Block 3 Sports
Day I.
1. English Grammar in Use (EGU) In the following units read the theory attentively and do the indicated exercises: Unit 8 #8.3, 8.4, Unit 9 #9.4.Unit 10 #10.3, Unit 13 # 13.1-13.3, Uit 14 # 14.3, 14.4, Unit 15 #15.3, 15.4
to take over
to wrap up
to look for
to finish off
to get by






°
Total Questions: 0
Incorrect Answers: 0
3. SB page 14-15 do the matching task on the text. Retell the text, using linking phrases.
4. Watch the video and prepare a 2-minute talk on the topic (which you should first send for a check in writing): What is one of the most amazing technologies you have recently heard about. Use: - to allow Ving - to allow smb toV1 - to help smb V1 - to enable smb to V1 - to save smb from having to V1 = избавить кого-либо от необходимости делать что-то
5. 1. Read the script of a TV program and answer the questions below it.
Script
[Maggie Lake/New York:] – Workout ads! They are everywhere you look! As people worldwide grow more conscious of their waistlines, the fitness industry has exploded. Companies promising to whip us into shape, rated an impressive 8 billion dollars last year! But not everyone believes you have to spend money to be healthy. Members of one unique workout group say all you really need is an alarm clock. It’s almost 6.30, the sun is just coming out and we are heading to meet The November Project people.
The November Project meets early morning twice a week at various landmarks around New York. There is no membership fee and workouts are totally free. Brogan Graham and Bojan Mandaric started the project two years ago with the fellow members in Boston. The two just wanted to stay in shape without the expensive crowds of the gym. The movement has exploded from there.
[Bojan Mandaric/ Co-Founder, November Project:] – It’s the comradery; it’s the sense of community that we built, we interact with people.
We go humane, sweaty. We are coming for sweaty hearts, we are coming for high buzz here and there. And that’s the community that people like, that’s the community that people get up for when the alarm goes off, it’s so easy to switch this button off. Then all right, I know my friend is going to be right there. I’m gonna come out, I’m gonna have an amazing workout.
[Maggie:] – It is so easy to switch that button off as we found out this morning. This is in sharp contrast with a lot of other fitness ideas that involve a lot of money. You can spend a lot of money trying to get fit.
[Bojan:] – Absolutely. Which is kind of counter-intuitive, because people have been moving and have been working out since the dawn of time. And we got to the point where in order to be healthy and fit you need to spend a lot of money. We need to eat healthy food, we need to pay a lot of money for the gym memberships. We believe it’s kind of backwards, we should be able to use the city as our playground. And we are 19 cities right now, wanting to be 25 maybe even 30 by the end of the year. And it’s just very exciting.
[Maggie:] – Sponsors have taken notice. North Face has partnered with the group saying, “November Project has been at the forefront of the free fitness movement, and has inspired thousands of people to get outside, be more active and have fun doing it. We are both proud weatherproof brands – training no matter what the conditions.”
A dedicated friendly atmosphere but what about results?
I am tired!
Let’s just say sometimes… the best things in life are free.
Questions:
1. How much money does the fitness industry earn?
2. Do you always have to pay to stay fit?
3. Tell a little about the history of the November Project
4. What motivated people to wake up so early and do a workout?
5. How large is the movement?
5.2. Using the information from the script above, prepare an answer to the following IELTS speaking 2 question:
Tell about an article or book that you have read that inspired you for something.
You should say:
-What that source was and where you came across it
-What was told in it, what its main point was
-How it influenced you
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6. Write an essay on the topic: Are gyms really that important for a healthy living? Outline the main stereotypes people have about fitness and ways to make it free and even more enjoyable.
Click to see the Template for a Direct Double Question IELTS Essay
1) Introduction
- Paraphrase the question: Restate the question in different words to demonstrate understanding.
- Example phrases:
- "The significance/relevance/salience of / Whether [rephrased topic] has been a subject of extensive debate."
- "There is growing concern regarding [rephrased question]."
- Outline sentence: Clearly state your answers to both questions.
- Example phrases:
- "This essay will explore [rephrase question 1] and propose/discuss [rephrase question 2]."
- "While some believe that [state opinion on question 1], this essay will argue that [state opinion on question 2]."
