WRITING REVISION

Writing task 1: 1-2-3-4

Format:
1) The given line graph compares/ illustrates + subjects + places + time.
2) Overview:1. order (1’, >), 2. trend
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that A recorded/ registered the
highest figures over the period, whereas the opposite was true for D. Additionally, most
(subjects) witnessed an overall upward/ downward/ stable/ fluctuating trend, except D.
(*No data!)
3-4) Body paragraphs:
B1: In the first year, A topped the list at ? (full unit), ? higher than/ double the
corresponding figure for B. Compared with these two, the figures for C and D were
(slightly/ significantly) smaller at ? and ?, respectively. By (a special year), * A had
reached a peak/ bottom at ?, while …
*B had overtaken/ surpassed A to become the most … out of the four.
B2: In the last year, after/ despite …, A stood at/ amounted to ?, the biggest number in
the chart (in that year). Similarly/ In contrast, B grew/ declined modestly/ substantially
to/ by ?. Meanwhile, there were minimal/ dramatic increases/ drops in C to ? and D to ?.

1) LINE GRAPH (FUTURE)

1. Country A expects/anticipates/ will see a dramatic change in banana sales.
2. A dramatic change is expected/anticipated/ will be seen in banana sales in country A.
3. It is expected/anticipated/predicted/projected/forecast(ed) that banana sales will change
dramatically in country A.
4. There will be a dramatic change in banana sales in country A.
5. Banana sales are likely/set to change dramatically in country A.
* Future perfect: (By)
Will + have + p.p
IS/ARE expected to + have + p.p

The graph below shows the percentage of people in different age groups in one city
who attended music concerts between 2010 and 2015.
The given line graph compares five different age groups in a particular city based on their
music concert attendance rates from 2010 to 2015, at one-year intervals.

Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that concert-going was most

prevalent among 16-24-year-olds over the period, whereas the opposite was true for
those aged 75 or above. Additionally, most groups witnessed an overall upward trend in
attendance rates, save the 55-64 one.

In 2010, people between the age of 45 and 54 topped the list, with just over half of them
(approximately 52%) going to concerts, about 12% higher than the corresponding
figures for the 16-24 and 25-44 age groups. Compared with these three, a significantly
smaller percentage of (the) 55-64-year-olds (around a quarter) attended music concerts,
which was almost 2.5 times higher than the figure for those aged 75 plus. By the year
2011, the youngest group had overtaken the 45-54 age range by nearly 15% to become
the leading group at almost 55%.

In 2015, after years of steady growth, the proportion of concert goers aged 16-24
reached a peak at a(n) staggering/impressive 70%. Similarly, the numbers for the 25-44
and 45-54 cohorts increased slightly to hover around 50% each. While the attendance
rate of the 55-64 age bracket declined modestly to close to 22%, that of the oldest
group, despite/notwithstanding an almost twofold/double increase, remained lowest at
nearly 20%.

*hover around = stand at around

The 16-24 (age) group = Those/people aged between 16 and 24 = Individuals between the
age of 16 and 24 = The 16-24-year-olds = The youngest (age) group

The 75-plus (age) group = Those aged 75 or above = Those aged 75+ = The 75-and-
over-year-olds = The oldest group

2) BAR CHART
COMPARISON LANGUAGE

1. “BLE”, “PLE”

Half (n, a) 🡪 halve (v)

Double (a, v) 🡪 doubly

The figure for A doubled from 2 to 4.

The figure for B (4) was double that of A.

Triple (a, v)

Quadruple (a, v)

Quintuple (a, v)

Sextuple

Septuple

Octuple

2. “FOLD”

Twofold

Threefold

Increased twofold (adv)

A twofold (a) increase

3. “TIMES”
Twice (adv)

Three times = thrice

Four times

Twice smaller

Increased three times

Twice as many females as males are attending Ms. TN’s class.

I have twice as much money as my sis does.

TASK 1: The bar chart below shows the amount of money invested in each category
from five organizations

The given bar chart compares five different organizations based on their budget
allocation for various areas of investment, namely machinery, building, staff training and
research.

Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that the priority of investments

varies from one organization to another*. Overall, organization B is the leading investor,
whereas the opposite is true for organization D.

* Building is the biggest area of investment for most organizations, except B and C.

In terms of staff training, organization B tops the list, allocating a total of approximately
1.9 billion Euros to this sector, significantly higher than the corresponding figures of four
other organizations that range from about 0.7 to 1.2 billion. Similarly, organization B
boasts the biggest budget for research projects with a staggering 1.6 billion. The figures
for organizations A and C hover around 1.2 billion each, almost double those of
organizations D and E.
A different pattern can be seen in machinery and building. Regarding the former, the top
investor is organization C with nearly 1.3 billion, while the spending of others falls
between 0.8 and 1 billion. As for the latter, it is organization A that invests most heavily
at close to 1.5 billion, closely followed by organization B at exactly 1.4 billion.
Meanwhile, the investments of the remaining institutions amount to 1 billion each/apiece.

In terms of = concerning, regarding, as regards, as for

The charts below show the main reasons for study among students of different age
groups and the amount of support they received from employers.

The bar chart given compares students of different ages based on their study reasons and
how much support employers give them.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that the proportion of students
studying for career declines with age, whereas the opposite is true for that of those
studying for interest. Additionally, the two youngest groups receive more support from
the employer than others.
An overwhelming majority of the under-26-year-olds (80%) study for career-related
purposes, exactly eightfold the figure for students in the same age range that study out of
interest. The gap between these choices narrows as students get older. The figure for the
two is the same among students aged 40-49, just above 40%. From the age of 50, 7 in 10
students study out of pure interest, while almost a fifth cite career as a reason to study.
In terms of employer support, the youngest group tops the list at approximately 65%. The
26-29- year-olds come second, with around half of them receiving support from
recruiters. The figures for the two oldest groups hover around 40% each. Meanwhile,
students aged 30-39 are least likely to obtain help from their boss.

