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AOU, Jeddah, EL 111 A Writing Guide Tutor : Mr.Larbi

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Arab Open University English Language Unit Jeddah Branch

EL 111

A Writing Guide : common structure errors,

combining sentences , paragraph writing , and

formal letter writing

Set by: Mr.Larbi ©


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Contents

Common Structure Errors 1-Run-on-Sentence & Practice ……………………………………………………………

2-Sentence Fragments & Practice ………………….………………………………….…

3-Subject-Verb Agreement & Practice …………….………………………………..…

4-Adjectives vs. Adverbs & Practice……………………………….………….………

Combining Sentences 1-Composing Compound and Complex Sentences & Practice…………… 2-Cause & Effect Connectors & Practice…………………………………………….

3-Transition Signals & Practice ……………………………………….…………….. 4-Adjective Clauses & Practice ………………………………………………………….

Paragraph Writing 1- Structuring a Paragraph A- Topic Sentence, Supporting Sentences, Clincher & Practice……… B- Organizing Ideas , Rank Order , Specific Details & Practice….……

2- Opinion Paragraph & Practice ………….……………………………………………...

3- Comparison and Contrast Paragraph & Practice ……………………….…….

Letter Writing 1- Friendly Letter & Practice …………………………..…………………………..…….. 2- Formal Letter & Practice…………………………………………………..………….. References ……………………………………………..………………………………..…………

Pages

2 3 5 7

8 12 14 16 18 19 25 33

41 42 45


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1- Run-on- Sentence

PRACTICE 1- Rewrite these sentences. Correct the errors and rewrite the sentences to be

1- Some people think I’m in lucky position two companies have offered me jobs One job is in my uncle s travel company in cairo the other is with an airline company in Riyadh SAUDI ARABIA.

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2- there are two building that are suitable for the company one is a building called panorama house it is located near the city center the second building is called central park and is much smaller then panorama house but I personally prefer the first building because it much closer to the city center.

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………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….. The group of sentences in A and B are inappropriately structured because they are run-on sentences. What does a run-on -sentence mean? How to avoid composing a run-on-sentence?

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PRACTICE

1- First, identify each group of the words below. Write R for run-on sentence, or C for complete. Second , rewrite the run-on-sentences and change them into complete sentences.

…….........1. I like my dentist he is very gentle.

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…….........2. My son bought two T-shirts he thought they were so cool. …….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…

Run-on sentences are two or more sentences that are joined together without a conjunction or correct punctuation. Example: Sue loves to cook she is always in the kitchen run-on- sentence

There are three ways to correct this problem 1. Use punctuation, usually a period [.] to separate the two sentences Run-on sentence: Sue loves to cook she is always in the kitchen.

Correct sentences: Sue loves to cook. She is always in the kitchen.

2. Use a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, so, or, nor, yet) to connect the two clauses. Run-on sentence: The movie was boring we watched it.

Correct sentence: The movie was boring, but we watched it.

3. Use a subordinating conjunction [ because, after, before…]to connect the two clauses. Run- on sentence: I'm very hungry I didn't eat breakfast.

Correct sentence: I'm very hungry because I didn't eat breakfast


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…….........3. It was too cold yesterday to swim we stayed in the chalet all day. …….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........… …….........4. When Jerry finishes work he'll join us at the party. …….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…

…….........5. Ali’s family lives in Riyadh but he moved to Jeddah to find a better job. …….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…

……...........6. Dennis called to say his computer is making strange noise he thinks it is broken. …….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........… ………......7. She has a very good memory her sister on the other hand does not. .........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........…….........……....................................................................

2- Sentence Fragments PRACTICE

1- Read carefully the paragraph below. There are missing words and some sentences are grammatically incorrect .Rewrite the paragraph, add the missing words and correct the grammatical mistakes.

have to make difficult decision, next year want to going to college to continue my studies. me likes very much to study in a business college . However, it too expensive and far from my neighborhood. I think needing to buy a car but if I buy a car can’t to pay the college fees. What should doing?

