~

~'

impression of those people. We would be better off if we just did not

learn about those events at all.
Finally, it is not important to learn about events in other countries
because they often will not teach you anything about your own situation.
Many worldly events are so different from the events you may experience
in your day-to-day life that learning about them will not show you how
to live your life better. It is therefore more important to spend your time
and energy learning about the lives of people like you.
Therefore, I do not agree that learning about events in other countries
is important, especially if they do not directly affect your own life.

associate:
10 connect two things or
ideas together

[
-

'

After studying the two sample responses, give your own opinion on the prompt. Brainstorm
your ideas below. Then, write or type your essay.

,,

__ ,_..,... ___________________________________________________________________ _

--------------~----------------------------------------------------------

....,._.,...

--\

Brainstorming

519 ---.'.

Necessary Skills
l"J'ilMH<m~~IBU<Z<fil"i',"11,_>:'::.<V,;,;>;;~;-i,,-,"-'~-'f,l"_.\~;;1..;,\;

';;;\~-'.-,,, .- '

Stating your opinion or thesis clearly

Stating clear and strong topic sentences that support the thesis

Strategies
Make your thesis statement clear and concise.
For your thesis, do not write, "I agree with this opinion." Restate the question when
giving your opinion, such as "I agree that when people reach a certain age, they
should no longer be able to drive."
Make your topic sentence a summary of all the points you will cover in the paragraph.
Write clear topic sentences that will naturally lead into the rest of the information in
the paragraph.
Example:
Weak topic sentence -+ I think cows are more useful than horses.
Strong topic sentence -+ Cows are more useful than horses for two main reasons.

~:

1Nnting

Thesis Statements ilnd Topic Sentences

521 _ _:....

Thesis Statements
~Step

Read the following prompts and sample thesis statements. Underline the words in the thesis
statements that are also used in the prompts.
Prompt 1:
r.. ,,.,,,,.,, ........,,,,.. ,., .............,--------..,--,-----------,---------------------..-----...,...... ,...... ,]

Describe a time that you were encouraged to try something new. Explain why you decided
to try or not to try it. Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

:
;

~u -"-""""~"

--

-~- ~~--------- ~---- ~~---------------~--------- -~-~-~-"----.~----~ "~

'"'

>. :

Thesis Statement 1:

;f !'

When I was twelve, my brother encouraged me to try out for a football team, but I decided not to try
out for two reasons.

i;):ii
,. J,

,_- J

:- ~;:t" :
Prompt2:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Children should be taught to
use computers at a very early age. Give specific' reasons and examples to support your
answer.

" 'I

','

Thesis Statement 2:

There are three main reasons why I believe that young children must be taught to use computers.

Prompt3:

' -1
,

Describe a place that you have traveled and state whether it changed your opinion of
the place that you live. Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

.J

Thesis Statement 3:

When I traveled to a larger city in my country, it made me realize how much I love my own town, and
there are three reasons why I feel this way.

>--- 522

Chapter 5

II

Some people like movies that are fast-paced and entertaining. Others like movies that
have deep meaning and make them think. Which type of movie do you prefer? Give
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

'. Thesis Statement 4:

In my opinion, the most enjoyable movies to watch are ones that make you think, and I believe this for
two reasons.

Read the following prompts. Decide if each prompt asks you for your experience or your opinion.
Then write a thesis statement in response to each prompt.
Prompt 1:

l~~:~~i~:t~e ~::t imp~~a~~ ~er:~~;~ -~~~~-~;e:~~ :~~;~i~-~~~ ~~:~ ~~r:~~-i: i~~~-~~~~~--1

L~i'.e specific ~eas~_ns and examples to support your answer.

Does this question ask you to explain your opinion or your experience? Select one.
opinion

experience

Prompt 2:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? People should never do things
that harm the environment, even if they are beneficial in other ways. Give specific reasons
and examples to support your answer.

Writing Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences

523 - ' - . .

r.. . .

'
.!

"
:L
,,

. I

Does this question ask you to explain your opinion or your experience? Select one.
opinion

experience

D
. t:

Thesis statement:~-------------------------

Prompt3:
r---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

t Some people prefer to spend all of their money after they earn it. Others would rather save
most of their money to use later. Which do you think is better? Give specific reasons and
examples to support your answer.

.1

Does this question ask you to explain your opinion or your experience? Select one.
opinion

experience

Thesis statement: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Prompt 4:
Describe one of your skills that you believe has helped you to be successful. Give
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Does this question ask you to explain your opinion or your experience? Select one.
opinion

experience

Thesis statement: --~---'-----------------------

\"...\--- 524 Chapter 5

*-

Topic Sentences
~M~=.'.ll*=-{i'l,.v~<:.X!<'.>i>OF;;,'t~<<J;;..'i,iO.<'M.>t-<:'i'-<'~':>:~;>,tc~.,F.:.:"";;-.''"'>:~,_-,

'.

)Read the prompts and three sentences that could be used in a response to each prompt. One

!sentence is a thesis statement. Another sentence is the topic sentence of the body paragraph.

Thesis statement
Topic sentence
Reason, example, or detail

( 1 )
( 2 )
( 3 )

you agree or disagree with the following statement? Having fun is just as important for
ad1Jlts as it is for children. Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

irhe last sentence is a reason, example, or detail used in a body paragraph. Number the
sentences as follows:

There are three reasons why I feel that having fun is just as important for adults as it is for children.
For example, my dad likes to play baseball with me on weekends.
For one, I think that adults need to be able to relax and have fun because they work all the time.

