Integrated Writing

Step 1. Read the text below

For hundreds of years, several civilizations flourished in the Eastern Mediterranean region. However, around the end of the twelfth century BCE almost all of these civilizations suddenly collapsed.  Historians call this event the Late Bronze Age Collapse. The suddenness and mysteriousness of this collapse have given rise to a few theories about what actually caused it.

One of the leading theories suggests that climate change was a significant factor in the collapse. It is possible that climate change caused a long period of drought and famine, which negatively affected agricultural production. This, coupled with earthquakes and other natural disasters, could have led to widespread food shortages and migration away from impacted areas. The combination of all these factors may have weakened the governments of the area, making them extremely vulnerable.

Another theory suggests that the collapse occurred when a group of seafaring pirates called the “Sea Peoples” invaded the region. The Sea Peoples came from outside of the Mediterranean and were known for their advanced sailing technology and military tactics, advantages which allowed them to raid and plunder coastal cities and settlements. The attacks of the Sea Peoples may have disrupted trade routes and slowly weakened the militaries of the local civilizations.  

A third theory suggests that the collapse was caused by the instability of the political and economic systems of all Late Bronze Age civilizations. Empires of the time were highly centralized and wealth and power were almost entirely in the hands of a few elites. This may have created social and economic inequalities that  eventually led to widespread dissatisfaction and rebellion. The inability of the governments of the time to deal with these factors may have ultimately led to their collapse.

Step2. Listen to the following lecture

 Step 3. Write your answer. Writing time-40 min.

Summarize the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they oppose specific points made in the reading passage.

Click here to show/hide the template

Use Participles I and infinitives (‘smb is claimed/thought/considered/believed/estimated/likely+ to do smth /to have done smth’ and such like)