Diocesan Girl's School
2022-2023 Form 6
Writing Booster
Topics: One-sided Argument
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2.1 How to judge the argument ?
A.You may use these possible formats……
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essay
article
letter to the editor
debate
personal letter
others e.g. online reply
1. General style
1. Title
2. Tone
3. language Use
Point to note :
● You need to write down your title (except for
Letters and Debate Speeches.)
● Use of formal tone
● Use of polite but strong tone
● Use of formal languages
● Use of strong words to convince readers of a belief
or a thought
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2.2Articulating the opening
A. Title
Method
By Direct statement
By idiom
By(Rhetorical)Question
Examples
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Say no to X / A farewell to X
Do away with X
X- the key to Y
X is a must
High time for X
Zero tolerance to X
X-A laudable policy
X be nothing if not valuable
X-a boon or bane
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●
●
●
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better late than never
X- a leap in the dark
Don’t put the cart before the horse
It’s never too late to mend
Many a little makes a mickle
● Is it really worth it ?
● Does it really pay?
● Does [title]?
● [svo],really?
e.g.Cancelling PE lessons improves students’
results ,really?
By Dilemma
Point to note :
Some exceptions :
1.
● [svo]-To be or not to be?
● [svo]-A boon or bane
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2.
Example 1 :
(Pulling Down the school building for redevelopment ) (08CE Q2)
The Queen’s Pier ,Lee Tung Street ,and Sai Yee Street ,to name but just a few
-all of them bear a marked similarity -they failed to escape the poor destiny
of being demolished to make way for modern fashion stores and commercial
buildings despite their historical and cultural value. Now our school comes
under threat as well - a part of it is going to be pulled down for
development.While some may contend this move brings about lots of
benefits,after serious consideration in the long run as a whole ,I am firmly
convinced that such a move is a leap in the dark ,regardless.
Example 2:
The demolition of heritage in Hong Kong has sparked vigorous debates in
recent years.The poor destiny of the Star Ferry Pier is one the case s setting
off controversy.Now, our school is faced with the similar situation,as part of
it is going to be polled down for redevelopment.This simply raises a
question:should it be sacrificed for the development of the city ?Divergent
as people's opinions on this issue are ,in my view ,the school building
should by no means be taken down .
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Reference (1) : Diction bank for the introduction
Function
Expressing
Concern/Opinions
Useful patterns/Expressions
● I am writing to express/voice /air my
(concern/opinions about)
● I am writing to express my sentiments regarding …..
● I am writing to express my opposition to ….../express
my discontent with /show my support for …...
Introducing a general
belief
It is (public knowledge /to every knowledge /known to
everyone /a well-known ) fact that +SVO
It is (well/generally /widely /universally recognized
/acknowledged /believed ) that+SVO
(X) is deeply (entrenched /rooted /embedded ) in most
people's minds .
Introducing a
phenomenon /current
problem
Recently,SVO
(Recently /In recent years/These days /Over the decades
),SVO.
It has recently been brought to my attention that + SVO.
An increasing number of people+VO.
In the old days,SVO .Nowadays/These days /currently/As of
now /In this day and age ,SVO
Gone are the days when SVO.Nowadays ,SVO .
It is commonplace for sb. to-inf .
It is (not uncommon /common) to see that +SVO.
it is (not surprising /comes as no surprise ) that ….
One of the most prominent trends is that +SVO.
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With just a few clicks on the keyboard and the mouse ,you
will (glance/come across / take a glance at ) …..
When we (glance/take a glance at )
newspaper ,... comes across.
Every now and then ,we (stumble upon /come across )
news about [phenomenon].
(Flick through /Turn over /Flip over ) the newspapers and
we are constantly flooded with numerous headlines about
[phenomenon].
With (looking over /rolling down) the webpages of X ,you
will glance [phenomenon].
It is (no longer rare /commonplace to say ) that SVO
It is commonplace for N..
N.
be nothing but frequent appearance
be present everywhere/
be everywhere to be seen .
(an ursurage/a prevalence ) in N.
Ever since (the presence of /the emergence of ) N. ,SVO.
A wave of N. hit down [where].
[SVO] in every corner of the world .
Every time /Whenever /Each time +SVO, SVO.
It is (no longer news /not news ) that +SVO .
It is disconcerting /worrying /distressing /alarming
/discouraging ) to see that +SVO
It is a sad fact that ….
A long-standing /burgeoning problem in many societies
throughout the world is …..
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….is by no means worrying .What is alarming ,however ,is
that SVO
It is a sad fact that SVO
A (long-stang /burgeoning) problem in many societies
throughout the world is …..
……….is by no means worrying .What is alarming
,however,is that +SVO.