~::~r;~: ~-ti~~ ~~:;-~o~-~~re ~;;~~t~~:~ -~; :~~:t~i~g.---~~~. ~i~-~~~-~~:r~~-~: Y~~~

fear? Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

---- -- --- - .
- . - ...... -- ------ - . - - -- -- .
,.
---~

... -

~-

I asked for help from a really nice woman that I met, and she helped me figure out where I
was going.
Another way that I overcame my fear was by telling myself that I could do anything that I
wanted to.
I once had an experience where I was scared because I went to a new place alone, but I
overcame my fear in two important ways.
Prompt 3:
Some people like to try new things as much as they can. Others prefer to do things that
they know very well. Which do you prefer and why? Give specific reasons and examples to
support your answer.

I like to try new things because I get bored if I do the same thing all the time.
I definitely like to try new things as much as I can.
When I tried joining my school's diving team, I found that I really enjoyed it.

'Nriting Thesis Stat~ments and Topic Senten(es

'

525 ----'.

Prompt4:

!. . -~: ~:: agree

or

dis:~;:: ~it~ ~~: ~:11:~i;g:~:t:~:nt; -~~i::::~i:: :~::1~ ::~:i~:

students to live on campus during their first year of university. Give specific reasons and 1

L.~~~~~l~s t~-~~~~~~ ~.~~- a~ ~:e~.

~Step

I
,:-1

.- . . . .. .. . . . . - - - ---- --- . . J

In my opinion, universities should not require students to live in the dormitories for their
freshman year.
Living in an apartment is more enjoyable than living in the dorms.
My friend got stuck with a really annoying roommate in the dorms.

(.
(

;,.\.

Read the following prompts. Complete the thesis statements. Then provide three reasons or
examples that you would use to support each thesis in a response.
Prompt 1:
Some people do not like buying products made by machines because they might be of
lower quality. Do you think products made by hand are better than products made by
machines? Use specific details and examples to support your answer.

Thesis statement: In my opinion, products made by hand - - - - - - - - - - - - - products made by machines.

Reason/Example 1: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Reason/Example 2: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Reason/Example3: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Choose one of the ideas you listed above. Rewrite the idea as a full sentence that could be
used as the topic sentence of a body paragraph.

Topic sentence: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

--, __, _______ _

__ , .____ ,, ___ "-''-;--'"

"'"- - _: __

.-:--,-- ..

.(

'

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? You can tell a lot about a person
by the clothing that he or she wears. Give specific reasons and examples to support
your answer.

~--------------------------~------------~-~-~---~---~-'-----~--,---,~--~---------

.. Thesis statement: I believe that y o u - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - by the clothing he or she wears .

.Reason/Example 1: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Reason/Example 2: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~-a

Reason/Example3: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

g
I"\

. Choose one of the ideas you listed above. Rewrite the idea as a full sentence that could be
used as the topic sentence of a body paragraph.

Topic sentence:
'

'

:4:
Prompt 3:

-- .. - .............. ---------------------------------------- ......................... --- ..........................1

~any schools take field trips in which they take students out of school for a day to visit a
place like a zoo. Describe a trip that you think would teach students something valuable.

~-i-~~-~p-e~ifi, r~~~~~-s--~n-~-~~~:~~~~-~~-~~~~~~~~~r-~-~~~e~ ........

...... - .......... __

I
I

;,'

'!

Thesis statement: I think that a trip to ______________ would be a valuable

learning experience.
Reason/Example 1: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , - - - Reason/Example 2: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Reason/Example3: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Choose one of the ideas you listed above. Rewrite the idea as a full sentence that could be
used as the topic sentence of a body paragraph.

Topic sentence: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

~Vriting Thesis Statements and Tdpic Sentences

527 - -.....-:

Prompt4:
~--- .. ~--O'

- """'"'"""

-<--"> -~"---.--------~---

'

-,-----'>~<-----~---o;---~-"""-''""""'""'~'"'"

Most people listen to music every day, and many people lear~ to play an instrument
when they are young. Why do you think music is important to people? Give specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.

Thesis statement: I think that music is important to people mainly because _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Reason/Example 1: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Reason/Example2: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Reason/Example3: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Choose one of the ideas you listed above. Rewrite the idea as a full sentence that could be
used as the topic sentence of a body paragraph.

Topic sentence: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

i:

Strategies
<;J.1>J1'J\'i'.nV.lt~U-'!O<WJ;F.ZlfdCi'.'Ri'.:<N:'ff,.</::;..,-_f;,l1

:~.;;~-fcH.'~MC.l.l'1U.'.l:;.'<

'"'''' ,<. "''"' ..in.,.

Do NOT try to say everything in the introduction; save details and examples for the
body of your essay.
Do NOT start with a statement that is too general; a more specific statement better
sets up the information to follow.
Characteristics of a good introduction:
one paragraph (three to five sentences)
an introduction to the general topic of the essay
includes the thesis statement and a restatement of the question
includes points that will be discussed or elaborated on in the body

Write an accurate and clear topic sentence for each body paragraph.
Make sure there are logical connections between statements.
Characteristics of a good body paragraph:
one to three paragraphs
a topic sentence that states the main idea of that paragraph
has specific examples, reasons, or other details
includes other sentences that link ideas or show transitions between ideas

Do NOT use the same words and expressions in your conclusion that you used in
your introduction.
Do NOT introduce new ideas or concepts that belong in a new body paragraph.
,-----~--------------~--------"~-------

I Characteristics of a good conclusion:

I one paragraph (three to five sentences)
a restatement of your thesis in different words
has a summary of your main points
includes one or both of the following: a consideration of the opposite opinion
I and a recommendation
L..._ .......................- ..... ________ .._ .. ____..

