ESSAY = COMPOSITION

An essay is a series of related paragraphs that

examines a single topic from the writer's viewpoint.
Essays appear in newspapers, magazines,
professional journals, and collection of nonfiction
writing. Editorials, book and movie reviews, daily
columns, articles on travel, and even some letters
qualify as essays.

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TYPES OF ESSAYS
In general, essays may be classified roughly under the
following headings:
1. The GENERAL ESSAY: Treats a subject in a
general manner. Ex: Television
2. The ARGUMENTATIVE or PERSUASIVE
ESSAY: Informs the reader about the writer' own
opinion on a debatable topic.
Ex: A mother should not work. Discuss.
3. The NARRATIVE ESSAY: Described as a short
story. Ex: A Short Story
4. The DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY: The writer gives the
facts in logical orders as a description of a person or
place. Ex: A Day at the Beach
5. The REFLECTIVE ESSAY: Shows the writer
reflects or thinks about the subject.
Ex: What I Wish to Be when I Grow up
6. The EXPOSITORY or FACTUAL or
EXPLANATORY ESSAY: Explains something
about a concrete subject. Ex: How the Telephone
Works
7. The STRUCTURAL ESSAY: Students are required
to write an essay on given points.
8. The CAUSE and EFFECT (Reason and Result)
Ex: Women's Liberation
9. The COMPARISON and CONTRAST Ex:
Japan and the United States.
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STRATEGIES TO USE FOR THE ESSAY

1. Study the question carefully.

2. Organize your ideas with an outline.
3. Budget your time so that you will be able to
complete and correct your essay.
4. Use sentence structures and vocabulary you know
to be correct.
5. Don't waste time worrying about spelling,
punctuation, and grammar.
6. Don't waste time worrying about whether the
evaluator agrees with your opinions
and argument.

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WRITING ESSAYS
INTRODUCTION
1 General Statements
o Introduce the topic in general.
o Then narrow the topic down to focus more on the
question.
o Restate the question in your own words & in
statement form.
2 Thesis Statement = topic sentence = T + CI
BODY
o The body consists of at least two supporting
paragraphs.
o Each supporting paragraph has a topic sentence that
supports the controlling idea mentioned in the
thesis statement.
o All the ideas in each paragraph should support their
topic sentence.
CONCLUSION
o Restate the thesis statement.
o Restate the topic sentences from the supporting
paragraphs.
o State your opinion/preference, make a prediction,
or give a solution.
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o Conclude with a statement that sums up the essay.

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MOELL 1: ENERAL ESSAY: Television–Harmful
to Children

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 GENERAL ESSAY: Television–Harmful to
Children
Over the past forty years, television sets have
become standard pieces of equipment in most
homes, and watching television has become a
standard activity for most families. Children in
our culture grow up watching television in the
morning, in the afternoon, and often in the
evening as well. Although there are many
excellent programs for children, many people
feel that television may not be good for children.
In fact, television may be a bad influence on
children for three main reasons.
First of all, television can effect children’s
personality. Some programs are not good for
children to see. For example, there are many
police stories on television. People are killed
with guns, knives, and even cars. Some children
might think that these things could happen to
them at any time. Therefore, they can become
frightened. In addition, some youngsters might
begin to think that violence is a normal part of
life because they see it so often on television. As
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a result, they may begin to act out the violence
they see and hurt themselves or their playmates.
Second, television can effect children’s
reading ability due to two reasons. Reading
requires skills and brain processes that watching
television does not. If children watch television
too many hours each day, they don’t practice the
skills they need to learn how to read.
Finally, television may affect children’s
schoolwork in other ways. If they spend too
much time watching television, they may get
behind in their homework. Also, if they stay up to
watch a late movie, they may fall asleep in class
the next day. Consequently, they will not learn
their lessons, and they could even fail in school.
In conclusion, if children watch too much
television or watch the wrong programs, their
personalities can be harmed. Furthermore, their
progress in school can be affected. Therefore,
parents should know what programs their
children are watching. They should also turn off
the television so that their children will study.

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 MODELL 2: MARGUMENTATIVE or
PERSUASIVE ESSAY: Crime Rate
Violent TV programs have been blamed for causing crime rates to rise in
many cities. But many people do not agree that violence is not related to
TV viewing. Discuss the possible reasons for both opinions. Give your
opinion as to whether or not violent programs should be taken off the air.