3) TABLE
1’:
1. toppd the list, took the lead, headed the table
2. took the first place/position
3. the first place/position was taken/held by
4. at the top place was
2’:
1. 1’, … higher than the corresponding figure for
2. 1’, followed by …
3. took the second (biggest) place
4. the second place was taken by
5. at the second place was
6. came (a close) second
7. ranked second
3’
4’:
Took the bottom place

TASK 1: The table shows the export values of various products in 2009 and 2010.
The given table compares five different categories of products based on the value of their
exports in the two years 2009 and 2010.

Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that equipment was by far the most
valuable exported product in the first year, but it was later overtaken by telecommunity.
Additionally, most categories witnessed an upward trajectory/trend in export earnings,
save clothing and manufacturing, and metals recorded the fastest growth.

In 2009, equipment topped the list at a total of 10.3 billion HK dollars, 2.4 billion more
than the corresponding figure for telecommunity. Compared with the former, the figures
for clothing and manufacturing were almost twice smaller at 6 and 5.5 billion,
respectively. In that year, metals lagged behind all others at a mere 2.3 billion.

By the second year, the aggregate export value had seen a 20% increase from 32 to 38.4
billion, around a third of which was contributed by telecommunity, whose value had
amounted to 12.7 billion after a 61% increase. With a slight growth of 13%, equipment
generated 11.6 billion and thus saw its dominance challenged by telecommunity.
Meanwhile, the earnings of the other three were almost the same, ranging from 4 to
around 5 billion. Yet, the gap between their change rates was astonishingly wide, with
metals having a staggering growth of 122% and clothing and manufacturing recording
negative changes of 17% and 27%, respectively.

The table below gives information about the average annual spending of university
students in three different countries.
The table given compares three different countries based on the average yearly spending
of their college students.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that country A records the highest
total spending, whereas the opposite is true for country C. Additionally, in each country
surveyed, most of the budgets go to accommodation, food and leisure.
Country A dominates the chart of total spending, with $5000. The figure in country B
comes a close second at $4500, triple that in country C. Accommodation is the biggest
expense in the first two countries, accounting for 45% and 35% of the total budget in
countries A and B, respectively. Meanwhile, food makes up the largest proportion of
annual spending of students in country C, just above a third. As for leisure, students in
country A and country B allocate around a quarter of their money to this category, almost
double the figure for those in the third country.
The yearly spending of students on remaining items is negligible in all three countries. In
terms of books, at the top place is country C (21%), followed by country B (9%) and
country A (3%). Students expend 8% on other items in country A, compared to 5% and a
mere 1% in countries B and C, respectively.

4) PIE CHART(S)
Verbs:
1. hold, constitute, represent, occupy, comprise, contribute
2. account for, make up, take up
3. be responsible for
4. go to
5. come from = be sourced/produced/derived from
6. amount to = total
7. belong to
Nouns:
1. percentage, proportion, share, rate, level
2. the total/sample
3. the lion’s share = the (overwhelming) majority = most
4. a small fraction, a portion
5. the remainder/rest
Adjectives
1. The remaining …%
NUMBERS:
5%: one-twentieth = one in twenty
10%: one-tenth = one in ten
15%: just over one-tenth, 15%
20%: a fifth, one-fifth
25%: a quarter
30%: three-tenthS = three in ten
33%: a third
40%: two-fifths
45%: just under half
50%: half
55%: just above half
60%: three-fifths
66%: two-thirds
70%: seven in ten
75%: three-quarters
80%: four-fifths
85%: …
90%: nine-tenths, nine in ten
95%: …
99%: almost 100%
100%: all, the total, entire

The two pie charts below show the online shopping sales for retail sectors in Canada
in 2005 and 2010. (20’)
The pie charts given compare four different categories of retail items based on their
Internet sales records in Canada in two years, 2005 and 2010.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident electronics and appliance registered
the highest figure in the first year, and the same held true for food and beverages in the
second year. Additionally, electronics/appliances and home furnishings saw an upward
trend in their share, whereas the opposite was the case for the other/remaining two
categories.
In 2005, electronics and appliances topped the list, accounting for just above a third
(35%) of the total online sales for four retail sectors surveyed, exactly 10% higher than
the corresponding figure for home furnishings. Compared with the share of the latter, that
of food and beverage was slightly smaller, constituting 22%. The remaining 18%
belonged to video games, whose share was nearly half that of the biggest category.
In 2010, after a dramatic increase, the percentage of internet sales of food and beverages
amounted to 32%, the highest figure in the chart in that year. A similar upward pattern
could be seen in the category of video games, the figure of which had grown 5%. In
contrast, there were drops in the numbers for the other items. Specifically, the proportion
of electronics/appliances declined slightly to 30%, exactly double (a) that of home
furnishings.

5) PROCESSES
FORMAT: 1-2-3-4
ARTIFICIAL PROCESSES
1. The given diagram/picture illustrates/compares the way in which/ how sth is done (for
… purposes).
2. Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that … is a manmade
linear/cyclical process (*that requires various equipment and machines/ that requires a
combination of both human labor and machines/ that is rather straightforward><complex
and lengthy). Additionally, there are a total of … main steps involved in that process,
beginning with … and culminating in …
3. In the first step, …, after which … so that …
… subsequently …
Once this has been completed, … (, followed by … and …)
4. In the fifth step/ In step five, … where … to …
Following this, … before/ prior to …
Having been + pp, … are ready to/for …
The process ends when the finished products are …
The diagram below shows the process for recycling plastic bottles.