Makin(_) Ideas Flow

529 - -...

 - - 530

Opinion
~-i..-'i'Z\)::W.-,;.z-!l;~!;(tl',ro,.>;.,,ii' ..,.,.~.,.,,,_.,,_,,,,.,,~;0,\.'''"-"-''''~':

~Step

..

.0,-.,,,,.,-1,,~-,

-.:_-,_-,

Read the prompt and think of ideas to list in the blanks.

Sorne people watch the news in order to get their information. Others like to look for information
themselves in newspapers or on the Internet. Which do you think is better and why? Give
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Watching the news:

Newspapers and the Internet:

- easier than looking for news

- lets you see and hear
- gives just the information you need

- let you search for the news you want

- do not have to wait for a story
- more depth to the stories

~Step

Read the sample response. Think about the role of the sentences in each part of the essay.
Look for any transitions that link the ideas and underline them. Then put the sentences in the
right order.

accessible:
easy to use and understand

Introduction:

(A) Even though other people might like to watch the news on 1V to
get information about the world, I prefer to use newspapers and
the Internet to get news.
(B) I feel this way because newspapers and the Internet are more
accessible, informative, and easier to share with others than 1V.

specialized:
focusing on one particular
thing or set of things
tend:
to usually do something
in depth:
in a lot of detail

Body paragraph 1:

sensational:
ma~ng something seem
more exciting than it is

(A) With 1V, I have to wait through other news stories and
commercials before the weather comes on.
(B) First of all, newspapers and the Internet are more accessible
because I can find exactly what I want when I want it.
(C) If I want to know the weather, I can get that information in a few
seconds from a newspaper or the Internet.

Chapter 6

--- ------- ---

informative:
giving a lot of information
clearly

-:<:~

devote:
to give time or effort to
something
celebrity: .
a famous person

r.

Body paragraph 2:

'

'

(A) They tend to feature stories that discuss issues in depth.

(B) 1V news, on the other hand, tends to be sensational, devoting a
lot of time to celebrities and crime stories.
(C) Second, newspapers and the Internet are more informative.
(D) They also make it easier to learn about international events and
specialized issues like the environment, which might get only minor
coverage on 1V.

Body paragraph 3:

(A) You cannot send a story like that with 1V news.

(B) If I am reading an article on the Internet that I think my friend might
like, I can simply send it to her by email.
(C) Finally, I prefer newspaper and the Internet for my news because
they make it easier for me to share the information that I find.
'Conclusion:

(A) That may not be for everyone, but I think these sources are better
than 1V news because I can access them when I want, I can stay
informed, and I can pass on what I learn to others.
(B) In conclusion, I prefer to get my news from newspapers and the
Internet.

tv1,>king ldras How

531 -----.:'

~Step

Look back at the ideas you wrote in the blanks for Step 1. Write your own response to the
prompt using one of your own ideas or another idea from Step 1.
if.

i'
:''

i1

i!

""

.'I

..

.-''

'.'[.:

J,,.___
'

532

Chapter 6

- - - _ -::-:-~..- .---,-'-,----;- -- - - - - - - --- ---,------:--.----,----:-"---;--_-----,-------------,--,----_-----,--__ ---,----,-_-----.------- ------------------------- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

[[

Opinion
~'WUiill>:l;'-'l!I':';i'iiilllX'.-V.'\f\llJ\->'&J'.l,>ll'.!>~~-O'a">-'0-~;<~H,o'.'_/',"''" <'':-~-,~

