Bac 2017

GENERAL REVIEW PAPERS

BY
MR ALI TAHRI

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 READING COMPREHENSION 1

1. When he was 84 years old, Kenyan Kimani Ng'ang'a Maruge's lifelong dream came true - he enrolled as a student in a primary
school. His story is now an inspiring film.

2. Deprived of schooling by poverty and, later, his involvement in Kenya's finally independence struggles, Mzee Maruge was
determined to learn to read. When the government of Kenya announced that primary schooling would be free for all, he saw his
chance. He passionately argued for his rights against the authorities' insistence that their initiative had only been intended to
benefit children and eventually he got his way. Faced by opposition, Maruge is supported by the headmistress of Kapkenduiywo
Primary School, Jane Obinchu.

3. In order to attend school, Maruge had to wear the compulsory schoolboys' uniform of shorts. He towered over his classmates
as he leaned on his stick, but he gained the respect and love of his teachers and fellow pupils for his dedication to learning. He
was also an energetic and determined person who fought for the recognition of free education in Kenya. In 2005, Maruge, by
then a celebrity, flew for the first time in his life to the United Nations in New York to address the UN Development Summit on
the importance of free primary education.

4. He lost his home and possessions in the 2007-2008 post-election violence and lived for a while in a displaced person's camp,
but was not deterred from continuing to attend school. Sadly, he was still two years away from completing his primary education
when he died in a Nairobi care home.

Adapted from African Business April 2011

1. Tick (√) the correct alternative (1 mark)

The best title for the text is:

a. Compulsory primary education 

b. Post-war problems 
c. Never too late to learn 

2. Complete the following summary with appropriate words from the text (4marks)

Maruge, a Kenyan old man, __________________ poverty, homelessness and insecurity in his country to achieve his
__________________ dream of learning to read. He was an untiring advocate to the right to __________________ education
for everyone. Maruge’s determination and __________________ to learning brought him fame and respect.

3. Correct the following False statements with details from the text
a. Maruge didn’t receive any help after he was denied the right to attend school. (p.2)
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b. The old Kenyan man became well-known after he had delivered his address at UN Organisation. (p.3)
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c. Maruge succeeded in finishing his primary education. (p.4)

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4. Find out words in the text meaning the same as the following (2 marks)
a. was much taller than (p. 3) : -----------------------------------------
b. discouraged (p. 4): ----------------------------------------

5. What does the underlined word in paragraph 2 refer to? (1 mark)

“their” refers to: ------------------------------------------------------------------------

6. Give a justified personal answer to the following question (1 mark)

At the age of 84, Maruge decide to enrol at a school and start his primary education. What do you think of his decision?

I think that -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- because ------------------------

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 READING COMPREHENSION 2

1. Since I started going there in 3rd grade, I was the only deaf child at Blue Creek Elementary School in the small, quiet town
of Latham, New York. From almost the first day there, the other kids taunted me and called me names mainly because of my
hearing aid and the way I talked. I remember thinking, "What have I done wrong?" I experienced great anxiety throughout
Elementary school because, in addition to the problems of "fitting in" with the other students, I also struggled mightily with most
of my school work.
2. My hearing disability required me to constantly ask everyone, "What did he/she say?" I worried that everyone would soon
grow tired of repeating everything back to me. Fitting in was so important to me that every time people around me laughed or
smiled, I did the same even though I usually had no idea what was going on.
3. When the kids made fun of me, I internalized all of it. I was sure that I was a bad person; I felt I deserved their sneers.
Although on the surface, I was sociable, outgoing and "happy-go-lucky," in reality, my self-esteem was quite low. Mrs. Jordan,
my fifth grade teacher, changed all of that with a simple three-word phrase. One morning, she asked the class a question.
4. I read her lips from my front-row seat and immediately raised my hand. I couldn't believe it - for once I knew the answer.
But, when she called on me, I was afraid. Here was an opportunity to impress the powerful teacher and show her I was worthy
of her love. Maybe even impress my classmates a little. I didn't want to blow it. Despite my fears, I felt uncharacteristically
confident because - for once - I was sure I had the right answer. I took a deep breath and nervously answered Mrs. Jordan's
question. I will never forget what happened next.
5. Her response was explosive. It startled all of us. Mrs. Jordan enthusiastically slammed her right foot on the floor and whirled
her right finger in a full circle until it pointed directly at me. With sparkling eyes and a wide smile she cried, "THAT'S RIGHT
STEPHEN!"
6. I decided right then and there that I would make a place for myself in this world. No matter how many obstacles I might
encounter in life, I knew I could overcome them. A simple three-word phrase delivered with incredible enthusiasm had totally
transformed my young life. "THAT'S RIGHT STEPHEN!" By Stephen J. Hopson / Abridged from www.motivateus.com
1) Complete the table with the appropriate details from par.1 (3 marks)
Name Stephen

Nationality American

a)
Physical disability

Problems at elementary school b)

2) Find details in the text to show that these statements are false. (2 marks)

a. Stephen reacted violently when other pupils made fun of him. (p.3)
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b. Stephen answered the teacher’s question without permission. (p.4)
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3) Read the list below and complete the table with 4 (four) adjectives that best describe Stephen (4 marks)
faithful / anxious / irresponsible / determined / self-confident/ insecure / stubborn
Before answering the teacher’s question After answering the teacher’s question

a. -------------------------------- a. --------------------------------
b. -------------------------------- b. --------------------------------

4) Find words in the text meaning the same as . (3 marks)

a. upset/ made angry. (p.1) --------------------------------

b. unpleasant look, smile or comment (p.3) --------------------------------

c. hit with force (p.5) --------------------------------

5) What do the following underlined words in the text refer to? (2 marks)
a. “the same” (p.1) refers to --------------------------------
b. “them” (p.2) refers to --------------------------------
6) Give a personal justified answer to the following question (1 mark)
Do you think Stephen’s parents were right when they sent him to an ordinary school? Why or why not?
In my opinion, Stephen’s parents .............................................................................................................................. because
....................................................... .........................................................................................................................................

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 READING COMPREHENSION 3

Stan Burridge, 44, who lived on benefits for 15 years, tells how getting a job a year ago was worth much more than just money.
1. I came through the care system as a kid, lived rough on the streets for five years and had issues including one major mental
breakdown. When I came off the streets it was far easier to stay on benefits and do nothing. It almost became a dependency. I
have spent about 15 years claiming benefits and there seemed to be a fear factor attached to letting that go and stepping into the
big unknown.
2. I kept turning down jobs because my life had meant I had never stuck at anything. What if the job didn’t work out? That
would leave me with nothing. It was easier to stay on handouts.
3. Getting a job in a call centre has done a lot more for me than just giving me more money. I can now plan for the future. Since
starting work, I have a new carpet for my flat. I went on a holiday to Egypt — my first real holiday — paid for out of what I had
earned. For the first time this Christmas I can afford some nice things for myself.
4. All these things were alien to me before. I had never taken so much control of my life. Now I’m proud to pay my own rent
and cover my bills and enjoy a decent social life. In some ways I was lucky there were people around me who gave me a little
push in the right direction. Others may need the incentives the Government will give them.
5. Getting up to go to work has got me into a healthy routine. Mine is not the best-paid job, but it’s not the worst — and it’s one
hundred times better than being on benefits. I still get a small amount from the Government, but it’s £100 a week less than the
Government would be paying me on full benefits.
6. Having the self-esteem and personal satisfaction of having a job? Absolutely priceless!