The given picture illustrates the way in which plastic bottles are recycled for commercial/
reuse purposes.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that the reclamation of plastic bottles
is a manmade cyclical process that requires a combination of both human labor and
machines. Additionally, there are a total of nine main steps involved, beginning with the
collection of used plastic bottles and culminating in the marketable final products.
In the first step, old containers made of plastics are deposited at designated garbage
dumps, after which they are loaded onto trucks and transported to the processing center.
At the facility, they are then manually sorted so that non-recyclables are removed. Once
the classification has been completed, the remaining recyclables are tightly compressed
into blocks.
In step five, the newly compressed blocks are crushed/smashed into tiny pieces using
large cog-wheels. Following this, these pieces are thoroughly washed in a huge tank in
order for impurities to be removed before being poured into a pellet-producing machine.
Having come out of the machine, the pellets are heated to create raw materials. These
materials are then packed and ready to be used in the manufacture of various consumer
goods ranging from bottles and other containers to clothes and pencils. The process
begins anew when these products are discarded and await being recycled for further
usage.
The diagram below shows the process of manufacturing ceramic pots.

TASK 1: The picture given illustrates the way in which ceramic containers are
manufactured.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that ceramic pot production is a
man-made linear process that requires various machines and equipment. Additionally,
there are total of 10 steps, beginning with collecting raw materials and culminating in the
final products.
In the first step, clay is excavated using a huge digger, after which the material is
transported to the processing facility where it is put on a conveyor belt. Pieces of clay
then drop into a machine to be finely crushed twice. Once this has been completed, clay
is mixed with water in a cylindrical tank and subsequently poured into moulds to take
shape.
In the sixth step, the newly molded pots are dried between 4 and 6 hours. Next, they are
removed from the molding equipment to be assembled in a kiln. Having been baked in
the kiln at a high temperature of 1000 degrees Celsius, they are ready to be colored. The
process ends when the pots are subjected to color firing and become the finished
products.
The picture given illustrates the way in which ethanol fuel is made from corn.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that ethanol fuel production is a
man-made linear process. Additionally, there are a total of nine main steps involved in
that process, beginning with harvesting raw materials and culminating in delivering the
final products.
In the first stage, corn is harvested and stored, after which it is finely milled. Water is
then added and the mixture is cooked for 4 hours. Once the cooking step has been
completed, the mixture goes through the fermentation process that takes two days.
In the sixth step, the compound is separated so that by-product solids can be removed.
The remaining liquid substance is subsequently purified for 5 hours to eliminate
impurities. Having been in the pure form, ethanol is put up for storage, ready for the next
step. The procedure ends when the fuel is transported to its destinations.

The diagrams below show the development of the horse over a period of 40 million
years.
The given pictures illustrate the way in which the horse, especially its foot structure, has
evolved over the past 40 million years.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that horses have grown significantly
in size over time. Additionally, while prehistoric horses had phalanges, modern-day ones
have distinctive hoofs.
The horse that existed 40 million years ago was scientifically termed Eohippus. It was far
smaller than its next descendant, Misohippus. Fifteen million years later came the horse
called Merychippus with a longer tail, a more fully formed mane and an erect posture
similar to that of today’s horse. Nowadays, the horse is noticeably larger, taller and more
muscular.
Similarly, the foot structure has changed remarkably. Eohippus is showed to have had
five distinct digits, 2 digits more than the next two generations of horses. Even though
Misohippus and Meryhippus shared the same number of toes in each of their foot, the
middle toe found in the latter was markedly bigger than that of the former. By the modern
day, however, the toes have merged into a single hoof and the joints have been more
developed.
The picture shows the process of making wool.

The given diagram illustrates the way in which sheep wool is made into various items.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that wool production is a man-made
linear process that is a combination of both manual labor and machines. Additionally,
there are three main phases involved in the procedure, beginning with harvesting raw
materials, followed by the processing of fibers and culminating in the finished consumer
products.
First, sheep have their coats sheared, after which these coats are spread onto a flat surface
and thoroughly washed so that impurities can be removed. The fleeces are then ready to
be dried. Once this has been completed, the fibers are spun into wool pieces using a
special piece of equipment, and any woolen byproducts are recycled.
By the next step, the newly formed pieces have been bunched together into tufts and
stored. Having been stored for a while, the tufts are turned into balls of yarn of different
colors. The process ends when the yarn is used to craft/fashion knitwear or
fabricate/manufacture a variety of goods, from garments to tapestry.

NATURAL PROCESSES

The given picture illustrates the way in which frogs

develop/grow/transform/metamorphose during their life cycle.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that the development of the frog is a
natural cyclical process (that lasts …). Additionally, there are a total of six main stages
involved in that process, beginning with reproduction and culminating in mating.

In the first stage, the female frog lays a number of eggs onto the surface of water bodies
such as ponds. After a while, the frogspawn hatches and tiny tadpoles whose bodies are
almost half the length of their tails emerges. Over time, the hind limbs of the creatures
start to form to navigate the water more easily and adapt to their later terrestrial life.

By stage four, the tadpoles have developed into froglets with a shorter tail and newly
formed front legs. Having been living underwater for a period of time, the frogs reach
maturity when they lose their tails and begin a transition onto the land where they
continue to grow bigger in size. The cycle begins anew when these amphibians are fully
grown and ready to mate.

The diagram shows the life cycle of the honey bee.

The picture given illustrates the way in which honey bees develop during their life cycle.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that the development of the honey
bee is a natural cyclical process that lasts between 34 and 36 days. Additionally, there are
a total of five stages involved in that process, beginning with laying eggs and culminating
in the full growth of honey bees.
In the first stage, female honey bees lay one to two eggs at three-day intervals. Between 9
and 10 days later, the eggs start to hatch and creatures called nymph wriggle their way
out of egg shells. The moulting of the nymph then takes place three times, with the
creature growing bigger each time. Specifically, five days after the hatching of eggs, the
nymph sheds its skin for the first time. This happens again 7 days later and another 9 days
later.
In the fourth stage, young adult bees appear. It takes these bees four days to reach
maturity when they are significantly larger in size. The cycle begins anew
when these insects are fully grown and ready to reproduce.

