Capital punishment
Read the following points concerning capital punishment. Then, make
the paragraph plan. Finally, write a discursive essay, keeping in mind
the discussion clock. Give opposite opinions for each viewpoint.
"Write a composition discussing the various viewpoints on the
effectiveness of capital punishment."
moral/religious: In the Ten Commandments it states "Thou shall not
kill"; therefore the death penalty is immoral.
- If a person takes somebody's life, then that person
should consequently lose his right to life.
psychological:
Citizens in countries which have the death penalty
may be impressed with the state's strong stand against
violent criminals.
- Citizens may think "life is cheap" if the state is killing
prisoners.
social:
The death penalty would work as a deterrent to
potential criminals.
- In countries where the death penalty is used, the
murder rate has not decreased.
Pargraph plan:
Introduction:
state topic
paragraph 2:
one point of view (moral)
paragraph 3:
another point of view (economic)
paragraph 4:
a third point of view (social)
Conclusion:
give your own opinion based on the points already
mentioned
Capital punishment is a highly debatable subject which always causes
great discussion. Indeed, the United States of America shows the most
marked split in public opinion over the death penalty. Some states still
uphold it while in others it has been abolished.
On moral grounds it would appear that capital punishment is not right,
as no one should be able to make the ultimate decision whether
somebody lives or dies (the Ten Commandments state 'Thou shall not
kill"). However, some people argue that if a person takes another's life, he
loses his own right to live.
From a psychological point of view, it is difficult to predict how the
citizens will react to the existence of capital punishment. On the one
hand, people might be impressed with the state's strong stand against
violent criminals. They could, however, come to think that "life is cheap"
if the state is killing prisoners.
Socially, authorities hoped that the death penalty would work as a
deterrent to potential criminals. But in countries where the death penalty
is still in use, the murder rate has not decreased. Indeed, figures in
America show that crime rates have actually risen in states where capital
punishment is in effect.
The death penalty is a subject which continues to be discussed at great
length. All things considered, I believe that the execution of particularly
horrific murderers is preferable to keeping them in prison. However, no
case is as simple as that, and there will always be reasons why that
person should not have been put to death.
Importance of tourism
Discursive essay
Introduction: state topic
Main body:��-�� economic
benefits�������������������������������������������
��������������������������������������
��������������������-���environmental
changes�������������������������
������������������������������������������������
��������������
��������������������-��cultural aspect
Conclusion: give own opinion
Tourism has become big business over the last thirty years and improved
communications will ensure that it continues to grow. Millions of people travel around
every year, promoting communication and understanding between different nationalities
and cultures. There are various aspects which should be considered when discussing the
impact of tourism on the globalizing world.
The economic benefits tourism provides to a re�gion are clear. Thousands of
people work in the tourist industry, from bar owners to airport workers, and in many
rural areas tourism is essential to the economy. However, jobs are often seasonal and
some thriving summer resorts are nearly deserted in winter time.
Nevertheless, tourism can also dramatically change the land�scape of an area. For
instance, many beautiful beaches have been spoilt by the construction of large hotels
and many villages become neon-lit holiday resorts. Yet it can be argued that numerous
sites and monuments have been restored with money earned from tour�ism.
Many people enjoy visiting foreign cities, muse�ums and galleries. Moreover,
travelling is an excellent way of gaining knowledge of other countries' history and
therefore tourism plays an important role in breaking down negative national stereotypes.
Sadly, many "package holiday" tourists spend their vacation on a beach, rarely even
meeting a local person.
In conclusion, it can be stated that tourism has an important
impact everywhere. In my opinion, it can only benefit a region fully
if it is properly managed. In addition, one should always remember
that there is more to see in a country than its beaches.
(253 words)
The moral aspects of killing animals for the sake of trade and food
Paragraph plan for a discursive essay
introduction: set the topic
paragraph 2: one point of view
paragraph 3: another point of view
conclusion: give your own opinion
To what extent is it morally acceptable to kill animals for the purposes of trade and food?
Some animal lovers insist that it is never acceptable, while many connoisseurs cannot
imagine life without steak.
Advances in the pharmaceuticals trade require the experimentation on, and the death of,
countless monkeys and rats. Since new drugs help maintain human health, this seems
justifiable. Buf a cosmetics company killing a rabbit after smearing mascara on its eyes is
clearly indefensible, as is killing an elephant, an endangered species, to use its tusks for
ivory jewellery.
The use of animals for food is ethically permissible, provided that the animal is well
taken care of while alive, is killed painlessly and is not an endangered species. The whole
animal should also be used - e.g. cow hides made into leather clothes, bags and shoes.