THE SUN, NOV. 13, 2010 (adapted)

1) Tick (√) the most suitable title to the text (1 mark)

a- Staying on benefits helped save my life □
b- Getting off benefits gave me my life back □
c- Living on the streets made me turn into a criminal □

2) Focus on the first part of the text and pick out two (2) details showing that Stan’s life as a child was extremely hard.
(2 marks)
a) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------
b) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------

3) Answer the following question

For 15 years, Stan refused to have a steady job. What was he afraid of? (1 mark)
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4) Tick (√) the right alternative (2 marks)
 ‘priceless” (p.6) means almost the same as:
a) worthless □
b) valuable □
c) free □
 ‘who gave me a little push in the right direction” (p.6) means they:
a) helped and encouraged me □
b) threatened and bullied me □
c) obliged me to follow them □
5) Getting a job gave Stan both financial and psychological gains in addition to a decent life. Complete the lists below
with reference to the text (4 marks)
Financial gains Psychological gains

a. A new carpet a. Take control of his life

b. Nice things for Christmas b. Pride
c. Cover all his bill c. Healthy routine
d. ------------------------------------------ d. Personal satisfaction
e. ------------------------------------------ e. ------------------------------------------
f. ------------------------------------------

6) Say what the words underlined in the text refer to. (2 marks)
a. “that” (p.1) refers to ------------------------------------------
b. “that” (p.2) refers to ------------------------------------------

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 GUIDED WRITING

1. Use the notes below to write a 4-line paragraph about the organization. (4 marks)

Organization World Health Organization

Date of creation April 7th, 1948
Mission To improve health services through better government financing, staffing and management
Impact To reduce/ health / social / economic burden of communicable diseases
To prevent / reduce disease / disability / premature death from chronic diseases

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2. Use the information in the table to write a 4-line paragraph about a new model of LCD TV. (4 marks)

Type KDL- 40 VES

Characteristics If nobody detected, TV switches off automatically.
Advantage Consumes less energy.
Users’ reaction Satisfied: thousands of sets are sold e very day.

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3. Use the notes below to write a biography of Wangari Maathai. (5 marks)

Birth Kenya 1 April 1940

Education Ph. D veterinary anatomy
Fields of interest Environmentalist/ political activist/ Green Belt Movement/ environmental, non-environmental
organization/ the planting of trees/ environmental conservation/ women’s rights
Awards Nobel Peace Prize, 2004/ reasons: contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace
Death Nairobi, Kenya/ 25 September, 2011

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4. Develop the following notes into correct sentences to make a coherent paragraph. Make the necessary additions
and changes. Supply the right tenses and forms of the verbs. Don’t change the order of words. (4 marks)
a. Doris Lessing / award / Nobel Prize / literature / 2007
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b. At 88, Lessing is / old person and only / / 11 th woman / win the award since it / start in 1901
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c. In a career / more than 50 years, she / touch generations / readers / her stories of colonial Africa, feminism and politics
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d. Her / famous book, ‘The Golden Notebook’, / become / iconic text / the Women’s Movement
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5. Develop the following notes into correct sentences to make a coherent paragraph. Make the necessary additions
and changes. Supply the right tenses and forms of the verbs. Don’t change the order of words. (4 marks)
a. These are tips on / to save fuel / drive economic / during / petrol crisis
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b. Plan / route. Take the / direct way / avoid / hours
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c. Check / tyres / under-inflation / increase consumption / 15%
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d. Keep a steady / while drive / and turn / the engine / a jam
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6. Use the notes below to write a four-line paragraph about the UNESCO. (4 marks)
 Foundation: November 4, 1946
 Composition: 195 member states / 8 associate members
 Interests: education, sciences, culture
 Aims: promote peace, social justice, human rights , international security
............................................................................................................................. .....................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................... ..............................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................................................. ................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................ ..................................

7. Use the information in the table to write a 4-line paragraph about EARTH DAY. (4 marks)
Date of celebration April 22 / every year
Founder Senator Gaylor Nelson / 1970
Actions  People group / plant trees / pick up roadside trash
 People / also / sign petitions / governments / take measures / protect / Mother Earth
............................................................................................................................. .....................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................
......................................................................................................................................................................................... .........................................
....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ...........

8. Use the information in the table below to write a 5-line paragraph about Marrakesh International Film Festival (5 marks)
Name of Festival Marrakesh International Film Festival
Launching Year 2001
Venue Annually in Marrakesh, Morocco / usually end / November
Objectives Rewarding the best Moroccan and foreign films
Awards offered  Golden Star
 The Jury Special Prize
............................................................................................................................. .....................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................
......................................................................................................................................................................................... .........................................
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........................................................................................................................ ..........................................................................................................
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LANGUAGE

1) Fill in the blanks with 6 words from the list below. (3 marks)
sharply - inspire - pulled – quitting - declined - pressure – struggle - oblige
Smoking is addictive, but quitting may be contagious, according to research that suggests social networks shape people's
behaviour far more powerfully than previously suspected.
Although many smokers see their battle with nicotine as an individual (1) _________________, the study shows that people
actually give up smoking in groups, (2) _________________at the same time as others in their social network. Researchers
found that someone who stops smoking may (3) _________________not just his friends but distant members of his "social
niche" — a friend of a friend of a friend — whom he doesn't even know. Those who quit appear to have done so under (4)
_________________from others in their group.
The number of smokers in the study fell (5) _________________from 1971 to 2003, mirroring national trends. In the past 40
years, the smoking rate has (6) _________________from 45% to 21%, the study shows. Peer pressure also appears to have
pushed people to quit years before the creation of anti-smoking laws.

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2) Put the bracketed words in the right tense or form. (3 marks)
A teacher, a lawyer, a judge and now back to being a student - 100-year-old Bholaram Das (just enrol) __________________
for his doctorate, perhaps becoming India's (old) __________________ university student.
Das has got admission in a PhD programme at the Gauhati University in Assam - an announcement he made at a public function
organised by his family and friends, (mark) __________________ his 100th birthday Saturday. "There is no age limit for
(acquire) __________________ knowledge," Das told IANS with a smile, dressed nattily in a brown suit and tie.
Das (jail) __________________ when he was just 19 during the freedom movement against British rule. He spent two months
in prison before he graduated in the commerce stream and later went to study law. "It is indeed heartening to find people like
Bholaram Das in today's world and I am of the firm (believe) __________________ that he should stand out as a role model for
the generation next," Governor J.B. Patnaik told IANS.

3) Fill in the blanks with 6 words from the list below. (3 marks)
where - growth - also - between – as – skilled – willing - migrate
Education seems to play a key role influencing rural-urban migration in the developing countries. Many studies have shown the
positive relationship (1) _________________ of an individual’s educational level and his or her interest to (2)
_________________ from rural to urban areas. Education (3) _________________ plays a big role in the growing problems of
international migration of highly-(4) _________________ and educated individuals. Scientists have been trained at social cost
in their home countries for the (5) _________________ of their nation. However, this has left helplessness to these countries (6)
_________________they keep losing thousands of their workers for the benefit of the rich ones.

4) Put the bracketed words in the right tense or form. (3 marks)

Flying cars aren't just science fiction anymore. Woburn Company said that its prototype flying car has completed its first flight,
(bring) _________________ the company closer to its goal. The vehicle has two seats, four wheels and wings that fold up so it
can be (drive) _________________ like an ordinary car. Last month, it (fly) _________________ at 1,400 feet for eight minutes.
Around 100 people (already/ put) down a $10,000 deposit to get one of them when they go on sale, and those numbers will
(probable) _________________ go up after Woburn introduces the car to the public later this week. But don't expect it to (show)
_________________ up in too many driveways. It's expected to cost as much as $300,000.

5) Fill in the blanks with 6 words from the list below. (3 marks)

hinder / inevitable / stress / about / why / increase / determined / when

I was fifteen when I started to smoke. My friends and my parents were smoking, so it was (1) _________________ that I should
smoke. I found out that I enjoyed smoking and that it relaxed me. But I also worried (2) _________________ the effects of
smoking on my health and my. This came out when my children started asking (3) _________________ daddy was going outside
all the time. The critical time came when I was informed at the age of 40 that I had type 2 diabetes and that quitting smoking
would (4) _________________ my chances of living longer. I made up my mind to quit then. But it took me at least a year and
a half to finally do it. I tried to quit several times but gave in to temptation or to (5) _________________. So I went to talk to
my doctor for help. I have been now smoke-free for seven months. I am (5) _________________ not to pick up the habit again
with a little help from the doctors.

6) Circle the right alternative (3.5 marks)

Lifelong learning is the "ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated" pursuit of knowledge for either personal or professional
reasons. Therefore, it not only (boosts/ hampers/ assesses) social inclusion, active citizenship and personal development, but
also competitiveness and employability. The term recognizes that learning is not (confined/ combined/ ignored) to childhood
or the classroom but (has taken/ takes/ to take) place throughout life and in a range of situations. During the last fifty years,
constant scientific and (technologically/ technology/ technological) innovation and change has had a profound effect (in/ on/
at) learning needs and styles. Learning is (no/ any/ not) longer limited to knowledge acquisition and a specific place. (Although/
Instead/ Unlike), learning can be seen as something that takes place on an on-going basis from our daily interactions with others.

