UNEMPLOYMENT

Unit 3 – Model Answer

Unemployment is a serious problem in many parts of the world. Some people think the government should do more to help solve this problem, whereas others believe it is the responsibility of the individual to find work. Discuss your opinion, giving examples.

In all parts of the world, there are people who have a hard time finding work. A person who is unemployed faces a number of serious problems ranging from financial difficulties to low self-esteem. Some people believe the government should take steps to reduce the unemployment rate but others feel it is up to the individual to secure a job. In my opinion, there is an element of truth in both of these points of view.

Government measures aimed at reducing unemployment include training schemes to teach the skills and qualifications required to compete in the job market and job creation through tax breaks and government funding programmes. By boosting the economy and offering incentives to businesses to take on new staff, governments can create new jobs. With more positions to be filled, the unemployment rate will decline.

While there is much that governments can do to help people who want to find employment, a great deal of responsibility still lies with the individual. In order to secure work, we must be prepared to change or upgrade our skills and be willing to relocate if necessary. But some people are not interested in retraining to find work in another field, some people do not have the confidence to go out and look for work, and some refuse to accept a job they feel is below their level. Unless people like this change their attitudes, they will not be able to find work.

In conclusion, the unemployment problem needs to be tackled at a national level to create a healthy economy with job vacancies waiting to be filled. But it is up to the individual job seeker to take the steps necessary to find work. Only if governments and individuals both do their part will progress be made.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Unit 1 – Model Answer

Sports lessons have almost always been compulsory in schools in the West. Recently, however, parents of children who are overweight or who have difficulty doing sports have requested that the sports lessons be optional, allowing children to decide whether or not to participate. Some educators and health experts think this would be a serious mistake. In your opinion, should sports lessons be compulsory? Why or why not? Discuss, giving reasons to support your point of view.

Physical education has long been obligatory in schools in the West. In my opinion, exercise is beneficial to all students, including those who are overweight. If sports lessons were to become optional in schools, many young people might end up being deprived of the exercise they need. However, making sports compulsory may not be the best way to make exercise enjoyable.

No one can deny the physical and mental health benefits associated with sports. Many young people have a sedentary lifestyle and spend long hours watching TV or playing computer games and if physical education were no longer compulsory, those who opt out might be giving up their sole opportunity to exercise. In addition, exercise has been shown to increase concentration. Therefore, schools must ensure that young people are provided with adequate physical activity. Otherwise students’ academic performance could suffer along with their fitness levels.

Despite this, some people feel students should be able to choose whether they participate in school sports. One reason for this is that overweight children are less able when it comes to sports. For example, they may not be able to run as fast as their peers. As a result, they could suffer embarrassment when participating in sports and may even be laughed at by their more athletic classmates. Another reason against making sports compulsory is that young people sometimes react negatively to being told what to do and may dislike sports because they feel they are forced to take part.

To sum up, I believe physical education should be an essential part of any school curriculum because its benefits far outweigh any drawbacks. However, while children should be encouraged to take part in sports, I feel they should not be required to do so.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Unit 2 – Model Answer

Some parents believe private schools can provide a better education than state schools. Do you agree? Is it fair that some people can afford to send their children to schools which are not open to everyone? Discuss, giving examples to support your views.

In most countries parents can choose to send their child to a private school rather than to a state school. This choice is often made in the belief that private schools provide a higher standard of education. In an ideal world, all children should have the same educational opportunities, so many people feel that private schools offer an unfair advantage to those who can afford the fees. I do not feel that this is such a bad thing, however.

There are many reasons why a private education could be regarded as preferable. One of the main advantages is the teacher-pupil ratio; smaller classes translate into more individual attention. This means children get the help they require whenever they have trouble understanding something. In state schools, where classes are usually bigger, teachers cannot devote a great deal of time to each student. Furthermore, private schools have more funds available for equipment such as computers, good sports facilities and well-equipped science laboratories. A student who has the opportunity to carry out a scientific experiment in an up-to-date laboratory is likely to learn more from the experience than one who hasn’t got these advantages.