The paragraph above doesn’t read very well because some sentences are grammatically incorrect. Some of them are without a subject, and some are without a verb. They’re incomplete sentences. They’re just fragments. What do fragments mean? And how should we avoid them?

A sentence is a group of words and contains a subject and a verb. A complete sentence expresses a complete thought. But if it doesn’t contain a subject or a verb, it is only a fragment (incomplete sentence). Example: Because it was raining yesterday. incomplete thought Even if this clause has a subject and a verb, it is not a complete sentence. It does not make sense by itself. There are two possible ways to correct this mistake:

1. Make the dependent clause a complete sentence by removing the word because. Sentence Fragment: Because it was raining yesterday.

Complete sentence It was raining yesterday.

2. Attach the dependent clause to the independent clause. Sentence Fragment: Because it was raining yesterday.

Complete sentence Because it was raining yesterday, I took my umbrella .

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PRACTICE 1- Write C in front of each complete sentence, and F in front of each sentence fragment. Then rewrite the fragments to be complete sentences.

…….........1. I love visiting my grandfather because he is very kind.

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…….........2. Hockey a very dangerous sport if you don't have the right equipment.

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…….........3. Because I couldn't understand this homework.

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…….........4. And ran out of gas on my way to work.

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…….........5. Whenever my friend has time.

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…….........6. Even if he had a bad cold and hadn't slept well for two nights.

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…….........7. When my friend told me was the best movie he had ever seen.

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2- A) Below is a chart about problems.

The first Another

But the most serious

problem with

something / someone verb + ing

is that

Subject + Verb+ ….

B) What are the problems with living in a city? Write a very short paragraph of three complete sentences and follow the structure above. Use correct punctuation marks and avoid run-on- sentences and fragments.

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3- Subject-Verb Agreement PRACTICE

1- There are ten grammatical mistakes in the following paragraph. Underline the mistakes , then

rewrite the paragraph out in full correcting the mistakes.

Some verbs don’t agree with their subjects in number. In fact, every verb should agree with its subject. Basically, singular subjects take singular verbs and plural subjects take plural verbs. The confusing cases regarding subject-verb agreement are listed below:

A computer it is very powerful instrument. Some computers is very heavy and are placed on desks. Others computers is smaller and we can carries them in the pocket. A computer have many different uses. A computer can’t work without a program and the program tells always the computer what to do. A computer consist of a monitor with a screen , a keyboard , and a disk drive , speakers and a mouse. The keyboard and the mouse is using information into the computer. The output it is shown on the computer screen.

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1-Two or more subjects connected with a conjunction [and ]require a plural verb. My brother, sister and cousin live in Riyadh. 2- EVERY and EACH are always followed by a singular noun even if there are 2 or more nouns connected with and. Every man, woman and child needs care.

3-A GERUND(verb +-ing) used as the subject of the sentence requires a singular verb. Growing flowers is the favorite hobby of Karen and Linda. 4-ONE OF , EEACH ONE OF /EVERY ONE OF / NO ONE OF / are followed by plural nouns , but we always use singular verbs . 1- One of my friends is here. 2- Every one of my friends is here 3- Each one of my friends is here. 4- None of my colleagues was at the meeting. 5- The number vs. A number 1- The number is always followed by a plural noun and singular verb: The number of students is 20 2- A number is always followed by a plural noun and plural verb [A number of = many] A number of employees are absent today. 6- Expressions of time, money and distance usually require a singular verb 1- Two hours is not enough to prepare this report. 2- Fifty dollars is too much for this shirt. 3- Two hundred miles is very hard to run daily. 7- Anybody, anyone, anything, everybody, everything, something and someone need singular verbs 1- Everybody wants to watch the movie now. 2-Somone is calling you.


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PRACTICE

2- The following sentences are grammatically incorrect. Rewrite them correcting the mistakes.

1- One of my friend having a car.

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2- Everyone who working hard in this class do well.

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3- Many of my colleague isn’t liking the new manager.

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4- One of the reasons that we chooses to go into medicine are that I likes to working with people.