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Crime Rate
The crime rate in many cities is rising alarmingly.
Some people have the idea that violent TV
programs are the cause of the real crime. However,
many others disagree that TV violence can be
blamed for this rise. Both sides of the question of
whether TV may or may not be to blame are
supporting by good reasons.
Those who believe that violent TV programs
cause crime may give many reasons. First, many
viewers are children who have not formed a strong
understanding of right and wrong. They imitate
what they see. If a person on TV gets what he or
she wants by stealing it, a child may copy this
behavior. Thus, the child has learned unacceptable
values. Second, many heroes in today’s programs
achieve their goals by violent means.
Unfortunately, viewers might use similar means
ways to achieve their objectives. Finally, people
get ideas about how to commit crimes from
watching TV.
However, other people argue that violent
programs have no reasons to the rise to the crime
rates due to three reasons as follows. First, they
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claim that social factors, such as unemployment
and homelessness, are to blame. Second, some
argue that watching violence on TV is an
acceptable way to reduce aggressive feelings. In
other words, people may become less aggressive
through viewing criminal and violent scenes.
Third, even though children learn by imitation,
their parents are the most influential models.
Finally To finish, the villains are usually punished
for their crimes.
Whether or not violent programs are a factor in
the rising crime rate seems have no clear evident
to prove yet, but I am against their removal for the
following reasons. First, some people enjoy them,
and those who don’t can change channels or turn
their TVs off. Second, I disagree with other people
deciding what I should watch. If violent programs
can be censored, perhaps other programs which
may be important for our well-being will also be
censored. In conclusion, even though I am not fond
of violent programs, I am against their removal
until conclusive evidence creates violence.

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MODELL 3: GENERAL ESSAY
Living in an apartment instead of a university
dormitory has advantages and disadvantages. Discuss
some of the Advantages and disadvantages of
apartment living and then defend your preference.

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 Living in an Apartment
When a person decides to enter a university
away from home, he or she must also consider
living accommodations. Although most
universities offer student dormitories, students
frequently opt to live in an apartment. While
there are many advantages to apartment living,
there are also many disadvantages. Before a
student decides to live in an apartment, all the
aspects of (it) that kind of accommodation should
be reviewed.
Living in an apartment has many advantages.
First, students can choose to live in a quiet
neighborhood. A quiet neighborhood is
conductive to studying. Away from the
distractions of campus life, students can be more
serious about their studies. Second, apartment
life allows students to be more independent. For
example, they can cook whatever they want to
eat and have their meals whenever they want
them. Third, students can often find apartments
that are cheaper than the fee for room and board
in a dormitory.
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 However, living in an apartment also has
disadvantages. First, being away from campus
life can make students feel isolated. Another
disadvantage is that apartments close to campus
are usually expensive, and those further away
are not within walking distance. Therefore,
transportation must be considered. Finally,
students who live in apartment must cook their
own meals, shop for food, perhaps carry their
laundry to a Laundromat, and clean their entire
apartment–not just their room.
Even though there are many advantages to
apartment living, I would prefer to live in the
university dormitory for the following reasons.
First, I will be new at the university and meeting
people will be easier in a dormitory setting.
Second, I won’t have to worry about purchasing
and cooking food or cleaning up afterwards.
Consequently, I will have more time for my
studies. Finally, I will be within walking distance
of my classes and the university library. In
conclusion, living on campus is more
advantageous for me than living in an apartment.

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 MODELL 4: GENERAL ESSAY
Arranged Marriages

Choosing a husband or wife is one of the most

important decisions in a person’s life because a good
marriage can mean the difference between a happy
and an unhappy life. In many cultures young men
and women choose their own marriage partners. In
some cultures, on the other hand, parents arrange
their children’s marriages. Such arranged marriages
have both advantages and disadvantages.
Arranged marriages may have many advantages.
One advantage to having parents arrange a
marriage is financial security. Of course, money
doesn’t automatically bring happiness, but a lack of
money certainly causes stress in any relationship. A
second advantage of an arranged marriage is that
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parents may make a better choice than their children
may. They are not only older but also wiser. Also,
parents have been married; therefore, they know
better what qualities are desirable in a spouse.
Furthermore, parents may be better judges of
character than young people, who often let emotions
influence their judgment. To summarize, arranged
marriages may be happy because parents choose
with their heads, not with their hearts.
On the other hand, arranged marriages may
have some disadvantages. One obvious disadvantage
is that parents may make a poor choice, and the
young couple may never be happy together. A second
obvious disadvantage is that a young man or woman
may already have fallen in love with someone else.
Therefore, if the parents force him or her to marry
their choice, the result will be three unhappy people.
In conclusion, neither an arranged marriage nor
a marriage for love is necessarily going to be happy.
Both kinds of marriages take work, patience, and
perhaps a little bit of luck.

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 MODELL 5: ARGUMENTATIVE or PERSUASIVE
ESSAY
A Mother Should Not Work or
Problems of Working Mother (General Assay)
Some people believe that a mother should not
work. Others argue against this. Consider the
problems that a working mother faces. Do you
believe a mother should work? Support your
opinion?