A research study conducted by [organization ]
(reflects/shows/indicates/tells us that )+SVO
Attracting attentions
…….has aroused grave concern /graded
considerable attention/caught the attention of ….
The concern today is over ….
...be the talk of the town .
...has attracted /received widespread media coverage .
Something that concerns the overwhelming majority of
people in today’s society is ……..
…...has attracted /received widespread media coverage.
….(has caused a stir / caused a sensation /aroused much
reverberation)
Stating Other’s opinions
Those who believe that ….. suggest that +SVO.However
/Nonetheless /Nevertheless/On the contrary ,some point
out that ………
While some may cling to the idea that +SVO ,some may be
against that +SVO.
People have diametrically opinion on …
People ‘s opinions on …[issue] are
(divergent/diverse/varied).
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Attitudes towards on ….differ widely .
Advocates /Supporters hold the idea that +SVO,while
opponents fear that +SVO.
While some may ( believe /think/hold the view /hold the
idea /put forward the idea / insist /argue /claim /assert
/contend /propose /suggest /point out /state ) that
+SVO,SVO
Raising a Question
….raises certain questions about ….
Is it really worth it to …….
Is ….tantamount to …..?
Does ...mean…?
Should…?
Sparking Controversy
………...has been a subject of
debate/contention/controversy.
has( sparked /triggered /stirred up /fueled/produced/
engendered/provoked/given rise to /set off )much debate.
(heated / fierce / vigorous / impassioned / intense) debate
Fierce/Raging/Vigorous/Much controversy surrounds
A bone of contention exists over….
in the city/ in the territory /in the local
Giving the stance
It is my (firm /strong /fervent /unshakable ) belief that
+SVO.
I am of the opinion that +SVO .
I am inclined to the view that +SVO.
It is my (argument /contention) that +SVO.
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I would like to (argue /contend) that +SVO.
I would like to firmly point out that +SVO.
It seems /appears to me that +SVO.
As for me / As far as I am concerned / In my opinion / From
my point of view /Personally ,SVO
Expressing Agreement
agree with /support /be supportive of /show support for /be
behind / be in favor of /subscribe to /embrace / endorse …
….should give the green light to …./go the thumbs-up to …
do more good than harm to .../the advantages of A
outweigh the drawbacks
Expressing
Disagreement
object to / oppose /be opposed to /frown upon /
disapprove of /disagree with / be against /bot subscribe to
/dispute …
do more harm than good to …
the drawback of ...outweigh the advantages
Giving a Definition
Ask yourself what …..means before giving an answer to
whether +SVO. In fact,....is ….
What is meant by ….?
….is defined as /has to do with ..
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Reference (2) :ways of thinking
Political
● law enforcement
● government
(e.g. legislation /supervision /administration and management /cooperation )
● public interests
● public order
● social stability and prosperity
● public opposition
● military development
● diplomacy /world peace
Economic
● financial concern
(e.g. capital / cost =money /revenues /human resources /affordability
/incentives /exploitation /use of resources /use of energy /employment
opportunities
● time
(e.g. timing /time-consuming )
● productivity
● competitive edge
● reputation /image
● infrastructure
● industry /workplace
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Social and Cultural
● education
(e.g. education system /students /schools /teachers /relationship
/harmony/school’s stuff/student’s stuff )
●
● interpersonal relationship
● entertainment industry
● sustainability
(e.g. effects on the next generations +balance of SEE)
● nationalism /sense of belonging /sense of pride
● health (e.g. physical /mental ) / safety
● family and friends (e.g. parents /relatives e.g. the elderly )
● sports
● food
● tourism
● social evils
(e.g. inequality /discrimination/wealth gap /illiteracy rate /abuse of
freedom/privacy )
● teenage problems and thoughts
● perception and mindset / emotions
(e.g. conservative /immature )
● personal preference /hope /dream
● standards of living /quality of life
● voluntary work /charity work
● foreign cultures
● ethics (e.g. moral vs immoral /humane vs inhumane )
● human rights
● legality (e.g. legal vs illegal )
● religions
● popular culture /trend
● globalization (e.g economic/political /culture )
● social responsibility
● personalities (e.g. hard-working /persevering /creative )
● skills (e.g. exposure /communication skills /interpersonal skills )
Environmental
● pollution
● use of energy
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● climate
● natural disasters
2.2 TOPIC SENTENCES
1. Key words
2. Directional ( +ve/ -ve)
3. Generalization
( No any specific details)
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Example 1 :
(Pulling Down the school building for redevelopment ) (08CE Q2)
Point : people living in rural areas urgently need our support
Another point I would like to put forth is that tackling the problem of poverty
and excessively high illiteracy rates in rural areas is of greater urgency
because many of our compatriots there are living in fear of deadly diseases
,for example ,AIDS ,and children have no access to education .
