Some people believe the role of teachers started to fade because computers have been helping some
students to progress in their studies quicker compared to studies in an original classroom. For
example, in the same classroom, students have different intellectual capacities, thus some would be
tied to a slow advance in their studies because of others’ incapability of understanding. In this way,
pupils could progress in their acquisition of knowledge at their own pace using computers instead of
learning from teachers.
However, the presence of a teacher is essential for students because the human contact influences
them in positive ways. Firstly, students realize that they are not dealing with a machine but with a
human being who deserves attention and respect. They also learn the importance of studying in a
group and respect for other students, which helps them improve their social skills.
Moreover, teachers are required in the learning process because they acknowledge some students’
deficiencies and help them to solve their problems by repeating the same explanation, giving extra
exercises or even suggesting a private tutor. Hence, students can have a better chance of avoiding a
failure in a subject.
In conclusion, the role for teachers in the learning process is still very important and it will continue to
be such in the future because no machine can replace the human interaction and its consequences.
This is a great essay. Seems worthy of Band 8. No improvements are necessary, keep up the good
work!
Topic 2:5 easy ways you can prevent
animal cruelty—
April is Prevent Animal Cruelty Month. It’s a reminder to people to speak out for animals who they think might be
abused or neglected. Here are 5 easy ways you can help prevent animal cruelty.
1.Report animal abuse if you see it. If you witness someone abusing a dog or cat, whether they are physically
abusing the animal or neglecting the animal in some way, report it to local animal control. Neglect may require an

educational visit from an animal control officer. Abuse may require removal of the animal from the home. Either
way, your call will guarantee a better life for the pet. The ACO’s will keep your name confidential.
2. Understand the link between animal cruelty and domestic abuse.There is a direct link between animal
abuse and other types of domestic violence, from child abuse to spousal abuse. If you suspect animal abuse in a
home, your phone call could open the door to more help for the family. Animal control officers are aware of the link
and if they feel there is other abuse in the home will report it to social services — and vice versa.
3. Teach children to respect animals. Children learn how to treat animals from the adults in their lives. Be a
role model and show kindness and respect to animals and the children in your life will do the same. There is a reason
for promoting kindness: children who are cruel to animals often grow up to be cruel to people as well. Nip animal
cruelty in the bud early on. Teach children compassion.
4. Volunteer to help animals. One of the best ways to help animals in San Antonio right now is to become a
foster family. Foster families provide temporary homes for pets that are abused, injured or sick and who need some
time to recover. Your short-term and loving care could be just what a pet needs before adoption into a forever home.

5. Support legislation that promotes kindness to animals. The Texas Humane Legislative Network will
have the latest on Texas animal legislation and even provides a scorecard so you can seehow your legislators vote on
animal issues.
Be kind to animals.
Topic 3:Advantages and disadvantages of living in a media rich society
It is becoming more and more difficult to escape the influence of the media on our lives.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in a media rich society.
Media has become a mandatory component of our lives. We have entered an era where we can hardly dream of a life
without media. The first impression that comes to our mind, from the term media, is television, or the Internet. Though
we use media in the form of newspaper and FM Radio as well, still the first impression is the mere influence of the
technology on our minds.
The drastic change in the lifestyle of common man is the gift of media to us. This gift is a double-edged sword that
requires to be handled with utmost care. A small negligence can prove to be very fatal, far more than our capability to
revert back.
Closely watching the influence of media, we can definitely count and rely on its advantages. The knowledge that it
promotes, not necessarily bookish, but general awareness in every field, is remarkable. And the main highlight

feature is the knowledge is imparted in an entertaining way. This mode of teaching is very much required to get
children close to the subject, and giving them a practical application of the subject, rather than being theoretic.
The speedy information delivery was out of reach for us few years back. Media has helped us to promote and
advertise any information or product, in a very quick way to the masses. The wide population that it covers would be
definitely impossible without the media. Many people call media as a single sided communication, but with the
advancement of the Internet, this view has also been slammed down. There are social websites, where we can share
our views, opinions and ideas, answer to anyone’s query. Internet has made the world look smaller. We can
communicate and be friend to unknown individual miles away from us, just within few minutes. Family can converse
and interact with their children abroad through video conferencing. All these were hardly possible even on our dreams
a couple of decades back.
Imagine the speed at which a news spreads to each and every corner of the country. The charm of the coverage by
the media has boost the spirit of many talented people to achieve heights; in respect to be popular, people are
working an extended mile. Distance is no barrier for communication and information now.
Not only the news, we can find the public polls on different topics on latest news events on the newspaper coverage
on regular basis. The newspapers are the cheapest and richest source of information in reality. It covers right from
politics, city, states, national, international, business, scientific, academic, recruitment property news, to movies,
entertainment and matrimonial news. We get all this in just few rupees on daily basis. Media has also extended its
steps in to talent hunts and receiving the public poll for the same. These could have been possible only with the
advancement in media and technology.
Though we have counted numerous benefits of media, still we cannot overlook its ill-effects. On a careful analysis, we
have submerged into the influence of the media to the extent, that it has received the power to hike an unwanted,
useless matter and completely cover up a burning issue. Just by the way of over-emphasizing, media often create
panic for a rubbish matter, when the actual status is very normal in actual world. Such a potential of spreading wrong
messages to the masses leads to wrong perceptions, and a disbelief starts prevailing on the generalised manner.
The projection of the media portraying to be the opinion of the majority and the public, is often fake and a mere eye-
wash. It promotes the views of the person in power in such a manner, that it seems to be the only possible option left
in front of the society. This authority of brain-washing the masses is indirectly given by the common man only, who
has stopped using his brain beyond the influence of media. The time today has changed to the extent that we lack the
confidence to keep our view point against the opinion given by the media, though our mind, knowledge and
consciousness acknowledge that we are very much correct.