Nowadays it is very common for mothers

to work outside the house. Whether a mother
should stay at home or join the work force is
debated by many people. Some argue that the
family, especially small children, may be
neglected. The fact is, however, that many
mothers need to work because of economic
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reasons or want to maintain a career. I
believe that every mother has the right to
work, and the decision to work should be one
that a woman makes on her own. But first she
should carefully consider the many problems
that affect mothers who work.
The major problems a working mother
faces concern her children. Regarding child
care, she must find either a reliable person
who will be loving toward the children or a
good day-care center where the children can
go. If a child gets sick, the mother must make
special arrangements for the child to be cared
for at home, or she must stay at home from
work. While at home the mother may worry
about her children. She may wonder if they
are safe, if they are learning the values she
wants them to have, and if her absence is
hurting them emotionally. She may also regret
not being able to take them to after-school
activities or participate in family activities
with them.
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 Even though a mother is frequently forced
into working for economic reasons, she soon
discovers that there are added expenses.
Initially, child care is mother biggest expense.
Second expense is transportation. This may
include purchasing or maintaining a car.
Another expense is clothing, such as a
uniform or stylish suits to maintain a
professional appearance. Finally, if her
company does not have a subsidized
cafeteria, she will have to pay for food in
restaurants.
After a mother takes into account all of the
above problems and perhaps other problems
unique to her situation, she must decide if a
job is worth with it. I believe that even though
she faces major obstacles, these obstacles are
not insurmountable. Many mothers do work
and manage a family very successfully. In
conclusion, it is a woman’s right to make this
choice, and only the woman herself should
decide this matter.
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 MODELL 6: REFLECTIVE ESSAY
The Best Way to Learn
Some people say that experience is the best way
to learn something; others claim that the best way
to learn something is by studying. Decide
whether you think experience or study is the best
way to learn. Then discuss your position; why
did you decide on this choice? Give examples to
support your decision.

ESSAY OUTLINE
A. Introduction: Decide whether you think experience or
study is the best way to learn
I think experience is the best way to learn.
B. Body: Then discuss your position; why did you decide
on this choice? Give examples to support your decision.
Experience is the best way to learn:
- I can really understand it (Ex: computer)
- Experience helps me remember things (Ex: swimming)
- It helps me judge whether or not I have actually
understood what I have studied (Ex writing)
- Concluding Statement
- My Opinion

C. Conclusion
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 Learning is a process of obtaining knowledge
or skill through experience or studying.
Therefore, some people say that experience is the
best way to learn something; others claim that
the best way to learn something is by studying.
My life has been affected more by my real
experiences than by my studying. I have spent
many years in school and have read many books,
but when I think of what is most important for
learning, I think of the experiences I have had.
It is only by experiencing something that I can
really understand it. I remember when I was
trying to learn to use a computer, I read the book
repeatedly over and over again, and I read the
information that my friends gave me, but it didn’t
make sense. It wasn’t until I actually used the
computer that I really understood it.
Experience helps me remember things also.
When I was trying to improve my stroke in
swimming, I listened to my instructor tell me how
to improve, and I looked at some drawings of
good swimming strokes. But I kept forgetting

21
what to do. After I practiced in the pool,
however, I could remember exactly what to do.
There is another reason that I think that
experience is a better way to learn. It helps me
judge whether or not I have actually understood
what I have studied. By acting instead of
reading, I am able to prove it to myself that I can
do it correctly. A good example of this is my
writing. I keep getting better at writing English,
but it is only by actually doing the writing that I
can judge my own improvement. It doesn’t help
me much just to read about it.
I have no doubt about the superiority of
experience as compared to study. I have tried
both studying about things and actually trying
them. I know that I understand and remember
much better when I experience new things.

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MODELL 7: ARGUMENTATIVE or
PERSUASIVE ESSAY: War
In your opinion, what is the most dangerous threat
the world faces today? Discuss some reasons for its
existence. Give some possible ways of preventing its
occurrence.

Our world today is faced with many major threats.

The most dangerous threat of all is war. Everyone in
the world fears the outbreak of a war, especially
another world war in which nuclear weapons may be
used. With the use of nuclear weapons there is the
possibility of the destruction of our entire planet.
Each war starts for a particular reason, but there are
a number of steps countries can take to prevent its
outbreak.
One main reason for war is a difference in
ideology. For example, nations have engaged in
struggles over the merits of communist and capitalist
systems of government. They frequently added other
countries in wars in order to topple governments that
have not agreed with their principles.
Land ownership is also a reason that countries
declare wars on their neighbors. Frequently, these
conflicts are economic in nature. For example, if oil
23
is found on land in one country, and that land can be
claimed by another country for historical reasons,
that country may declare war in order to recover the
land containing oil. A landlocked country needing
access to the sea may claim the territory between
itself and the sea. When a border between two
countries lies in an important food growing area
such as, for example, a border formed by rivers,
disputes over the water rights and the fertile land
can turn into war.
To prevent the destruction of our Earth in a
nuclear catastrophe, countries should try to resolve
their differences through international organizations
such as the United Nations. All countries need to
educate their citizens to be more tolerant of other
ideologies. After all, no ideology is worth total
annihilation of the planet. In addition, the countries
that are better off need to give more assistance to
those countries that suffer severe economic troubles
so that those countries will not try to solve their
problems through violence. In conclusion, there are
solutions to the world’s problems, and they should be
put into practice now before it is too late.