- "This essay examines the stereotypes surrounding [restate first question] and considers ways to [restate second question]."
2) Main Body Paragraph 1 – Answer question 1
- Topic sentence: State your answer to the first question.
- Example phrases:
- "A prevalent stereotype surrounding [topic] is that [state stereotype]."
- "To address the first question, it is important to consider [state answer]."
- Explanation: Expand on your reasoning with logical arguments.
- Example phrases:
- "This assumption is often perpetuated by [cause or reason]."
- "However, evidence suggests that [counterargument or support]."
- Example: Provide a relevant example or evidence.
- Example phrases:
- "For instance, [specific example or case]."
- "A case in point is [real-life situation]."
3) Main Body Paragraph 2 – Answer question 2
- Topic sentence: State your answer to the second question.
- Example phrases:
- "Turning to the second question, it becomes clear that [state answer]."
- "To make [topic] more accessible, several strategies can be implemented."
- Explanation: Develop your idea further with supporting points.
- Example phrases:
- "For example, [state solution or proposal]."
- "Such initiatives not only [state benefit] but also [state additional benefit]."
- Example: Provide evidence or a real-life situation.
- Example phrases:
- "For example, [specific example]."
- "This can be observed in [specific scenario or trend]."
4) Conclusion
- Summarise both questions and answers: Recap your main points and final thoughts.
- Example phrases:
- "In conclusion, this essay has explored the stereotypes about [topic] and demonstrated how [solution to question 2]."
- "Ultimately, while [restate key insight from question 1], it is also crucial to recognize that [restate key insight from question 2]."
- "By addressing these concerns, [topic] can be made both more accessible and enjoyable."
Integrated Phrases for Cohesion and High Impact
- "The importance of [topic] has been a subject of extensive debate."
- "This essay examines the stereotypes surrounding [topic] and considers ways to [propose solution]."
- "Turning to the second question, it becomes clear that [answer to question 2]."
- "Ultimately, while [point from question 1], it is also crucial to recognize that [point from question 2]."
Day II.
1. Fill in the gaps in the model graph analysis (IELTS writing 1) below
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The graph below shows relative price changes for fresh fruits and vegetables, sugars and sweets, and carbonated drinks between 1978 and 2009.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

exhibited strikingly highlights climb fluctuations illustrates plateaued differed surged stable differed modest stable
Write at least 150 words.
The graph the changes in the prices of fresh fruits and vegetables, sugar and sweets, and carbonated drinks over a thirty-year span in the United States, from 1979 to 2009. It also the overall trend in the consumer price index during this period.
While the consumer price index a gradual and consistent rise throughout these three decades, the trajectory of carbonated drink prices significantly. After a increase between 1979 and 1981, the prices of soft drinks remained relatively until 1999, at which point they began to at a slower pace.
In contrast, the price of fresh fruits and vegetables displayed a different pattern. Despite occasional , their cost rose consistently over the thirty years. Notably, fresh produce prices only briefly from 1990 to 1992 and again between 2000 and 2001. By 2008, however, the price of fresh fruits and vegetables had by over 300%.
Total Questions: 0
Incorrect Answers: 0
2. Write your own description of the graphs below in one answer.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The graphs below show average monthly spending on children's sports and kids' participation on three different sports between 2008 nand 2014.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

3. Write a description of the pie-chart below

Additional grammar practice: English Grammar in Use Supplementary Exercises ( EGU Supplementary) page 15 #25, page 16 #27, page 17 #28, page18 #29, 30
Day III.
1. Practice IELTS speaking 2 and 3 questions:
Take one minute to prepare a talk on the following subject.
Take notes if you like and remember to include reasons and examples.
You should then speak for between one and two minutes.
1.
Describe an exciting competition or sporting event you have witnessed.
You should say:
- what the competition or sporting event was
- when and where it took place
- who won
and explain why it was exciting.
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Click to see the Template for a talk about a past experience. Use it in your answer.
Introduction
- Indeed, [experience] is a truly unforgettable moment in my life.
- I would like to take you down memory lane and share …
- Today, I’m going to walk you through my memories about …
Setting the Scene
- It was/happened ages ago [X years ago/when I was in college/during my time at...].
- Picture this: [describe the setting vividly].