Although it may seem unfair, inequality is an integral part of most societies and is something to which we are accustomed. Some children attending state schools may not do as well as they could academically because of insufficient teaching resources, but many children leave state schools with impressive qualifications and go on to a university education and professional success. At the same time, private education is not always a passport to success. With support and guidance from parents and teachers, any student can do well, whatever school they attend.

In conclusion, while private education can be advantageous, it does not always mean that students at public schools are at a disadvantage. Governments should strive to improve

free public education without restricting a parent’s right to choose to pay for private schooling for their children.

CHILD OBESITY

Unit 4 – Model Answer

In some countries, health experts who are concerned about increasing child obesity have called for a ban on the advertising of unhealthy food products on television at peak viewing hours for children. How far is such advertising responsible for children’s eating habits? How useful do you think such a ban could be? Discuss your opinion, giving specific examples.

Children’s eating habits have led to a rise in the incidence of child obesity in many parts of the world. Given the persuasive nature of TV commercials, it follows that child obesity can be linked to junk-food advertising. But how effective would reducing exposure to TV advertisements be in solving the problem of child obesity?

Commercials for candy and crisps often feature animated characters that children learn to associate with a particular snack. This has proven to be an effective way to encourage children to request that their parents buy these snacks. In addition, manufacturers often make misleading claims in these commercials. An adult may realise a chocolate bar is not healthy just because it contains milk. However, a young child is not so critical. Although advertising plays a role in encouraging unhealthy eating habits, other factors, such as parents’ attitude to food, are also important. If nutritious meals are not served at home, how can a young child be expected to eat a balanced diet and maintain a normal weight?

Restricting the type of commercials allowed when children’s shows are broadcast is a worthwhile policy. Children would be less likely to want to eat certain products if they did not associate them with their favourite cartoon character. However, children do not only see programmes designed for their age group so they could still be exposed to inappropriate advertising. Furthermore, children do not only find out about food products from TV. A trip to the supermarket, for example, exposes them to shelves full of packets of sugary breakfast cereals with free gifts inside.

In my opinion, an advertising ban would represent an important step in reducing child obesity. But other measures would also need to be taken to ensure that today’s children grow up to be healthy, normal-weight adults with a sensible approach to food.

ENVIRONMENT

Unit 5 – Model Answer

An international company wants to open a theme park in your area. What effects do you think such a park would have locally? Would you be in favour of such a development or opposed to it? Discuss, giving examples to support your views.

Theme parks are popular attractions for local people and draw visitors from a wider area as well. This kind of attraction would create possibilities for development in my town but it would have disadvantages too.

On a local level, the creation of a theme park would mean a large influx of visitors. While people would be coming primarily for the new park, they might also be interested in visiting other attractions in our area. As a result, the district would undergo change – more restaurants and cafés would be needed to cope with the increased number of tourists, for example. A theme park would also have a positive impact on local unemployment levels by providing jobs. On a national level, a large theme park could increase tourist interest in our country. This could bring many economic benefits. But there would be some unwanted changes to consider also. An increase in cars and coaches, for instance, would mean more congestion on the roads, as well as more pollution.

In general terms, a theme park would be a positive development. Local economies would benefit greatly from such a boost. The increased number of visitors would change the face of this region, especially during the summer months. In my opinion, this would be a change for the better, as the area would become much more lively and interesting. Furthermore, people drawn by the theme park might also take the time to visit our historical monuments and learn more about this part of the country.

To sum up, although development on this scale would change the face of the area, a theme park would benefit the town where I live. Increased traffic and noise would be a small price to pay for all the advantages it would bring.

TELEVISION

Unit 6 – Model Answer

Television is sometimes said to be a reflection of society. To what extent do you think this is true and to what extent do you think that we are influenced by television? Discuss, giving examples to support your opinion.