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 MODELL 8 GENERAL ESSAY
The Right to Die
A difficult problem that is facing society today
is euthanasia, another word for mercy killing.
Thousands of young people are in commas
because of accidents, and old people are
terminally ill because of incurable diseases. They
are all kept alive in artificial ways. They have no
choice to recover completely, but the American
legal system does not allow doctors to end their
lives. However, terminally ill patients should be
allowed to die for several reasons.
The first and most important reason is that
the patients have no chance of recovery. They
can never lead normal lives and must be kept
alive by life-support machines. They may need a
machine to breathe and a feeding tube to take in
food. They are more dead than alive and will
never get better. For example, in 1975, Karen
Quinlan became unconscious after she
swallowed some drugs and drank alcohol. She
was kept alive by machines. Her parents knew
that her body and brain would never be normal.
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Therefore, they asked the court to allow their
daughter to die. The judge agreed, and Keren’s
breathing machine was turned off. She was able
to breathe down her own, but she died nine years
later in June of 1985.
The second reason is that medical costs are
very high. The cost of a hospital room can be as
much as five hundred dollars per day and even
more. The costs of medicines and medical tests
are also high. The family of the parents is
responsible for these expenses. Consequently,
they would be a terrible financial burden
(problem) for them for a long time.
The third reason is that the family suffers. The
nurses can only give the terminally ill patient
minimum care. The family must spend time to
care for the special needs of their loved one.
They should talk, touch, and hold the patient
even though he or she may be in a comma. For
example, Karen Quinlan’s parents visited her
everyday although she was unable to speak or to
see. Also, it is very difficult to watch a loved one

26
in a comma because his or her condition doesn’t
improve.
In conclusion, because terminally ill patients
have no chance to live normal lives, they should
be allowed to die with dignity. Therefore, the
family should have the right to ask doctors to
turn off the life-support machines or to stop
further medical treatment.

27
DRILL 1: Advertising is common throughout the
world. Some people feel that advertising is
generally helpful and others feel that it is
generally harmful. Discuss your ideas of the
good and bad effects of advertising, and decide
whether you think it is generally helpful or
harmful. Use specific examples to support your
point of view.
ESSAY OUTLINE
A. Introduction
- General Statement (TV and radio, newspapers
and signs)
- Question Restatement
- Thesis Statement – reason for both sides

B. Body
Helpful
- Learn about products
- Know what is on sale
- Save time
- Remind me of what I want
- I can read when I want to buy sth
Harmful
- Too loud and disturbing
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- Feel like I am being brainwashed
- Take too much space
- Ruin the view outside
C. Conclusion
- My Opinion: I think it is generally helpful.
Why?
- Concluding Statement

DRILL 2: Some people prefer the winter for its

effect on activities and work. Others prefer the
summer. Pick the season you like best (winter,
spring, summer, fall, rainy or dry) for work or
activities you enjoy. Explain why you choose
this season. Give reasons for your choice.
ANSWER CHECKLIST
1. Did you begin with an introduction that
mentions the season you prefer and maybe the
kind of work or activities you are discussing?
2. Did you explain what work or activities you
do during the season you prefer?
3. Did you give reasons for why you prefer the
season?
4. Did you end with a short conclusion?

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DRILL 3: Some people choose to live in a large
city; others prefer living in a small town or
village. What are some of the advantages and
disadvantages of each? Which place would you
prefer to live in? Why?
ANSWER CHECKLIST
1. Did you begin with an introduction that
mentions living in a town or city?
2. Did you mention both advantages and
disadvantages of both large cities and small
towns?
3. Did you state clearly which place you would
like to live and give reasons?
4. Did you end with a short conclusion?

DRILL 4: Some people prefer work or activities

that mainly involve working with people. Others
choose work or activities that mainly involve
working with objects or machines. Compare the
advantages of each choice. Which of these two
ways of spending time do you prefer? Give
reasons to support your answer.
ANSWER CHECKLIST
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1. Did you begin with an introduction that
mentions activities or people?
2. Did you compare the advantages of both
working with people or things?
3. Did you state clearly which of the choices you
prefer and give reasons for your answer?
4. Did you end with a short conclusion?