7) Put the bracketed words in the right tense or form. (3.5 marks)

Facebook is the world's largest social network. There are 845 million active (use) _________________ around the world, and
(rough) _________________ 200 million in the United States, or two-thirds of the population. Created in 2004 by Mark
Zuckerberg in his dorm room at Harvard, Facebook (grow) _________________ from being a simple site for college students
into a popular platform that is used to sell cars and movies, win over voters in presidential (elect) _________________ and
organize protest movements. It offers advertisers a (globe) _________________ platform. Facebook (take) _________________
its first step toward becoming a publicly traded company in February 2012, when it filed to sell shares on the stock market. The
service is soon to be the (large) _________________ initial internet public offering ever.

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8) Fill in the blanks with words from the box- There are TWO EXTRA words (3 pts)

highlighted - between – technology - according - of – transmitted – from - flexible

The most relevant disadvantages of online learning are directly tied to the specificities of the web environment itself that bring
people to choose this method of education. The nonexistence of a physical classroom, (1) ______________ schedules and
reduced personal interaction are all factors that attract people, but have their own negative aspects that should be (2)
______________. First, participants can only receive information from one source – the professor or the media content, and
usually have limited opportunities to exchange ideas and information with other students or even learn from their mistakes and
experiences. The lack of non-visual cues may bring delays or misunderstandings when information is (3) ______________.
Added to that, much exposure to the internet deprives the users (4) ______________ practising their interpersonal skills.
Furthermore, the relayed nature of communication (5) ______________ teacher and student dampens a timely exchange of
questions. Lastly, (6) ______________ to a study in the American Economic Review, this may result in poorer test scores among
learners.

9) Supply the correct tense or form of the bracketed words (3 pts)

Experts hail rapid development of handsets. As a matter of fact, mobile phone technology has come a long way since the first
mobile phone call (make) ________________ 40 years ago – but there is a lot more (innovate) ________________ ahead,
according to one expert. It was on 3 April 1973 that Motorola employee Martin Cooper made a call in New York on a Motorola
DynaTAC – dubbed a "brick" due to its size and weight – which was (wide) ________________ regarded globally as the first
public mobile phone call. The device was 9 inches tall, comprised 30 circuit boards, had a talk-time of 35 minutes, and took 10
hours (recharge) ________________. Four decades on, a worldwide telecoms industry with annual revenues of £800bn (grow)
________________ rapidly based on wide choice, falling prices and an array of technologies, (result) ________________ in
the average mobile being used to take photos, play music and games, send emails, download maps, watch video clips, all as well
as talking and texting.

10) Fill in the gaps with words from the list. There are two extra words. (3 marks)

apparent – physicians - firmly – reported – survivor – first – cigarettes - death

In 1964, for the first time, the public was made aware about the early known dangers of smoking. The link to lung cancer was
...................................... established and the risks of heart disease were becoming ...................................... . Those who actually
read the report and understood the implications of the early studies were the ...................................... groups of people to reduce
smoking and among their ranks were ...................................... and dentists. As more time passed and hundreds and then thousands
of studies were ......................................, the link between smoking and premature ...................................... was becoming
established.

11) Put the bracketed words in the right tense or form. (3 marks)

Writing a letter of application is essential in the search of a job. Job application forms and letters should, of course, be (fill)
....................................... in carefully and correctly. When additional information is asked for, job (seek) ......................................
should describe their qualifications. They should try (balance) ...................................... their own (able) ......................................
with the employer’s needs, explain why they are (particular) .................................................. interested in a career with that
company. They try to show that they (have) ........................................... an idea about it for some time.

12) Fill in the blanks with 6 words from the list below. (3marks)
may - for - safe - with - must - eating - maintain - provide
Fruits and vegetables are part of a well-balanced and healthy eating plan. There are many different ways to lose or
................................a healthy weight. Using more fruits and vegetables along................................. whole grains and lean meat,
nuts and beans is a................................ one. Helping control your weight is not the only benefit of ................................more fruits
and vegetables. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables................................reduce the risk of some types of cancer and other chronic
diseases. Such diets also ................................essential vitamins and minerals.

13) Put the bracketed words in the right tense or form. (3marks)
A Swedish woman has been banned from smoking in her back garden because her neighbour is allergic to cigarette smoke. The
problem started when the lawyer (buy)...................the house next to Mary three years ago. Mr Johnson asked her not to smoke
next to his garden but the woman (not/ stop) .........................smoking. The neighbours stopped (talk) .........................to each
other and they communicated through their (law) ........................ and the media. Mr Johnson (must) ................... ......wear an
oxygen mask from the house to his car. In fact, without that mask, it took only seconds for the smoke to affect him heavily,
leaving him struggling for (breathe) ...........................and even help from anyone in the surroundings.