- At that time, I was caught up in [describe your state or situation].
- Little did I know, this moment would become such a lasting memory.
Building the Narrative
- Firstly, [highlight the main event or aspect].
- To give you some background, [provide relevant details].
- I was on cloud nine expecting [describe hopes or emotions].
- During this time, [describe the key moments or challenges].
- It hit me like a ton of bricks when I realized that …
- As things unfolded, I couldn’t believe my eyes/ears [describe something surprising].
- What really stood out was [highlight the unique part of the experience].
Climax
- The turning point came when [describe a critical moment].
- It was a make-or-break moment, and I had to [describe action or decision].
- This was a game-changer for me because [explain the significance].
- Looking back, it feels like a dream come true [or other reflection].
Conclusion
- In retrospect, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.
- It was a rollercoaster of emotions, but ultimately, [share the outcome].
- Overall, this memory has taught me a lesson that’s stuck with me ever since.
- This journey has profoundly influenced me, and I carry the impact of it to this day.
If your response in Part 2 is under 1 minute, the examiner may prompt you to say more.
2.
Describe a game, competition or sporting event you have taken part and lost in.
You should say:
- what the competition or sporting event was
- when and where it took place
- who won
and explain why it was exciting.
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3.
Tell about the time you got injured.
You should say:
- When and where did it happen?
- What was the injury like?
- How did you treat it?
Explain why it is important to be cautious in such cases.
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4. Answer these speaking 3 questions in less than 1 minute, saying about 3 sentences:
What are the main types of injuries in your circle?
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Do you think we live in a more traumatic world now than 100 and more years ago? Why?
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5. To prepare your answer on the following speaking 2 question, use these words from
https://kidspicturedictionary.com/english-through-pictures/things-english-through-pictures/exercise-clothing-and-outerwear/
Tell about your favourite item of sportswear .
- Where do you wear it?
- What material is it made of?
- What is its colour and style?
- Why do you like it?
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6. Should we make much of our work out gear (=sports clothes=sportswear) when doing sports? Why?
7. [optional] SB page 16-17-Listening, Vocabulary, Speaking -send in for a check
Day IV.
1. Essential words fro IELTS Unit 2 page 37-44. Prepare a retelling of the text about peripheral vision in sports
Match the words with their definitions:
anticipate
athlete
blur
boundary
complicate
coordinate
demonstrate
detect
distracting
focus
indiscernibly
indistinct
maneuver
performance
peripheral
range
scan
tolerate
unconsciously
vision
A. n., area |
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B. n., a movement |
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C. n., how well a person or machine does something |
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D. v., to expect, be ready for something to happen |
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E. v., to notice, become aware of |
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F. adv., in a way that is impossible to see or notice |
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G. adj., unclear |
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H. adv., without thinking, automatically |
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I. n., a person who plays sports |
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J. n., an edge, border |
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K. adj., at the edge |
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L. v., to look over |
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M. v., to accept, allow |
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N. v., to organize; make work together |
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O. n., something not seen clearly |
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P. n., the ability to see; sight |
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Do you believe that professional athletes make good role models for young people?
Support your opinion with reasons and examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Click to see the template for a direct single question IELTS essay
1) Introduction
Paraphrase the question: Restate the question in different words to demonstrate understanding.
Example phrases:
- "The significance/relevance/salience of [topic] has been a subject of extensive debate."
- "There is growing concern regarding [rephrased question]."
- "In recent years, the topic of [topic] has become increasingly pertinent."
- "Few topics generate as much discussion as [topic], given its [importance/consequences]."
Outline sentence: Clearly state your stance or the focus of the essay.
Example phrases:
- "This essay will explore [restate the question] and argue that [your stance or conclusion]."
- "While some believe that [state an alternative opinion], this essay will argue that [your stance]."
- "This essay examines the stereotypes surrounding [restate the topic] and considers ways to address them."
- "Apart from [initial aspect], [subject] also involves [outline benefits, drawbacks, or features]."
2) Main Body Paragraph 1 – Primary Argument or Perspective
Topic sentence: Introduce your answer to the question with your first main idea.
Example phrases:
- "A prevalent stereotype surrounding [topic] is that [state stereotype]."