31
NARRATIVE ESSAY: A Traditional American
Wedding
Last week, I had the most wonderful
experience! I attended the wedding of two of my
friends from college. The bride was Jennifer
Mason, and the groom was Scott Dixon. They
became engaged last year, but they wanted to
wait until they had both graduated from college
before getting married. Anyway, I thought you
would like to hear about a traditional American
wedding and what happens on the wedding day.
First, the guests arrive at the church. The
ushers meet them at the door and help them find
seats. Friends and family of the bride always sit
on the left side of the church; friends and family
of the groom always sit on the right. The parents
of the couple always sit in the front.
Next, the groom and his best man enter the
church and stand in front. Then, a musician
begins to play the “Wedding March” and the
bridesmaids begin to march slowly down the
aisle from the back toward the front of the
church. Finally, the bride appears and walks
down the aisle beside her father. The bride
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usually wears a white wedding dress and veil,
and she always carries a bouquet of flowers in
her hands.
Third, everyone is at the front of the church,
so the marriage ceremony can begin. During the
ceremony, the groom always gives the bride a
wedding ring, and the bride sometimes gives the
groom one, too. At last, the religious official say,
“I now pronounce you husband and wife.” and
the couple is now married. The bride and the
groom kiss and then leave the church arm in
arm. The guests throw rice over the couple
outside the church as they leave.
The last event is the wedding reception. This
is a big party after the ceremony. Everyone
brings and sends a gift, so the young couple after
doesn't need to buy a lot of things for their house
or apartment. The wedding reception may be a
dinner, or it may be an afternoon party with only
snacks. Champagne is usually served, and
everyone eats, drinks, and dances for many
hours. The bride throws her flowers to the
unmarried girls before she and her husband
leave the reception. According to tradition, the
33
girl who catches the flowers will be the next one
to get married.
I hope you have enjoyed my story about a
traditional American wedding. Of course, not
everyone in the United States has a big wedding
like this one. It is not very cheap, nor can
everyone afford it.

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 DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY: A Day at the Beach
It is a beautiful, warm afternoon, and the sun
is shining brightly. The wind is blowing, yet it is
not cold. There are a lot of people at the beach
today and they do many activities. Janice is at
the beach with her friends Susan, Tom, and Joey.
There is a lot of activity on the beach. Many
people are taking sunbaths. Janice and Joey are
too. Some sunbathers are listening to their
radios, and others are reading or sleeping. A fat
man is watching a football game on his portable
television set. There is also a group of people
playing volleyball. Both teams are yelling and
hitting the ball over the net. Everybody is playing
hard to win.
There is a lot of activity in the water, too.
Many sailboats are sailing in the distance.
Closer to the shore, some people are windsurfing
on boards with colorful sails. Susan and Tom are
in the water. They are swimming to the floating
dock. Some swimmers are sitting on the dock,
and others are diving into the water. There are
children playing near the water. Some of them
35
are building sandcastles. Others are getting their
feet wet. Everyone is having a good time.
It is one o’ clock. Some people are starting to
leave, for the weather is beginning to change.
The sun isn’t shinning, nor is the wind blowing
gently now. The wind is getting stronger, so it
feels cold. Tom and Susan are swimming back to
the beach. It is time to go home.
In conclusion, people are enjoying themselves
at the beach today because there are many things
to do.

36
 INTRODUCTIONS: Introducing Princess
Diana
If Princess Diana were to write a composition
introducing herself, it might go something like
this:
Hello! My name is Princess Diana of Wales. I
am married to Prince Charles of Wales, the
future king of England. We live in an apartment
in Kensington Palace in London, England. Let
me tell you about my life.
I was born in July 1, 1961, at Park House on
the royal estate of Sandringham in Norfolk,
England. I have stwo older sisters, Sarah and
Jane, and a younger brother, Charles. I attended
various boarding schools during my early years.
My favorite subject was English history. At
school I studied ballet and tap dancing, and I
also won swimming contests. When I was sixteen,
I went to school in Switzerland. I studied French
and learned to ski. When I finished school, I
lived in London with three of my girlfriends. The
two things I enjoyed most were dancing and
children, so I became a teacher at the Young
37
England Kindergarten. My life was quite normal
before I became a princess. I took a bus to work,
rode a bicycle, drove my own car, and went
shopping. Then, when I became engaged to
Prince Charles, my life changed completely.
On July 29,1981, I married Prince Charles at
St. Paul’s Cathedral. There were twenty-seven
hundred guests at our wedding, and the
ceremony was on television all over the world.
On our honeymoon, we cruised the
Mediterranean Sea on the royal yacht Britannia.
After we returned from our honeymoon, I
began my life as the wife of future king of
England. I visit a lot of schools and hospitals,
travel with my husbands, and attend many
official ceremonies. The princess and I enjoy
bicycling, swimming, and skiing. In the evening,
we may attend the ballet or the opera. In 1982,
our son William was born, and in 1984, our son
Harry was born. I enjoy spending time with
them. I am very busy with my royal duties, but my
husband and my children are the most important
things in my life.
38
 In brief, my life has changed a lot since I
became a princess, but I love every minute of it!