,-,,._,_,_- -,

~~~;;

~'Read the prompt and think of ideas to list in the blanks.

;i<!:
iDo you agree or disagree with the following statement? All university students should be
'
!required
to take literature classes. Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Pros of literature classes:

Cons of literature classes:

- teach you important life lessons

- teach you how to read better
- gives just the information you need

- cannot apply to many careers

- can be boring
- make you do a lot of writing

.. ~Step 2
Read the sample response. Think about the role of the sentences in each part of the essay.
Look .for any transitions that link the ideas and underline them. Then put the sentences in the
right order.

Introduction:

(A) All university students should be required to take literature classes.

(B) This is because literature is valuable for what it can teach students
and how it can change them.

bridge:
to overcome; to bypass

connected:
able to communicate
successfully
conflict:
a disagreement between
people or ideas

wise:

Body paragraph 1:

(A) It is important to learn about these things because we live in such

a diverse world.
(B) Literature is one thing that can bring us together and bridge these
differences.
(C) First of all, literature is valuable because it can help students to
learn about other people and cultures.
(D) It can also help us understand people that are different from us.
(E) This means that people are more connected with each other
than ever before, including people from very different cultures and
backgrounds.

smart in terms of making

good decisions
dilemma:
a problem that requires you
to make a difficult decision
attitude:
a set of opinions or beliefs
about something
passion:

a very strong interest

l'vlak1ng Ideas Flow

.533

--1

Body paragraph 2:

(A) These are often problems that all people face, such as love, conflict,
anger, loss, and sadness.
(B) Second, literature can help students become wiser and more
mature.
(C) Also, when you read literature, you learn about different individuals'
experiences with these issues.
(0) These experiences can help you when you go through similar
experiences.
(E) When you read and study literature, you learn about many dilemmas
in life.
Body paragraph 3:

Finally, all students should take literature classes because they will
help them develop a love of reading.
This is unfortunate because they are missing a great pleasure in
life.
Today, fewer young people read than before.
For example, I was very lucky that my parents encouraged me to
read when I was young.
That is not the case for many of my peers.
I think that they would find enjoyment in reading.
If they had been required to take a literature course, I think they
would change their attitudes.
Conclusion:

(A) In conclusion, university students would benefit by being required

to take literature courses.
(B) This would help students learn about other cultures, become more
mature, and develop a passion for reading.

'

'

\"..\'':--1,,Ii';
f; ;I

1.

11

534
-

Chapter 6

~Step

fl

Look back at the ideas you wrote in the blanks for Step 1. Write your own response to the
prompt using one of your own ideas or another idea from Step 1.

----------------------------------------------~--------------------------.

--------------~-----------------------------------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------~-----------

,,

.,,

,.

Making ideas Flow

535

-~-

,.j'

Opinion
"-l'Xm~<Ri:<!<!IW?l!iV>~~i.~F.VR-'nmw.:~&<:~.'i"~-o:i:~'-'-'-'''"'"'

~Step

~!':-1--.

, ..,'"

.-,

--~

Read the prompt and think of ideas to list in the blanks.

Some people like to plan everything carefully in their lives. Others would rather live each day
without a strict plan. Which do you prefer and why? Give specific reasons and examples to
support your answer.

''

.,i

Careful planning:

Living without a plan:

- allows you to set goals

- makes you feel more secure
- reduces the chance of having a problem

- lets you adapt to changes

- lets you try new things
- makes life more interesting

'------------------~ Step~2

''

Read the sample response. Think about the role of the sentences in each part of the essay.
Look for any transitions that link the ideas and underline them. Then put the sentences in the
right order.

,\,

--------------Introduction:

(A) This is because I think it is better to have a schedule that is flexible

to change and open to new opportunities.
(B) Some people like to plan everything carefully in their lives, but I
prefer to live each day without a strict plan.
Body paragraph 1:

(A) The main reason I like to live without a strict plan is that it allows
me to be more flexible to change.
(B) For instance, sometimes I intend to go out with my friends after
school, but then I get stuck staying late at school working with a
tutor.
(C) I have to change to deal with circumstances like that.
(D) I, on the other hand, do not let things like that bother me.

fti:-.- f'll

li cl

536

Chapter 6

flexible:
easily changed

open:
willing to accept changes

strict:
rigid; setting a clear
expectation
tutor:
a person that helps you
understand schoolwork
circumstances:
factors that inftuence an
event
hectic:
very busy and unorganized
unforeseen:
unexpected
editor:
a person who determines
the final draft of a text

(E) People today live hectic lives and face all kinds of changes.
(F) People that carefully plan too much get stressed out by these
unforeseen circumstances.

.
:..

.,,
~z
VI

Body paragraph 2:

C\

(A) If I carefully planned all my days, I would miss out on interesting

things.
(8) If I had had a carefully planned schedule, I would have never been
open to that opportunity.
(C) Another reason I do not plan too much is that it allows me to take
advantage of unanticipated opportunities.
(0) I helped her out, and she gave me a job as the photographer for
my school paper.
(E) Then, I ran into the editor of our school paper who needed some
photographs right away.
(F) For example, I stayed late after school one day with nothing to do.
Conclusion:
,------

"

(A) Not planning too much has allowed me to deal with change in a
positive way and to remain open to new opportunities.
(8) To conclude, there are people in this world who like to live by a
strict schedule, but I am not one of them.

IVld~1ng Ideas Flow

537 ----'"

i I

..

;
''

1;

~Step