Example 2:
Another point I would like to put forth is that giving the donation to basic
healthcare and education in rural areas in China can improve our
compatriots ‘living standards .
Example 2 :
(Raising Funds for China) (09UE Q3)
1. Stance: Basic healthcare and education in rural areas should receive the
money.
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2. Point: Chian’s image > can be promoted with a rise in people’s living
standard
Example 1:
Another point that should not be overlooked is that the image of China will
be promoted in the long run if healthcare and education in rural areas are
improved.
Example 2:
Another point that should not be overlooked is that the image of China will
be promoted, as the overall improvement in people’s living standards will
receive international applause.
General Topic Sentence
The First Main Paragraph > The first sentence*******
➔ The (reasons/ justifications) to which my stance can be
( ascribed/ attributed) are manifolds.
➔ The reasons for my stance are manifold/ twofold/ threefold, with …..
being the most significant one.
➔ The bases for my position are as follows.
➔ There is no (shortage/ lack) of (reason for/ justifications for) my
stance.
➔ A number of reasons can account for my stance.
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➔ A number of factors contribute to my belief that +SVO.
➔ There are (two / three) ( primary/ root/ major causes) of this.
The First Main Paragraph > The second sentence*******
➔ (To start with/ To begin with/ To commence with/ First of all/ For at
start/ In the first place/ First and foremost/ Above all), SVO
➔ The first (springing to / coming to mind/ recurring to my mind/ popping
into my head) is that +SVO.
➔ Among/ Of all these, the most significant/ crucial point to consider is
that SVO.
➔ ….. is chief among all these.
➔ First and foremost, it should be noted that+SVO.
➔ The primary reason that can count for my stance is that+SVO.
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➔ One very strong argument for my stance is that +SVO.
➔ To start with, we must bear in mind that+SVO.
➔ First and foremost, it is (of paramount/ vital importance) that we
understand that+SVO.
➔ First and foremost, my stance can be attributed to / ascribed to the
fact that+SVO
➔ A good point to start is SVO.
➔ First and foremost, (in the context of…../ as far as….. is concerned/
considering……… / in the field of……../ with regard to….../ with respect
to ….../ when it comes to ……../ when we talked about ……..), SVO.
➔ First and foremost, there is no doubt/ denying/ question that +SVO. // It
is beyond (doubt/ dispute/ question) that + SVO.
The second Main Paragraph
➔ (Also/ Besides/ In the second place/ Second of all/ In addition/
Additionally/ Moreover/ Furthermore/ What is more), SVO.
➔ It (might/ should) also be noted as SVO.
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➔ Closely (associated with/ connected with/ linked with) this is that SVO.
➔ What is also worthy of our attention/ notice/ worth noticing is that
+SVO.
➔ What must also be taken into consideration/ taken into account is that
SVO.
➔ Another factor always overlooked is that +SVO.
➔ Another justification deserving our attention is that +SVO.
➔ I would also contend that+SVO.
➔ What is more (adj.) is that +SVO.
➔ It is also of paramount/ vital importance that we understand that
+SVO.
➔ What comes next should be……
➔ In addition to / Apart from / Alongside/ Aside from/ Besides……., (in no
way/ on no account/ on no condition/ by no means / under no
circumstances) should we overlook…..
➔ In addition to / Apart from / Alongside/ Aside from/ Besides……., it is
self-evident/ evident/ apparent/ patent/ clear/ obvious that +SVO.
➔ In addition to ……, there is no doubt/ denying/ question that +SVO. //
It is beyond (doubt/ dispute/ question) that + SVO.
➔ In addition to……., (in the context of…../ as far as….. is concerned/
considering……… / in the field of……../ with regard to….../ with respect
to ….../ when it comes to ……../ when we talked about ……..), SVO.
The third Main Paragraph
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➔ Last but not least, SVO.
➔ In addition to / Apart from / Alongside/ Aside from/ Besides……., (in no
way/ on no account/ on no condition/ by no means / under no
circumstances) should we overlook…..
➔ In addition to….., it cannot be too often restated as SVO.
➔ In addition to ……, there is no doubt/ denying/ question that +SVO. //
It is beyond (doubt/ dispute/ question) that + SVO.
➔ In addition to……., (in the context of…../ as far as….. is concerned/
considering……… / in the field of……../ with regard to….../ with respect
to ….../ when it comes to ……../ when we talked about ……..), SVO.