6) MAPS

FORMAT: 1-2-3-4

The given pictures illustrate the way in which a place changed between … and …

Looking at the illustation, it is immediately evident that some old features were still there,
whereas the opposite was true for some others (, including/especially …). Additionally,
over the span/course/period of … years, the place underwent a number of dramatic
transformations in terms of infrastructure, residential areas and *facilities.

In the second year, … remained intact, and so did … However, … disappeared/vanished.

Similarly, … was demolished to make way for …

By that year, changes had been made to other features, the most noticeable of which was
… The newly built … While … was reduced in size, … was expanded and then
repurposed into …

The given pictures illustrate the way in which the seafront area of a town named Darwin
changed/developed from 2009 to 2014.
Looking at the illustration, it is immediately evident that some old features were still
there, whereas others such as industrial zones were removed. Additionally, over the
period of five years, the place underwent a number of dramatic transformations in terms
of not only transport infrastructure, housing areas and green spaces but also recreational
and academic amenities/facilities.
In 2014, inside the circular footpath network in the north, the lake remained intact, and so
did the trees. However, the nearby industrial zone was replaced by the newly-built
swimming pool. Meanwhile, no changes were made to previous facilities adjacent to the
footpath, with the school, the convention center, two swimming pools and the fishing
area stretching along the northeastern seashore staying untouched.
However, by that year, the town had witnessed various developments in the southern part
of the waterfront, the most noticeable of which was the addition/construction of the
harbor connected/linked to the main road via the footpath. The footpath ran through a
green area that was once (= used to be) a vast industrial zone. Other developments
included the erection of the university and the doubling (n) in the number of housing
units found in the central area.

TASK 2:
ESSAYS
Format: 2-5-5-1/2
Intro:
1. Paraphrase the question (synonyms, word forms, active/passive voice, …)
2. Thesis statement (based on the question type)
Body:
B1:
1. Topic sentence (There are two main reasons why …)
2. First, since/as/because/ given that S+V, S+V. (Main point 1)
3. In fact, S+V. (Supporting sentence 1)
4. Second, when S+V, S+V. (Main point 2)
5. This means that S+V, which … (Supporting sentence 2)
B2:
1. Topic sentence
2. By + V-ing, S+V. (MP1)
(In order to + V-inf, S+V)
3. For example, S+V. (SS1)
4. Furthermore, if S+V, S+V. (MP2)
5. As a result, S+V, V-ing … (SS2)
Conclusion
1. In conclusion, summarize main points and restate your opinion.
(2. Relevant recommendation)

TASK 2:
ESSAYS

Format: 2-5-5-1/2

Intro:

1. Paraphrase the question (synonyms, word forms, active/passive voice, …)

2. Thesis statement (based on the question type)

Body:

B1:

1. Topic sentence (There are two main reasons why …)

2. First, since/as/because/ given that S+V, S+V. (Main point 1)

3. In fact, S+V. (Supporting sentence 1)

4. Second, when S+V, S+V. (Main point 2)

5. This means that S+V, which … (Supporting sentence 2)

B2:

1. Topic sentence

2. By + V-ing, S+V. (MP1)

(In order to + V-inf, S+V)

3. For example, S+V. (SS1)

4. Furthermore, if S+V, S+V. (MP2)

5. As a result, S+V, V-ing … (SS2)

Conclusion

1. In conclusion, summarize main points and restate your opinion.

(2. Relevant recommendation)

1) OPINION ESSAYS (AGREE OR DISAGREE)

TOPIC: CRIME

QUESTION: Prison is the common way in most countries to solve the problem of crime.
However, a more effective solution is to provide people with a better education. Do
you agree or disagree?

It is believed that providing education deliverS greater effectiveness than imprisonment

in tackling the issue of crime. This notion is fundamentally unjustified as these two
measures are equally effective in the fight against crime.
On the one hand, there are two primary reasons why education plays a crucial role in
curbing crime rates. First, given that some break the law due to their ignorance of the
legislation, raising the public’s legal awareness potentially helps reduce unnecessary
offences. For example, thanks to road safety education programs, there have been
fewer violations among residents in certain remote areas of Vietnam. Second, when
inmates are released after serving their sentences, they should receive/ be given
vocational training. (Being) equipped/armed with necessary sets of work skills, they are
more capable of making (able to make) an honest living and therefore less likely to
display anti-social behaviors or turn to crime.

On the other hand, the effectiveness/importance of incarceration/ incarcerating

criminals [t] in crime reduction must not be underestimated. By putting criminals to jail,
authorities can make them responsible/accountable for their wrongdoings. In prison,
these criminals are deprived of freedom and this/such form of punishment may act as a
deterrent against/to potential offenders. Furthermore, felons, such as rapists and serial
killers, must be kept behind bars in order to ensure the safety/security [u] of
communities. If they were simply released after a few educational programs, they would
likely/potentially recommit offences, which would undermine social security.

In conclusion, education and prison [c, u] are effective at slashing delinquency in their
own ways/ in equal measures. Governments should therefore strike a balance between
the two in an effort to ease the crime situation.

TOPIC: EDUCATION

University education should be free to everyone, regardless of income. To what extent

do you agree or disagree?

It is believed that tertiary studies need to be made easily accessible to people of all
economic backgrounds. This notion is fundamentally flawed as a free-for-all university
education makes no financial and educational sense.