Look back at the ideas you wrote in the blanks for Step 1. Write your own response to the
prompt using one of your own ideas or another idea from Step 1.
i<

-----------~----------------------------------------~---------------------

...__ 538

Chapter 6

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ---
' - ---~--~-~--~~0--~-~--~----- - - - ------~-~--~---'- - - - - - - - - -

OpirBion

ltlU!!i."l<Yr:<.r~."'-'i'~-<-~.k<;.,,.;.:.!';';t."iP-'':i'~;,;,~~'-'--"'-"''\\"'-"-h,,'J_, _,,,.: _,,,_<J,,'>

;\-;: ;.-'':: ,--

Read the following prompt.

Some people prefer to be the leader in a group. Others would rather follow the lead of another
person. Which do you prefer and why? Give specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.

r
"',,
~z
Gl

. Now look at the outline of a possible response to the prompt. First, identify which side of the
argument the responses support. Then write one more idea of your own that supports that
side of the argument.

1. Leading gives me the opportunity to make the decisions I think are best
I find it good practice for leading in the future.

3.
~Step

Read the sample introduction below. Then, in the space provided, write body paragraphs for
two of the ideas above. Try to write three to five sentences for each body paragraph. Then
read the sample conclusion paragraph.
Introduction:

For a group to get things done in an efficient and organized manner, it is often essential that they
have a leader. In these situations, I prefer to act as the leader rather than one of the many followers in
the group.
Body 1:

Making Ideas Flow

539 ---

[llllllllll!ll!lli!!!!!f!!!!!!!!!!l!llll!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!l!lllllllllll!!lllllll!!lllllll!!lllllll!!!!!ll!!lllllll!!l!!ll!!!ll!!!!!ll!!!llllJlll!lll!llll!lll
...............................
-.-~iiilll:
~

._;_~

--

Body2:

Conclusion:

For these reasons, I prefer to assume a leadership position whenever I am given the opportunity.

*'
Write your own response to the prompt in Step 1 from the opposite side of the argument. First,
think of two or three ideas for body paragraphs. Then write a response using your ideas.

rj""f~--j' l

540

Chapter 6

_I

Aj____

- - - - -- - - - - -

l
I

[z

"'

Now read the sample response below. What similarities and differences do you see with the
paragraphs you wrote?

'~

'

~Sample Response
For a group to get things done iri an efficient and organized manner,
it is often essential that they have a leader. In these situations, I prefer to
act as the leader rather than one of the many followers in the group.
One reason I like to lead is that leading gives me the opportunity to
make the decisions I think are the best. For example, in the summers I
often go on backpacking trips with large groups of my friends. I prefer
to lead because that way, I get to make the final decision as to where
we go, which peaks we climb, and how we get there.
Another reason I prefer to be the leader of a group is that I find it
good practice for leading in the future. Almost every career requires
some kind of leadership skills. Even if you start out at the bottom of a
corporation, you eventually work your way up the business hierarchy
dnto some kind of management position. I think it is important to develop
'"the skills it takes to be a good leader as soon as possible.
Lastly, I prefer to lead because as a leader, I get more respect than
as a follower. Because I am responsible for the safety and success of an
entire group, the members of that group tend to look up to me and listen
to what I say. When one of my backpacking groups ran into a huge
snowstorm one year, nobody questioned my decision to turn back. In
fact, niany of them thanked me for keeping them out of danger.
For these reasons, I prefer to assume a leadership position whenever
I am given the opportunity.

[
[

essential:
necessary
follower:

a person who lets other

people lead a group
hierarchy:

a system of organizing
people
respect:

to regard someone else's

choices or actions highly
look up to:

to admire someone
question:
to have doubts about
something
turn back:

to return the way that you

came
assume:
to start to control
something

ivlar:in9 :ueas Flow

541 - -

Opinion
=1;:;~''.';ll~;,-,,,\\t,;1-(,'J>?i.'(;hi<l>.<-

~Step

,; ; '"'-'

~,,,

,. ;.,

Read the following prompt.

Is it better to get advice from a parent or from a friend? Give specific reasons and examples
to support your answer.
Now look at the outline of a possible response to the prompt. Then write the thesis and the
conclusion.

Key point 1: Parents can be more knowledgeable than friends.

Key point 2: Parents do not give bad advice.
Key point 3: Parents will recommend what is the best for you.
Conclusion:----------------------------~Step

:2

Now write an introduction and a conclusion for the prompt in Step 1. Use your thesis and
conclusion from Step 1. Try to write three to five sentences for each paragraph.

Introduction:

~.. ,.---

rr1
':

542

Chapter G

(: , I

'4~---------~---

:
r :'
l
-.:

'

C\

.
'

~Step

Write your own response to the prompt in Step 1. First, think of two or three ideas for body
paragraphs. Then write a response using your ideas.
Body Paragraph 1: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

~----------------------~--------------------------------------------------

Body Paragraph 2: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
--------~-------------------------------------~-----------------------~---

------------------------------------------------~-------------------------

Body Paragraph 3=~-----------------------

---------------------------------------------------'

Making 1c1eas Flow

543

I.

,:
,.-------- 544
... ;;
.

~Step

Now read the sample response below. What similarities and differences do you see with the
paragraphs you wrote?

When you are stuck in a tough situation and you do not know what
to do about it, it is only natural to seek advice. In most situations, I think
it is better to go to a parent for advice than to a friend.
One reason why I hold this belief is because your parents are often
more knowledgeable than your friends. Your parents have already gone
through many of the situations you are going through. In hindsight, they
often have figured out which solutions work and which do not. Therefore,
they may be able to answer many of the questions and concerns your
friends will not be able to answer.