39
 EXPLANATORY ESSAY (Chronological
Process)
How A Solar Hot Water System Works
A solar hot water system collects and
converts solar radiation into usable energy for
the purpose of heating water. The use of solar
radiation for heating water is an inexpensive and
environmentally responsible substitute for
heating by gas or electricity. The main parts of a
solar hot water system are a collector, a hot
water storage tank, and a distribution system.
The main steps in the process of water heating by
using the sun’s rays are (1) trapping the sun’s
energy, (2) heating and storing the hot water, and
(3) dispensing (= distributing, giving out) the
water at points of use.
The first step is to capture solar radiation.
That is, the sun’s energy must be absorbed
(=taken in) by a solar heat collector, which is
usually built on a south-facing roof. The
collector ahs several layers of materials. It has a
glass plate and a metal absorber plate, which is
painted black to increase its ability to absorb
40
heat. Next to the absorber plate are copper tubes,
which are filled with transfer fluid. The tubes are
surrounded by foam insulation and aluminum
casing to help hold the heat in them. The process
of trapping the sun’s radiation is as follows. As
the sun shines through the glass plate, its thermal
(= related to heat) energy is absorbed by the
copper absorber plate. This heat is conducted
from the plate to the tubes. The heat from the
tubes is then conducted to the fluid flowing
through them.
After trapping heat from the sun, the second
step is to transfer this heat to water which is
stored in an insulated tank. The hot fluid from the
collector is circulated by a pump through copper
coils inside the tank. The heat is conducted by
the coils to the water. When the supply of solar
radiation is reduced on cloudy days, an auxiliary
system can take over.
Dispensing the hot water is the final step in
the process. The water flows from the outlet valve
through pipes to faucets throughout the house.

41
 In summary, the process of collecting and
converting solar energy for use in a solar hot
water system involved three steps. First,
collectors absorb the sun’s energy, which is then
transferred to fluid in copper tubes. These tubes
run from the collector to a tank, where the water
is heated and stored. Finally, the hot water is
distributed through pipes to wherever it is
needed. Although initially expensive to install,
solar heating systems are economical in the long
run at least until utility companies figure out how
to charge us for sunshine!

42
 CAUSE AND EFFECT: Women’s Liberation
Since the middle of this century, women
around the world have been seeking greater
independence and recognition. No longer content
with their traditional roles as housewives and
mothers, women have joined together to create
the so–called “women’s liberation movement.”
While the forces behind this international
movement vary from culture to culture and from
individual to individual, the basic causes in the
United States can be traced to three events: the
development of effective birth–control methods,
the invention of labor–saving devices for the
home, and the advent (= arrival) of World War
II.
The first cause of the liberation of women was
the development of effective birth–control
methods, freeing women from the endless cycle of
childbearing and rearing. As a result of having a
choice as to when and if to bear children, women
required the freedom and the time to pursue
interests outside of the home. Because of the
development of birth control, women could delay
43
having children or avoid having them together;
consequently, women had the opportunity to
acquire an education and/or pursue a career.
Another event was the development of
mechanized labor–saving devices for the home,
resulting in more leisure time and freedom for
women. For example, fifty years ago, a
housewife spent an average of twelve to fourteen
hours per day doing housework. Doe to the
invention of machines such as vacuum cleaners,
washing machines, and dishwashers, a housewife
can now take care of her daily housework in
about five hours.
The final event that, at least in the United
States, give impetus (=stimulation) to the
liberation of women was World War II. During
the war, most men were serving in the military.
Consequently, women had to fill the vacancies in
the labor force. Women by the thousands went to
work in factories and then took over business for
their absent husbands. This was a great change
for the majority of American women, for they
discovered that they could weld (=to join metal
44
parts using heat) airplanes and manage
businesses as well as change diapers and bake
cookies.
These three events planted the seeds of great
change in society, and the effects of this change
are being felt at all levels: in the family, in
business, and in government.
One of the biggest effects of the greater
independence of women is being felt in the home.
The traditional husband–wife relationship is
undergoing a radical transformation. Because so
many women are working, men are learning to
share the household tasks of cooking, cleaning,
and even caring for children. In some families,
there has been a complete reversal of the
traditional roles: the husband stays home, while
the wife earns the family’s income. It should be
pointed out, however, that this is the exception,
not the rule. In most families in the United
States, the husband still earns most of the money,
and the wife still does most of the housework.
The effects of women’s liberation are being
felt not only in the home but also on the job.
45
More and more women are working, and they are
demanding equal salaries and equally
responsible positions. It is not uncommon for a
woman to be the president of a corporation these
days. Many businesses encourage women to
advance to high management positions, and
every year, the nation’s schools produce more
women doctors, lawyers, and accountants.
Politics and government are still other areas
that are feeling the effects of the women’s
movement. Although the United States doesn’t
appear ready to accept a woman president, as
some countries of the world have, women are
being elected to public office in increasing
numbers. The United States currently has several
women governors, which is the highest office in a
state. A few years ago, this would have been
unthinkable.
In conclusion, women in the United States are
acquiring greater independence, which is
causing sweeping changes in society–at home, at
work, and in politics. While men may not be
happy with these changes, they should always
46
remember that it was they, the men, who created
the conditions leading to the liberation of
women: men made war, male scientists
developed birth control, and businessmen earned
a lot of money selling vacuum and dishwashers.