On the one hand, there are two main groups that are apparently entitled to a tuition-
free higher education. First, since studying at university typically involves astronomical
fees, most underprivileged students tend to struggle to cover the costs to finish their
study. Without full funding from the government, these students will be deprived of a
chance to graduate from university, lowering their earning potential and probably
undermining their ability to break the vicious cycle of poverty. Second, when those with
outstanding achievements are rewarded with free tuition, students have more incentive
to apply themselves to learning. In Vietnamese universities, for example, merit-based
scholarships equivalent to or exceeding tuition are exclusively offered to the best
students and this has motivated many to achieve the highest GPA possible to be eligible
for them.

On the other hand, on no account should a tuition waiver (mien hoc phi) be applicable
to all undergraduates as such a policy would be both financially and educationally
irrational (= unreasonable). In monetary terms, by providing all-inclusive tuition fee
exemption, universities would run the risk of lacking necessary resources to ensure
quality teaching and learning experiences. It makes more sense for these institutions to
charge other groups of students so that they can collect revenues for operation
expenses, be they payroll or utility bills. From an educational perspective, if all
individuals could freely access third-level education, they would likely take it for granted
and put little effort in their learning. As a result, the academic outcomes of university
courses would potentially be reduced, compromising their appeal (= attractiveness) and
value.
In conclusion, as appealing as the idea of a free tertiary education might sound, it should
only be applied to certain groups of students, namely the deprived and the academically
brilliant. (= If) Were it to accommodate (= serve) all, not only would universities be
woefully (= sadly) underfunded but the students might also lose much-needed
motivation to succeed academically.

2) DISCUSS BOTH VIEWS (AND GIVE YOUR OPINION)

TOPIC: SPORTS

Some people think that governments should ban dangerous sports, while others think
people should have freedom to do any sports or activity. Discuss both views and give
your own opinion.

Opinions are divided regarding the pursuit of extreme sports. While some suggest states
should outlaw it, others, myself included, think otherwise.

On the one hand, there are two primary reasons why dangerous sports are proposed to be
banned by law. First, given that these activities inherently involve high risks for
participants, an outright ban is believed to prevent unnecessary casualties. In fact,
traumas and deaths inflicted on individuals attempting extreme sports including car
racing and mountain climbing are not unheard of, thus justifying the preventative action
from the government. Second, when people attempt high-risk sporting activities in public
places, they tend to pose a threat to others’ safety. This has been evidenced by the injuries
and demise of spectators when daredevils perform hazardous stunts that get out of hand
in ractracks.

On the other hand, on no account should the government impose a total ban on all
atheletic activities perceived to be dangerous. By outlawing extreme pursuits,
governments potentially render them all the more appealing to those addicted to the
adrenaline rush. As thrill-seekers strive to circumvent the law, they might pursue their
hobby discreetly, which deprives them of essential help in case of emergency.
Furthermore, if an activity is deemed potentially perilous, protocols should be given to
participants and organizers to ensure public well-being. This can mean certain sports can
only be practiced in designated areas with safety procedures implemented such as
installing protective netting and impenetrable barriers, otherwise there will be zero-
tolerance punitive measures.
In conclusion, while some cite lurking dangers to both participants and bystanders as
reasons for extreme sports to be publicly banned, proponents of such sports are of the
opposite opinion. What is needed is not just a ban, but rather official guidelines as to
where and how risky activities can be attempted.

TOPIC: EDUCATION

Some people think that schools should choose students according to their academic
abilities, while others think it is better to have students of different abilities studying
together. Discuss both views and state your opinion.

Opinions are divided regarding the best model of class organization. While some
advocate for streaming, others, myself included, see greater merits in mixed classes.

On the one hand, there are two primary reasons why grouping students based on their
academic competence is believed to be beneficial for learners’ personal progress. First,
since average students are placed in the same class, they can study at their own pace. In
fact, they can be assigned with level-appropriate tasks, hence more motivation to
complete their assignments. Second, when the academically able are grouped together,
teachers can easily tailor their lessons to meet their pupils’ individual needs. In classes
offered exclusively to gifted Math students, for example, instructors have more scope to
assign the mathematically inclined with more challenging problems to help them reach
their potential in that subject.

On the other hand, I would argue that on no account should the overwhelming mental and
practical benefits of mixed classes be underestimated. From the perspective of weak
students, put in a lower class, they are likely to feel being labeled and thus experience the
stigma of inferiority that they might carry with them even after they leave school.
Meanwhile, mixed classes promote egalitarianism in schooling in the sense that all
students are given the same opportunity to access basic knowledge. In terms of brilliant
ones, if they study with their less capable peers during their school years, they will learn
how to cooperate with those of various strengths and weaknesses across different subjects
in the curriculum. This will help them brace for their future workplace where they will
have to deal with people of various backgrounds rather than merely associate with their
like-minded counterparts.

In conclusion, as advantageous as grouping students is to the process of learning and

teaching in the short term, the long-term positives of mixed-ability classes are more
significant. Schools should therefore follow the latter model and can further support
different types of students with extra special lessons.

TOPIC: TRADITIONS

Some people feel that young people should follow the traditions of their society.
Others, however, believe that young people should be free to behave as individuals.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Opinions are divided regarding the level of freedom young generations are entitled to
enjoy in their behaviors. While some suggest they should conform to long-standing
social norms, others argue otherwise and advocate for individual free will instead. From
my personal perspective, a balance between tradition observation and free choice
practices are beneficial to both individuals and society.