Also, I think it is better to ask your parents for guidance because they
are less likely to give you bad advice. Your friends may be preoccupied
with things like acting cool or wanting to be accepted. They may advise
you to do things like spend your money on clothes when it may not
actually be in your best interest to do so. Your parents, on the other
hand, are more removed from the immediate situation and thus are
better able to see clearly which solutions are best.
Lastly, I think you should ask your parents for advice rather than your
friends because your parents will always support you. While your friends
may turn their backs on you or even desert you, your parents will always
be there to help you. Most of the time, your parents will spend as much
time with you as is needed to solve your problem.
In conclusion, I think that you should almost always go to your parents
for advice rather than seeking advice from a friend.
'----

Chi-lpter 6

stuck:
unable to solve a problem

natural:
reasonable in a given
situation

seek:
to look for something
hindsight:
the ability to look back on
past events and judge them
preoccupied:
thinking about other things

removed:
to be separate from
something
turn one's back:
to stop helping somecne
desert:
to leave someone in a
situation where they need
help

-----------

,,

Opinion
IM>Mn'Wc;w.i:u>J':,.T,.l:;\:l"itlW<<.':>~<'i'.~~=-""~">llJ!il~:;)H<\~Y.~t:,~P~~"'-'"\<

,,,,,., _, >

Read the following prompt.

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It is important for people to learn
the customs of a country when they visit. Give specific reasons and examples to support
your answer.
Now look at the outline of a possible response to the prompt. First, identify which side of
the argument the responses support. Then write one more idea of your own that supports
that side of the argument.

I agree that it is important to learn the customs of a country when people visit.
Key point 1: You will learn about behavior to avoid that may be offensive.
Key point 2: You will be better able to communicate with people.
Key point3:

~Step

Read the sample introduction below. Then, in the space provided, write body paragraphs for
two of the ideas above. Try to write three to five sentences for each body paragraph. Then
read the sample conclusion paragraph.
Introduction:

When you visit another country, you often witness a variety of customs much different from your
own. I agree that it is important for people to learn these customs when they travel to a foreign country.
Body 1:

Making Ideas F!ow

545 - -

' .

Body 2:

. 1\:

Conclusion:

In conclusion, I think that it is essential to learn the customs of a country you are planning to visit.

~Step

Write your own response to the prompt in Step 1 from the opposite side of the argument. First,
think of two or three ideas for body paragraphs. Then write a response using your ideas.

,,
<

'

------------~--------------------------~-----------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

:\."

------------------

{ - - 546 Chapter 6
i --.--'-~--~'o-

----

_, ___ ,~---~- - --' '--

I""

Now read the sample response below. What similarities and differences do you see with the
paragraphs you wrote?

~z

"'

Sample Response
When you visit another country, you often witness a variety of customs
much different from your own. I agree that it is important for people to
learn theses customs when they travel to a foreign country.
First of all, learning a country's customs helps you avoid embarrassing
situations or miscommunications. In many African countries, for example,
it is considered very rude to touch a person or eat with your left hand.
Ignorance of such a custom would certainly cause you to offend many
of the people you meet. On the other hand, if you learn a country's customs,
you will be able to get along with its people quite well.
Secondly, knowing the customs of a country you are visiting shows
locals that you are genuinely interested in their country and that you
(\respect its people. In the days of colonialism, many colonists blatantly
, disregarded the customs of the locals and therefore angered many of
~,them. When you visit another country, it is important to remember that
, you are a guest of the people who live there. As such, you should
respect their customs, and in order to do so, you must learn them.
Finally, it is important to learn a country's customs because it allows
you to communicate with people. Often, people use certain gestures or
greet each other in a unique way. Knowing what these gestures and
greetings mean and what they are will make it much easier to meet
people and get any information you might need.
In conclusion, I think that it is essential to learn the customs of a
country you are planning to visit.

witness:.
to see something happen

custom:
something that people in a
particular culture usually do
embarrassing:
making you feel
self-conscious or silly
miscommunication:
a misunderstanding
offend:
to make a person upset
because of something that
you do or say
local:
a person who lives in a
particular place
blatantly:
in an obvious way

gesture:
a movement of one's hands
or head to communicate a

message

Making Ideas Flow

-----

547 - - -

Instructions: Choose the best word or phrase

to complete each sentence.

1. Some people are more _ _ _ __

when it's quiet, while others work better
with noise in the background.
lik,'

f''II",

I'

'i
11' ..

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nn
'i~

''

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

abundant
productive
linear
traditional

2. Emily had to

the fact that

she didn't study enough for the test and
got a poor grade.

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

face
eradicate
post
refuse

3. I found the movie extremely

_ _ _ _ _ . I can't believe that it got
such good reviews.
(A)
(8)
(C)
{D)

adequate
significant
engaging
dull

4. The company did not have enough

_ _ _ _ _ to get the job finished, so
it hired more people.
(A)
(8)
(C)
(D)

programming
access
manpower
signal

5. The committee has been busy planning the

_ _ _ _ _ picnic for former_students
of the university.
(A)
(8)
(C)
(D)

resources
alumni
challenges
posters

';V--- 548 .Vocabulary Review 3

''i

6. Stuart is a very
young
man, so he should have no trouble finding
a job.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

unstable
scarce