2.3 Content
Type 1 :______________________________________
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Type 2 :______________________________________
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Time to note:
Logic
WHY
1.Current problem
2.+VE/-VE
3.purpose
4.other potential reasons
How to elaborate?
1.explain the TS
elaboration skills
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Example 1: Canceling PE lesson (12DSE PP)
POINT : put the health of student at risk
Example 1: Incorporation of Drama into lesson (12 DSE )
POINT : improve interpersonal skills
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2.3 small conclusion
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General Small Conclusion
➔ Therefore/ Thus/ Consequently/ As a consequence/ As a
result/ Accordingly/ Hence/ Because of these), SVO.
➔ S, therefore, VO.
➔ (With this in mind/ Under this line of thinking/ From this
perspective/ In view of this/ In light of this/ Judging from
this/ Based on the (above/ aforementioned/ mentioned ) /
Due to the (mentioned/ above/ aforementioned), it is ( clear/
obvious/ apparent/ patent/ evident/ self-evident ) that +SVO.
➔ With this in mind, (it is without doubt/ it is beyond doubt/ it
is beyond question/ there is no denying/ no one can deny
the fact/ it cannot be denies/ it is undeniable/ it is an
undeniable fact / it is irrefutable/ it is indisputable/ it is
beyond dispute/ it is an incontestable truth) that +SVO.
➔ With this in mind, we can simply dismiss the claim that
+SVO. // it makes little sense to uphold the claim that +SVO.
➔ This, (no doubt/ undoubtedly/ irrefutably/ indisputably/
beyond doubt), (explains/ accounts for) why +SVO.
➔ The above simply justifies an unshakable view that + SVO.
➔ It is with…… that .
➔ It is for this reason that I am behind the view that + SVO.
➔ It is……. that contributes to the validity of the claim that
+SVO.
➔ It is against these backdrops/ backcloths that +SVO.
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Skill
Rhetorical Questions:
Based on the above, isn’t it (absurd/ preposterous/
ridiculous/sarcastic/ ironic) for sb. to-inf. ?
Should +SVO+ after taking into account the above
consequences?
So why should +SVO?
Elaboration
Why
1.
2.
3.
4.
Current problem
+ve/-ve
purpose
other potential reasons
How to elaborate your points?
Skill 1
Reason
● SVO (as /since/ because/ for/ in that/ in the sense that/ given that/
granted that/ on the grounds that) +SVO
● SVO ( because of/ due to/ owing to/ with/ out of / thanks to/ given/
granted/ on the grounds of) +N.
● N. (is caused by /attributed to/brought about by) + N.
● N. (results from /stem from /arises from) + N.[reason]
● The reason for/ justification for/ the rationale behind) …….is that SVO.
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● The reason why SVO is that SVO.
● SVO (so as to/ in order to) +V. . // SVO ( for the purpose of / with a
view to) V-ing.
● It is not difficult to understand the reason behind
● Other related patterns
Time to note:
E.g.
There is no gainsaying that a fair legal system is one of the most important
qualities an international city should have. Such a system serves as a rudimentary
element of a city of prominence as it protects the safety and property of citizens. It
is not difficult to understand the reason behind- with a just legal system, all
walks of life, ranging from the poor to the rich, from the young to the aged, and
from the erudite to the illiterate, are entitled to a legitimate channel to seek justice.
Every citizen can be treated equally regardless of his background. And those
committing crimes will suffer punitive consequences as a result of their behavior.
These all undoubtedly act as a deterrent for would-be criminals and therefore
help maintain public order. On the contrary, in a city without a fair legal system, the
influential can get away with their illegal acts given the judiciary system has come
under their control, while the disadvantaged have no option but to be ruthlessly
exploited. Enraged at such justice, the latter may well take to the street to air their
grievances. In this case, not only will public order be disrupted, social harmony will
be impaired as well. A fair legal system, therefore, is a stepping stone to a
thriving city.
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Skill 2
impact
● For this very reason/ Because of this / Owing to / Due to, SVO
● Therefore/ Thus/ Hence/ As a result/ Consequently/ As a consequence/
As such, SVO
● SVO, so SVO.
● This can ( lead to/ result in/ cause/ give rise to/ bring about) …..
● This in turn +SVO.
● SVO, V-ing ( Present participal phrase)
● SVO, (thereby/ thus/ in turn / consequently) V-ing.
● This means + SVO // SVO, which means +SVO.
● This explains why SVO.
● (Through/ With) +N., SVO.
● (With this in mind/ Under this line of thinking), SVO.
● (In this way/ manner), SVO.
● …...would then VO.
● There are a number of consequences. One of them is ……
● This has the inevitable result of +SVO.
● ….is a (natural result/ corollary / consequence) of this.