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 ESSAYS (2008 --- 2016)
A. BAC SCIENTIFIQUES
1. (BAC 2008 PR.) You have just come back from a holiday
organized by Dream Tours Travel Agency. You are quite happy with
the quality of the service and the facilities available. Write a letter to
your friend recommending the agency. No more than 12 lines. Do not
write your name or sign the letter.
2. (BAC 2008 CO.) Your English teacher has asked you to write a
12-line article for your school magazine about the benefits of
technology and its dangerous effects if not properly used. Do write
your name or sign the article.
3. (BAC 2009 PR.) Your friend Slim spends many hours a day
playing videogames. He neglected his family, friends and studies.
Write a letter to advise him to cut down on videogames. Insist on the
risks of addiction to such games.
4. (BAC 2009 CO.) Many developed countries are engaged in a race
to attract highly qualified and talented foreigners. Write a 12-line
article in which you react to this phenomenon. Draw your readers’
attention to the negative effects of “brain drain” on one’s native
country.
5. (BAC 2010 PR.) A friend of yours is thinking of moving from
the countryside to live in the city. Write your friend a letter in which
you mention the numerous benefits of country life and try to persuade
him/her not to move.
6. (BAC 2010 CO.) Your school magazine is helping make readers
more aware of the threats endangering our planet. You have decided
to contribute a 12-line article suggesting ways to reduce pollution and
protective measures to save life on earth.
7. (BAC 2011 PR.) Energy consumption is increasing.
Unfortunately, on day we may run the risk of not having enough
energy supplies as they are not renewable. Write an article to the
editor of Businessweek to suggest practical solutions to save energy.
8. (BAC 2011 CO.) One of your friends is thinking of moving from
the city to settle in the countryside, where you live, assuming that he
would enjoy a better life. He wants to know what you think of his
intention. Write him a 12-line letter telling him what you think of his
plans.
9. (BAC 2012 PR.) You were offered a well-paid job by a company
in a foreign country because of your qualifications. Write a 12-line
letter to the company manager to let him/her know whether you
accept or reject the offer. Give reasons for you decision.
10. (BAC 2012 CO.) Nowadays, more youngsters are increasingly
dependent on their cell phones, video and computer games, and social
networking websites. Write a 12-line article for your school magazine
in which you warn teenagers of the adverse effects of addictions on
their health, school results and social relationships.
11. (BAC 2013 PR.) Last year, you went on a package tour holiday.
You had a great time and you were very satisfied with the place the
tour operator had chosen and the services offered. Once home, you
decided to write a letter to the tour operator to thank him/ her. Write
the letter below. (DO NOT WRITE YOUR NAME)
12. (BAC 2013 CO.) You read an article by a teenager’s mother who
was deeply concerned about her son’s attachment to social networks
(Facebook, Twitter, etc …)
Write a 12-line article where you share your views about the issue and
where you tell her whether her worries are justified.
13. (BAC 2014 PR.) The Health Club in your school is organising an
anti-smoking campaign. As a member of this club, you have decided
to write a 12-line article in your school magazine in order to warn
your school mates against the hazardous effects of smoking and give
them some tips to quit this unhealthy habit.
14. BAC 2013 CO.) Clara is an electronic newspaper editor. She
received the following email from Margaret. Dear Clara, I‘m a
divorced mother. I have a 14-year-old son. As I don‘t earn enough
money in my country, I‘m planning to work abroad to ensure a good
future for him. But the problem is that I can‘t take him with me
because of his studies. I‘m torn between being a good mom and a
good provider. What should I do? Please help me. Write Clara‘s
answer.
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15. (BAC 2015 PR.) Josephine is an advice columnist in a woman’s
magazine. She has received the following letter:
“dear Josephine, Now that my children have grown up, I want to go
back to university and pursue my studies and graduate. I don’t know
whether it’s too late for me to fulfil my lifelong dream. Please help
me. Yours Mrs Jones.”
Write Josephine’s reply to Mrs Jones. Do not write more than 12
lines.
16. (BAC 2015 CO.) Many developing countries lose each year a
good number of their brightest students who decide to stay and work
in developed countries.
Write an article for your school magazine in which you express your
opinion about the problem.
17. (BAC 2016 PR.) Speaking about global warming, the scientist
Thomas Lovejoy wrote on his blog: “the planet is about to break out
with fever. We, as human beings, are the disease!” In reaction to
Lovejoy’s opinion, write a 12-line article to be published on the blog.
State whether or not you share the scientist’s views on humans’
responsibility for global warming and suggest some ways to limit it.
18. (BAC 2016 CO.) While surfing the net, you came across an article
published on Business News by a Tunisian university graduate. He
wrote “I really can’t see any benefit in working as a government
employee. It’s much more interesting to set up one’s own business.”
As a youth, you feel concerned with the issue of career planning.
Write a 12-line article in which you respond to the graduate’s article.
Express your views about your own career plan and state the reasons
behind your choice.
B. BAC LETTRES
1. (BAC 2008 PR.) Your teacher asked you to collect information
about famous philosophers, writers and scientists who have
contributed to universal culture. Write a 12-line report about some of
those people.
2. (BAC 2008 CO.) Your civic education club is organizing a
writing competition about the values and attitudes that foster good
relationships between students. Write a 12-line article about the topic.
3. (BAC 2009 PR.) Illiteracy is a major problem in many parts of
the world where many people have had little or no education. Write a
15-line article in which you suggest ways of dealing with illiteracy
and overcoming it.
4. (BAC 2009 CO.) Nowadays, an illiterate person is someone who
doesn’t know how to use a computer. Write a 15-line article in which
you state your opinion about the issue and support it with convincing
arguments.
5. (BAC 2010 PR.) Would you take up a well-paid job you don’t
like or a less well-paid job you like? Write a 12-line paragraph for
your school magazine in which you state your preference and justify
it.
6. (BAC 2010 CO.) You saw a sign calling people to protect the
environment by not using plastic bags for shopping. Write a 12-line
article for your school magazine in which you raise the issue of
pollution and strongly advise your school mates to save the
environment where they live.
7. (BAC 2011 PR.) Write a 12-line article for your school magazine
and explain why you prefer to review for exams on your own or with
a group of friends.
8. (BAC 2011 CO.) Teenagers are often blamed for selfish
behaviour, cheating and violence. Write a 12-line letter to a
newspaper editor in which you explain whether you agree or not.
9. (BAC 2012 PR.) You have recently read: “...brain drain has
always been taking from the poor and giving to the rich.” In reaction
to what you have read, you wrote a 12-line letter to your brother Sami-
a qualified biologist residing and working in Canada- to persuade him
to come back home and to contribute to the progress of Tunisia.
10. (BAC 2012 CO.) Some people believe that learning is related to
age. Others, however, think it is never too late to learn. Write a 12-
line article for your school magazine in which you express your
opinion about the issue and support it with arguments.
11. (BAC 2013 PR.) School violence is a widespread problem. Write
a 12-line article for your school magazine in which you state the
harmful effects of school violence and suggest ways to avoid violence
and enjoy a peaceful school life.
12. (BAC 2013 CO.) Which do you prefer, travelling with a group or
travelling on your own? Write a 12-line article for your school
magazine in which you state your preference and support it with
arguments.
13. (BAC 2014 PR.) While using Facebook, you read the following
quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can
do for your country.” Impressed by these words, you decided to write
a 12-line article for your school magazine to express your opinion and
persuade your schoolmates to contribute to the prosperity and
progress of your country.
14. (BAC 2014 CO.) Your school is celebrating Earth Day. As a
member of the environment club, you volunteered to deliver a 12-line
speech to persuade your schoolmates to contribute to the protection
of the environment. Write the speech.
15. (BAC 2015 PR.) Mary, an advice columnist in a weekly
magazine, received the following letter: “Dear Mary- I have recently
discovered that my closest friend, whom I have always trusted, is
unreliable and dishonest; telling lies about me and revealing my
secrets. I feel desperate and I’ve lost faith in all people. I don’t know
what has happened to moral values. What can I do? I need your
helpful advice. Samantha” - Write your 12-line reply.
16. (BAC 2015 CO.) Some billionaires spend a fortune to take a
space flight just for pleasure while millions of people in the world are
dying from hunger. Write a 12-line article for your local newspaper
in which you state your opinion about the issue and support it with
good arguments.
17. (BAC 2016 PR.) Some parents think that their children’s access
to the internet should be not only limited but also supervised because
of its numerous risks. Are you in favour of or against these
restrictions? Write a 12-line article for your school magazine in which
you state your opinion and support it with strong arguments.
18. (BAC 2016 CO.) Your close friend’s dad wants to buy his son /
daughter on his / her birthday a special present, but he’s hesitant what
to buy him/her: ad encyclopedia or a computer. Write the father an
email in which you give your opinion and help him decide what to
buy. Use sound arguments.
C. BAC Techniques
1. (BAC 2008 PR.) You want to take part in a forum about the
impact of technological progress on humans. Write a 10-line article
showing the benefits of modern technology.
2. (BAC 2008 CO.) You are an advice columnist working for
“Youth Magazine”. You have received a letter from Janet Williams.
She is worried about her son –John, 15- who spends many hours a
day playing video games. He has neglected his studies and he’s been
getting low marks. Write a reply to Janet to give her advice.
3. (BAC 2009 PR.) You have received this letter from a friend.
“Dear Andrea,
My mother has always exaggerated fears about my education. She is
overprotective. She wants to enrol me in a virtual school, thinking
that it is safer and more time saving. I’ve tried to convince her about
the necessity of class contact and social relationships, but without
success.”
Reply giving your opinion about the issue. Do not exceed 12 lines.
4. (BAC 2009 CO.) You have just come back from a two-week
holiday abroad. You were not satisfied with your stay for several
reasons. Write a letter of complaint to your travel agency about the
conditions of your stay.
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5. (BAC 2010 PR.) You were a heavy smoker and quitted smoking.
You have decided to contribute to the national anti-smoking
campaign. Write a 10-line article in which you describe your
experience and persuade heavy smokers to quit smoking.
6. (BAC 2010 CO.) A travel agent suggested a nice holiday resort
to you. You did not like the place. Write a letter of complaint to the
travel agency manager about the bad quality of services and facilities
and ask for compensation.
7. (BAC 2011 PR.) Space tourism is a great challenge today but it
is very costly. Write a 10-line article for your school magazine to
show whether you are for or against space tourism.
8. (BAC 2011 CO.) “Facebook is one of the internet wonders these
days. People use it for different reasons and most teenagers enjoy it,
yet it can be a source of trouble if not wisely used.” For your school
magazine, write a 10-line article in which you draw the students’
attention to the drawbacks of Facebook when it is not used
appropriately.
9. (BAC 2012 PR.) You obtained a scholarship to study in the USA.
After finishing your degree, you hesitated about whether to stay
abroad or go back home. Write a 10-line article to your local
magazine and give the reasons for your final decisions.
10. (BAC 2012 CO.) Few months ago, you left the city and settled
in the countryside. You have recently realized that you miss many
things you used to enjoy in the city. Write a letter to your friend to
tell her about what you miss.
11. (BAC 2013 PR.) More students in your school spend many hours
a day playing video games. Write a 10-line article for your school
magazine to draw their attention to the disadvantages of such games.
Suggest better activities.
12. (BAC 2013 CO.) As a member of the Fitness Club in your
school, you contributed to the international Health Day. Write a 10-
line article for your school magazine in which you give students some
advice on how to keep fit and healthy.
13. (BAC 2014 PR.) As an activist in the “Save Your City”
association, you decide to write a 10-line article for your school
magazine in order to draw the readers’ attention to the dangers of
overconsuming energy. Give them advice on how to be an energy
saver.
14. (BAC 2014 CO.) As a member of the Green Club, you were
asked to write a 10-line article for your school magazine about the
causes of climate change and the harmful effects it has on the
environment.
15. (BAC 2015 PR.) Because of the huge amounts of rubbish piled
up in the streets, you have decided to write a 10-line article for the
local newspaper to call for an action plan to clean up your
neighbourhood.
16. (BAC 2015 CO.) Many young people are migrating illegally to
Europe. Write a 10-line article for your local newspaper in which you
discourage them from risking their lives and explain what problems
they may face even if they arrive in Europe safely.
17. (BAC 2016 PR.) Your friend is an engineer and has been offered
a job in a foreign country. However, he/ she is hesitant about whether
to accept the offer or turn it down. Write him/ her a 10-line letter in
which you advise him/ her not to miss this opportunity.
18. (BAC 2016 CO.) Facebook has become a very popular social
network among teenagers and even children. Some people think this
means of communication has negative effects on youths. Do you
agree or disagree? Write a 10- line article to be published on your
Facebook page in which you state your opinion about the issue.