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5- Fifty dollar are too much to spend on dinner at this restaurant.

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6- Both Jane and her cousin going to the fitness club twice a week.

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7- Everyone on the team coming to practice every day. 1

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8- All the team member having to work hard.

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9- Each one of the students improving.

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3- Rewrite the paragraph below correcting the grammatical mistakes.

Potato are grown in most country. They are one of the most widely grown vegetable in the world. Them can be prepared in many different way. French fry are popular almost everywhere. Besides frying it, potato can be baking or boiling . The other way people use potatoes are to make potato flour for making bread and another kinds of dishes. Its also possible to make beverages from potato. They are still others ways potatoes is used by commercial food to make product such as potato chip and freeze-dried potato.

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5- Adjectives vs. Adverbs

PRACTICE 1-Complete the sentences either with adjective or adverb. You may find the following diagram very useful.

1. Terry is a ………………………………………person. (childishly, childish) 2. He behaves ………………………………………(childish, childishly). 3. Wanda paints murals …………………………………………(beautiful, beautifully). 4. On a very …………………………………… evening, you can hear the waterfall. (quiet, quietly) 5. It was an …………………………………… party (amazing , amazingly ). 6. Hank types too …………………………………… (slow, slowly). 7. I find this novel very …………………………………… (interesting, interestingly). 8. An …………………………………… lecturer keeps our interest. (enthusiastic, enthusiastically) 9. Sonia was ………………………… (glad, gladly) that her ………………………… (painful, painfully) illness was over.

10. You are …………………………………… (surprising, surprisingly) …………………………………… (quiet, quietly) today. 11. At the meeting , Ali talked ………………………… about the problems of the employees . (confident, confidently) 12. We are …………………………………… qualified for these jobs. (high, highly) 13. Jerry did not pass the exam as ………………………………as he thought he would do. (easy, easily)

2- Write either good or well in each sentence below. 1. My aunt is a ………………………cook. 2. She makes ………………………Chinese meals. 3. How ………………………do you understand the lesson? 4. Andre knows the material very ………………………. 5. It is a ……………………… thing we have another week to study. 6. How ………………………or how badly did Sarah perform? 7. Was her performance …………………… or bad? 8. She has a ………………………face for modeling. 9. Cynthia doesn't seem ………………………; she doesn't take ……………………… care of herself.

10. I think mustard goes ………………………with all foods, including ice cream.

3-Complete the following passage with the suitable adverbs. Punctuate appropriately on the contrary , finally , actually, irregularly , specifically, surely,

Laughter is a way of releasing inner tensions. ................................................there are many classes and types of laughter ......................................... a happy laughter can be heard when students .................................................... pass an important examination which they studied for all night. ....................................................an inexperienced driver may find himself laughing when he tries to turn the steering wheel , but ends up turning on the signal lights. .................................................... his laughter comes from nervousness. .................................................... the sad laughter is experienced, for instance, when one is watching a soap opera which has unpleasant ending.

adjective

adverb

He is a careful driver. He drives carefully

tell us about the noun tell us about the verb (the action)


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Combining Sentences

1- Composing Compound & Complex Sentences PRACTICE

1- Read the two paragraphs below. Which paragraph do you think reads much better? Why?

Paragraph A

Paragraph B

2- Write down three differences between Paragraph A and B

a - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………..

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b- ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………..

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c - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………..

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The second paragraph reads much better than the first one because its sentences structure are in different ways and it contains conjunctions. Consider the following illustration:

My friend Hassan has a new small radio. He bought the radio a few days ago . The radio of Hassan is a little bit expensive. The radio looks very nice. The radio is black . The radio has a red handle . Hassan likes the radio very much . The radio is very light. Hassan can take the radio everywhere . Hassan has a shower . He takes the radio with him .

My friend Hassan has a new small radio. He bought it a few days ago. Hassan’s radio is a little bit expensive. But it looks very nice because it is black, very light and has a red handle. So Hassan likes his new radio very much because he can take it everywhere. Even when Hassan has a shower, he takes it with him.