On the one hand, proponents of traditional customs point to their ability to nurture
one’s sense of belonging and promote national identity. Since the young generation is
bound together by the same code of conduct, they are more likely to experience a
feeling of unity. In fact, the more they observe and uphold their country’s traditions, the
more invested they feel in the cause, hence their sense of patriotism. Also, when the
young consciously comply with well-established sets of norms, they can contribute to
preserving their distinctive national identity. Due to the preservation of the tradition of
wearing Ao dais till this day, for example, these costumes have become the emblematic
images of Vietnam, easily recognizable by people from other countries. On the other
hand, I would argue that blindly following traditions is far from advisable and on no
account should individual judgments be underestimated. By accepting customs as they
are without questioning their rationality, young people potentially fall into the vicious
cycle of endorsing backward practices. This is evidenced by the woeful rampancy of
underage marriages in some remote areas of Vietnam, where teenagers are led to
believe that marrying young is traditionally encouraged. Furthermore, contrary to
popular belief, allowing the young some freedom of choices does not necessarily erode
traditional values. To illustrate, if Vietnamese young people can don their clothes of
choice, be they Western-style garments or Korean-style outfits on normal days, and
exclude their ethnic wear for special occasions such as weddings and national holidays,
the uniqueness of traditional attire will be further appreciated.

In conclusion, while conventions ensure national cohesion and distinctiveness,

individuality helps select the proper conventions for these purposes. Each person should
therefore strike a balance between these two in their everyday life.
TOPIC: ZOOS

Some people think that zoos are cruel and should be closed down. Others however
believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals. Discuss both opinions and
give your own opinion.

People tend to hold differing views about the necessity of zoos. While some advocate for
an outright ban on these institutions, others, myself included, see greater merits in
properly managing them.

On the one hand, there are two primary arguments put forward by zoo opponents. First,
animal rights are severely violated when they are kept in cages or closed spaces and
deprived of a chance to roam freely in their natural living environments. In fact, some
wild creatures are being kidnapped from the wild and put in illegal zoos across the world.
Second, another argument against the zoo is that animals there are deliberately abused for
commercial purposes. In some Asian zoos, for example, wild elephants are tamed and
rigorously trained to the point where parts of their bodies are deformed so that they can
skillfully perform feats to entertain guests. This is not to mention the fact that some of
them are whipped and starved if they disobey the orders of zoo keepers.

On the other hand, it would be irrational to completely phase out the zoo at least for now.
By keeping rare species in designated areas within the zoo, staff can perform their
conservation tasks. For example, they are able to keep track of the health records of these
species, facilitate their captive breeding process and release them back to the nature once
they are ready. Furthermore, if the zoos are properly managed, they have potential to
provide opportunities for the public to gain further insight into the activities of not-
everyday animals such as their sleep patterns, feeding routine and mating habits. Once
individuals better understand the animal world, they will learn to respect animal rights to
life and take concrete steps to safeguard these rights by campaigning against projects that
infringe on wild habitats or donating to wildlife conservation programs.

In conclusion, zoos have raised moral questions due to some unjustifiable practices in ill-
executed ones However, given the zoo’s far-reaching implications for animal
preservation and public awareness, those with a proper license should continue their
operation.
PROS VS CONS

In some countries, more young adults continue to live with their parents even after
they have completed education and found jobs. Do the advantages outweigh the
disadvantages?

In some parts of the world, it is increasingly quite the norm for fully grown adults to
continue to stay with their parents. Despite some short-term benefits regarding financial
and emotional support, they fail to justify the long-term drawbacks for all those involved.

On the one hand, this living arrangement can help the young save living costs and
maintain the bond with their family members. In terms of finance, since young adults stay
with their parents rather than buy a new house or rent a flat to live on their own, they are
spared from enormous accommodation expenses they might otherwise have to incur. That
is not to mention the utility or grocery bills that they are likely to economize on as well.
From an emotional standpoint, when individuals live close to their family, they have a
chance to retain their familial connection. In fact, through daily family meals, face-to-
face interactions and intimate conversations, members of the family can check in on each
other regularly and provide support or sound advice amid crisis.

On the other hand, even with the best of intentions, living under the same roof with one’s
parents is bound to result in a fair share of monetary issues and hurt feelings. By
continuing to take their fully fledged children under their wings, parents are likely to
burden themselves with extra expenditures. In the worst-case scenario, their children
might not be sensitive enough to contribute to household expenses and become loafers.
Furthermore, if educated and employed adults fail to move out, they probably have to
accept the deprivation of privacy as part of the deal and resent their parents as a result. In
Vietnamese families, for example, no matter how old the child is, as long as he or she
does not leave the nest, every aspect of their life from work to dating is closely monitored
by their parents, making them feel stifled and resentful.

In conclusion, as beneficial as it is for grown-ups to share the same living space with
their parents, moving out seems to be a healthier option in the long run. That way, parents
are freed of childcare responsibilities that are no longer theirs, while children can enjoy a
taste of an independent life.

More and more students are choosing to study at colleges and universities in
foreign countries. Do the benefits of studying abroad outweigh the drawbacks?

It is a well-known fact that students have increasingly chosen to pursue higher

studies in other countries. Despite certain/obvious drawbacks associated with this
phenomenon, they are far outweighed by the overwhelming benefits.

On the one hand, there are two primary disadvantages to undergraduates’ choice to
study abroad. First, since overseas students live far away from home, they tend to
experience loneliness and homesickness, especially during the first few months. In
fact, most of them have to handle the challenges of university life in a foreign
country on their own, resulting in a sense of isolation and even depression for
some. Second, when students attend tertiary institutions in highly advanced
countries, they inevitably incur astronomical expenses. As a result, they are under a
tremendous amount of pressure to find sources of financial support for their study
via part-time jobs or extra academic work to earn merit-based scholarships.