1. Benefits of travelling:
a. Fun : “A holiday gives one a chance to
look backward and forward.” May Sarton
 To provide some excitement and an
escape from the hum drum of ‘ordinary’ life.
 To break the ordinary daily routine
 To get rid of stress due to studies and
work
 To have fun through different activities
 To recharge your batteries.
b. Knowledge “The world is a book and
those who do not travel read only a page.”
 To attend art shows (give examples :
festivals, art galleries, museums…)
 To broaden your horizons.
 To see the world beyond your four
corners.
 To experience new cultures and
lifestyles.
 To meet interesting and like-minded
people.
2. Recommending about a holiday (a
letter):
a. Accommodation : spacious room/ with a
picturesque view/ calm and serinity of the
place/ full options : air-conditioning/ internet
connection / spa/ gym
b. Food : luscious & varied as expected/
taste the spicy food …
c. The residence (hotel, house…) is two-
minute walk to the beach/ the city centre not
far/ transport available (as advertised)
d. Staff/ guide/ room maid : friendly ,
helpful
e. Enjoyed the scheduled programme
(visits/ sightseeing/ festivals/ excursions/
cruise)
3. Complaining about a holiday (a letter):
a. Accommodation : dirty room/ no view/
noise/ couldn’t sleep/no air-conditioning/ no
internet connection (as promised)
b. Food : disgusting/ rotten/filthy __ not
luscious as expected - had to eat out and pay
extra money/ son got sick due to rotten food
___doctor
c. The residence (hotel, house…) is far
away from the beach/ the city centre___ had
to walk in the blistering heat / no transport
available (as advertised)
d. Staff/ guide/ room maid : not friendly ,
not helpful_ always shouting
e. I’m looking forward to receiving a
convenient compensation; otherwise I shall
feel free to take the matter to the court.
4. Space tourism : positive aspects
a. Personal experience
 Satisfying the human desire of adventure
 Challenge and making the
impossibilities possible.
 Live a rare experience of weightlessness
b. Good for humanity/ part of scientific
research
 Resolving mysteries that surround the
outer space
 Discovering an all-new world
 Exploring space and discovering the yet
undiscovered facts about space
MAIN TOPICS
 finding new minerals, new precious
materials
 Finding new human-like species in the
outer space
5. Space tourism : negative aspects
a. Dangerous : risk of death / flying in the
outer space is still not safe
b. Costly & expensive : only the well-to-do
can enjoy such an experience/ the poor are
deprived of the dream
c. Unfair : the rich are splurging a billions
of dollars to satisfy their silly personal whims
while millions of children in poor countries
are starving to death
6. Education/ learning / lifelong learning
(benefits) ‘to seek knowledge from the
cradle to the grave’
a. Vocational purposes : to enrol and
attend school - to study different subjects - to
pass exams - to get degree - to have
necessary qualifications - to get a white-
collar, prestigious, well-paying job - to get
promoted at work
b. Non-vocational : to learn - to get
knowledge - to combat illiteracy and
ignorance - to be a good citizen - to
contribute to the progress of one’s
community - to cope with the change ‘Never
stop learning; knowledge doubles every
fourteen months.’ Anthony J. D'Angelo
7. Illiteracy/ out-of-school children/ drop
outs (solutions)
a. Parents’ responsibilities : to be
conscious of the importance of education/ to
enrol and keep their children at school/
support them / encourage them with studies
b. Community/ organizations/
governments : provide the basic needs of
schooling/ provide tools and equipments at
schools/ take care of poor children and
provide them with basic life necessities
(food, clothes & shelter)
c. Rich countries : assume their
responsibilities towards poor countries/ help
& donate / provide the necessary tools and
expertise to boost the educational level
8. Virtual school (pros)
 Easy/ flexible/ convenient : learners feel
free to study whenever & wherever they like,
no more obligation of attendance or
travelling/ options are varied
 Cheap : just a pc and internet connection/
less expenses for transportation, books…
 Information : available, varied, up-to-
date, easy access to get
 Coping with globalization process : the
world is becoming a small village where the
notions of time & space are no more
restricted behind walls
9. Virtual school (cons)
 Not practical/ harder : needs costly
equipments (software & hardware) not
attainable for the poor/ requires highly-
skilled expertise (computer savvy people)
 Lack of motivation to learn / absence of
competitiveness/ lazy students are more
likely to fail
11
 Anti-pedagogic : necessity of face-to-face
interaction/ the role of the teacher is
minimized
 Anti-social : communication, friendship,
community life___ more aloofness
10. Ability Grouping
Students are assigned to classes based on
their measured ability or their achievements.
a. PROS:
 Students are not forced to rush or wait
 better achievement
 selecting suitable material, approach,
assignment..
 high achievers excel, progress faster,
build self-esteem, avoid boredom, compete
more
 low achievers provided with more
individual attention, repetition and review
b. CONS:
 Students May Get “Stuck” In a Group
(nerdy vs dumb)/ snob
 superiority vs inferiority
 excuse to bullying / teasing
 lose self-esteem/ feel stigmatised
 additional work for teachers
11. Technology (pros & cons)
a. Means of transport : (e.g car, plane,
rocket) faster / easier/ time-saving/ more
comfortable/ ability to explore distant areas
and the outer space ≠ deadly accidents, health
problems, lack of sport, obesity, pollution….
b. Means of communication : (e.g mobile
phone, internet, satellites) easier, cheaper,
more practical ≠ health problems,
information is no more credible,
c. Means of entertainment : (e.g
electronic games) fun, pastime, safe, develop
mental skills, educative games ≠ addiction -
health problems/ educational difficulties/
social hardships
12. Play station/ Video games
a. PROS:
 Increased visual acuity.
 A great social activity.
 Can teach people more about life.
 games can help improve problem solving
and logic skills.
 To assist in education. Studies have
shown that children playing educational
games learn more because they do not realize
that they are learning/ increases attention
span
 they are fun
b. CONS:
 become completely addicted
 not to go to work (or school),
 not to eat properly/ not to exercise
enough.
 violence./ copying violent video game
crimes
 taking drugs, getting drunk and smoking
 give people false expectations of real life
13. Brain drain (solutions)
a. Brains’ responsibilities : they have the
right to look for better opportunities abroad/
to assume one’ responsibility towards one’s
nation/ to contribute to the progress of
education and economy at home
b. Governments in developing countries :
provide the highly-skilled intellectuals with
the necessary tools of scientific research/ to
give extra privileges (high salaries) /
encourage them to stay
c. Rich countries : assume their
responsibilities towards poor countries/ help
& donate / provide the necessary tools and
expertise to boost the educational &
economic level / stop seducing and luring the
brains from poor countries via irresistible
privileges/ more investment in poor nations
14. Morals & Virtues
 Moral concepts consist of values, virtues
and ethics that help individuals distinguish
their actions as being morally right or
morally wrong
 Virtues are a moral concept categorized
as intellectual or practical. Practical virtues
are broken down into moral or non-moral
virtues. The most important moral virtues
include courage and honesty, which are
generally considered morally right and a
positive reflection of an individual's character
 Values are a moral concept used in
decision-making and conflict situations. A
person's mindset and behaviour are directly
connected to a person's value system, and
most religious traditions specify values that
should be adhered to. Three important moral
values are freedom, love and empathy, and
these values are often taught within the home
and in schools
 Ethics are a set of rules that help
determine right from wrong in regards to
interpersonal interactions. Responsibility and
restraint are two important ethics, which
strengthen a person's character and improve
interpersonal interaction when observed.
14. Keep fit/ healthy diet (solutions)
a. Follow a balanced & healthy diet (eat
different types of food) ‘an apple a day keeps
the doctor away’
b. Regular practice of exercises (sit-ups/
press-ups/ walking/ jogging..) ‘if you want to
get thinner, diminish your dinner
15. Smoking (ways to quit)
a. Strong will & determination
b. Remember the drawbacks
c. Change lifestyle/ avoid smoking
reminders
d. Find a better alternative (sport)
16. Ecology (solutions)
a. individuals’ responsibilities (R.R.R.) /
energy saving / eco-driving / economical
methods / cleanliness
b. Governments & organisations: sensitizing
people / pass and implement strict laws / find
alternatives (factories, control..)
c. U.N. international community + super
powers: sign, respect and implement the
international treaties (Kyoto Protocol) + ban
polluting activities (chemicals & nuclear) +
protect nature (forests, seas, species..)
5/ Ecodriving
a. regular car maintenance (check oil & tyre
pressure)
b.Safe driving style (avoid sudden breaks/
smooth use of gear/ avoid unnecessary
options)
c. alternative ‘if it’s not far; don’t go by car’
6/ Country life
a. health vs disease , fresh air vs pollution
b.calm vs noise , crowd vs open space
c. community virtues vs moral decline
7/ Employment Morale
a. mutual respect bw employers & employees
b.rights & duties guaranteed (salary, work
hours, conditions, medical care insurance…
c. priority for productivity, quality…
8/ Apply for a job (letter)
a. personal information (age, qualities,
ambitions..)
b. qualifications (degrees)
c. experience
d. enclosed docs + phone number
e. looking forward