[1] My friend Hassan has a new small radio. He bought it a few days ago. [2] Hassan’s radio is a little bit expensive, but looks very nice. It is black, very light and has a red handle. [3] So, Hassan likes his new radio very much because he can take it everywhere. Even when Hassan has a shower, he takes it with him.

1-Simple Sentences

2-compound sentences

3-complex sentences Sentence

conjunctions : sentence connectors and because but


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PRACTICE 1- From each set of the sentences below, make a compound sentence .Use the coordinating conjunctions:

and, but, or, nor , and so to join the sentences. Use the appropriate pronouns where necessary to avoid repetition. Punctuate appropriately.

1. There is one oval desk in my office. There is a comfortable chair in my office.

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2. Adel doesn’t have any food in the refrigerator. Adel doesn’t want to go shopping.

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3. Almost all the jobs require computer knowledge. Everyone should learn about computers.

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4. Ahmed and his small brother don’t drink tea. Ahmed and his small brother don’t drink coffee, either.

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5. Sarah didn’t understand the questions on the assignment. Sarah didn’t ask her tutor. Sarah didn’t talk to any of her colleagues .

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Summary

Ali studies IT at AOU. He works at Oracle Company. He wants to be a computer engineer.

Ali studies IT at AOU and works at Oracle Company. He wants to be a computer engineer.

Because Ali wants to be a computer engineer, he studies IT at AOU and works at Oracle Company.

Dependent Clause incomplete idea

Independent Clauses: complete ideas

We change simple sentences into compound sentences by using coordinating conjunctions: and , but , or , nor , yet , so…

2-compound sentence

3- complex sentence

We change simple sentences into complex sentences by using subordinating conjunctions: after , before , if , when, until , because , although, though , since ,

1- simple sentences


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2- Rewrite the following paragraph. Combine the sentences using and, but , because, and also.

Use the appropriate pronouns where necessary to avoid repetition. Punctuate appropriately.

I love using my computer. My computer

makes my life much easier. Computers are

much better than typewriters. I really don’t

understand computers very well. If I have a

problem with my computer, I should get

someone to help me with my computer. I’m

always afraid to try to fix my computer

myself. There are always many technical

problems with my computer. I’m not the only

one. Many people worry about the technical

problems of computers. I only use my

computer for word processing and e-mailing

my friends. I enjoy communicating with my

friends by e-mail. I know there are lots of

other uses of computers. I’ll never get

involved in these other uses. I don’t

understand computers very well.

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My Computer

My Computer


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3-Combine each pair of the sentences below. Some of your new sentences should be compound and some complex .Use relevant conjunctions and punctuate appropriately. 1. My apartment is very small. It is quite comfortable.

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2. It has a living room. It has a kitchen. It has a bedroom. It has a bathroom. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………………….

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3. There is something on the left side of the entrance. There are doors. There are two of them.

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4. One door leads to the bathroom. The other door leads to the bedroom.

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5. The bathroom is on the far left. The bedroom is next to the bathroom.

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6. Directly in front of the entrance is something. It is the kitchen.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………. 7. There is something between the bedroom and the kitchen. It is a large storage closet.

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8. On the right side of the entrance is something. It is the living room.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………. 9. The living room is quite large. It also serves as a dining room.

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2- Cause & Effect connectors

1- What’s Cause & Effect?

causes lead to results results come from cause

2- Words and Phrases to show Cause. The common words and phrases we use to show cause are outlined below:

1-Because : Because he was sleepy, he went to bed. 2-Now that : Now that the semester is over, I'm going to rest for a few days. 3- Since : Since Monday is a holiday, we don't have to go to work

4-Because of & Due to

Because the weather was awful, we only stayed at home on the weekend. Because of the awful weather, we only stayed at home on the weekend Due to the awful weather, we only stayed at home on the weekend.

5-Other Ways of Showing Cause & Effect 1- such .. .. .. .. ..that 2- so .. .. .. .. ..that

Examples: 1-The weather was so nice that we went on a trip. 2- He made too many mistakes that he failed the exam 3-It was such tasty coffee that I had another cup.