On the other hand, the positives of an overseas higher education can offset these
negatives. By travelling abroad for college, the young learn to take care of every
aspect of their life themselves such as shopping for groceries, doing laundry and
cooking their own meals. This allows them to develop not only valuable life skills
but also desirable attributes, including independence and responsibility.
Furthermore, if high school graduates embark on higher education in a developed
country, they will likely get exposed to prestigious teaching and training from top
universities, which will boost their employability and earning potential later on. In
Vietnam, for example, the graduates of Ivy league universities are typically highly
prized and thus receive numerous lucrative job offers upon coming back home.

In conclusion, although going abroad for higher study is disadvantageous in the

short term, the long-term benefits justify the costs. Personal growth and better
professional prospects should be allowed to come at the cost of some temporary
emotional and financial trade-offs.
Some people think that it is beneficial for children to do paid work, while others
think that it can be harmful for children.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of children doing paid work?

While some see merits in encouraging children to undertake paid work, others argue
otherwise. Despite some obvious benefits associated with child labor, they fail to justify
the overwhelming drawbacks.

On the one hand, there are two primary advantages to children undertaking work for
money. First, since they have to put in efforts to earn cash, they can realize firsthand the
value of money. They will then hopefully never take hard-earned money for granted and
learn how to manage their finances from an early age. Second, when children start work
earlier, they have the ability to save up for grand plans that they could not otherwise
afford. For example, many Americans work part-time from their teenage years as a way
to have enough savings for their astronomical college tuition and this allows them to
enjoy a debt-free student life.

On the other hand, the glaring downsides are far more significant than these
aforementioned positives. By joining the workforce, children become vulnerable to child
labor exploitation particularly rampant in third-world countries where labor regulations
are not strictly implemented. The employer might circumvent the law and force underage
laborers to perform hazardous, yet underpaid jobs in sweatshops, making them
compromise their health, even their life, for an unfairly meager wage. Furthermore,
school-aged workers are likely to be lured away from their studies to money-making
endeavors at the expense of their future earning potential. In fact, the more children work
for money, the less time they inevitably allocate for schoolwork and once lagging behind,
they will lose interest in education which is the path to higher-paid intellectual lines of
work.
In conclusion, although child labor has produced a number of positive outcomes, they are
outweighed by the shortcomings. Children have more to lose than gain from entering the
world of work, especially if they are unprotected by law and easily allured by short-term
financial gains.

People have different expectations for jobs. Some people prefer to do the same job
for the same company, whereas others prefer to change jobs frequently. Write about
the advantages and disadvantages of each viewpoint?

TOPIC: CAREER MOVES, LIFETIME EMPLOYMENT OR JOB HOPPING

Opinions are divided regarding the best career moves to make. While some opt for
lifetime employment, others see greater benefits in regular job-hopping. Despite obvious
benefits associated with each choice, it is not without drawbacks.

On the one hand, there are both advantages and disadvantages to committing to long-term
work. Since in some cultures, employees with extended tenure are deemed to be more
loyal and dedicated, they are typically rewarded with generous retirement schemes and
other compensation. For example, it is the norm among Vietnamese companies to confer
a golden handshake on retired seniors as a way to honor their dedication and contribution
to the organization. However, when individuals stay in the same job for a prolonged
period of time, they risk falling into the vicious cycle of performing all-too-familiar tasks
automatically. As a result, they lack a sense of challenge in what they are doing and thus
their learning curves stagnate, making their working experiences much less enjoyable.

On the other hand, in spite of certain positives, job hopping is not without its own
problems. By switching to a better-paid job, workers raise their odds/chance of boosting
their earning potential without spending years waiting for a salary raise in a dead-end
position. This is a sensible move for young professionals who can leverage their skills
and zeal to land different roles with ever-higher salary levels. Notwithstanding/despite
this monetary perk, if job applicants have a history of job hopping for no apparent
reasons, it will be a huge red flag for potential recruiters. In fact, the employer is
probably cautious enough to question the work ethic, competence and commitment of
those with job-hopping tendencies because they can prove to be a liability later on.

In conclusion, although each option is beneficial to some extent, it has produced certain
negative outcomes. Workers therefore need to weigh up the benefits against the costs
before deciding on which path to follow.

REASONS & SOLUTIONS

Many students find it difficult to concentrate or pay attention in school. What are the
reasons? What could be done to solve this problem?

It is a well-known fact that many of today’s students have increasingly struggled with
concentration problems. Bad screen time habits have driven this trend, which can be
tackled with the joint efforts of families and schools.

The unhealthy patterns of abusing technologies have led to lower levels of concentration
in school. First, since most young people typically spend late nights browsing social
media sites, they inevitably feel sleep-deprived the next day. As a result of insufficient
sleep, they tend to become haggard and lethargic, compromising their ability to focus
during class hours. Second, when almost all (of the) students boast at least a digital
gadget at their disposal even in class, they can easily access entertaining content, be it a
game, a music video or a movie clip, all of which are understandably more appealing
than lessons. Apparently, the more their eyes are glued to the screens, the easier it is for
them to become distracted from learning.

Fortunately, several courses of actions could be implemented by parents and teachers

alike to improve the young’s focus abilities. In order to discourage children from staying
up too late , parents should impose a curfew on screen time and set a fixed bedtime. In
doing so, they can ensure that their offspring are better-rested and more mentally ready
for the day ahead at school. Furthermore, if instructors adopt the policy of banning phone
use during class, they will likely have more attentive students. In some Vietnamese
schools, for example, form teachers often confiscate phones and only return them at the
end of the school day, which proves to be highly effective in making their students more
engaged.

In conclusion, the increased digital footprint of schoolchildren both at home and at school
has caused their ever-shorter attention spans. By restricting or forbidding the use of
mobile devices, parents and teachers can improve the attentiveness of young learners.

Childhood obesity is becoming a serious problem in many countries. What are the
main causes and problems of this trend?