===========================================================================================

1. Benefits of travelling: No one can deny that travelling is very important in our life to see the world and different cultures. It lets us experience life in exciting different ways. To
start with, travelling gives us the opportunity to disconnect from our regular life. We need to forget our problems for a few weeks. Another great benefit is the relaxation we need to
recharge our “batteries”. It’s a very good stress remover. Add to this, travelling increases our knowledge and widens our perspective. To view new customs, different ways of living is
fantastic for the mind. It gives us a new perspective about life and especially our life, it can help us change some of our habits or even create new ones. Last but not least, when travelling
with friends or family it creates memories for a lifetime. These memories will create a bond that nothing can erase no matter what happens with the friendship

2. Holidaying - A Letter of Complaint

Dear Sir/ Madam; I’ve just come back from the most horrible 7-day vacation I’ve ever spent in my whole life at your miserable hotel. I was extremely dissatisfied at all levels. To start
with, the room was not at all as we had been promised. It was not only dirty and untidy but also lacked any natural view. Worse, we couldn’t even enjoy sleeping for the whole stay due
to the unbearable noise coming from the main street. Add to this, though we had been assured that food would be varied and luscious, it was honestly inedible. Once, we were served
such a disgusting dinner that my son got terribly sick and I had to take him to the doctor, costing me dearly. Last but not least, the advertised schedule of our vacation in your brochure
was a big lie. On the one side, we were offered a very old coach that broke down more than once making us wait for repairing in the blistering heat of summer and you may imagine what
happened to our skin. On the other side, the guide was a real jerk who did nothing for us but asking for tips. I hope you agree that our vacation did not reach our expectations at all. I,
hereby, look forward to receiving a convenient compensation; otherwise I’ll feel free to take the case to the court. With Regards, Tom Jerry.

3. Holidaying - A Letter of recommendation

Dear Tom; I heard you were planning to go on holiday but still hesitating about your destination. I’ve just come back from the best 7-day vacation I’ve ever spent in my whole life (at
hotel / in place). It was really awesome!!! First of all, as soon as we arrived we had an amazing feeling of being so welcomed by our hosts. Everything was perfect. The room had a great
big window view to the sea. The food was luscious and varied. Their cuisine is the place where you can taste all the goodness that nature has to offer. Besides, the personnel were great,
and everyone was so helpful and friendly! They make you feel so at home and nothing is too much trouble for them. We were offered the best quality of services either inside the room,
at the restaurant or even by the poolside. Most fascinating of all was the awesome entertainment. Staying there gave us the opportunity to explore and become familiar with the natives
and feel so welcomed! We mainly enjoyed the cruise to the nearby islands where the scenery was magnificent! We took great pictures and we were so excited that we want to go back
next year and take both our children and a few other family members. (Name of place) is definitely a paradise and it makes everything so accommodating!! I would earnestly recommend
this (hotel/ agency/ place) if you are eager to spend a memorable holiday. Yours Sincerely, Jerry.

4. Benefits of Space Tourism No one can deny that travelling to space is very important in our life to see the outer world. It lets us experience life in exciting different ways. To
start with, pace tourism satisfies the human desire of adventure. There are many brave people who wish to take risks in life. They love accepting challenges, and they love making the
impossibilities possible. Add to this, this type of travelling will surely offer us great fun and excitement through experiencing the weightlessness and seeing the planet from miles above.
Last but not least, space tourism may help us discover the undiscovered facts about space and resolve mysteries that surround the outer space. It may bring about a dramatic change to
our lives.
5. Blemishes of Space Tourism: No one can deny that travelling to space is very important in our life to see the outer world. It lets us experience life in exciting different ways.
Yet, it has never been blemishless. To start with, space tourism is still dangerous and space tourists risk their life. They might face deadly accidents in an unfriendly environment. Add to
this, this type of travelling is still costly. Therefore, only the well-to-do can enjoy the beauty of this trip. However, millions of ordinary people would be deprived of such fun. Last but
not least, it’s really unfair to spend millions of dollars on silly adventures; while millions of poor children around the world are starving to death and suffering from illiteracy, ignorance
and deadly diseases.
Virtual learning / Pros: Nowadays, it is more than evident that virtual learning is increasingly becoming one of the most important issues that may positively transform the educational
system all over the world for several reasons. First of all, a virtual course is as close as a computer with an Internet connection. Hence, students can take online courses whenever they
need them. Students themselves decide when to study, do homework or even sit for the exam. They personally set the pace. Added to this, prices are often cheaper for online courses than
traditional college and students don’t have to worry about housing or meals. Moreover, Students don’t feel the necessity to travel or move far away from home for learning. Last but not
least, virtual school offers up-to-date references and books. It may also provide audio-visual learning aids such as clips, lectures, pictures and exam research papers.
I personally think that virtual learning can prepare students for real professional career via training courses on the net in world that is becoming more and more digital and globalized.

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6. Virtual learning / Cons: Nowadays, it is more than evident that virtual learning is increasingly becoming one of the most important issues that may negatively affect the
educational system all over the world for several reasons. First of all, a virtual course requires high budgets for computer, software programs, and the Internet connection. Such a fact
may deprive poor families and even countries of the right of new educational tools which would be restricted and monopolized by the most industrialized nations. Moreover, virtual
students may experience feelings of isolation or a sense of detachment from the real school due to the lack of face-to-face interaction or difficulty in developing relationships with
classmates. To cap it all, students will be required to be able to work unsupervised and they will have to problem solve solutions independently. So, if they are not self-motivated and
disciplined, success will be highly farfetched. Generally speaking, virtual learning as a new method of schooling surely imports its benefits; but it wouldn’t reach its pragmatic and
realistic features overnight.

7. Out-of-school children / School Drop-outs (solutions): Dropping out of school is a serious problem in the world, especially in poor and developing countries. Each year, millions
of children leave school before completing their primary education. Yet, it’s never too late to find possible solutions to combat this phenomenon. To start with, parents should be aware
of the importance of sending and keeping their children at school and do their best to help them finish their education to get high degrees; otherwise they will never be able to combat
their miserable life. Add to this, teachers and schools have to assume their responsibilities to sensitize students of the negative consequences of dropping out and the necessity of being
well educated. Besides, governments of developing countries ought to work hard to decrease the level of illiteracy and fight back the issue of dropping out of school at an early age
through strict laws. Moreover, they must provide the basic needs of education at schools and offer free meals for these deprived children to support them morally and psychologically.
Last but not least, rich and developed countries are highly recommended to help poor nations with tools, expertise and equipments in order to ensure that children would not be forced to
quit school.