47
 EXPOSITORY or FACTUAL or
EXPLANATORY: SAD
When winter arrives, some people get sad,
even suicidal. Doctors have recently started to
study the causes of a medical disorder which
they have appropriately named SAD, or seasonal
affective disorder.
People who suffer from SAD become very
depressed during the winter months. Their
depression appears to be the result of a decrease
in the amount of sunlight they are exposed to.
Doctors theorize that decreased sunlight affects
the production of melatonin, a hormone
manufactured in the brain, and serotonin, a
chemical that helps transmit nerve impulses.
Depression may result from the ensuing
(=following immediately) imbalance of these two
substances in the body. Also, doctors believe that
a decrease in the amount of sunlight the body
receives may cause a disturbance in the body’s
natural clock, which cloud, in turn, result in
symptoms such as listlessness, oversleeping,

48
weight gain, anxiety, and irritability–all
symptoms of depression.
Since absence of light seems to be the cause
of this order, a daily dose of light appears to be
the cure. Doctors advise patients to sit in front of
a special light box which stimulates (=gives the
effect of, imitates) natural light for a few hours
every day.
In conclusion, this revelation (=fact that is
made known) may help explain the high suicide
rate of the Scandinavian countries, and more
importantly, it may suggest a remedy (=cure):
when the days grow short, turn on the lights.

49
COMPARISON AND CONTRAST: Japan and
the United States
Comparison Structures

X is as tall as Y. X is similar to Y. X is the

same as Y.
Both X and Y are … Like X, Y is …. There
are similarities between X and Y.
The culture of a country is an integral part of
its society whether it is a remote Indian village in
Brazil or a highly industrialized city in Western
Europe. Basically, culture is reflected in a
country’s language, literature, art, music, and
dance. However, culture also includes the
patterned ways in which people conduct
themselves in their relationships with others.
Japan and the United States are two highly
industrialized nations in the world. Although
their cultures have a few similarities, there are
greater differences between these nations of the
East and the West.
First of all, Japan and the United States have
several similarities. The United States is a
50
democracy and Japan is, too. The United States’
Constitution is the supreme law of the land, just
as the Japanese Constitution is in Japan. Also,
Japan’s Diet is similar to the U.S. Congress. In
addition, both Japan and the United States have
made a mutually enriching exchange of cuisine.
There are Japanese restaurants in American,
where diners can enjoy food like sashimi,
tempura, and noodles. Similarly, Japanese enjoy
American fast foods like McDonald’s
hamburgers and French fries, Kentucky fried
chicken, and Mrs. Fields’ cookies. Finally, the
Western sport of baseball is popularly not only in
the United States but also in Japan. The
Japanese have their major leagues as the
Americans do, and they have their version of the
World Series games. Baseball heroes are
important to Japanese spectators, just as they
are to American fans.
Despite these similarities, the United States
and Japan have some very significant cultural
differences.