- "To address the question, it is important to consider [state answer]."
- "The primary benefit/drawback of [topic] lies in [specific idea]."
- "One of the most compelling aspects of [topic] is [main feature or argument]."
Explanation: Expand on your reasoning with logical arguments.
Example phrases:
- "This assumption is often perpetuated by [cause or reason]."
- "However, evidence suggests that [counterargument or support]."
- "This is particularly true when [specific condition or scenario]."
- "This is because...."/li>
Example: Provide a relevant example or evidence.
Example phrases:
- "For instance, [specific example or case]."
- "A case in point is [real-life situation]."
- "Statistically,...."
3) Main Body Paragraph 2 – Secondary Perspective or Implication
Topic sentence: Develop your answer further by introducing a related but distinct idea.
Example phrases:
- "Apart from the aforementioned aspect/drawback(s)/benefit(s)/adverse effects on...etc, [subject] also encompasses [another benefit/drawback]/entails...."
- "Expanding on this, it becomes evident that [state further analysis or implication]."
- "Examining [specific perspective or factor] highlights that [state insight]."
Explanation: Provide supporting arguments or delve deeper into your idea.
Example phrases:
- "For example, [specific evidence or proposal]."
- "Such initiatives not only [state benefit] but also [state additional benefit]."
- "This can be attributed to [specific factor]."
- "This has been observed in individuals who... / when... "
Example: Include evidence or a real-life situation to reinforce your point.
Example phrases:
- "For instance, [specific example]."
- "This phenomenon can be observed in [specific scenario or trend]."
4) Main Body Paragraph 3 – Addressing Alternatives or Broader Implications (optional)
Topic sentence: Add a nuanced or alternative perspective to strengthen your argument.
Example phrases:
- "Although the preceding arguments focus on [primary perspective], it is equally important to consider [alternative perspective]."
- "An additional aspect worth exploring is [state broader implication]."
- "While [specific argument] holds merit, one cannot overlook [alternative idea or challenge]."
- "That said, [an opposite idea]."
- "That (being) said / Even though there are downsides, ...may still... / should not by totally discarded / ...holds certain merits/risks/etc to itself "
Explanation: Develop this perspective further with logical reasoning or examples.
Example phrases:
- "This can provide a more balanced approach to [topic]."
- "Moreover, addressing [alternative perspective] ensures [specific outcome or benefit]."
- "This view is supported by [specific evidence or reasoning]."
- "Particularly, ... / FOr example,... "
Example: Provide a specific example to strengthen your argument.
Example phrases:
- "For example, [specific case or evidence]."
- "This is particularly evident in [real-life situation or example]."
5) Conclusion
Summarize your answer: Recap the main points and provide a final perspective.
Example phrases:
- "In conclusion, this essay has explored the stereotypes about [topic] and demonstrated how [solution or insight]."
- "Ultimately, while [restate key insight from your argument], it is also crucial to recognize that [secondary insight or implication]."
- "By addressing these concerns, [topic] can be made both more accessible and enjoyable."
- "In sum, [restate your main arguments succinctly]."
- "To sum up, ... still seems/tends to V1. Indeed,... / After all, ( additional idea)"
Day V.
What is better: to do sports or to watch them on TV?
Click to see the template for a direct single question IELTS essay
1) Introduction
Paraphrase the question: Restate the question in different words to demonstrate understanding.
Example phrases:
- "The significance/relevance/salience of [topic] has been a subject of extensive debate."
- "There is growing concern regarding [rephrased question]."
- "In recent years, the topic of [topic] has become increasingly pertinent."
- "Few topics generate as much discussion as [topic], given its [importance/consequences]."
Outline sentence: Clearly state your stance or the focus of the essay.
Example phrases:
- "This essay will explore [restate the question] and argue that [your stance or conclusion]."
- "While some believe that [state an alternative opinion], this essay will argue that [your stance]."
- "This essay examines the stereotypes surrounding [restate the topic] and considers ways to address them."
- "Apart from [initial aspect], [subject] also involves [outline benefits, drawbacks, or features]."
2) Main Body Paragraph 1 – Primary Argument or Perspective
Topic sentence: Introduce your answer to the question with your first main idea.
Example phrases:
- "A prevalent stereotype surrounding [topic] is that [state stereotype]."