To sum up, media is the best support to the mankind in the era today. But a human brain is far more better to any
advanced technology. We should not forget that technology is the invention by man. So let them remain within our
control, never ever authorise any technology to rule yourself, your heart, or your mind. The brain power should
always win.
topic 4:ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF LIVING IN A SOCIETY OF MEDIA
Today, mass media are imposing an ever growing impact on virtually everyone. On the one hand,
their benefits cannot be exaggerated. On the other hand, people should not ignore their potential
harms.
When looking into the advantages, the most important and obvious one is that they help to increase
a country’s overall educational level. This will further accelerate the country’s economic growth and
consequently contribute to prosperity of all. For example, North Korea has suffered great famines
and financial crises despite its rich resources. Unarguably, this is caused by the citizens’ lack of
education and scientific knowledge, a consequence of the authority’s ban on free media. By
contract, Japan’s success is the direct result of its well-educated work force, who have easy access
to informative media, such as the internet.
However, we should also be clearly aware of the disadvantages. Mass media can be a major source
of misleading information. For example, many Chinese people, misled by Chinese films and soap
operas, used to believe that PLA men all possessed supernatural abilities and could eliminate the
Japanese soldiers easily, who were all idiots. Furthermore, the ubiquitous media sometimes contain
violence, sexual implicit or even explicit material, practice of suicide and drug abusing. These can be
very harmful to the public, especially children.
Considering both the merits and demerits of the advent of mass media, I think that it is a mixed
blessing. The question is how society makes use of the media. I suggest governments take
measures to regulate the media to prevent the threats to the people while maximising its benefits to
us all.
Topic 5:A growing number of people feel that animals should not be exploited
by people and that they should have the same rights as humans, while others
argue that humans must employ animals to satisfy their various needs,
including uses for food and research.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Animal Rights Essay - Model Answer
Some people believe that animals should be treated in the same way humans are and
have similar rights, whereas others think that it is more important to use them as we
desire for food and medical research. This essay will discuss both points of view.
With regard to the exploitation of animals, people believe it is acceptable for several
reasons. Firstly, they think that humans are the most important beings on the planet,
and everything must be done to ensure human survival. If this means experimenting on
animals so that we can fight and find cures for diseases, then this takes priority over
animal suffering. Furthermore, it is believed by some that animals do not feel pain or
loss as humans do, so if we have to kill animals for food or other uses, then this is
morally acceptable.
However, I do not believe these arguments stand up to scrutiny. To begin, it has been
shown on numerous occasions by secret filming in laboratories via animal rights groups
that animals feel as much pain as humans do, and they suffer when they are kept in
cages for long periods. In addition, a substantial amount of animal research is done for
cosmetics, not to find cures for diseases, so this is unnecessary. Finally, it has also been
proven that humans can get all the nutrients and vitamins that they need from green
vegetables and fruit. Therefore, again, having to kill animals for food is not an adequate
argument.
To sum up, although some people argue killing animals for research and food is ethical,
I would argue there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that this is not the case, and,
therefore, steps must be taken to improve the rights of animals.
(Words 290)
Topic 6:As computers are being used more and more in education, there will be soon no role for
teachers in the classroom.
There is no doubt that education and the learning process has changed since the introduction of
computers: The search for information has become easier and amusing, and connectivity has
expedited the data availability. Though experts systems have made computers more intelligent, they
have not yet become a substitute of the human interaction in the learning process. In my opinion what
can be expected is a change of the teachers’ role, but not their disappearance from the classroom.

Nobody can argue that the acquisition of knowledge is more fun and easier with computers. The mere
activity of touching and exploring this device constitutes an enjoyable task for a child. This,
accompanied by the relaxing attitude and software interactivity, usually contributes to a better
grasping of new knowledge. At a higher educational level the availability of digital books, simulators
and other academic materials provide the student with an ever accessible source of information, that
otherwise would not be at hand.
But, besides the increasing complexity and behavior of intelligent software, which is usually
embedded in the academic digital material, the need for human interaction in the learning
process will always be present, at least in the foreseeable future. There is the necessity for
a human being to be able to determine what thespecifics needs of each individual are. The
expertise of a teacher in how to explain and adapt complex concepts to different individuals
can hardly be mimicked by a computer, no matter how sophisticated its software is.
As computers are becoming a common tool for teaching, teachers should be more aware of
their role as guides in the acquisition of knowledge rather than transmitters of facts. They
have to be open minded to the changes that are taking places, keep updated and serve as
problem solvers in the learning process, thus allowing students to discover the fact for
themselves.
To summarize, in my personal view, teachers play and will continue to play an important
role in the classroom, especially at the primary level. No matter how complex computers
become, there will be no replacement for the human interaction, but in the way haw
thisinteraction takes place.
This is an excellent essay! Are you a native English speaker? Well done. The only problem is that this
essay is too long, 365 words instead of 250-265 maximum.
TOPIC 7:
It is becoming more and more difficult to escape the influence of the media on our lives.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in a media rich society.
Agreeing with the statement that it is difficult to live a happy and
prosperous life without any interference of media in our lives .Its more
common to perform an act which is done by our favorite media star than
to do something by your own.Communication is the basic need of every

one to get connected with their family,friends,society or even with people
who live far away in other countries .
Nowadays,communication has given another name that is called
media,from newspaper,radio to internet, television. All are the
manipulative types of media source which allow us to communicate with
each other.Most successful means of communication through media are
internet and mobiles which influence us more than others.
Generally,Psychologists have the point of view that exorbitance use of
Internet has lots of afflicts on brain and young generation is becoming
addicted to it.Youngsters use them arbitary in skilful way as they feel
superior by chatting and surfing online around the world and they also
urge others to accompanying them ,thus increasing its popularity
instantly.
One of the drawback of media is that these young people feel like lonely
when they don't have their laptops and mobiles on their hand and this
leads to notice unconventional behaviour with negligent towards studies
in them and they are apt to take any action and do anything to meet their
daily requirement.
Although, It seems precisely fair to assume that we cannot eliminate
media's influence overhead and i personally believe that the progress
happened recently is the virtual example of media usage,Though,its
encroaching in ours lives we just cannot defiance it .
Moreover,It is paradoxical thing for our society and we should be aware
about drawbacks of media on us and firmly must know how much it can
get over us as a result we must control it.
Topic 8: Too much attention is paid to and too much money is spent on keeping
pets, while people throughout the world are starving.
Discuss the arguments for and against keeping pets.
To what extent do you agree?
================

Since the dawn of history, humans have adopted animals for many purposes, one of
which is to befriend them. As the world develops, the relationship between humans and
pets become stronger. This has embarked contradictory opinions whether keeping pets
are burning our time and money or not. This essay will make the case for both sides
before a personal viewpoint is reached.
There is no doubt that pets deserve attention for the benefits they bring. Many people
regard pets as their second best friends who enrich their spiritual life and help them
when needed. The elderly, for example, love pets as they enlighten the lonely
atmosphere, and more importantly, assist them to cross the street, collect newspaper or
even warn the upcoming dangers. Educationally speaking, raising a pet may teach us to
be responsible and attentive with which virtue we are going to become a good citizen
and parent.
On the flip side of the coin, there are certain disadvantages that may crop up during the
up-bringing of a household animal. Apparently, pets cost us quite a fortune in general,
form food, drinks to medical treatment, let alone some rare species which demand more
than that. For instance, in New York, there is a service which, besides from caring their
nails or fur, beautify them with gorgeous costumes to resemble their owners. Of course
this kind of service costs no less than thousands of dollars; the sum that should have
been donated to feed hungry and painful humans' mouths, not animals'. Similarly, pets
like dogs or cats may get us sidetracked from our work or study as long as they keep
moaning for a park jogging or food.
To conclude, everyone should own a pet for all the undeniable positivities. Nevertheless,
it seems unfair and inhumane to treat animals better than human. From my point of
view, we should spend a small proportion to raise a pet, the rest of our budget should be
for people with unlucky lives.
TOPIC 9:Financial education should be a mandatory component of the school program. To what extent
do you agree or disagree with this statement?
It is an obvious fact that financial aspects are a major part of the daily life, as an adult and even as a
young individual. Each and every one of us has to make financial decisions concerning recreation,
health, education and more. The question is whether to start with financial education as part of school