51
 One important difference is the people. Japan
is a homogeneous society of one nationality and
a few underrepresented minority groups like
Chinese and Koreans. As a result, all areas of
government and society are controlled by the
Japanese majority. In contrast, although the
United States is a country with European roots
originally, its liberal immigration policy has
resulted in its becoming a heterogeneous society
of many nationalities–Europeans, Africans,
Asians, and Hispanics. They are represented in
all facets of American society, including
business, education, and politics.
Another difference is in the two countries’ use
of transportation. Japan and the United States
have modern transportation systems which use
the latest technology. However, the means of
transportation used by the masses the ordinary
people in Japan is different from that used by the
masses in the United States. The majority of
Japanese use an efficient network of public
transportation for pleasure and for commuting
from the outlying areas to the cities or city to
city. Thus, the train and subway systems are
52
extremely overcrowded during peak hours. By
comparison, Americans rely on public
transportation and prefer instead to drive their
own cars or to ride in carpools. Although the
average Japanese family owns one car, the
typical American family owns at least two cars
or more, depending on the number of children of
legal driving age. Finally, a common sight in
Japanese cities is neatly dressed women on
motorized scooters riding on busy streets to do
their shopping. Bicycles are also a very popular
form of daily transportation. In contrast,
Americans usually do their errands by car and
ride their bikes mostly for exercise or pleasure.
The final and most important difference is
that in modern Japan, traditional customs are
still largely observed. In fact, surprisingly, many
young people still prefer an arranged marriage,
in which a couple meet through the combined
efforts of parents and friends of relatives. By
comparison, young American people seek their
own marriage partners. In addition, married
Japanese couples have more clearly defined
roles than their American counterparts. A
53
Japanese wife has greater control over the
household and family decisions than an
American wife. For example, a Japanese wife
decides on the family’s residence, major
expenditures, and the children’s schools. The
strong role of a Japanese wife is understandable
since the husband, as primary breadwinner, is a
very busy man. His loyalty is first to his
workplace, and he must expend all of his energy
and working time to his career or job. Thus, he
may not arrive home until late at night, so his
wife must discipline the children and make
decisions to keep the household running
smoothly. On the other hand, an American
couple, who more or less maintain a 50/50
relationship, generally have a more democratic
approach and make decisions together.
It is clear that although there are some
important similarities between Japan and the
United States, there are significant differences as
well. The extent to which Japan has accepted
some aspects of Western culture reveals the
country’s desire to absorb new customs. Indeed,
the cultural exchanges of Japan and the United
54
States have benefited both nations dramatically
and will continue to do so in the future.
sashimi =raw fish
tempura =fried vegetables and prawns
homogeneous = alike
heterogeneous =mixed
masses =the ordinary people
carpools =several riders in one car
peak = most traffic
breadwinner =money earner
Hispanics =Spanish – speaking people
errands =to make short trips to the shore, the
bank and etc.
facets = areas

55
 Different Customs in Cambodia and in the US
An activity, a way of behaving, or a
traditional event in a particular society, usually
varies from country to country; therefore, it is
very interesting to note the significant different
customs in Cambodian and in the US.
Initially, the way people greet each other in
Cambodian is different from in the US. The
Cambodians normally put their hand together in
order to express their salutation to others, but the
Americans usually shake hand when meeting
each other.
Second, the independent age in the US is not
the same in Cambodia. The Americans has
complete freedom when they reach the age of
eighteen ie they are able to do any legal act
privately without permission from parents. For
example, they can leave home to stay with their
friends in an apartment or in dormitory.
However, The Cambodians seem to live
dependently on the parents until they get
married, even thought the law states they become
a natural person in the age of eighteen.
56
 Finally, the philology of American is unlike
Cambodian. Cambodia people like live in an
expended family, comprising of three generations
living together such as grandparents, parents,
and children. Most of Cambodian are Buddhist,
and they also belief that children are their asset
because all children are going to take care of
their parents when they get older. On the other
hand, the Americans prefer to live as nuclear
family, consisting of parents and children. Most
of them are Christian and they seem belief that
children are their dept since parents have to take
care of their children until get eighteen, but
children need not to do so when their parent are
older. This is because their parents have pension
fund and government takes care of them.
In conclusion the main different customs of
the Americans and Cambodians are greeting,
independent age, and philosophy.

57
 Advantages of Living in a City and Country
Side

Various people have different preference,

therefore, some people prefer living in a city,
some like living in country side because those
places have their own advantages which are able
to match each individuals needs.
There are advantages of living in a city. First,
people get closer to the high technology, for
example, IT system is not only go to work place
but also come to individual home and
everywhere in the city. Second, city is equipped
with all types of infrastructure consisting of the
basic facilities such as transport,
communications, power supplies, and buildings,
which enable it to function. Finally, city also
provides all kinds of public services like school
with educational services; hospital with medical
or curing services; and bar, club, and etc with
entertainment services. In short, those facilities
make city life becomes ease, comfortable and
modern.

58
 On the other hand, living in country side also
has benefits. Initially, living in country side is so
closer to the nature that people are able to get
fresh air, enjoy wonderful scenery, and remove
all of stress. Next, the cost of living is not as
expensive as city, for instead of shopping for
their food; people normally use their own grown
vegetable, caught fish and other foods for
cooking. Sometimes they can exchange their
foods with neighbor for needed food. Finally, it is
cheaper to build a villa as the charge for ground
is lower, so it is suitable for retired people who
need a quiet place for the rest of their life.
In summary, living in city or country side has
various advantages dependent on the preference
of people. Therefore, people should match the
benefits with needs in order to get a happiness
life.

59