Still, a pro-vegetarian ecological argument can be made against killing animals for meat
altogether: for an animal to produce one pound of meat, it must eat many pounds of grain.
Despite this, some people still believe that life without barbecued sausages is not worth
living.
In conclusion, there is a fine line between acceptable and objectionable uses of animals.
Although animal rights enthusiasts will always be against the use of animals for trade and
food, in my opinion the use of non-endangered species of animals is acceptable as long as
the whole animal is used and that it is killed in a humane way.
(243 words)
The role of the free press
Newspapers and magazines play an im�portant role in today's society
and are capable of influencing people's lives in many ways. The new
electronic media have become even more influential in shaping people�s
opinions, attitudes and behaviour. However, does the free press offer a
valuable service, or is it, as American journalist, Edward Egglestone said,
"organised gossip"?
On a personal level, the media can be very entertaining and informative.
Reading about the lifestyles of the rich and famous is amusing and can
help people forget their own problems. However,� journalists frequently
intrude on the privacy of celebrities, following them and photographing
them in their most intimate moments. This is surely an unacceptable
interpretation of the word "free".
As far as politics are concerned, the free press is important as it often
reveals
the
truth
behind
all
the
speeches
and
accusations.
Unfortunately, most newspapers tend to favour a particular political
party, meaning that their articles are not objective. In addition,
sometimes the information published may not necessarily be entirely
true and thus cause damage to the politicians concerned.
From an educational point of view, newspapers and magazines are an
important source of up-to-date information and in-depth articles,
reporting on both local and international events. What is more, they can
be an invaluable part of a child's education and often expand an adult's
knowledge as well. However, opponents of this view say that newspapers
do not always give correct information and facts are often falsely
reported. Thus, they are not always appropriate learning material for
students.
On the whole, I believe that the existence of the free press is valuable to
the society, as long as its power is used wisely and objectively in an effort
to inform the public, rather than mislead it. The modern society would be
considerably poorer if� censorship was imposed by the government and
as a result, the media would be a means of no importance.
(318 words)
Balanced discussion
For or against eating fast food
Advantages and
disadvantages��������������������������������������
������������������������������������������������
������������������������������������������������
� Introduction: state topic
Paragraph 2: arguments for
Paragraph 3: arguments against
Conclusion: give a balanced consideration or your opinion without using
personal words or expressions
The pace of life in today's fast-moving world is such that many people no
longer have time to do basic household chores, let alone cook. Eating out
in a traditional restaurant is usually too expensive and time-consuming.
For this reason, the consumption of fast food has risen dramatically �
but is this a good thing or not?
The main argument in favour of fast food is the fact that it is convenient,
leaving people with more time to concentrate on more important things.
In addition, service in fast food restaurants is quick and efficient, and
one is able to eat one's meal with a minimum of fuss. Moreover, the food
served is ususally quite tasty and nutritious.
On the other hand, fast food is not particularly healthy, especially when
eaten regularly, and can also be rather expensive compared to cooking at
home. One should neither underestimate the amount of calories a
standard portion contains, thus adding to the overall problem of obesity.
Furthermore, many people are of the opinion that fast food has
contributed to a breakdown in society because of the fact that it
discourages people from sitting down to eat a home-cooked meal with
family and friends, and from enjoying the conversation that goes with it.
To sum up, although fast food is a convenient, short-term solution to the
problems of a high-pressure lifestyle, it should not be allowed to replace
healthier, more traditional ways of eating. Nothing can be more enjoyable
than sitting down to a delicious home-prepared meal with one�s family.
No hamburger or hot dog can ever give one such satisfaction.
(265 words)
For or against tourism
Paragraph plan
introduction: state the topic
paragraph 2: arguments for
paragraph 3: arguments against
conclusion: balanced consideration of the topic; you can express your
opinion
While tourism has many benefits to local economy, it also has some
negative effects. Has it ever occurred to you that tourism can completely
destroy a once tranquil place? Therefore, before deciding on the merits
and drawbacks of tourism, one should consider both sides.
One argument in favour of tourism is the fact that visitors spend a
significant amount of moneyin the place tey are visiting. This greatly
benefits the local economy, not to mention the fact that tourism
promotes development. For example, roads are reconstructed; numerous
new hotels, shops and restaurants are built to accommodate tourists.
Therefore, more em�ployment opportunities are made available to the
local people, not to mention a wider choice of recreational facilities.
On the other hand, tourism can create many problems. For instance,
increased demands on water supplies and high levels of waste
production can cause serious environmental problems. In addition, water
shortages may occur along with the problem of how to dispose of excess
waste. One can also argue that tourism creates noise pollution from
night clubs and discos tourists love to visit. The occurrence of traffic
jams from the increase of vehicles in the area is another negative effect.