program or to postpone it for a later stage in life.
To begin with, being able to understand the value of money, the way the economic system works and
to interpret financial news and its implications is a virtue. Without this virtue, an individual, even a
young one, might suffer to some extent. For an example, a child who doesn’t understand the concept
of money might find it more difficult to except choosing only one present out of more possible ones.
In addition, many adults are lacking capability of financial analysis. Quite often, the reason can be the
lack of sound foundations or insecurity when it comes to financial terms and concepts. Starting from
an early age, building a strong background, can very likely prevent such situation.
However, financial education necessarily involves quantifying and setting prices and value for services
and goods. It can easily turn young people into cynical human beings who lack emotion. Furthermore,
a tendency to self-concentration and egoism might rise when one start measuring everything from a
profit-making perspective.
In conclusion, financial education has both pros and cons. In my opinion, the advantages are more
significant than the disadvantages, making financial education an advisable component of the school
program. The disadvantages should be thought of as a certain price that young people have to pay
due to the characteristics of the world that we live in.
This is a wonderful essay. It covers the task, is correctly structured, the paragraphs are logically
connected, the structure of sentences shows excellent command of the English language. The
vocabulary is fine and both spelling and grammar are very good. See comments underlined in blue for
some minor corrections. Overall, looks like a Band 7.5 – Band 8 essay.
TOPIC 10:How to Protect Endangered Animals
Around the world, habitats are being destroyed at an alarming rate, putting many wildlife
species in danger of extinction. Threatened and endangered wildlife live in throughout the
globe and you're likely to find some in your own backyard. To protect endangered animals,
think both globally and locally.
Find out what animals living near you are listed on the endangered species list. Spend
some time learning about the animals and what their preferred habitat is. Contribute to
nature reserves and other wilderness areas. Habitat preservation is one of the best ways
to help protect endangered animals. You can donate money or volunteer your time helping
the nature reserve preserve habitat. Buy environmentally friendly goods. Choose non-toxic

cleaners and lawn care items that won't pollute streams, rivers or oceans. Avoid any
products that have been made from threatened or endangered animals. Buy foods and
goods that are made from materials that do not harm endangered animals or their habitat.
For example, look for organic chocolate, coffee or cotton clothing that is grown without
cutting down rainforests or destroying habitat. Create or restore habitat for endangered
animals. You can volunteer to help with projects worldwide designed to reestablish habitat.
In your own backyard, plant a butterfly garden, use native plants and trees and let "wild"
areas grow to provide habitat and food. Join a local, national or global conservation
organization. Some organizations focus on one particular endangered animal while others
focus on broad efforts for all endangered species. You can "adopt" an animal through
these organizations, which makes a great gift idea as well.
TOPIC 11: Even though globalization affects the world’s economies in a very positive way,
its negative side should not be forgotten. Discuss.
Globalization is such a commonly used term in the twentiethcentury. It simply means that the world
has become integrated economically, socially, politically and culturally through the advances of
technology, transportation and communication. It is undeniable that globalization has resulted in both
positive and negative effects which must be addressed accordingly.
To begin with, globalization has contributed to the world’s economies in many beneficial ways. The
advances in science and technology have allowed businesses to easily cross over territorial boundary
lines. Consequently, companies tend to become more productive and competitive thereby raising the
quality of goods, services and the world’s living standard.
Secondly, several companies from the more developed countries have already ventured to establish
foreign operations or branches to take advantage of the low cost of labor in the poorer countries. This
kind of business activity will provide more influx of cash or investment funds into the less developed
countries.
However, one cannot deny the negative effects which havederived from globalization. One crucial
social aspect is the risk and danger of epidemic diseases which can easily be spread as the
transportation becomes easier and faster in today’s advanced society. This is evidenced in the recent
birds flu disease which has infected most Asian countries over a short period of time.
As large corporations invest or take over many offshore businesses, a modern form of colonization will

also evolve which may pose certain power pressure on the local governments of the less developed
countries. Unemployment rates in the more developed regions such as Europe may also escalate as
corporations choose to outsource to the cheaper work force from Asian countries.
In conclusion. I like to reiterate that globalization is inevitable and we must urge individuals,
companies and governments to use a more balanced approach by taking the appropriate steps to deal
with matters relating to the financial or economical gains verses the social, political or ecological
concerns of the world.
This essay is too long, 318 words instead of 250-265. Otherwise (except for some minor
grammatical errors) it is a very nice work. It covers the task, has the right structure, the
paragraphs are coherent and are logically connected by elegantly used linking words, the
structure of sentences is fine and so is your vocabulary. Seems worthy of Band 7.5 or 8.
TOPIC 12: Global warming is one of the most serious issues that the world is
facing today.
What are the causes of global warming and what measures can governments
and individuals take to tackle the issue?
Probably the most worrying threat to our planet at the present time is global warming.
This essay will examine the reasons why global warming is occurring and discuss some
possible solutions.
The predominant factors resulting in the warming of the earth are the emissions of CO2
and deforestation. CO2, which damages the ozone layer, comes from several sources,
but the most problematic are those coming from the burning of fossil fuels from power
plants. This releases thousands of tones of CO2 into the atmosphere every year.
Another cause of these emissions is the burning of gasoline for transportation, which
continues to increase because of our demand for cars and also our increasing worldwide
consumption, resulting in an increasing need to transport goods. Also, forests store
large amounts of carbon, so deforestation is causing larger amounts of CO2 to remain
in the atmosphere.
Nevertheless, there are potential ways to solve these problems, or at least reduce the
effects. Firstly, governments need to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and
promote alternatives. Plant-derived plastics, biodiesel, wind power and solar power are

all things that are a step in the right direction, but governments need to enforce the
limits on CO2 emissions for the polluting industries in their countries for these to be
effective. Also, individuals can play a part by making lifestyle changes. People should
try to buy cars with the best fuel economy, and only use their car when really
necessary. They can also switch to energy companies that use renewable energy rather
than fossil fuels. Finally, small things like buying energy efficient light bulbs, turning off
electricity in the house, and planting trees in the garden can help.
To conclude, although global warming is a serious issue, there are steps that
governments and individuals can take to reduce its effects. If we are to save our planet,
it is important that this is treated as a priority for all concerned.
(320 Words)
TOPIC 13: Improvements in health, education and trade are essential for the development of poorer
nations. However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for helping the
poorer nations in such areas.
Today’s world has been divided into developing and industrialised countries which the main difference
between them is the amount of money that governments apply in important sectors such as
education, health and commerce. Most of the poorer nations are buried in debts as a result of their
unbalanced finances which are reflect in a failed health care, an unstructured education system and a
weak international trade. This vicious cycle will continue indefinitely unless wealthier nations show
interest in minimizing the worldwide economic differences, as well as taking more responsibility for
assisting less fortunate countries.
Most of the African countries live in sub-human conditions because of the extreme poverty, upheaval,
hunger, disease, unemployment, lack of education and both inexperienced and corrupt
administrations. The devastating consequences of the AIDS epidemic in those countries could improve
if the infected population were to receive free drugs to control the disease, have access to health
professionals and get information on how to prevent its spread. But this can only be achieved through
international help programs in which leaders of the world’s richest countries donate medicine and also
send doctors and nurses to treat and educate those in need.
Moreover, most of the poor countries rely on selling agricultural products and raw materials to rich
nations and buying industrialized products from them resulting in a huge financial deficit.