- "To address the question, it is important to consider [state answer]."
- "The primary benefit/drawback of [topic] lies in [specific idea]."
- "One of the most compelling aspects of [topic] is [main feature or argument]."
Explanation: Expand on your reasoning with logical arguments.
Example phrases:
- "This assumption is often perpetuated by [cause or reason]."
- "However, evidence suggests that [counterargument or support]."
- "This is particularly true when [specific condition or scenario]."
- "This is because...."/li>
Example: Provide a relevant example or evidence.
Example phrases:
- "For instance, [specific example or case]."
- "A case in point is [real-life situation]."
- "Statistically,...."
3) Main Body Paragraph 2 – Secondary Perspective or Implication
Topic sentence: Develop your answer further by introducing a related but distinct idea.
Example phrases:
- "Apart from the aforementioned aspect/drawback(s)/benefit(s)/adverse effects on...etc, [subject] also encompasses [another benefit/drawback]/entails...."
- "Expanding on this, it becomes evident that [state further analysis or implication]."
- "Examining [specific perspective or factor] highlights that [state insight]."
Explanation: Provide supporting arguments or delve deeper into your idea.
Example phrases:
- "For example, [specific evidence or proposal]."
- "Such initiatives not only [state benefit] but also [state additional benefit]."
- "This can be attributed to [specific factor]."
- "This has been observed in individuals who... / when... "
Example: Include evidence or a real-life situation to reinforce your point.
Example phrases:
- "For instance, [specific example]."
- "This phenomenon can be observed in [specific scenario or trend]."
4) Main Body Paragraph 3 – Addressing Alternatives or Broader Implications (optional)
Topic sentence: Add a nuanced or alternative perspective to strengthen your argument.
Example phrases:
- "Although the preceding arguments focus on [primary perspective], it is equally important to consider [alternative perspective]."
- "An additional aspect worth exploring is [state broader implication]."
- "While [specific argument] holds merit, one cannot overlook [alternative idea or challenge]."
- "That said, [an opposite idea]."
- "That (being) said / Even though there are downsides, ...may still... / should not by totally discarded / ...holds certain merits/risks/etc to itself "
Explanation: Develop this perspective further with logical reasoning or examples.
Example phrases:
- "This can provide a more balanced approach to [topic]."
- "Moreover, addressing [alternative perspective] ensures [specific outcome or benefit]."
- "This view is supported by [specific evidence or reasoning]."
- "Particularly, ... / FOr example,... "
Example: Provide a specific example to strengthen your argument.
Example phrases:
- "For example, [specific case or evidence]."
- "This is particularly evident in [real-life situation or example]."
5) Conclusion
Summarize your answer: Recap the main points and provide a final perspective.
Example phrases:
- "In conclusion, this essay has explored the stereotypes about [topic] and demonstrated how [solution or insight]."
- "Ultimately, while [restate key insight from your argument], it is also crucial to recognize that [secondary insight or implication]."
- "By addressing these concerns, [topic] can be made both more accessible and enjoyable."
- "In sum, [restate your main arguments succinctly]."
- "To sum up, ... still seems/tends to V1. Indeed,... / After all, ( additional idea)"
2. 1. Read the article below. Write out from it arguments against pushing the kid to become a pro-athlete.
The Hidden Struggles of Pursuing Pro Sports Dreams for Kids: A Heartfelt Reflection
In the vibrant tapestry of childhood dreams, the allure of professional sports shines like a beacon of hope. For many young athletes, the vision of scoring the winning goal or crossing the finish line first ignites a fire within, fueling their passion and dedication from an early age. Yet, beneath the surface of this glittering dream lies a labyrinth of unforeseen challenges and heart-wrenching dilemmas, prompting a soul-searching question: Is the relentless push for professional athleticism truly worth the sacrifices?
Imagine the weight upon the shoulders of a child, burdened by the expectations of coaches, parents, and peers alike. From dawn till dusk, their days blur into a whirlwind of grueling training sessions and exhausting competitions, as they strive to mold their bodies and minds into vessels of perfection. The pressure to excel, to surpass every obstacle in their path, can crush their spirits beneath its weight, leaving them gasping for breath in a sea of doubt and uncertainty.
