Writing 2: paragraphs and topic sentences
A You have decided to write a balanced argument. Here are some ideas for what should go in each paragraph. Put them into a logical order. There is not one correct order.
___ Say what is bad about living in the country. ___ Say what is bad about living in a big city. ___ Say what is good about living in a big city. ___ Express your own opinion and say which option you prefer. ___ Show that you understand the question and say that different people like different lifestyles. ___ Say what is good about living in the country.
B Read a student’s composition. Is the order the same as yours?
In today’s world, more and more people are living in cities. Most people move to cities to find work or to do a job that is better paid. Some people really enjoy city life, but many people would prefer to live in the country if they could.
_________________________________________________ There are museums and galleries and more places to enjoy your leisure time and do sports. There is more choice of cafes and restaurants and generally more activities. Most people prefer shopping in a city. _________________________________________________ Travelling on public transport is difficult and the roads are usually very busy. Because of the traffic, the air is polluted and the streets are not so clean. In my experience, city centres are not always safe, and people feel nervous walking around at night.
__________________________________________________ because there are trees and fields and they don’t have to look at concrete buildings all the time. Life is generally slower and there is more time to relax. The air is much fresher and people feel that their lifestyle is healthier. On the other hand, _______________________________________________________ People get bored of seeing the same people every day and not meeting any new people. As I said, it is difficult to find a well-paid job and most people do not want to travel to and from a city every day. Personally, ________________________________________________________ There is more to do and I can meet more interesting people. I can have a better job and make more money. When I am older and have children, I might want to live in the country and enjoy a quieter life.
C Write the topic sentences in the correct spaces.
1. People like living in the country 2. Everyone would agree that there is more to do in a big city. 3. In today’s world, more and more people are living in cities. 4. while I am young, I want to live in a big city. 5. However, city life is stressful. 6. country life can be too quiet, and sometimes there is nothing to do.
Exam tip: Notice that a topic sentence doesn’t have to be a complete sentence and that short phrases can introduce a topic sentence. You will learn more about introducing your opinions later.
The sentences that come after the topic sentence in a paragraph are supporting sentences. They should explain the topic sentence or give examples.
∫ WB
D Look at the supporting sentences in the composition above. Go to Workbook page 157 for the Writing task.
82 Pathway to IELTS 1
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