Consequently, they borrow a significant amount of money from the World Bank to try to improve their
broken economies, but sometimes the money disappears with no significant changes and they cannot
even pay the interest to the bank. Regarding this issue, last year the G8, which is comprised of
leaders of the eight richest nations, decided to forgive billions of dollars worth of debt owed by the
world’s poorest nations. In addition, they developed adequate loan programs to financially assist those
countries.
In conclusion, leaders of the industrialised countries play an indispensable role in assisting developing
nations in dealing with essential areas such as health, education and trade. Also, their aid is the key to
breaking the vicious cycle, which results in poverty and death.
This is a great essay, seems to be on a Band 8 level, there’s nothing to improve here
TOPIC 14: In some countries children have very strict rules of behavior, in other countries they are
allowed to do almost anything they like. To what extent should children have to follow rules?
The extent to which children have to follow rules is in itself a very complex issue, since children across
the world grow up in very different cultures. In India for example, children are expected to be very
submissive to their parents as well as other adults around them. This, however, is not the case with
the Western countries of the world where children follow the motto ‘Thou shalt do what thou wilt’ as
promoted by celebrities and rock stars. I believe that following strict rules has both advantages as well
as serious drawbacks as discussed below.
Firstly, strict rules of behavior create responsible and respectful children who in turn mature into
respectful adults. This forms a stable society which is virtually free from negative trends such as
prostitution and drug abuse. Secondly, if children do not follow strict rules of behavior, they may get
out of hand and become work-shy and indolent. This may then create a burden on the society since
the government has to find ways to cater for these social ills.
However, forcing children to follow strict rules of behavior doesn’t always yield positive results as
discussed above, most of the time it backfires and works against society. For example, teenagers are
more likely to do the opposite of what they’re told to do simply because they want to be independent.
Children should also have rights to exercise their free will and develop their own pattern of behaviors.
Imposing strict rules may simply destroy the individuality of children.
At the end of the day, it is clear that children should be guided by rules, but these rules should not be
imposed on them because as human beings, they need to have room to develop their own traits of

character and adopt a behavioral pattern of their own.
This essay is too long (309 words instead of advised 250-265). Otherwise this work is a very good
one; it covers the task, your position is clear, the ideas are well-organized, expressed, explained and
supported. The sentences show a wide range of language structures, cohesive devices and your
grammar is fine. Overall, this seems to be a band 7.5 or higher essay.
TOPIC 15: It is becoming more and more difficult to escape the influence of the media on our lives.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in a media rich society.
Recently,a great attention has been paid to the effect of the media.Therefore,some ordinary people state
that media has negative power but some individuals who do no agree with the statement.In this essay is
going to seek to examine carefully both views.
To bigin with taking one side of view which is advantages.Initially,as a media rich society,it can be
provided news immediately and accessibly. In other words,nobody worried about how to get news.For
example,regarding to Smartphone,it can be given news.It means no matter where you are.Smartphone is
also effectivity as a communication tool.Commonly,it can be done many things such as texting to
someone,calling to friend,listening music. Although it help to develop relationship with others,it can be
found not to be ignorable negative points.
The negative point is that we are under the control unconsciously by media.We often believe what media
mention without certainly evidence. According to an organization of Japan announced about influence of
nuclear. At first,they think it will not be harmful but it was false as a result. I would emphasize is that we
can obtain any information easily.to reword,we are paralyzed by it.
There could be a case for saying that we should considerate to get balance between advantage and
disadvantage.Otherwise,we can not drive our life properly by media. It is notable point that media has
addict.
To sum up,media has two aspects which are positive points and negative one.I would say again what take
well-balanced is the best way.
TOPIC 16: LIVING IN A MUTIRACIAL SOCIETY
Living in a community where there are people of various races is a rewarding and an
exciting experience. Living in such a community is like a small world with many types and
races in it.
Everyone, young or old, enjoys listening to stories about the people of other lands. We read

books and newspapers to learn about the habits, cultures and beliefs of people who are not
belong to our race but when we live in a community composed many races, we have the
opportunity to meet and talk with people of various races. We can learn about the customs
and beliefs directly from them. In this way, we have a better understanding about their
ways of life. For examples, in Singapore and Malaysia, which are known as multiracial
countries, Malays, Chinese, Indians and others have lived together for several decades.
They have learnt a lot about the cultures and beliefs of one another more than what we can
learn by reading books and newspapers. They have also absorbed the habits of one another
to their benefits.
Further, living in a multiracial community teaches us how to respect the views and beliefs of
other races. We learn to be tolerant, to understand and appreciate the peculiarity of those
who are not belong to our race. We learn how to live in peace and harmony with foreigners
whose ways of life are different from ours in several respects. We become less suspicious of
the strangers and foreigners.
The relationship that develops among the people from the common understanding in a
multiracial community makes life in such a community is very exciting. Any celebration of
any race becomes a celebration of all of other races. Thus, there is a lot of fun and
excitement in during every celebration. In this way, better understanding is promoted
among the people in the world. Through each of races of the people in a multiracial
community, we come to know about their respective countries. For examples, through
Chineses and Indians in Malaysia or Singapore, we have come to know much about China
and India. As a result, we have a better understanding of the peoples of China and India as
a whole.
It could therefore be said that life in a multiracial community teaches us many useful
lessons about the human relations.
TOPIC 17: EVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
Most people realize that our environmental pollution become a bigger problem in the
present time.Despite this, not many of us take action to protect our planet.In this essay ,
I will discuss the causes of this problem and find out the solutions.
First of all, species of animals and plants are in danger of becoming extinct, it is because

the modern techonogy .As old people say:''the technoloy developing faster;the level of
environmental problem growing higher.'' Due to the modern technology discharge a lot
of sewage and gas waste to the nature. Secondly , unscrupulous businessmen poach the
endangered species to sale. This will cause the endangered species extinct as fast as
possible. Thirdly, governments develop land resources to cope the surging
populations.Therefore, animals habitat get damage from the extend land program.
However, environmentalist advocate many ways to cope the problem.First ,
governments represent an important role in countries because they have a powerful
finance to practice some new policies.For example, governments can build up some
organizations to advocate the important of saving the species of animals and plants like
WCS （the Wildlife Conservation Society）. Next, governments can establish nature
reserve to protect the endangered species.This action can provide animals a safely place
to live and get protecting everytime. Furtermore, how can we as individuals stop the
issue becoming bigger? People able to store or recycle waste and reduce using
disposable things. In addition, we need to live simply . If we all live simply, the world
technology will devoloping regularly. This will reduce the damage to nature.
In conclusion, our choices ,however small,do have a real impact. On the other
hand,although the national budgat is very tight, governments should spend a fix money
to solve the problem. If all of us take action to save our planet, you can imagine the
positive effects.
TOPIC 18:
People tend to use their own vehicles,cars etc instead of public transports like buses
and trains. What do you think government should do to encourage people to use public
transport?
=====================================
Public transport is no longer a major means of transportation nowadays. It has been
observed that people prefers to use their private vehicles such as cars, trucks to
commute instead of using the public transport.
Some people believe that using a general transport meant for the people by the
government has so many hassles and because of the long period of queues at

terminals and stations,they prefer to use their car which can move almost immediately
and arrive at their destinations whenever they want.
Others have complained of comfort in using a public transport, they feel they can be
free in their personal vehicles than sitting next to a total stranger in a bus or a train.
Firstly, government should decrease the fares of the public transports. For instance, if a
journey of 30 kilometres use to cost $20, government can reduce this fares in form of
promos and discounts. This will draw peoples attentions to the public transports.
Also, Buses and trains should be kept clean and well managed in such a way that will
attract people. For example, my sister came to visit me from another city some times
ago,She boarded a train. I was at the train station to pick her up when i saw her stucked
to the door,I moved closely to have a view of what was happening,i saw that her clothe
was trapped and we had to cut her clothe before we were able to leave the station. She
was so embarrassed and vowed never to take any public transport again. There are so
many cases of neatly dressed people entering buses and coming out with a stain or a
tough marks on their clothes.All these are turn-offs to people.
Special considerations should be given to the aged,children,the disabled and pregnant
women. People in this category should have decrease in their fares. Government
should hire trained personnel to cater for this group of people specially. I watched a
woman on TV last weekend, she was so old and haggard. She could not even walk
straight into the bus,She had to swing her legs before she can maintain her
balance.There was no one to help her and she was left at the station because she
couldn't move fast to join the bus.
Terminals and stations should be situated closer to residence,Shopping Malls and office
for easy access so that people wont have to trek a long distance. Transportation should
be made swift and reliable by constructing alternative roads for public transports alone.
This will assure the people that it is hassle-free and the issues of traffic jam will be
eradicated.
TOPIC 19: Popular events like the Football World Cup and other international sporting occasions are
essential in easing international tension and releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way.
Every four years, the whole world stops to watch international sporting events such as the Olympics