In conclusion, it seems that tourism has signific benefits as well as
aspects which have negative effects. Taking everything into account,
careful planning by local authorities may help to decrease the negative
aspects of tourism. I personally tend to believe that merits generally
outweigh the drawbacks.
(242 words)
The advantages and disadvantages of camping holidays
Paragraph plan
introduction: state topic
paragraph 2: advantages
paragraph 3: disadvantages
conclusion: give a balanced consideration of your opinion without using
personal words or expressions
Camping is, by and large, a pastime that people either love or hate,
depending on their personality. Those who are in favour of it, are quick
to point out its many advantages, while those to whom it does not appeal
to, often fail to see anything positive about it at all. What are the most
important aspects to be considered when deciding about the merits and
drawbacks of camping holidays?
The advantages of camping holidays are mainly financial, since they are
considerably cheaper than staying in a hotel. They also provide a lot
more freedom of choice in terms of where one stays, since a tent can be
pitched almost anywhere. For many people, though, the main reason for
going on a camping holiday is the escape it offers from the stress of
everyday life; after all, the chance to sleep in the open air, under the
stars is not one that people often get.
However, there are also disadvantages associated with camping holidays,
the main one being a lack of amenities such as running water, which can
make life very inconvenient. Another disadvantage is the fact that this
lack of amenities, which one usually takes for granted, can make a
camping holiday very tiring because of the extra work involved, meaning
that it is possible to return from a camping holiday more tired than when
one left. What is more, the question of safety of one�s personal
belongings and equipment can give rise to additional problems.
Taking everything into account, camping can be an enjoyable experience
as long as one is prepared to go without a few luxuries for a short period
of time. Probably the main requirement for an enjoyable camp�ing
holiday, however, is that it suits one�s personality.
(291 words)
The advantages and disadvantages of using credit cards
Paragraph plan
Introduction: ������state topic
paragraph 2: �������advantages
paragraph 3: �������disadvantages
Conclusion: �������balanced consideration
"Charge it!" is a cry now heard all over the coun�tries of the industrialised world.
The use of credit cards has become widespread, but along with the convenience comes
some risk. Before deciding for or against using credit cards, their merits and drawbacks
should be taken into consideration.
First of all, the advantages of using credit cards are considerable. Reducing the amount of
cash one needs to carry also reduces the chance of losing a lot of money in case of theft.
Furthermore, purchases can be made even though the cardholder may be temporarily
short of cash. The fact that with credit cards, shopping by telephone is now possible is
also important. Customers can order products or services all over the world without
leaving their homes.
However, credit cards can be misused. For example, people often spend more than they
ought to; it is such a temptation to over-use one�s credit card! Moreover, the credit
card company gives the cus�tomer the option of making a "minimum
payment" on unpaid monthly bills. This is a major drawback because it encourages
users to pay off their bills slowly. For this reason, it does not take long for people to sink
into debt if they use their credit cards unwisely.
In conclusion, the credit card is an important, practical tool in the trend towards a
"cashless soci�ety". However,� people must be aware of the dangers posed by the use
of this method of payment and always think twice before spending the money they really
do not have.
(254 words)
The pros and cons of computer games for children
Paragraph plan
introduction: state the topic
paragraph 2: arguments for
paragraph 3: arguments against
conclusion: give a balanced consideration or your own opinion without
using personal words or expressions
Computers today play a more important role in people�s lives than ever
before. They use them not only at work, but at home as a way of relaxing,
and many children now need nothing more than a computer game in
front of them to keep them entertained for hours. But is this necessarily
a good thing?
A point in favour of computer games for children is the fact that they can
often help the child to sharpen his or her responses, since they require
players to act and respond quickly. Furthermore, there are many
compu�ter
games
available
that
combine
both
education
and
entertainment. For example, computer word games enable a child to
expand his knowledge, often without realising that he is doing so.
On the other hand, staring at a computer screen for hours on end seems
to be unhealthy for a child, and computer games have certainly played a
part in chil�dren today becoming less active. What is more, children�s
social skills deteriorate as they spend less time playing with their friends.
Added to this, is the fact that computers are expensive - this can lead to
financial problems for parents who feel pressured to buy one even
though they cannot afford it.
In conclusion, although computers and computer games can have a
beneficial effect on children, it seems that they should not be allowed to
play such an important role in their lives to the exclusion of every�thing
else. Children should communicate and play with each other, go in for
sports instead of staring at the screen the whole day long.
(263 words)
Expressing opinions
Protecting the environment is the most important problem facing
the world today
The modern world faces many major problems to which there are no easy solutions.