8. Tips to a student who wants to drop out of school: Yes, I do agree with you that school can be sometimes hard. It’s a lot of work, and there are lots of rules that you may not
like. But understand this – THE MORE YOU LEARN, THE MORE YOU EARN. Education is your key to financial security, and dropping out of school now will affect you for the rest
of your life. It is a really bad idea, if things are bad at school because you are being harassed or bullied try changing schools rather than quitting. Besides, Drop outs have a harder time
getting good, secure, decent paying jobs because more and more jobs require a minimum of high school graduation. Not to forget, too, that dropping out gives you a lot of free time, even
if you get a full time job, you are more likely to get in to a self destructive rut including drugs or alcohol. Think again my friend. Dropping out is not cool, it does not make you a tough
guy, nor does it mean you are grown up or more mature - in fact it makes you the exact opposite of all these things. And while you’re at it, think about going to college. People who have
gone to college, even just for two years, have more job opportunities and make more money than high school graduates. So, are you still thinking of dropping out? Think again – dropping
out is not a very good option. Talk with your parents, teachers, friends, or anyone else you trust to help you make a good decision. Do what you need to do and get the help you need to
finish high school. Remember, the more you learn the more you earn!

9. A speech of Philanthropy at school Distinguished guests! Ladies and gentlemen!

It is my honour to be invited as a speaker in a charity event at this respectful school. It is a great pleasure for me to be here today. I would like to seize the opportunity to congratulate us
on launching this outstanding fundraising campaign in which many people are involved. Our donations in this year have amounted to 50, 000 dollars - the sum that will be endowed to
poor families of our dear schoolmates. The money will be donated for medical care, education expenses, and indispensable life amenities. Our goal is to decrease the level of poverty. To
achieve this noble goal, we have organized this Open Day. I am honoured to thank all sponsors, organizations and private persons, who care for our needy siblings. Mahatma Gandhi
once said: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” We all know that some students are in a desperate economic condition. One can hardly imagine that
all this may be possible in the first decade of the 21st century. We are living in the world that needs great changes. We are responsible for the future of the world as well. Our charity
organization has been constantly working on fundraising. Our mutual efforts, our support - Together, we will fulfil our duty of cherishing every human life. In closing, I wish to thank all
of you, our sponsors and donors, for your donations. Let's go on building the bonds of friendship and goodness through cooperation and mutual respect.
Thank you all for being with us, joining us, and supporting us. Thank you all!

10. The importance of learning/ education – Life Long Learning: “Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave”
No one can deny that learning is one of the most important life issues that can positively affect human life in different ways. On the one side and at the vocational level, every one of
us has to ensure a comfortable life for oneself as well as for others. That’s why, we have to study hard and get the highest degrees and qualifications which allow us to apply for the
best jobs and highest salaries to live a happy and comfortable life. On the other side and at the non-vocational level, learning is not only money and job. It’s more, much more than
that. It’s the strong weapon to combat ignorance and illiteracy and get a good knowledge about the world and acquire useful skills which are necessary for our daily life. Besides, non-
stop learning is necessary as the proverb goes: “Never stop learning; knowledge doubles every fourteen months.”

11. Technology – Pros: Technology has radically changed our lifestyles by leaps and bounds. It has made life very comfortable for us at various aspects and levels. To start with,
technology has totally transformed the concept of distance and improved our means of transportation. Who had thought in the age of chariots that horses would be replaced by “The
Bullet” (World’s fastest train in service)? Today, time and distance are defeated by certain inventions like the car, the plane and the rocket allowing us to explore not only our space but
also the outer space. Added to this, technology in communication has turned the globe into a small village thanks to modern inventions such as cell phones, computers, internet and
satellites. Now, you may find that you no longer have to dial a ten digit number to call someone; speed dialling on mobile phones saves you your precious time. Just 1 click and your
letter travels across continents in 2 minutes rather than 2 weeks. Most important of all, technology has made our life at home easier and better. No more wasting your money on music or
movies. With just a click of a button you can have anything your restless heart desires. Even coffee makers are now so much more efficient, quick and easy to use for most people. We’ve
got robots vacuuming our carpets and scrubbing our floors. Last but not least, thanks to the advancements in the field of medicine and health, doctors and researchers all over the world
are working hard to introduce new medicines and treatments which can cure even the deadliest of diseases. Modern technology has been efficiently used to diagnose, detect and treat the
tiniest particles of our bodies using cameras, scanners and x-rays.

12. Technology – Cons: There is no doubt that modern science and technology have made our life easier, better and more comfortable. Nevertheless, certain inventions have never
been blemishless. First of all, modern inventions and techniques are not for everyone. It’s only a rich man’s dream to fly a personal jet with all the latest gadgets fitted in it. Today, we
feel technological advances are also widening the gap between the various classes of the society. I fear that this might cause unrest amongst the underprivileged or the less privileged
section of society and lead to more crimes and disparity. Besides, various inventions have proved that technology can be turned from a blessing into a deadly curse. How can we forget
Hiroshima? Throughout most of the world, the name Hiroshima has come to represent man’s technological capacity for massive destruction. What is unfortunate is that Hiroshima seems
to be recreated every day with more and more scientist squandering their talent to improve weapons of mass destruction. Other inventions, though less destructive in nature, can turn into
killing monsters that threaten our life at all levels. Video games, for example, are meant to be entertaining; but if ever misused they may cause incurable health problems, inevitable
educational hardships especially among teenagers. Cars, planes and ships are taking us to far distances fast and comfortably; yet they are meanwhile turning our planet into a suffocating
greenhouse. Truth be told, the problem is if technology is mastered by wrong powers, it will destroy everyone.

13. Video Games / Cons: Video games have been very popular among children and teenagers. Where on one hand the games do prove to be beneficial to an extent, at the same time,
their ill effects cannot be ignored. Starting with, specialists have confirmed that children who spend too much time playing computer games are easily susceptible to long-term health
problems such as obesity, poor eyesight as well as neck and back pain. The situation may get worse with deadly heart attacks or blood clots. Add to this, being addicted to electronic
games might result in some educational difficulties when students neglect their homework and studies, lose concentration in class or even fail in their exams. It has been proved that
excessive gaming may weaken learning motivation and mental development. Last but not least, spending many hours in front of the monitor and not going out enough could also cause
social problems thus resulting in them becoming shy and introvert. Apart from that the games developed nowadays happen to be a lot more violent thus the gamers do have a tendency to
lose control and become more aggressive. Undoubtedly, parents need to keep track of how much time their children spend in front of the screen playing games and also as to what type
of games they play.
14. Brain Drain
 Definition: The emigration of highly trained or intelligent people from a country or other place. The loss of skilled intellectual and technical labour through the movement of such
labour to more favourable geographic, economic, or professional environments.
 What are the drawbacks of 'Brain Drain' on poor countries?
One of the main problems facing poor countries today is the so-called brain drain. Such a movement of highly skilled, talented individuals is becoming so acute that many are worrying
about its effects on the economic development of the region. More and more educated professionals such as engineers, doctors and scientists are looking for better job opportunities and
higher incomes in western countries. Also more students from developing nations receiving an education in Britain, the US, or France stay after completing their studies. Hence, it's not
surprising that serious drawbacks are becoming more and more apparent and social, economic as well as political conditions are getting worse. Poor countries are wasting efforts and
energies in favour of the western countries, while they are in need for their contribution in economics, education, health, planning, scientific research and technology. Moreover, we may
notice a financial loss as a lot money is spent on education and training of students who are favourable by the western countries for free. To make matters worse, scientific research in
the developing countries is declining compared to the contribution of migratory brains in the west.

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 How to help reduce 'Brain Drain'? (Solutions)
Knowledge is power. Knowledge is more powerful than jet fighters and bombers. Alas, poor developing countries are losing their bright brains to the most industrialized nations. The
poor is getting poorer; while the rich is getting richer. To reduce brain drain requires that the developed and developing nations reach a mutual agreement on how to reduce the pull and
push factors that make scientists flee Africa and Asia to Europe and America. The United States should stop using its special visas to lure talented professionals from their native countries.
Also, African nations should try and understand the contributions of scientists by improving their working conditions. Africa could also reduce its internal brain drain by updating its
school curricula to reflect its needs for the 21st century. African schools produce more graduates in the arts and humanities than in science and engineering. It does not come as a surprise
that there are only 20,000 scientists and engineers in Africa. Since science and technology can increase the standard of living, it makes more sense to produce more scientists and engineers.
Also important is that scientists should be employed as scientists. The deteriorating economy in Africa has forced some professors, medical doctors and scientists to accept minor blue-
collar jobs to survive. It is an internal brain drain to have many architects, accountants and pharmacists unemployed.