● The final effect is that +SVO.
● One of the benefits/ positive effects would be ……
● This can (harm/ do harm to / pose harm to/ pose a threat to) +N.
● One of the (disadvantages/ drawbacks/ downsides/ negative effects/
problems/ repercussions) would be
Time to note:
E.g. Admitting Mainland Students to Local Universities
One of the most noticeable benefits of admitting mainland students to local
universities in our territory is that the general students’ quality will be
upgraded. It does not take much to realize that local university students are often
blamed for being too self-centered and lazy. This explains why many employers
show reluctance to take on fresh graduates despite their high academic
qualifications. In contrast, it is public knowledge that students coming from the
mainland often study indefatigably with a view to winning scholarships. In this
regard, they can certainly serve as a role model for local students. Admitting
them, as a consequence, can give rise to an improved learning atmosphere at
the campus, resulting in an enhancement in the overall standard of students. This
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will in turn sharpen students’ competitive edge. Therefore, in the long run, it is
local students who can reap benefits from the practice. Based on the above, it is
worthwhile admitting our compatriots to our universities.
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Skill 3
Comparison ( Now v.s. Past)
●
●
●
●
●
Unlike…… in the past, SVO.
Before……., SVO.
( In the old days/ In the past), +SVO.
( Nowadays. In this day and age/ As of now/ These days), +SVO.
Gone are the days when +SVO. Nowadays, +SVO.
Time to note:
E.g. Incorporation of Drama into Education (12 DSE Q3)
Another noticeable benefit of drama is that it affords students the chance to
acquire some indispensable soft skills. Gone are the days when society needed
talents merely with flying colors on their papers. Nowadays, communication
and cooperation skills are of vital importance in the workplace. The stark fact,
however, is that most teenagers nowadays are often criticized for lacking such
skills. In this regard, drama can surely do wonders for them. During practice and
performance, students need to communicate the emotions and intellect of various
characters and interact with the rest of the cast. Their verbal and non-verbal
communication skills can thus be enhanced. It should be also noted that the
success of a play hinges on the performance of the whole team rather than that
of an individual alone. Therefore, to give a dazzling performance, a class of
students must combine the creative ideas and abilities of other participants through
processes like discussing, negotiating, and rehearsing. In this way, they can be
taught how to collaborate with others as well. Judging from these, drama
should be incorporated into lessons.
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Skill 4
Comparison ( Positive aspect v.s. negative aspect)
●
●
●
●
●
●
Without +N., SVO . However, with +N., SVO.
SVO+ (only with / only through) ……
SVO unless +SVO
(However/ Yet), SVO
(In contrast/ By contrast/ On the contrary), SVO.
Conversely, SVO.
Time to note:
E.g. Cancelling PE Lessons (12 DSE PP Q6)
In the first place, canceling PE lessons will further cause students’ health to
deteriorate. It is well recognized that many children in our territory, if not all,
lead an unhealthy lifestyle. Recent statistics even reveal that the overwhelming
majority of students in the city are suffering from obesity- related problems. This
is actually due in large part to their fixation about technological gadgets and the
resultant lack of physical exertion. PE lessons, which allow students to work out
twice a week, are thus a must to let them burn calories. Another point to be noted
is that by engaging in physical activity and physical stretching on a regular basis,
children’s antibody level will be lifted and their pressure from studies will be
alleviated. In view of this, if PE lessons are removed, more and more children are
doomed to be plagued by obesity and other health problems
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Skill 5
Pure Comparison
●
●
●
●
●
●
True/ No doubt / Undoubtedly, SVO. However, SVO.
Although/ Though +SVO, SVO.
Despite/ In spite of / Notwithstanding +N., SVO
At first glance, SVO. On closer examination, SVO.
On the face of it, SVO. (Indeed/ In fact), SVO.
Other related patterns
● On the one hand, SVO. On the other hand, SVO.
● Other related patterns
● (Likewise/ Similarly/ By the same token), SVO // SVO; (likewise/
similarly), SVO.
● Meanwhile/ In the meantime, SVO.
● Both….. and ……. VO.
● Other related patterns
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
However/ Yet / Still/ Nevertheless/ Nonetheless, SVO.
SVO. But + SVO. // SVO, bút +SVO.
SVO, while / whlist/ whereas+ SVO.
(In contrast/ By contrast/ On the Contrary), SVO.
Unlike/ Contrary to……, SVO.
Conversely, SVO.
Instead, SVO.