These include unemployment, health, overpopulation and of course the environment. All
have a bearing on all our lives, but is the environment really the most important?
If people are unemployed, they are unable to earn money and it is a fact of life that
without an income it w difficult to live. Of course, work provides more than financial
support; it gives people self-esteem and pride. However, technological developments and
other factors mean that the job market is shrinking world-wide and young people have
reduced prospects for work. Although this is certainly a major threat to people's wellbeing, it needs to be addressed by individual governments rather than globally.
Health is clearly an important concern that affects both individuals and the planet as a
whole. Even though many illnesses have been eradicated, others remain a threat, and the
overuse of antibiotics has led to the development of resistant strains of virus. However,
on the whole, genera! health is improving, and in the developing countries medical aid
programmes are already working towards creating a healthier population.
Over-population has implications for the entire planet and improved general health means
that people are living longer. However, as with health, there are already programmes in
place implementing measures to deal with not only a rising population, but an ageing
population.
So what about the environment? There are urgent issues that need to be faced, including
global warming, pollution and species loss. Unlike the other issues discussed, there is no
clearly discernible global move to deal with these problems. Also, unlike the other issues,
changes in the environment have a direct impact on the whole planet. Climate change and
destruction of ecosystems could endanger all life on the planet if not dealt with quickly
and at an international level.
In conclusion, other problems primarily affect only the quality of life, whereas
environmental issues affect the actual existence of life itself. It is clear, therefore, that
protecting the environment is the most important problem facing the world today.
(358 words)
Are computers a blessing or a curse?
Can you remember a time when you did not have a computer and had to
do everything by hand? In my opinion, there is no doubt that
com�puters have made many people's lives easier. However, they have
also brought along some problems.
First of all, as far as education is concerned, computers have proved to
be an efficient tool in the learning process. For instance, children find
cer�tain school subjects, such as Maths, easier to do when using a
computer. What is more, the introduction of virtual reality into the
education process offers innumerable new opportunities.
In addition, computers are extremely valuable in one's workplace. Storing
and processing infor�mation nowadays can be done in a matter of
minutes. As a result, time spent on paperwork and filing has been greatly
reduced and can be used for more exciting tasks.
On the other hand, some people argue that many problems have been
caused by the wide use of computers in the workplace. For instance,
unem�ployment rates in many parts of the world have skyrocketed due
to the fact that computers have taken the place of humans. The
widespread computerization of many processes has taken its toll.
Another negative aspect of computers is seen in children spending most
of their time playing games or chatting online. This in turn could
seriuosly damage their health and social skills. Moreover, a whole
generation of lonely and isolated people could be growing up.
To sum up, it seems that computers play an increasingly important role
in people�s lives. It is inevitable that there will be disadvantages, yet the
benefits gained by having a computer are invaluable. Common sense and
moderation are the key factors to be borne in mind in order to avoid
possible problems.
(290 words)
Should cigarette advertising be banned?
Read the following model and circle the linking words. Then,
underline the reasons given to support each point raised.
Cigarette advertising is a popular topic for discussion, as an increasing number of people
believe that it is immoral and should be banned. I support this view for a variety of
reasons. Although advertising revenues are allegedly used for a number of beneficial
causes, the arguments for banning cigarette advertising overwhelmingly outweigh the
counterarguments.
In the first place, cigarette advertising should be stopped because an unhealthy product is
being promoted. According to many medical reports, tobacco is a major cause of lung
cancer and is sometimes responsible for heart disease. What is more, smoking can have
harm�ful effects on non-smokers: when in the presence of smokers, they have
no choice but to breathe in second-hand smoke.
Another major reason for banning cigarette advertising is the fact that it targets young
people. Cigarette adverts show young, beautiful, successful people smoking and having
fun. This is an image which is appealing to teenagers. In other words, they become
attracted to this glamorous representation of smoking, which leads to them taking up the
habit. Furthermore, the average teenager does not consider the harmful effects of
smoking or the fact that it is addictive.
In their defence, however, tobacco companies argue that since their products are legally
sold they have the right to com�municate information about them, in other
words, advertising. They also argue that their advertisements are not intended to cause
people to start smoking, but rather are an attempt to cause smokers to switch brands.
Moreover, they strongly deny that they target young people in their adverts, stating that
all the models whose photographs they use are adults.
In conclusion, I believe that cigarette companies are only interested in making money, as
their advertising campaigns are unethical and aimed at teenagers. It is not good to
promote an unhealthy product, so in my opinion, cigarette advertising should be banned.
(307 words)
Read the model above and answer the T/F statements.