well-rounded
distracted

7. Some people do not understand the

importance of recycling
efforts to save the environment.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

in

waste
signals
pride
globes

-~.

8. The company's

of a large
sum of money allowed the new park to be
built.

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

impression
contribution
tradition
association

'i;,

9. I would like to go to the movies.

_ _ _ _ _ , I could just watch
television at home and save money.
{A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

Hardly
Primarily
Swiftly
Conversely

'',~
'

10. I decided I needed a

, so I
signed up to run a 15-kilometer marathon
next month.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

crisis
challenge .
forum
program

,,
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~:

]
..

11. The library has many

to help
students who are researching topics for
reports.
(A) finances
(B) impressions
(C) portrayals
(D) resources

12. George is

to building a
treehouse for his nephews in his sister's
backyard.

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

ensured
distracted
dedicated
associated

13. The new Italian restaurant is going to

_____ its menu on its website so
. people can see it.
(A)
, (B)
' ' (C)
(D)

vaccinate
pacify
refuse
post

14. I have never been good at math, so I

_____ with it the whole time I was
at school.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

struggled
dropped
concentrated
retained

15. Everyone who works with Charlotte is

amazed at how good she is at
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

poverty
popularity
multitasking
access

Instructions: Choose the word or phrase closest

in meaning to the underlined word.

. 16. I was so interested in reading my new book

that I didn't realize how late it was.
(A) valued
(B) engaged
(C) unstable
(D) linear
17. In order for antiques to keep their value,
they must be treated very carefully.
(A) retain
(B) ensure
(C) refuse
(D) portray

''
'
.

'I

I'
.
'

'

18. It is typical in some countries to put out

milk and cookies for Santa Claus on
Christmas Eve.
(A) productive
(B) dedicated
(C) scarce
(D) traditional
19. Cleopatra is usually described as very
beautiful, though some historians doubt this
is true.
(A) portrayed
(B) associated
(C) eradicated
(D) replicated
20. She felt a lot of satisfaction when she found
out that she had achieved a perfect score
on her exam.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(0)

cns1s
value
pride
signal

Vocabulary.Review 3

549 --.'

'

21. They were pleased to discover they could

l'

l'I

26. My first thought upon meeting him was that

QW for a trip to Europe this summer for the

he wasn't very friendly at all.

entire family.
(A) pacify
(B) finance
(C) refuse
(D) postpone

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

impression
signal
concentration
significance

27. It took my mother a while to understand

\i"

22. The flight had been overbooked, so there

was not enough seating on the plane for
everyone.

ij

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

'I

.I
:1

sc<irce
growing
disadvantaged
adequate

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

catch on to
take on
run into
drop in on

28. In baseball, the pitcher and catcher have

I
II

23. He decided to stop his piano lessons

because he didn't like them as much as he
thought he would.

(A)
(8)
(C)
(D)

I
lI

'I

'

drop
vaccinate
replicate
ensure

signs for what kind of pitch should be

thrown.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

disadvantages
fields
signals
providers

29. The parade had to be delayed because it

"'

24. Several generations of her family have

worked in the area of medicine, so she
wants to be a lawyer instead.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

forum
signal
field
program

25. The boss left a note on Shannon's desk,

but she didn't see it so she missed the
meeting.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

:~---

how to use the Internet, but now she loves

it.

550

production
crisis
resource
memo

Vocabulary Revie>iv 3

'

:{'

was raining so hard on Saturday afternoon.

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

pacified
postponed
refused
produced

30. In past centuries, many people kept cats in

order to get rid of mice <ind rats in their
homes.

(A)
(8)
(C)
(D)

associate
ensure
replicate
eradicate

-~

I
I

f
[

;'.~;nstructions: Write the missing words. Use the

words below to fill in the blanks.
ensure
run into
access
abundance
scarce

generate
preferred
crisis
significance .:
globe

There is a lot of 31. _ _ _ _ _ __

to the rising costs of power around the
32.
. It shows that
_______ as our
non-renewable sources of energy such
as coal and oil are becoming more and
more 34.
. The Earth
simply cannot 35.
enough
resources to meet the world's energy needs.
However, using renewable power sources like
wind and solar can 36. - - - - - - that we do not 37.
energy
problems. More countries are gaining
38.
to renewable power
sources in the form of wind farms and
solar power plants. Unlike non-renewable
sources, there will always be an
39..
of sunlight and wind.
In fact, renewable energy is quickly becoming
the 40.
method of power
for many people and governments.

Instructions: Choose one word in each group

that does not belong.

41. give

provide

design
42. pacify

supply

value

43. unbalanced
uneven
44. focus
disadvantage
45. copy
portray

calm
peace

..

unproductive
attention
concentration
replicate
repeat

46.

poverty

wealthy

47.
48.

refuse

reject

associate
distracted
design

connect
focused
plan

50.

.i

unstable

.Instructions: Label each pair of words as similar

(S) or opposite (0).

49.

[
[

..

Vocabulary Review 3

;.

551 _

..

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~-~'U'itl<W<J'>lli!';t..-<"m!O',::---

.-

Instructions: Choose the best word or phrase

to complete each sentence.

1. I'm

on this chemistry
exercise and I just can't figure it out.
(A) natural
(B) strict
(C) wise
(D) stuck

2. He says he has always

6. Many explorers have gone out to

the Fountain of Youth, but
none have found it.
(A) seek
(B) desert
(C) connect
(D) devote

'
g.,
)
-,}

"
i

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r~

his

older brother and grandfather as role

models.
(A) offended
(B) tended
(C) looked up to
(D) turned back