and the Football World Cup in which athletes show their best performance to make their country
proud. These sporting occasions have proved to be helpful in easing international tension in difficult
times when powerful leaders were trying to control the world’s economy and other governments were
fighting over the land.
The Olympic Games are one of the best examples which prove how sporting events can bring nations
together, at least temporarily. From the ancient History, when Greeks and Romans would interrupt
battles to participate in the games, to the more recent international disputes, when athletes from
Palestine and Israel would forget their differences, compete peacefully and even embrace each other
after an event. Moreover, these popular events have called the world’s attention to the terrible
consequences of wars; thus some leaders have tried to reach agreements to end their disputes and
live peacefully.
Similarly, international sporting events show benefits in some developing countries which live in a
daily internal civil war. For example, Brazil has a high rate of unemployment, lack of education,
hunger, crime, poverty and corruption which leads to an immense embarrassment of being Brazilian
and a low self-esteem. However, when the Football World Cup starts, the Brazilian squad, which is
considered the best team in the world, provokes an amazing feeling of pride in their country. Most
people seem to forget all their problems and even the criminal activity decreases. They paint roads
with the national colors, wear the Brazilian team shirts and buy national flags. Moreover, the
competition brings families and neighbors together and even rival gangs watch the games and
celebrate peacefully.
In conclusion, popular sporting events play an important role in decreasing international tensions and
liberating patriotic feelings as history has shown.
This is a great essay, the ideas, language, structure of paragraphs and sentences, and your grammar
show a good command of the English language. In my opinion it is Band 8. Keep up the good work.
TOPIC 20: ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF MEDIA
Since media has broadcasted and published much information to a large amount of people for a long
while, some people think that they can not avoid to be influenced my media. Especially in this internet
society, people can obtain plenty of news and information immediately through media. As for me, I always
try to correct information from as many media sources as possible to prevent misunderstandings.
However, the more I struggle with, the more difficult I think.

Because of media, people can acquire a lot of knowledge and information much easier than past. And
some news such as weather report, traffic information are really helpful and necessary for our daily-life.
Moreover, some victims of tragedy were focused by media, which was a trigger of world wide charity
actions. Form these aspects, media have been contributed greatly to our society.
On the other hand, there might be some problems and risks. Because information comes from media,
which are organized by humans, and this means the possibilities of human errors and misunderstandings.
Furthermore, media caused revolutions among the islamic countries like in Libya or Egypt. In those
actions, the role of media was not so much, but affected many people to unite their opinion against their
governments. (Of course, social network services had important role as well)
Personally, I think it is risky to get information from one medium. I also think it is impossible to live without
influenced by media, that can change their form from paper and TV to the internet. And we always need
more information and news. However, we have to use them appropriately and survive this flood of
information.
TOPIC 21:“Should More Be Done to Protect and
Preserve Endangered Animals?” Paper
Factors such as pollution, habitat loss, predation and poaching have led to many animal species becoming
endangered. Examples of endangered animal species include the Mountain gorilla, Iberian lynx, Chinese giant
salamander, Ethiopian wolf, and the Northern White Rhinoceros. Fox (2006) observes that since the beginning of
human civilisation, Earth evolution has led to thousands of animal species becoming endangered and hundreds
facing possible extinction.
Governments and organizations have accentuated efforts to protect and preserve the endangered species, but more
needs to be done to ensure their survival. Of utmost importance is the need to preserve ecosystems in order
to protect the animals’ natural habitat. Protection against human intervention will boost conservation of natural
ecosystems and ultimately the preservation of the endangered species. Human habits such as deforestation set an
imbalance in the delicate functioning of the natural ecosystems (Fox, 2006). The preservation of endangered animal
species calls for concerted efforts against human exploitation from governments, organizations, and the society at
large.
Another issue of great importance in the preservation of endangered species is the need to enact and implement
legislation that will safeguard and protect wildlife. Currently, there are a number of laws governing the preservation of
endangered species, key among them being the Endangered Species Act. Nazzaro (2010) writes that the law passed

by President Nixon in 1973, alongside other United States environmental laws, protects plant and animal species that
are facing extinction, or have a high possibility of facing extinction in future. This law works on minimising the threats
to survival of these creatures, from natural threats such as diseases, to threats associated with mankind such as
poaching and pollution.
Wildlife is of utmost importance to the society as it serves aesthetic, economic, and educational purposes. Although
legislation has been enacted to promote preservation of endangered animal species, there is a need for
governments, organizations and the society to adopt more policies and mechanisms that address the factors posing
the greatest threats to wildlife. Through successful conservation efforts, future generations can get to experience
the beauty and benefits of wildlife.
TOPIC 22: Should students take extra classes?
If you're a student(especially if you're a Vietnamese student) you must have known about
extra classes. Vietnamese students go to extra classes. Vietnamse students go to extra
classes almost everyday and every time they’re free. Take a walk around the district and I’m
sure you’ll receive loads of advertisements about extra classes. But although extra classes
are that popular to Vietnamese students like that, are they really necessary?
First, a lot of people, including me, believe that real good students don’t need to go to extra
classes. Some students take extra classes just to get someone to do their homework for
them. That way, they can ignore what their teacher teach at school but still get good marks.
Before when extra classes appeared, students had to get knowledge themselves from
school. And anyway, if extra classes can give us marks and GOOD knowledge, why are there
still schools?
In addition, Vietnamese schools are already stressing enough that extra classes would take
all the little energy left from the students. Psychologists have taken reports of cases in
which students got stressed because of extra classes and fainted in the middle of the class.
Also, parents who have children to go to extra classes rely a lot on them and that places a
real big burden on those poor students ‘shoulders though the parents don’t mean to.
Besides, if students spend all free times going to extra classes, how much time will they
have for normal schoolwork? As little as zero!
But, on the other hand, if a good student says he or she wants to take extra classes, that’s
not very unreasonable. Normal schools don’t often have higher exercises which are fit for