1. Each paragraph has a topic sentence.
2. The writer gives only one side of the argument.����
3. In the conclusion the writer gives a balanced consideration of the topic.
4. The writer disagrees with the idea of banning cigarette advertising,
5. The writer gives his opinion in the fourth paragraph.
6. The writer supports his view by giving examples.
Will life in the future be better or worse?
Expressing opinions
Paragraph
Plan���������������������������������������������
������������������������������������������������
������������������������������������������������
������������������� Introduction: state
opinion�������������������������������������������
������������������������������������������������
������������������������������������������������
������Paragraph 2: argument 1 and reason
Paragraph 3: argument 2 and reason
Conclusion: restate opinion
People have always wanted to know about the future, wondering whether life will
become better or worse. There have been different ways of predicting or trying to foresee
what future will bring along. As we advance towards the middle of the� 21st century, I�
tend to believe that life in the future will undoubtedly become better for a number of
reasons.
The main reason for believing this this, is the fact that rapid technological advancements
over the past few decades have made life a lot easier, and there is no reason to assume
that they will not continue to do so. For example, gadgets and appliances such as washing
machines, remote controls, microwaves and mobile phones have made people�s lives a
lot more convenient. Therefore, there is no reason to doubt the fact that life will
become increasingly easy as time goes on and more labour-saving devices are invented.
Another factor that will lead to life being better in the
future,
is
the
fact
that
humans
are
becoming
increas�ingly aware of the damage they have caused
to the environment. In fact, they are already dealing
with problems such as pollution, damage to the ozone
layer
and
endangered
species.
If
this
attitude
continues, it is very likely that in the future the world
will be a much cleaner, more environmentally-friendly
place to live in.
All things considered, despite the many negative aspects of life in today's world, I feel
that life in the future can only get better. However, we have to remember that what we do
today, will not only affect us, but future generations as well. If we do that, we can look
forward to a bright and happy future.
(281 words)
Providing solutions
What can be done to prevent forest fires?
Paragraph plan � providing solutions to a problem
introduction: state the problem
paragraph 2: suggestion 1 and reason
paragraph 3: suggestion 2 and reason
paragraph 4: suggestion 3 and reason
conclusion: summarise opinion / final suggestion and reason
The problem of forest fires is one that many coun�tries have to deal with
in the summer months, and every year thousands of acres of woodland
and forest are lost to it. The nature of forest fires is such that they
spread incredibly quickly, often leaving fire-fighters with little or no
chance of bringing them under control. Therefore, some measures have
to be taken to try to prevent them from happening.
One solution to this problem is to separate forests into small sections
divided by earth ditches. This will prevent fire from spreading should it
break out in a section of a forest. In addition, the suggested measure
could also make access in case of a fire easier.
Another important measure that should be taken is to ensure that firefighters have quick and easy access to all areas of a forest. If a fire is
detected in its early stages, it is often possible to put it out before it has
the chance to cause too much damage. In addition to the previously
mentioned ditches, a network of forest vistas should be created.
Finally, the fact that many fires are deliberately started cannot be
overlooked. For this reason, the crime of arson should be more severely
punished in order to discourage potential arsonists. What is more, people
should be made more aware of dangers of uncareful handling of fire in
the woods.
To sum up, there are a number of ways to prevent forest fires. None of
them can solve the problem entirely. However, if they are all put into
effect, the problem will be effectively dealt with.
(268 words)
What can be done to prevent petty crime?
Paragraph plan � providing solutions to a problem
introduction: state the problem
paragraph 2: suggestion 1 and reason
paragraph 3: suggestion 2 and reason
conclusion: summarise opinion or give best suggestion and reason
Rising crime rates in towns and cities have led to many of them
becoming extremely unsafe places to live in. People are afraid to go out in
the evenings and some of them are even thinking about moving to the
countryside. For this reason, it is obvious that something must be done
to tackle this problem.
One possible solution is to increase police patrols in areas notorious for
petty crime. The presence of a police officer is undoubtedly a deterrent to
anyone considering snatching a purse or stealing something from a shop.
Moreover, it is probably one of the most cost-effective methods of
reducing petty crime.
Another way of tackling the problem of petty crime is to focus on some of
the reasons why it occurs. If more jobs were available then a number of
petty criminals would not need to steal in order to make ends meet. In
addition, more sports and recreational facilities should be made available
for everybody.
To sum up, even though short-term solutions to the problem of petty
crime can be effective, the only way to completely rid society of it, is to
deal with the underlying causes. For example, unemployment could lead
to petty crime. If the unemployment problem is solved, the problem of
petty crime will be solved as well. (217 words)