Other related patterns
Time to note:
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E.g. Big Business is not only about making money ( 11UE Q2)
Another point worth noticing is that big business is not only about making money
as they bear social responsibility. Irrefutably, when it comes to big business, it is
not difficult for people to conjure up pictures of the avaricious corporations
making far profits by hook or by crook. However, the true picture is that while
some of them are slammed for being too money-minded, some enjoy an enviable
reputation, given that they give a hand to the needy in the community. MTR
Corporation is a case in point. True, it does make big bucks every year, but it does
stretch its caring hands to the disadvantaged in our society in the meantime
through activities ranging from donations to charity events. Another striking
example is Standard Chartered, which is committed to making significant
contributions to the areas of youth and education and supporting Hong Kong’s
development as a great place to live and work. These all convey a clear
message to us: big business is not only about making money.
Skill 6
Example
● For example/ For instance, SVO
● Take…….+ as an example, SVO / Take, for example,..... // Take …..for
example
● Let’s take an example…..
● SVO, such as / like/ namely ……..
● Take look at….
● Consider the case of……
● …… is a case in point
● SVO, ranging from ……. to ……
● A (vivid/forceful /clear/classic/ evident/ striking/ phenomenal)example
is ….
● …...is a (vivid/forceful /clear/classic/ striking/ phenomenal)example
● Do you remeber..?
● According to ….,.....
● A research study conducted by [association /organization]
….reflects/shows/indicates/tells us that
● ………….., which can substantiate this point.
● Imagine a situation: …………….
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●
●
●
●
●
●
Imagine SVO. SVO
I remember vividly that ….
I can still remember the scene …
From my experience,....
I also had such an experience that ……
As the saying goes, ‘......................’ (Proverb/ saying)
Quote
●
●
●
●
●
Common sense tells us that SVO.
History tells us that SVO.
Science tells us that SVO.
The Bible tells us that SVO.
Statistics / Figures tell us that SVO.
Time to note:
E.g. Qualities of the president of the Students’ Union (12 UE Q4)
Great creativity is something that the leader of our Students’ Union should have to
inject new ideas and freshness into a member of a party. Steve Jobs is a case in
point. Not only was he knowledgeable about managing his company, but he also
brought innovation to the company by introducing an array of top-notch products,
ranging from iPhones to iPads, which sharply boosted the company’s sales.
Likewise, if the leader in the Students’ Union is creative enough, he can organize
some innovative activities, be it academic or extra-curricular, for our school
members. Example include holding a video-clip making competition to allow
student to exercise their imagination, organizing a reality show to satisfy their
insatiable curiosity about schoolmates, and launching a school reporter
programme to keep them up-to-date with the things happening don campus, all of
which would for sure spice up students’ monotonous school life.
E.g. Big Business is not only about making money ( 11UE Q2)
Another point worth noticing is that big business is not only about making
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money as they bear social responsibility. Irrefutably, when it comes to big
business, it is not difficult for people to conjure up pictures of avaricious
corporations making far profits by hook or by crook. However, the true picture is
that while some of them are slammed for being too money-minded, some enjoy an
enviable reputation, given that they give a hand to the needy in the community.
MTR Corporation is a case in point. True, it does make big bucks every year, but
it does stretch its caring hands to the disadvantaged in our society in the meantime
through activities ranging from donations to charity events. Another striking
example is Standard Chartered, which is committed to making significant
contributions to the areas of youth and education and supporting Hong Kong’s
development as a great place to live and work. These all convey a clear message
to us: big business is not only about making money.
Skill 7
Parallelism
● (With/ Without….), SVO ; (with/without………..), SVO ; and (with/
without…….), SVO.
● If SVO, SVO; If SVO, SVO; and If SVO, SVO.
● Other related patterns (SVO; SVO;SVO)
Time to note:
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Skill 8
Classification
●
●
●
●
For….,..... . For…..,...……
As for /As to / About /Regarding /Concerning ….., ……..
In the short run ,..... . In the long run ,......
Other related sentence patterns
Time to note:
E.g. Objecting to Nuclear energy (12 DSE PP Q.7)
One of the most significant demerits of using nuclear energy is that nuclear leaks
could possibly occur. Simply take a look at the nuclear disasters in Fukushima,
Japan in 2011 following the relentless earthquake and tsunami, and you will realize
how devastating the impacts of a radiation leak could be. In the wake of Japan's
catastrophe, a multitude of problems have cropped up. In the short run,
survivors suffered phobias and nightmares resulting from their dreadful ordeal. In
the long run, children have become vulnerable to cancer. Besides, tourists have
become unwilling to pay a visit to the country for safety reasons, further dealing a
severe blow to the Japanese tourism industry and economy. We can also take a
look at another nuclear disaster in Chernobyl in what is now Ukraine in 1986.