Television is part of our everyday lives. Two, or even three, television sets can be found in most households, and there are few people who do not watch television each day. In many ways, what we see on the screen reflects current society. However, television can also be said to exert an influence on viewers.

When we turn on the television, we learn about all aspects of the world in which we live – from the clothes worn by characters in soap operas to the social issues discussed on current affairs programmes. In addition, the kinds of shows which are popular tell us much about society. In many countries, for example, programmes which help people become younger-looking or more fashionably dressed are popular. These reflect society’s obsession with appearance and the importance placed on youth.

It is also true that television exerts a powerful influence on us. The way the day’s news is presented affects the way we feel about the events being described. While the news is supposed to be unbiased, this is rarely the case. If we are not given all the details about an event, for example, how can we form an educated opinion? Television does not only have the power to shape public opinion about current affairs; in the arts, for example, music programmes influence our preferences by giving more exposure to certain artists than others. Viewers are also influenced by the opinions and behaviour of presenters, celebrities and even characters in popular television series.

To sum up, a two-way relationship exists between television and viewer. Elements of modern society are reflected in soap operas, comedies and dramas, and a look at a television guide reveals much about our likes and dislikes. On the other hand, we are influenced by what we see, often more than we might realise.

LEARNING OUR HISTORY

Unit 7 – Model Answer

Many people believe that it is important for us to be familiar with the history of our own country. Would you agree with this point of view? Should greater emphasis be placed on learning our own history in school rather than learning world history? Discuss, giving reasons to support your point of view.

History constitutes an important part of the school curriculum. It helps young people gain a better understanding of their own country and of the events that have shaped the world. In some countries, more emphasis is placed on national history, whereas in others, a wider perspective is taken. In my opinion, a balance should be sought which puts slightly more focus on the historical events and figures of the students’ own country.

There are many reasons why young people need to have a broad knowledge of the history of their own nation. Firstly, it can help them gain insight into events that have made their country what it is today. They will also develop a stronger sense of national identity. For example, learning about a battle in which soldiers triumphed against the odds can instill in citizens a sense of pride they might not otherwise have. Moreover, learning about their ancestors’ achievements can be inspiring for the younger generation. It is useful for students to be aware of mistakes made by historical figures, as well. They can even learn from atrocities carried out by those in power and in this way, there is less likelihood of history repeating itself.

Students gain a great deal through the study of their own history. However, in order to fully understand events, they need to be able to place them in a wider context. This requires a good general knowledge of world history. Another reason why history is

important is that such knowledge helps students appreciate achievements made by people in other parts of the world and not develop overly nationalistic feelings about their own country and its people.

In conclusion, schools should focus on the history of their own country but within a global perspective. Students should be aware of key events and figures in national and world history.

TEENS’ CLOTHES

Unit 8 – Model Answer

Today, advertising to teenagers often features designer fashions and accessories. As a result, more and more young people feel under pressure to buy expensive designer labels. Why are designer clothes and accessories so attractive to teens? Is this trend a change for the better or the worse? Discuss, giving examples to support your opinions.

Designer labels hold an appeal for adolescents for a variety of reasons. Most teenagers feel that appearance is important and therefore want to wear designer labels. While such feelings are understandable, it does seem there is too much emphasis on looks today, in particular amongst the younger generation.

One reason why designer clothes, bags and jewellery are so popular with young people is that companies target this impressionable group through advertisements. Teens are taught that they can improve their self-image by dressing in a certain way, and that they will be more likely to be accepted by their peers if they follow current fashion trends. A handbag by a certain designer or a particular make of watch, are status symbols, and young people may think owning such items can result in increased popularity. In addition, adolescents are influenced by celebrities and often desire the fashionable clothes and accessories which they see their favourite singers and actors wearing.