them that they have to get more from somewhere else(and that ”somewhere else” often
ends at an extra class). Some want to take extra classes to revise what they’ve learnt in
class, too. Not only good students, a large number of slow students also attend extra
classes. This can be explained that 1 period’s not always enough for them to understand
what the lesson’s about and the teachers don’t have time to teach them again, so if they
want to keep pace with the others, extra classes ’re the choice.
In a recent survey I’ve read, high school Vietnamese students have the knowledge of 2-year
college English students! That maybe because of the extra classes that we receive more and
wider knowledge. I’ve heard stories of Vietnamese students who study overseas and
become the best students in their class. I myself, believe that that must thanks to the extra
classes they’ve taken.
Taking extra classes or studying by yourself at home, it’s all up to you. I just advise anyone
who’s about to choose the first choice to think carefully about which subject they’re weak at
to take up. And besides, I’m also a Vietnamese student, that means I also take extra
classes myself as well.
TOPIC 23: Some people prefer to live in a house, while others think that there are more advantages living in
an apartment.
Are there more advantages than disadvantages to living in a house rather than in an apartment?
Many people nowadays face a difficult decision when they buy their own home. The question is whether they should
buy a house or an apartment. There would seem to be clear benefits and drawbacks to both options.
Perhaps the major advantage of living in a house is the issue of privacy. Typically, there is more opportunity for peace
and quiet, if you live in a house. This is particularly the case if it is a detached house. Other significant advantages
are that houses are generally more spacious and on the whole have gardens. This is especially important if there is a
family so that the children can have a safe environment to play in. If, however, you live in a tower block, then the
children may have to play outside on the pavement.
There are, of course, negative aspects to living in houses. The greatest of these is that they tend to be more
expensive to purchase and to maintain. Indeed, a large majority of people choose to live in apartments because they
cannot afford the mortgage to buy a house. Another possible problem is that there are fewer houses in cities than the
countryside. So if you like urban life, it may be preferable to live in an apartment. A second reason to avoid living in a
house is that there is a greater sense of community to life in an apartment.

My conclusion would be that this is a well-balanced issue. There are probably an equal number of pros and cons to
making either choice. Ultimately, whether you decide to live in a cottage in the countryside or a duplex in the city
depends on your own personality, family and financial circumstances.
(285 words)
TOPIC 24: Unemployment is one of the most serious problems facing developed nations today. What are the
advantages and/or disadvantages of reducing the working week to thirty five hours?
It is unquestionable that rising unemployment is one of the most pressing issues in the industrial world. One solution
that has been put forward is to cut the working week to a maximum of 35 hours. However, this solution is somewhat
controversial as it has both positive and negative effects.
It is fairly easy to understand the reasons why this proposal has been made. The reasoning is that if workers are not
allowed to work for more than 35 hours weekly, then employers will be forced to engage more staff. There would be
at least two advantages to this. Not only would unemployment be reduced, but the working conditions of employees
on very long shifts would also be significantly improved. For example, a factory employing 300 manual workers doing
10 hours a day might employ 450 workers.
There is also, however, a strong argument not to implement this proposal. This argument is based on economic
competitiveness. If a company was forced to employ more workers to produce the same amount of goods, then its
wage bill would rise and its products might become more expensive and less competitive compared to companies
with longer working weeks. In this case, it is possible that the company either might become insolvent or it would
have to make some employees redundant. As a result, the intended benefit to the personnel would not happen.
In summary, we can see that this is clearly a complex issue as there are significant advantages and disadvantages to
the proposal. My own personal view is that it would be better not to introduce the shortened working week because it
works only in theory and not in practice.
(278 words)
TOPIC 25: Everyone should stay in school until the age of eighteen. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
It is often said that if you want to succeed in life, you need a proper education. I would agree with this, but it is
debatable whether a proper education means having to stay in school until you are 18.
Perhaps the strongest reason not leaving school early is that it prepares you for your working career. If you leave
school early with only a basic education, you are unlikely to be able to find any skilled work. Indeed, the education
you receive between the ages of 16 and 18 is crucial for anyone who does not want a lifetime of unskilled work in a

factory.
Another compelling reason for remaining in school until 18 is that school provides moral and social education too.
This is particularly important for people between 16 and 18 who have many temptations and benefit from the
organised framework that school provides. Young people who stay in school until the age of 18 tend to be more
responsible and help build a stronger society.
There are, however, equally strong arguments against making school compulsory until the age of 18. One such
argument is that not everyone is academic and that some people benefit more from vocational training. For instance,
someone who wants to become a car mechanic may find better training and more satisfaction in an apprentice
scheme. Another related argument is that, in today s world, young people are maturing ever more quickly and are ʼ
able to make their own life decisions by the age of 16.
To my mind, everyone should be encouraged to stay in school until 18. However, I believe it would be a mistake to
make this compulsory.
(277 words)
TOPIC 26: The threat of nuclear weapons maintains world peace. Nuclear power provides cheap and clean
energy. The benefits of nuclear technology far outweigh the disadvantages. Do you agree or disagree? Give
reasons for your answer.
One question that has caused a great deal of controversy over the years is nuclear technology. Although it offers a
number of advantages in world peace and green power, it is also a dangerous technology. In this essay I intend to
show how these benefits outweigh that disadvantage.
The opponents of nuclear power generally base their arguments on the danger it represents to the world. There are
two main dangers: the risk of nuclear warfare and the nuclear disasters. If one thinks about Chernobyl, it is easy to
understand why people are worried about nuclear power, as it can cause major suffering.
There are, however, two good reasons for believing that nuclear technology is generally advantageous. The first of
these is that there has not been a major world conflict since the invention of nuclear weapons. While there have been
wars, they have not been on the same scale as the Second World War. It is possible to say that the world is a safer
place because of nuclear weapons.
The other most significant benefit relates to the environment. Perhaps the greatest danger facing our world today is a
combination of global warming and the greenhouse effect. This danger is caused partly by burning fossil fuels which
leads to our polluted atmosphere. Nuclear power, however, is a much greener alternative which does not have such
negative effects. Furthermore, in the last 50 years there have not been too many nuclear disasters and many experts

claim that it is in fact a safe technology.
In conclusion I would say that nuclear technology is better than the current alternatives. However, I also believe we
should keep looking for ways to make it safer.
(281 words)
TOPIC 27. The best way to solve the world s environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel. To what ʼ
extent do you agree or disagree?
Most people would accept that one of the highest priorities today is to find a solution to the various environmental
problems facing mankind. It has been suggested that best way to achieve this is for governments to raise the price of
fuel. I am, however, not sure that this is necessarily the case.
One reason why this approach may not work is that there is not just one environmental problem the world faces
today. If governments did make fuel more expensive, it might well help reduce the amount of carbon dioxide we
produce and so slow down the rate of global warming and air pollution. However, it would not help with other major
problems such as intensive farming, overpopulation, the hole in the ozone layer or water pollution. For these
problems we need to find other solutions.
A second reason why this policy may not be the most appropriate is that it places the emphasis on governmental
policy and not individual responsibility. Ultimately, most environmental problems are the result of the way we as
individuals live our lives. If we wish to find a long-term and lasting solution to them, we need to learn to live in a way
that it is greener or kinder to the environment. What governments need to do to make this happen is to ensure there
is a global programme to educate people of all ages about the environmental consequences to their actions.
In summary, I believe that increasing the level of taxation on fuel is at best a short-term solution to only one
environmental problem. If we wish to provide a home for our children s children, education is likely to be the key to ʼ
making this happen.
(283 words)
TOPIC 28. Should museums and art galleries be free of charge for the general public, or should a charge,
even a voluntary charge, be levied for admittance? Discuss this issue, and give your opinion.
One very complex issue in today s world is the funding of museums and art galleries. There is an argument that they ʼ
should be free to the general public and funded by governments, but there is also a case for saying that they should
charge an entrance fee like other attractions. In this essay, I am going to examine both sides of this issue.
Those who argue that museums should be free typically make one of two arguments. The first argument is that
institutions like museums are a public service and therefore there should be free access to the man in the street. If for