Hundreds of thousands of people needed to be resettled and there was
permanent damage to the environment. Much to our sadness, it is estimated that
nearly a million people died, mainly of cancer, as a result of the accident. The
above tragic episodes all serve as a warning about the dangers of nuclear energy.
Clearly nuclear power is not the best source of energy for the future.
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Skill 9
Supposition/ Condition
●
●
●
●
●
●
If SVO,SVO.
SVO ( as long as / so long so/ insofar as) +SVO
SVO ( providing that/ provided that ) +SVO
imagine SVO.SVO
Imagine a situation:........................
Other related sentence patterns
Time to note:
E.g. Movie stars staging extravagant weddings (09UE Q2)
The primary reason why I do not subscribe to the view of the critics is that
celebrities are entitled to the right to decide on the scale of their own weddings,
and we simply do not have any right to interfere. Imagine you were the groom.
Would you want your once-in-a-lifetime event to be shaped by a batch of social
idealists who make a fuss about the way you arrange it? The answer is absolutely
no. After all, staging a wedding is a milestone of everyone’s life. As long as the
wedding can bring you great happiness, you would like to give the best to it.
Movie stars should be no exception. It should be noted that we are living in a
civilized and liberalized society in which freedom is highly valued. Insofar as the
weddings do not encroach upon others’ rightful interests, the movie stars can
make them as sumptuous and extravagant as possible.
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Skill 10
Elaboration Lengthening
●
●
●
●
In this regard /In this field /In this respect /With this in mind ,...
What I mean is that ……
In other words, …..
In fact/ In actual fact/Actually/As a matter of fact /Indeed,....
● (No doubt /Doubtless / without doubt),......
● As far as I know,....
● It is (clear /obvious /lucid/manifest/open-and-shut/widely
acknowledged)that
● It is an undeniable fact that SVO.
● (There is no doubt that/ It is without doubt / beyond doubt/ beyond
question that )+ SVO.
● Other related sentence patterns
●
Time to note:
E.g. Big Business is not only about making money (11UE Q3)
It might also be noted that our society will be severely damaged if big business is
only about making money. What I mean is that when a big business regards
making money as its only target, many people will beyond doubt suffer. The
disaster caused by Lehman Brothers deceiving many speculators into buying lots
of risky bonds has shown how tragic the outcomes arising from the misconduct of
a large corporation could be. The company profiled a lot at the expense of the
innocent. In fact, investment banks like Lehman Brothers are present everywhere,
meaning if they only aim at making money, more miseries, irrefutably, will ensue. In
this regard, more and more people will suffer financially. From the above, it is
patent that big business should not be only about making money for the sake of
society and citizens.
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Specific skills
V.S. question
Time to note:
12 DSE Q.2
Learning English through Sports Communication
You have been following an online debate in Health and Fitness eMag about the
value of doing virtual sports (such as those played on a Wii) versus real sports.
Write your view on the topic and post it on the online form.
12 DSE PP Q.7
Learning English through Debating
You are a member of the school debating club. Your club is entering a debating
contest and the motion is Nuclear power is the best source of energy for the future.
Decide whether you are for or against the motion and write your debate speech.
The members with the best speech will be chosen to represent the school at the
competition.
13UE Q3
Most redevelopment in Hong Kong is concerned with providing new homes and
offices. You strongly believe that more space in redevelopment projects should be
given to sports facilities. Write a letter to the editor of the Hong Kong Post,
expressing your views and supporting your arguments with reasons.
09UE Q.3
Students and parents from your school have raised a large sum of money for
China’s development. The school principal is now asking students for their opinion
as to which one of the following two initiatives in China should receive the money;
(i) further space exploration; or (ii) basic healthcare and education in rural areas.
Write a letter to the principal, saying which initiative should receive the donation
and why it should not be given to the other.
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04UE Q2
Your school has decided to take part in a voluntary work project in one of two
major areas: helping Either poor elderly people or primary school children newly
arrived from the mainland. Your class teacher is collecting opinions from the class
in the form of essays written by the students. Write your own essay, outlining your
personal preference and starting at least three reasons to support your choice.
Give your essay a title.
04 UE Q3
Your friend, Lucy Lau, has won a major singing competition and has been offered
a recording contract. She has also been offered a place at the police training
school to become a policeman. She cannot decide which offer to accept and has
written to ask for your advice. Write a letter in reply advising her to accept the
place as a police cadet and giving reasons why you feel that this would be a better
choice for her. Sign your letter ‘Chris Wong’. Do not write any address.