As they navigate the treacherous waters of competition, young athletes find themselves engulfed in a maelstrom of rivalry and comparison. Each victory brings fleeting moments of triumph, while every defeat plunges them into the depths of despair. The relentless pursuit of success leaves little room for self-compassion or acceptance, as they measure their worth against the achievements of their peers, their dreams dangling just out of reach like elusive mirages on the horizon.
Yet, even as they grapple with the demons of doubt and insecurity, the road to professional sports remains fraught with perilous twists and turns. For every shining star that ascends to the pinnacle of athletic glory, countless others are left to languish in the shadows of unfulfilled dreams. The specter of failure looms large, casting a pall of uncertainty over their hopes and aspirations, as they confront the harsh realities of rejection and disappointment.
But perhaps the most heartbreaking toll of chasing professional sports dreams lies in the sacrifices made along the way. As they pour their hearts and souls into their athletic pursuits, young athletes often find themselves torn between their passion for the game and the pursuit of a well-rounded life. The relentless demands of training and competition can rob them of precious moments with family and friends, leaving them adrift in a sea of loneliness and isolation.
Yet, amid the turmoil and uncertainty, there remains a glimmer of hope—a beacon of light that shines bright amidst the darkness. For beyond the realm of trophies and accolades lies the true essence of sportsmanship: the bonds forged in the crucible of competition, the lessons learned in victory and defeat alike. It is in the embrace of teammates and coaches, in the laughter shared and tears shed, that young athletes find solace and strength to carry on.
So, as we navigate the tumultuous seas of professional sports, let us remember the fragile hearts and dreams of the children who dare to chase them. Let us tread gently upon the hallowed ground of their aspirations, nurturing their spirits with love and compassion as they journey forth into the great unknown. For in the end, it is not the trophies or accolades that define their worth, but the courage and resilience with which they pursue their dreams.
2.2. Using phrases written out from the article above write an essay on the topic:
Many parents get their off-spring involved in professional sports.Do the advantages of professional sport outweigh the disadvantages?
Click to see the template for the Do- the- advantages- really- outweigh- the- disadvantages [или наоборот] IELTS essay
Template1: Advantages outweigh disadvantages
Introduction [с введением своего мнения]
-It is often debated .... - Whether.... or.... has been a subject of heated debate. - This essay will analyze this issue in an effort to prove .... better than....
Advantages [идут первыми в теле эссе, потому что перевешивают]
- Firstly, .... has several advantages/ benefits - In addition to it, ... - It is thus clear that ... has certain undeniable benefits/pluses.
Disadvantages and their weakness [идут вторыми, потому что перевешиваются]
- Despite the above advantages, there are potential drawbacks to / shortcomings of/ concerns about ....
- If... it could ...
- However, although there is a concern that ...., it should be remembered that ....
- In other words, this is a practice that curbs/raises the possibility of.... - Further, .... also ….
- Thus, after analysis, the disadvantages to... are not quite as discouraging as they may at first seem.
Conclusion [В заключении заново формулируем свое мнение о том, что перевешивает что]
- The above discussion makes clear that, despite select disadvantages, ....
- I thus hope /think / consider...
Template2: Disadvantages outweigh advantages
Introduction
-It is often debated .... - Whether.... or.... has been a matter of heated debate. - This essay will analyze this issue in an effort to prove .... worse than....
Disadvantages
- Firstly, .... has several advantages/ benefits - In addition to it, ... - It is thus clear that .... has certain undeniable benefits/pluses.
Advantages and their weakness
- Despite these disadvantages, there can be found some aspects/features ... that may seem attractive.
- If... it could ...
- However, it should be remembered that ....
- In other words, this is a practice that curbs/raises the possibility of.... - Further, .... also ….
- Thus, after analysis, the advantages to... are not quite as encouraging as they may at first seem.
Conclusion
- The above discussion makes clear that, despite select advantages, ....
- I thus hope...
Day VI.
In the book with IELTS tests do the next test. The audio is here. (Open in in a new window) Of note: You don't need to register on www.dropbox.com to download the audio files for the text. Just Skip the registration form by clicking the x
Day VII.
After I have checked your written expressions in the form of essays, graph descriptions and 2-minute answers to questions, send in their audio or video recordings.