example there was a charge only the wealthy could afford to enjoy works of art. The second, and related, argument is
that if they did levy a charge fewer people would go to museums. This would be serious as they are educational
institutions and standards would fall.
In contrast, there is only one major argument on the other side of the debate. This is that both museums and art
galleries need to charge an entrance fee if they are to survive in the modern world. Governments do not have
sufficient funds to subsidise all such institutions and there are other priorities for public money. Therefore these
galleries and museums need to charge their customers not only to survive but to update their exhibitions and make
new purchases. By way of illustration, the Tate Modern in London could not have been founded without revenue from
admissions.
My personal position is that there is no clear answer to this question as there are such strong arguments on both
sides. Perhaps it is possible for some museums and galleries to charge fees and for others not to.
(288 words)
Topic 29: Some people strongly oppose animal experimentation, believing that it
causes pain to animals, while some other people consider it necessary. What is
your opinion?
Perhaps no subject in the moral community is as controversial as animal testing. Animals,
many people believe, meritmore humane treatment. When animal-based experiments have
long been the centre of criticism, I am of the opinion that such experiments are essential to
both the well-being of human beings and that of animals.
There is little doubt, first of all, that most of the animal-based experiments are conducted
for the development of technology and to date, there is little chance of finding
satisfying substitutions for animals. Animals are used mainly because they bear a
close resemblance to humans, either in behaviour or in cell structure. They respond to
external disturbances (such as electrical shock) nearly in the same manner as humans do.
There is much evidence that most of what people know about themselves, including pain,
stress, reproduction and nutrition, is based on findings of animal-based experiments. Animal
testing proves one of the main approaches to predict the risk when drugs or other products
are used on humans.
Another fact to support animal-based experiment is that animals are not the equivalent of
humans, and can be used as resources for human purposes. Animals have no capacity to

recognise the rights of other species. Nor will they take in consideration the interests of
other species. It is possibly one of the main reasons why animals feed on each other.
Humans, by comparison, use animal experimentations not only for their own interests but
also for the interests of animals. For example, some medical discoveries can be used by
veterinary surgeons to give medical care and treatment to sick animals.
Despite the justifications given for vivisection, researchers have the obligation to reduce
animal testing and animal suffering. There is a growing recognition that animal tests are
mostly done for commercial purposes and most of them are avoidable. For instance, the
cosmetic industry has been exploiting animal experimentation simply for diversifying
products and maximising profits. The fewer cosmetic products people use, the fewer
animals they have to slaughter.When scientists are empowered to carry out cruel
experiments like vivisection, such powers should not be abused.
To summarise, one can subscribe to the notion that animals can be taken as resources
intended for the benefit of humans, although meanwhile it is certain that suffering should be
controlled to the minimum during experimentation.
1. merit = deserve
2. substitution = replacement
3. resemblance = sameness = similarity
4. equivalent = counterpart
5. capacity = ability = capability = competence = aptitude = power
6. feed on = eat = survive on
7. slaughter = kill = massacre = slay = butcher
Topic 30: Far too little has been done to prevent animals and plants from dying
out, although people have noticed this problem for a long time. Why have people
failed to improve this situation? What are your suggestions?
Nowadays, the progressive extinction of living species on the planet — either animals or
plants — has arisen as a big environmental challenge, according to many scientists and
researchers. Despite the growing concern on this issue, little progress has been made in this
Held. There are some factors that account for why this has happened. In my opinion, this
situation can be remedied, provided that some reasonable steps are taken.

The sharp fall in living species is first attributed to people's continued and heavy reliance on
them for their own interests. An age-old tradition is that animals are
raised, bred and fed for human use. For example, laboratory animals, working animals and
sport animals have been used for economic reasons or to fulfil different tasks throughout
much of human history. The meat of rare animals is regarded as a delicacy in some
countries, for example, whale meat in Japan. When it conies to plants, over-logging, over-
grazing and soil erosion are the root causes of the dwindling vegetation.Over-
utilisation of living species has made many animals and plants face extinction risk.
Another reason cited to explain this is that few people take the mass extinction of species
seriously. For example, fur is desired and pursued as a fashionable status symbol in many
countries, even in those countries where people are known for their environmental concern,
such as New Zealand, Canada and Australia. Barely have buyers realised that their purchase
decisions will encourage the fur business to further animal slaughter. Rainforest destruction
is another example. Despite strong opposition to lumber harvesting, this problem continues
simply because people have an ever-growing appetite for land to live on (such as buying
luxury properties in the country) and wood products to consume (such as furniture).
Humans' pursuit of comfort and enjoyment has long been justified and condoned, even
though the pursuit is at the expense of other species on the planet.
From what has been discussed, it is clear that lack of awareness and over-reliance on
natural resources are the main reasons why species are being pushed closer to the brink of
extinction. Humane education represents a long-term commitment and will help raise a
generation that has a real knowledge of environment protection and slays alert to the risk of
animal exploitation and ecological degradation. In addition, it is imperative to carefully
measure and control any activity that is likely to pose a threat on the survival of species.
Decision makers and individual citizens alike should take into consideration the impacts of
their decisions and behaviours on living species. It is important to realise that preservation
of living species is not sentimental, but essential to the well-being of humankind.
1. extinction = death = loss = disappearance = annihilation
2. breed = reproduce
3. feed = give food to = nourish = raise = bring up

4. rare animal = exotic animal = endangered animal = threatened species
5. dwindle-shrink = decline = disappear
6. over-utilisation = excessive use = over-exploitation
7. condone = forgive = disregard-ignore = overlook = excuse = pardon
8. brink = verge
9. sentimental = emotional = unrealistic
Topic 31: Some people think that killing animals for food is cruel, but others claim
that animals are a necessary part of diet. What's your opinion?
It is a widespread practice that livestock is raised and butchered for human consumption.
Although it has been condemned as cruelty to animals, a counter-argument is that meat is
the necessity for people's health and well-being. To the best of my knowledge, meat is a
regular part of the diet and there is no alternative to animal food sources.
The first justification is that animal source foods provide a wide range of nutrients that are
difficult to obtain in adequate quantities from plant source foods. Insufficient intake of those
nutrients will produce negative health outcomes, such as poor growth. A diet with a good
combination of meat and vegetable is thought to have considerable value. Some might
argue that consumption of meat can pose health risks and increase the risk of foodborne
illness. This statement is fallacious, considering the fact that people can kill bacteria and
remove risk factors by cooking properly and using scientific methods in manufacture.
Another point to note is that most of the meat available in supermarkets for people's
consumption is produced by industrial agriculture. In view of the intense use of modern
technology and mass production techniques, the produced livestock, poultry or fish cannot
be taken as ordinary animals but only as manufactured goods. By making use ofeconomies
of scale to produce enough food at an affordable cost, industrial farming is essential to
addressing food supply problems.
The significance of capitalising on animals as a food source is therefore undeniable, but it is
important to realise that people cannot exploit animals and become addicted to meat
consumption. Animal fats, for example, increase the risk of heart disease and meat is
frequently associated with outbreaks of food poisoning. Meanwhile,
people's insatiabledesire for meat might lead to intensive livestock farming and animal