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2.4 Conclusion
General concluding statements:
● Taking all aspects into (account/ considerations), (it is clear that/ it is
my firm conviction that/ I am firmly convinced that) +SVO
● ( All in all / On the whole/ On balance/ Overall/ All things considered/
To reiterate/ In conclusion/ To sum up/ To summarize/ To round up/ In
summary/ In short/ In brief), SVO.
● Based on the above (rationales/reasons/justifications/analysis), SVO.
● After careful examination/ serious consideration, SVO.
● Judging from the above, we can finally (draw/come to /arrive at ) the
conclusion that + SVO.
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Example
E.g. School lunch policy (10UE Q.3)
Taking all aspects into consideration, it is clear that the policy will do more harm
than good. The feasibility of the plan, students’ freedom of choice, and some other
serious problems stemming from the decisions should be factored in. It is
earnestly hoped that the school could respect our opinions and cancel the rule.
E.g. Incorporation of drama into education ( 12DSE Q.3)
Taking all aspects into consideration, it is evident that drama should be
incorporated into lessons. Not only can it improve students’ command of
English, it can also stimulate their creativity and teach them a wide range of soft
skills. Given these benefits, I do hope that parents can give drama a go!
E.g. Big business is not only about making money (11UE Q3)
Taking all aspects into consideration, it is manifest to everyone that big
business should not be only about making money; instead, they should bear
social responsibility, help the community and stabilize the local economy. It is
earnestly hoped that large corporations in Hong Kong aim not only at making
big bucks but also at contributing a big part to our society. After all, the price our
society needs to pay for the existence of unsympathetic business is heavy.
E.g. Obsession with physical beauty (12DSE Q6)
All in all, obsession with physical beauty does more harm than good to humans.
We have to bear in mind that it is being submerged in vanity that will put a
great strain on our finances; it is being fixated about breast augmentation and
double eyelid surgery that will put our health in jeopardy; and it is being
obsessed with extrinsic beauty that runs counter to the very intention of God
who wants to grant everyone of us a unique appearance. In view of these, it is my
earnest hope that people will pursue beauty in a more sensible way. After all, the
consequences of obsession with physical beauty could be beyond remedy.
E.g. Qualities of International cities (11UE Q.3)
Judging from the above well-documented analysis, it is patently clear that equal
opportunities, good education, and a fair legal system are the most important
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qualities that shape a city of prominence. It is equal opportunities that grant
citizens chances to climb up the social ladder; it is good education that can
convert barbarity into civilization; and it is a fair legal system that can prevent the
disadvantaged from being exploited. It is earnestly hoped that Hong Kong could
be well equipped with these qualities in order to turn herself into a better city.
E.g. Obsession with Physical Beauty (12DSE P2 Q6)
All in all, obsession with physical beauty does more harm than good to us. We
have to bear in mind that it is being submerged in vanity that will put a great strain
on our finance; it is being fixated about breast augmentation and double eyelid
surgery that will put our health in jeopardy; and it is being obsessed with extrinsic
beauty that runs counter to the very intention of God, who has granted every one
of us a unique appearance. In view of these, it is my earnest hope that people
will pursue beauty in a more sensible way. After all, the consequence of our
obsession with physical beauty could be beyond remedy.
E.g. Installing Apps on Children’s Mobile Phones (16 DSE P2 Q4)
For the above reasons, I do believe that parents installing apps on children’s
mobile phones is an unwise act. It is monitoring children in such a way that
deprives children of their freedom; it is such an invasion of children's privacy that
worsens parent-child relationship; and it is such an act that stifles children’s
critical thinking. Parents would do their kids a big favor when they finally unplug
from the online world of their children.
E.g. Graduates seeking job opportunities in Asian cities (16DSE P2 Q.3)
All in all, it is seeking job opportunities in other Asian cities that better fresh
graduates’ career prospects, that equips them with transferable skills which could
breathe life into our economy, and that enables them to make significant
contributions to our society. Therefore, I hold firm to the idea that Hong Kong
graduates who fail to find a good job in Hong Kong should seek opportunities in
other cities in Asia.
E.g. Installing Apps on Children’s Mobile Phones (16 DSE P2 Q4)
All in all, it is evident that parents should not install surveillance apps on
children’s mobile phones. We have to understand that it is these apps that deter
children from developing self-discipline and shatter mutual trust between the two
parties. Parenting is about love and care, rather than rules and supervision. It is
earnestly hoped that parents will stop using these apps.
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E.g. Filming Movies in the city Centre (14 DSE P2 Q.4)
Judging from the above, we can come to the conclusion that filming movies in
the city center should be allowed. It is the high-quality movies filmed in the city
center that would benefit the economy and promote our city’s image. It would be a
shame not to capitalize on Hong Kong’s unique landscape, cultural diversity, and
economic vibrancy.