CAUSES & PROBLEMS

It is a well-known fact that child obesity has increasingly become a public health epidemic in
some parts of the world. Several factors have driven this phenomenon, which is not without
problems.
There are two primary reasons why obesity is becoming a dire issue among children. First,
since modern parents have been working longer hours than ever before, they
understandably allocate an ever-smaller amount of time to preparing healthy home-cooked
meals. As a result, their offspring have to subsist on convenience foods that are rich in
saturated fats and low in nutrients, causing them to gain surplus weight. Second, the more
screen time children have , the less likely they are to engage in physical activities. This
sedentary lifestyle means the young fail to burn extra calories they have consumed and
thus overtime, they become overweight.

Several issues stemming from the rampancy (-) of childhood obesity can be anticipated. By
gaining excessive weight, children are highly vulnerable to various chronic conditions, such
as cardiovascular problems, diabetes and high blood pressure . These debilitating diseases
potentially lower their productivity, negatively affecting their school performance.
Furthermore, if a child is too mentally/psychologically fragile to endure the stigma around
their weight, he or she will become depressed or have self-harm thoughts. This is
evidenced by several cases of overweight American teenagers who turned to suicides [n]
after being bodyshamed by their peers.

In conclusion, a host of root causes behind the rise of obesity in children can be identified.
This development has produced various negative outcomes for a child’s life, both physically
and mentally.

CAUSES & SOLUTIONS

It is a well-known fact that child obesity has increasingly become a public health epidemic in
some parts of the world. Several factors have driven this phenomenon, which is not without
solutions.

There are two primary reasons why obesity is becoming a dire issue among children. First,
since modern parents have been working longer hours than ever before, they
understandably allocate an ever-smaller amount of time to preparing healthy home-cooked
meals. As a result, their offspring have to subsist on convenience foods that are rich in
saturated fats and low in nutrients, causing them to gain surplus weight. Second, the more
screen time children have , the less likely they are to engage in physical activities. This
sedentary lifestyle means the young fail to burn extra calories they have consumed and
thus overtime, they become overweight.

Several courses of action could be implemented to remedy childhood obesity. The

responsibility is for parents to strike a balance between work and childcare so that they can
have more time to prepare nutritious family meals or even better, teach the young how to
prepare such meals. In doing so, they can motivate their children to cultivate wholesome
cooking and eating habits that are crucial to their healthy weight. Furthermore, the onus falls
on schools to supervise students’ screen time and incorporate appealing physical pursuits
into extracurricular programs. If children are more physically active by playing sports or
other outdoor games, they will get rid of more fat and subsequently lower their risk of
becoming overweight.

In conclusion, a host of root causes behind the rise of obesity in children can be identified.
By adopting these above-mentioned measures, parents and school leaders can make a
joint/common/concerted effort to reverse the situation before it spirals out of control.

*PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS:

It is a well-known fact that people in advanced countries have increasingly expected to

live longer than ever before. Despite some obvious problems associated with this trend,
they are not without solutions.

There are two primary issues stemming from increased longevity in the developed world.
The longer people live, the more vulnerable/susceptible they are to a myriad of age-
related illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and alzheimer’s. This can place a
bigger burden on healthcare systems that lack resources to cater to a rising number of
frail old patients. Furthermore, if seniors are not properly insured or have no pension
schemes, their family members will have to bear astronomical costs including care-giving
expenses and hospital bills. As more money is spent on taking care of older members of
the family, there will potentially be a tighter budget for other needs such as entertainment
and child education.

Several courses of actions could be implemented to alleviate the adverse (-) implications
of the extended life span. The responsibility is for states to gear the health systems to the
requirements of the elderly by investing in medical facilities as well as training more
qualified geriatricians. In doing so, they can take the burden off already overloaded
facilities and provide old patients with proper care. Furthermore, the onus falls on
individuals to ensure that they have sufficient health insurance cover and savings for their
retirement years. When they are properly insured and have financial backup, they stand a
better chance of having most of their medical bills covered without making their family
struggle financially.

In conclusion, although an aging population has caused a number of negative outcomes,

there still exist various practical measures. By adopting these approaches, the society has
the ability to reverse the situation before it spirals out of control.

TWO-PART QUESTIONS:
Many developing countries are currently expanding their tourist industries. Why is this
the case? Is it a positive or negative development?

It is a well-known fact that the tourism sector has increasingly been expanded in the
developing world in recent years. Several factors have driven this trend, which has both
positives and negatives.

There are two primary reasons why the tourist industry of many developing countries is
experiencing an exponential growth. First, since such countries see the astronomical
economic potential of that industry, they are making an effort to promote it. In fact,
tourism has been considered the backbone of some Southeast Asian economies, where it
generates not only incomes but also abundant job opportunities. Second, with the advent
of globalization, more and more individuals are seeking to explore the culture in other
parts of the world, hence the growing popularity of outbound tourism. To cater for the
rising demands for overseas cultural experiences, developing countries are expanding
their tourist industries across the board.

Notwithstanding certain financial benefits of that development, it is not without

environmental drawbacks. From a financial perspective, by welcoming an increased
number of tourists, less developed/ poorer countries can earn tremendous revenues.
Tourists tend to cover various costs during their travel such as accommodation, dining
and tourist site entry tickets, all of which provide sources of earnings for those in the host
country. In ecological terms, however, if travellers flock to certain places/areas in huge
numbers, they are likely to leave massive footprints. Some beaches in Thailand, for
example, have had their coral reefs badly damaged due to uncontrollable mass tourism
encouraged by various tourism promotion campaigns.

In conclusion, the rapid growth of the tourist sector of most developing nations can be
traced back to both economic and cultural reasons. As financially beneficial as the
phenomenon is, it might come at the cost of the well-being of the surroundings.