slaughter, which has a direct impact on the well-being of animals worldwide.
From the preceding discussion, one can see no reason why livestock or some other animals
cannot be used as food. Switching to an animal free diet is a personal option, but the
question remains whether one can ensure sufficient intake of nutrition necessary for one's
health. When there is little room for argument concerning the use of animals for meat, it is
necessary to impose standards and prevent animal exploitation.
1. butcher = kill for meat = cut for meat
2. nutrient = life-enhancing substance = nutrition
3. bacteria = microbe = microorganism = germ
4. poultry = fowl = livestock
5. economies of scale = cost-effective advantages = advantages obtained from mass
production
6. outbreak = occurrence = outburst
7. insatiable = avid = greedy = voracious = ravenous
8. preceding = previous = earlier = above
Topic 32: Discuss the arguments for and against raising pets.
In those years, animal welfare has become a subject of controversy and it has been argued
that animals should not be regarded as property by human beings or used against their own
best interests. When pet raising has become a way of life in many societies around the
world, it has, on the other hand, raised the question of whether it is a breach of animal
rights. Below are some arguments concerning pet ownership.
Pet animals are known for their loyalty and playful characteristics and believed to have a
positive effect on the health of their owners. The pressures of modern lifestyles are
tremendous. Compared to previous generations, people are more likely to live
independently and away from their families at the present time. Adopting a pet animal as a
companion can give quality to the owner's life, and help reduce stress and blood pressure. It
is also regarded as a solution to the feeling of isolation and loneliness. These two facts are
combined to justify why there are an increasing number of people now depending on pet
animals as companions or even a therapy.
Raising pets benefits pets as well. Providing companionship and giving pleasure to their

owners, pets receive loving care and attention in return. Some might argue that holding a
pet is unnatural, because pet animals would lose their original way of life. However, people
should meanwhile recognise that some animals are unfitted to the wild environment. It is
morally wrong that people force annuals to struggle with food, clean water and other
necessities in the wild environment.
Keeping an animal is therefore beneficial, but, notably, there is no guarantee that every pet
lives a happy life. Ignorance of an animal's needs for space, exercise or contact with
members of the same species, for instance, has been found as a common problem with
raising pets. It should also be noted that many people adopt pets for wrong reasons, such
as a statement of affluence or a status symbol. They are very likely to abandon or even kill
pets when their initial interest subsides. When holding pet animals has become popular,
other problems will result, e. g., pollution caused by excessmanure.
Based on the facts outlined above, people can conclude that pet-keeping is a tradition that
can be either good or bad, from an ethical point of view. On the one hand, it gives people
companionship and great pleasure and animals obtain a loving home and a happy life. On
the other, inappropriate treatment can rob animals of the basic right to well being.
1. playful = lively = animated
2. therapy = cure = remedy = treatment
3. companionship = company
4. unnatural = abnormal = aberrant = deviant
5. unfitted = unsuitable = incompatible with = incongruous with
6. manure = dung
7. rob sb. of = deprive of = take from
Topic 33: Good facilities can be found in cities but not in the countryside.
Therefore, new doctors and teachers should be sent to the countryside. To what
extent do you agree or disagree?
Poor facilities have been found as a common sight of rural areas. To improve this situation,
some suggest that new doctors and teachers should be assigned with tasks in the
countryside, but not in urban areas. There are some strong arguments for tins suggested
solution.

The first is that hospitals, clinics and schools are severely understaffed in rural areas,
compared with their overstaffed counterparts in the city. The imbalance of resource and
staff has chronic effects on the well-being of rural people. Lack of education or medication
has made them among the most disadvantaged in a country. Allocating new doctors and
teachers to those areas can at least provide a temporary solution. Besides, it helps address
the issue of distributing the graduates from medical school and normal college, with filling
those vacancies for physicians and teachers in rural communities.
To the doctors or teachers that graduate freshly with a degree only, working in rural areas
enables them to enrich work experience within the shortest possible period of time.
Opportunities are scarce in the city, where numerous candidates are in the race for a single
position. The chance of raising standards through practice is so meagre that it will over
time hamper rural practitioners' career development and will make them uncompetitive in a
skill-based society. Facility shortage to many doctors in the country is an opportunity,
instead of a challenge. They are in a position to rely more on clinical skills than on
sophisticated equipment. For teachers, they teach with few teaching aids. All contribute to
the increment of their skills.
Despite those benefits, the place of work should be chosen by doctors or teachers
themselves and compulsory assortment is not justifiable. It is not ethical to stop the desire
of individuals for a more satisfying quality of life. Needless to say working in rural areas has
many issues to address, working conditions, transport and housing. For this reason, those
graduates who volunteer to take rural employment deserve a better pay as
a recognition of their contribution and also as an incentive.
From what has been discussed, working for a period of time in the country can benefit new
teachers and doctors alike with increasing their work experience and meanwhile, address
the service shortage facing those areas. However, the voluntary sign-up should be
guaranteed, instead of compulsory assignment.
1. assign = appoint = send = allocate
2. vacancy = position = post = job opportunity
3. physician = doctor = general practitioner = surgeon
4. meagre = scanty = slim

5. recognition = acknowledgement = appreciation = respect
6. incentive = motivation = encouragement = inducement
Topic 34: Some findings have revealed that cities around the world are growing
large. Could you outline the possible causes and predict consequences?
Of those issues that have concerned the government, academics and the public throughout
the world, urban sprawl is one of the most prominent. There are conflicting views toward
this growing trend. While it has been taken as a positive development in many newly
emerging cities, it is increasingly perceived as a threat to rural environment and considered
as a trigger for numerous urban problems. The objective of this essay is to evaluate the
forces behind this trend and its consequences.
Population growth is widely recognised as the primary reason. The room in the city centre is
so limited that it fails to provide enough housing to accommodate an ever-growing
population. Another problem that has intensified in the inner city is infrastructure shortage
and poor conditions of buildings. Lack of amenities, such as water and electricity supply,
waste disposal, swage treatment, to name but a few, has left no choice to urban
dwellers but to resettle in the suburbs, where they have easier access to new facilities
City dwellers are not always moving outward unwillingly. The continued increase in
household incomes gives renewed impetus to urban development. People nowadays have
higher expectations for quality of life and a growing appetite for lower-density housing
with a larger open space. It is possibly the main reason why the real estate market has its
focus now on the outskirts of the city, but not on the centre. In the meantime, the
affordability and ubiquity of car ownership has made transport a less serious concern for
those living in suburbs. They can commute daily between the place of work and the place
of residence with ease.
The sustained expansion of cities will make a marked impact on the society in several
dimensions. The high traffic volume between suburbs and urban areas would cause severe
air pollution and reduce the lands suitable for fanning. Urban sprawl requires large
developments, causing areas to lose some of their unique qualities and characteristics. From
the economic perspective, the relocation of a high population in suburbs will pose adverse
fiscal impacts on the local government in infrastructure construction. To those who used to

live in suburbs, the inflow of new inhabitants woulddamage the community spirit and
make relations between neighbours fragile.
Urban sprawl is, therefore, a trend which has a strong effect on the environment,
communities and government budgeting. When urban decay and citizens' desire for higher
standard of living make this trend irreversible, the emphasis should be placed on planned
and sustainable development.
1. amenity = facility = service
2. disposal = clearance
3. treatment = handling = dealing
4. to name but a few = to mention but a few = and so on = and so forth
5. renewed = new
6. impetus = momentum = thrust = drive = force
7. quality of life = living standard = the level of comfort and wealth
8. real estate = property = housing
9. outskirt = suburb = the periphery of a city
10. in the meantime = meanwhile
11. ubiquity = prevalence = popularity