15. How to keep a healthy diet?

Don't expect to remain healthy if you do not have a balanced diet. You cannot eat whatever you like and stay in good health. Firstly, you must eat the right things containing the necessary
food substances such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and mineral salts. So, you should eat bread, rice and fruits and drink milk for carbohydrates. Proteins are found in meat,
fish and eggs. Vitamins are found mainly in fresh fruit and vegetables. Secondly, you should know why you eat these things. Carbohydrates, for example, give you the energy you need
to move and grow. Proteins are essential for growth and repair. Vitamins are required to keep you healthy. Minerals like Calcium and Iron are essential for teeth, bones, muscles and
nerves. Yet, you should know that too much or too little of these substances may lead to various health problems such as obesity, inappropriate growth, tiredness and several other
incurable diseases. That’s why, you are highly recommended to eat the right amounts of each kind of food. I hope that you find my tips useful and fruitful. Never forget the proverbs
which say that “Your stomach shouldn't be a waste basket” and that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

16. Smoking (Drawbacks)

There are literally countless health reasons to quit smoking. Simply put, smoking affects every aspect of a person's health. Practically no one can claim that they are unaware that smoking
is bad for your health. We shall admit that smoking creates an addiction that is hard to defeat and endangers the lives and quality of living of those who smoke. When people consider the
dangers of smoking, lung cancer is what first comes to mind. That is not to say that the only concern of smokers should be that their personal health is the only part to in jeopardy.
Research also directly ties smoking to the onset of asthma in children of parents who smoke in the home. Therefore, all of those horrible afflictions can be spread to non-smokers who
are subjected to constant second-hand smoke. More than just health consequences, smoking has psycho-social side effects that hinder one's quality of life. The urge to smoke requires
smokers to lose time finding an acceptable place to smoke during work hours or public places. Moreover, being a smoker can cause feelings of shame, especially when in group settings
where the smoker’s desire to smoke becomes unwelcome for others. Further, smoking decreases the ability to smell and taste, taking pleasure out of things like fresh air and delicious
foods. Smokers themselves cannot smell the scent on themselves and in their homes, but their friends and neighbours can, just as they can smell it on their breath.

17. How can we stop smoking?

For smokers, to stop Smoking is really a tough action to take. Majority of smokers want to quit smoking, but find it difficult to do so as nicotine is very addictive and hard to get rid
of. Yet, it’s never impossible if several measures are taken into consideration. There are three factors that will determine your success in quitting smoking for good- strong will to quit,
deep conviction of its drawbacks and finding the right alternatives. First, you must have the desire to give up your filthy habit of smoking. If you’re thinking about quitting or have stopped
smoking but failed to quit, don’t lose hope because smokers often try to quit more than once before they actually succeed. Be strongly determined this time to win the challenge over such
a disgusting behaviour. Second, you must learn about the effects of smoking, understand its consequences. You have to admit that smoking creates an addiction that is hard to defeat and
endangers the lives and quality of living of smokers and non-smokers as well. On the one side, your health is extremely jeopardized due to long-term smoking which may bring about
lethal diseases such as cancer, asthma and heart failure. On the other side, smoking has psycho-social side effects that hinder one's quality of life. Smokers may feel stigmatized after
being rejected or belittled by society due to their filthy habit and smell. Finally, you ought to face the fact that you need to follow, finish and maintain a quit smoking plan. New alternatives
are necessary to replace that sense of addiction to cigarettes. You can start a healthy diet as well as a sporting exercise programme to heal your mind and body and to help you regain your
health and energy. Besides, it’s highly recommended that you stop frequenting or getting exposed to smoking reminders like attending public places or drinking coffee.

18. How can we help reduce the effects of 'global warming'?

Not surprisingly today, it is more than evident that global warming is alarmingly becoming one of the most crucial debated controversial issues that may jeopardize the welfare and pure
existence of all species on earth. Nevertheless, options are still available to combat such a lethal disaster in a variety of simple actions. Initially, we shall admit that individuals, governments
and international organizations are all concerned about the environment. Individuals don't need to wait for governments to find a solution for this problem and each one can bring an
important help adopting a more responsible lifestyle starting from little everyday things. We can follow RRR theory-Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Let’s do our part to reduce waste by
choosing reusable products instead of undegradable disposables. Society, as well, represented by the government and environmentalist organizations ought to think of more efficient
sensitizing campaigns to make people more ecology conscious. Moreover, strict laws should be passed to reduce or at least regulate the number of vehicles and factories. Besides, trees
which absorb a large amount of carbon dioxide should be planted. Also, existing forests should be saved. Most important of all, the United Nations Organization is required to assume its
noble and human responsibilities to make all nations- especially the super powers- agree, sign and respect the protocols and think seriously of banning all types of deforestation and
nuclear experiments and dumps, looking for an alternative non polluting source of energy and last but not least stopping the production of ozone-damaging chemicals. I do believe it’s
high time we seriously thought about practical measures to stop the incoming ecological dangers.

19. Eco-driving
It doesn’t matter what you drive; nevertheless it really matters how you drive. There are things you can do to save money and reduce energy use, CO2 emissions and pollution. They are
simple ideas that really will make a difference. To start with, regular maintenance of your vehicle is the key to keep your machine ecologically ‘green’. You should get the car serviced
regularly according to the manufacturer's schedule to maintain engine efficiency. Besides, you’d better make sure you use the right specification of engine oil and check tyre pressures
regularly and before long journeys. Add to this, your driving habits ought to be minded. While you are en route, you’re highly recommended to drive smoothly, accelerate gently and
read the road ahead to avoid unnecessary braking. Moreover, if you can keep the car moving all the time, so much the better; stopping then starting again uses more fuel than rolling.
Furthermore, some unnecessary options should be avoided as much as possible such as air-conditioning, higher speeds, open windows which increase fuel consumption. Last but not
least, it's certainly still possible to change your lifestyle and think twice before you decide to get your car out of the garage. Is it really indispensable? Think of the proverb that says: ‘if
it's not far don't take the car.” If ever you find the alternative, never hesitate to walk short distances, enjoy cycling, or use public transport. That would be cheaper, healthier and most
important of all less polluting.

20. Benefits of Living in the Country

Rural living has its advantages over urban sprawl and big cities. Families are moving to smaller towns and out of the city at alarming rates, many with the same reasons. First of all, the
country offers peace and quiet you can’t get in the city. Sit outside any time of the day or night; you will be the audience to nature playing its tune. It’s not unlikely to hear birds singing.
The noisiest sounds will often be the sounds of your own children’s laughter. Adding to this, life in the country means your home isn’t packed on top of your neighbours. Your children
have room to run, play, jump and be kids without worry of treading through the neighbour’s yard or flowers. For people who love gardening. Moreover, parents looking for security that
they can’t find in the city anymore often look to small communities and rural living to find peace of mind. It’s very frightening to live in an area that is corrupt with theft and crime or
dangerous schools. Rural families find relief in knowing that statistically living in the country does have less reported crime. Most important of all, families that live in the country have
the benefit over crowded cities and industrial areas of having clean air. Sitting outside at night and being able to view the stars and moon in all their glory is clear evidence of the air
quality in the country. Bright blue clouds and sun are able to be seen clearly and pollutants from crowded highways, exhaust fumes and manufacturing companies are nowhere in sight.

21. Applying for a job

Dear Sir/Madam - I am applying for the position of receptionist, which was advertised in ‘The Courier Mail’ on Saturday 14 April 2005. I have over 5 years experience working in a
busy office environment as a Receptionist and general office administrator. I have recently completed a Certificate II in Business Administration at Sarina Russo Schools | Australia. In
all my previous employment positions, I have been required to operate a 10 to 15 line switchboard and general commander systems. I am competent is the use of Microsoft Word, Excel
and PowerPoint and have a current typing speed of 40 words per minute with 100% accuracy. Since beginning my working career I have gained many skills in the area of customer
service and feel that I would be a valuable asset to your organisation. I have enclosed my resume and can be contacted at anytime for an interview on 333 3333 33. Yours faithfully, Mary
Brown

22. Employment Morale

Employment Morale is the spirit, or tone, of an organization. It is an effect, or end result, of workplace conditions, relationships, changes or other elements. Employers should care for
the emotions, attitude, satisfaction, and overall outlook of employees during their time in a workplace environment. Part of effective productivity is thought to be directly related to
the morale of the employees. Employees that are happy and positive at work are said to have positive or high employee morale. Companies that maintain employees who are dissatisfied
and negative about their work environment are said to have negative or low employee morale. No matter how smart, talented and experienced the employees are, if they are not happy
with their jobs, their work will suffer. Keeping employee morale high is important because it will boost the company’s success.

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