Having clothes with the right label can boost self-confidence and make it easier for a teenager to feel he fits in. Despite this, worrying so much about fashion cannot be viewed as positive. What we need to remember is that designer merchandise is expensive, and many young people end up spending far more on clothes than they, or their parents, can afford. Spending a large sum for designer clothing encourages

materialism as well as an unhealthy attitude towards appearance. Rather than judge their fellow students by their character, teenagers may judge them by their fashion sense alone.

In short, consumerism has taken hold among young people just as it has among adults. Due to advertising, designer clothes are more highly valued than similar items without the desired label. If this trend continues, our society will become too shallow and superficial.

TECHNOLOGY

Unit 9 – Model Answer

Science and computer technology in particular have had a major impact on the workplace. How has technology changed the way we work? What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of using technology in the workplace? Do you think the use of technology at work should be limited? Discuss, giving specific examples.

Over the last century, many changes have taken place in factories, offices and other places of work as a result of technological advances. Even though many advances have led to improvements, certain drawbacks can nevertheless be seen. An innovation that might have a beneficial effect on one aspect of work could have an unpleasant side effect on another.

The invention of the computer is one of the greatest technological advances in our generation. We can now store vast amounts of information in a small space. What’s more, this information can easily be accessed with the touch of a button and the computer has made the running of businesses much more efficient. Technological advances have also brought about increased efficiency in factories, where much of the work is now done by machines rather than people. In the field of medicine, the work of doctors has been greatly helped by technology for both diagnosis and treatment.

However, computerisation of the workplace is not without its disadvantages. As companies introduce computers, they tend to downsize, so employees may find themselves being made redundant. This applies especially to factories, which have become increasingly automated over the years. The replacement of manual labour with machines can lead to the loss of traditional skills. Many office employees find that the

use of technology actually makes them busier with added tasks, rather than saving them time. There is also a danger of over-reliance on machines. Should there be a power cut, even the simplest task at work could not be carried out.

For these reasons, some people suggest limiting the use of computer technology. However, I do not think this is either desirable or feasible. The advantages of computers in terms of speed and convenience far outweigh the disadvantages, and such technology is here to stay. However, we do need to guard against overuse of machines. While we are unable to manage without machines, human intelligence and judgement are essential as well.

TRADITION & CULTURE

Unit 10 – Model Answer

Partly due to globalisation, the languages and traditions of some minority cultures are endangered. How important is it to preserve them? Do you think people care enough about this issue? If so, what can be done? Discuss, giving examples to support your opinions.

In many parts of the world, certain groups of people are finding that their traditional way of life, including the language spoken by their ancestors, is in danger of extinction. As languages and traditions are wiped out, cultural diversity is lost. In my opinion, we should fight to curb the effects of globalisation on minority cultures.

There are many reasons why endangered languages and traditions should be preserved. Firstly, language and culture are closely linked; once a language disappears, a vast amount of cultural information vanishes too. Traditionally, societies use language to pass down their cultural heritage from generation to generation. This could be in the form of stories told orally or instructions given verbally concerning crafts or hunting skills. If language and traditions cannot be kept alive, young people will no longer feel such a strong connection to their roots. In consequence, they will be deprived of a strong sense of identity and pride in their origins. In many countries, unfortunately, those belonging to minority groups have no choice but to adopt the language and habits of the more dominant group if they hope to succeed professionally.

Sadly, it is true that this issue does not attract much attention. Most people would probably argue that change is inevitable. Fortunately, efforts are being made in many places to reverse the fate of endangered cultures. These include policies to ensure the

minority language is taught in schools. Schemes that enable local craftspeople to earn a living by selling their handmade baskets, carpets and pottery have also proven effective. These projects not only help protect the threatened cultures, but also raise awareness of the issue.

To sum up, I believe that minority languages and cultures are definitely worth preserving. Without the diversity they represent, the world would be a much less colourful place and the national heritage of many people would be lost forever. Hopefully, efforts to protect time-honoured traditions and ancient languages will continue to bear fruit.