7. Cais and dogs

to fight,
but sometimes they can also become
friends.
(A) offend
(B) assume
(C) tend
(D) refuse

. (

'
. 'i
'

~
j

l
.1'
f>t

;j'ji

8. My best friend is always reading about her

3. She was late because she

a car accident and had to fill out a report
about what happened.
(A) witnesses
(B) deserted
(C) connected
(D) devoted

favorite
magazines.

in entertainment

'!

*,r,

.~

(A) celebrity
(B) alumni
(C) conflict
(D) gesture

fl
;~
(,

9. It is often said that younger people should

i~

their elders and speak to

4. The academic support center has

that can help you out in
any subject.
(A) locals
(B) tutors
(C) editors
(D) celebrities

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

l
t'i
~i ~--:

552

for a successful future.

flexible
removed
essential
hectic

Vocabulary Review 4

(A) ensure
(B) desert
(C) respect
(D) pacify

;p;

f
~
:~

~
}(',

5. My parents both believe a good education

is

them politely.

1O. They aren't very

when it
comes to making financial decisions, which
is why they have no money.
(A) abundant
(B) wise
(C) accessible
(D) passionate

' >"il'

~.

~
~

'.<\

l~
!'i!,.,,

~{;

~-i.
z
~

Cl

'

11. Everyone says that you should always be

honest, but sometimes being too honest
_ _ _ _ _ people.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

vaccinates
drops
respects
offends

12. The professor is very _ _ _ __

about students attending class every week.
(A) flexible
(B) strict
(C) specialized
(D) unstable
13. She has a very strong
for
helping animals, so she joined an animal
rights group.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

forum
dilemma
passion
field

14. Personal computers have become a lot

more
since they were first
marketed.

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

natural
open
embarrassing
accessible

15. The media seem to create more

- - - - - news stories instead of

just reporting the facts.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

financial
sensational
devotional
digital

Instructions: Choose the word or phrase closest

in meaning to the underlined word.

VI

Cl

"O

16. I really have to doubt whether he really

wants to be a part of this team due to his
attitude.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

!'

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Cl

associate
struggle
assume
question

q
;:;

17. Karen is facing the problem of not knowing

"'-I

which university she wants to attend.

(A) dilemma
(B) gesture
(C) hindsight
(D) resource

'
'

.I

18. Everyone has had uncomfortable moments

in life when they just want to disappear.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

flexible
embarrassing
essential
informative

19. The wild strawberries at my uncle's farm

were so plentiful last summer that we ate
them for dessert nearly every night.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

suburban
linear
abundant
sensational

20. His opinion toward life is really positive,

which makes him really fun to be around.
(A) attitude
(B) passion
(C) popularity
(D) pride

Vocabulary Review 4

553

~-----;

21. Between work and school, my schedule

has gotten pretty busy lately.
(A) unforeseen
(B) hectic
(Cl removed
(D) specialized
22. Sometimes events happen that keep us
from doing the things we really want to do.
(A) conflicts
(B) connections
(C) customs
(D) circumstances
23. He made a movement that meant he
wanted me to follow him into the sporting
goods store.
(A) hierarchy
(B) miscommunication
(C) gesture
(D) follower
24. Due to an unexpected snowstorm, school
was cancelled for the day which made the
students happy.
(A) unforeseen
(B) accessible
(C) informative
(D) adequate
25. I have a lot of admiration for people who
have overcome difficult obstacles in their
lives.
(A) flexibility
(B) respect
(C) preoccupation
(D) dedication

i!---- 554
~;., .;., :.; .,o<:, ...;j"'"';,;.;,~.,;, ;;,;c:;,_.,;;,,;,;
Vocabulary Review 4

c.;;,;,::;:;,; c .:.;,,:::c;;;;,,,:;:;c;;;,;;;,;:c;_,;;;;;;;;,,,,, ,;;.

26. They had a disagreement about how the

project should be completed, but they
worked it out.
(A) preference .
(B) memo
(C) passion
(D) conflict

27. My schedule is pretty changeable, so just

let me know when you want to get together
for lunch.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

removed
open
flexible
informative

28. In medical school, students take a lot of

focused courses relating to the field of
medicine they are interested in.
(A) traditional
(B) resourceful
(C) scarce
(D) specialized
29. It is reasonable to be frightened when
watching scary movies on television late at
night.
(A) stuck
(B) natural
(C) strict
(D) hectic
30. I don't know why she bothered even to
come with us when she obviously didn't
want to.
(A) adequately
.(B) conversely
(C) blatantly
(D) digitally

!(

~' Instructions:

Write the missing words. Use the

words below to fill in the blanks.
connected
turn back
hectic
devote
hindsight

desert
open
removed
attitude
preoccupied

'Ji'\'': In today's busy society, it is easy to become

'!:f,':'~;,:_t:

~i\i'Nt 31..

with our own lives and

from the lives
. j!iib of our friends. However, it is very important to
..
.. ~
~i~F'. stay 33.
with them and be
' :,;!fj 34.
to making changes in
.?~r;;~::.
, order to do so. Although our lives may be
3' extremely 35.
, it is not
<>
.. acceptable to 36.
one's
,-::;-,
friends. If you have the 37. _ _ _ _ _ __
that you are too busy for them, there will be a
da~ when they will be too busy for you when
you need help. In 38. _ _ _ _ _ __
you will wish you had not ignored them, but
it will be too late to 39. _ _ _ _ _ __
and change things. So make sure you
40.
time to your friends.
if;{.~-~:;

, :t~!;,!'{
;,w,,- become 32.

Instructions: Write the missing word. Use the

words below to fill in the blanks.

off

out

off

so

up

41. The game was called

and
rescheduled because of the bad weather.
42. I called to ask if you want to go
_ _ _ _ _ tonight. We could see a
movie.
43. She was _ _ _ _ _ upset that she
failed her midterm exam.
44. We did not buy the sofa because we
thought it would take
too
much room.
45. People often think everyone else is better
_ _ _ _ _ than they are.

11

/,j

Instructions: Match the words that are

opposites.

46.
47.
48.
49.
50.

removed

(A) relaxed

strict

(B) leader

unforeseen

(C) attaohed

follower

(0) agreement

conflict

(E) expected

Vocabulary Review 4

'

555 _ _:1
I