4-It was such a foggy day that we couldn't see the road.

PRACTICE 1- Add commas, periods, and capital letters where necessary. Do not add or omit any words. Do not change the order of the words.

1. Annie told the truth. however no one believed her

2. Even though Annie told the truth no one believed her.

3. No one believed Annie even though she told the truth.

4. Annie told the truth yet no one believed her.

5. Annie told the truth nevertheless no one believed her.

6. In spite of the truth Annie told no one believed her.

7. No one believed Annie despite the truth she told.

Because of + noun/adjective Due to + noun /adjective

Cause

Effect

We use cause and effect when we want to show why an even happened by examining its causes, or when we want to show what happened as a result of an event by examining its effects/ results. The connection between cause and effect is similar to the relationship between fire and smoke. After all, “there is no smoke without fire” and the opposite holds true. So, the causes and effects of an event are inseparable.

Such + Adjective + That +S+ V

Positive Things So + Adjective + that+ S+ V Negative Things Too + Adjective + that + S+ V

positive

negative

In spite of + noun / adjective Despite + noun / adjective

however even though yet nevertheless

= but


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3- Words and Phrases to show Effect/ Result. The common words and phrases we use to show effect are outlined below:

1. Then: The weather was awful. Then we only stayed at home on the weekend. 2- As a result : He was sleepy; as a result , he went to bed.

3- Therefore : The semester is over. Therefore, I'm going to rest for a few days. 4- Consequently: Monday is a holiday. Consequently, we don't have to go to work

PRACTICE 1- Complete the sentences with because of, because, or therefore. Punctuate appropriately.

1. …………………………it rained, we stayed home. 2. It rained …………………………,we stayed home. 3. We stayed home …………………………the bad weather. 4. The hurricane was moving directly toward a small town …………………………all the people were advised to move inland until it passed. 5. The residents moved inland ………………………………………the hurricane. 6. …………………………..the hurricane was moving toward the town all residents were advised to move inland.

2- Complete the sentence with due to, since, or consequently. Punctuate appropriately. 1 ………………………his poor eyesight John has to sit in the front row in class. 2 ………………………John has poor eyesight he has to sit in the front row. 3 John has poor eyesight ………………………he has to sit in the front row. 4 Sarah is afraid of heights ………………………she will not walk across a bridge. 5.Sarah will not walk across a bridge ………………………her fear of heights. 6 Mark is overweight………………………his doctor has advised him to exercise regularly 7 ………………………a diamond is extremely hard it can be used to cut glass.

3- Combine these pairs of sentences. Use the words in parentheses (….). Punctuate appropriately

1- I put the receiver down. A few seconds later, the phone rang again. (just as )

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2- It was a wonderful holiday. I'll never forget it. (such ...... that) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3- I’m going to wear my coat. It is raining heavily. (because of )

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5- She didn’t understand the meaning of the word. She looked it up in her dictionary. (consequently )

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6- He didn’t submit his assignment through the moodle. His computer was out of order .(now that)

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7- It was very cold yesterday night. Someone opened all the windows. (even though )

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9- He always comes to work too late. He was fired yesterday.(as a result )

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10. The yearly staff party was exciting. Many employees didn’t show up.(yet)

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Then … As a result, … Therefore, … Consequently,…

= so


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4- Transition Signals

Usage Transition Signals Examples

1- To list ideas in time order of order of importance

First (Second, etc.) First of all ,……. Then ……. Next, ,……. After that, ,……. Finally, ,…….

First, bend at the waist, and touch the floor. Second, raise your body slowly. Then raise your hands above your head. Finally, drop your arms to your sides.

*** *** *** Use comma after first, second , next, finally… but never after then .

2- To add another idea

Furthermore, …… Also, …… In addition, …… Moreover, …… Besides, ……

Furthermore, He studies at the medical college. In addition, he works part time in a clinic. Also,

3- To add an opposite idea

On the other hand,… However, ……

Conversely , …… Nevertheless , …… And yet, ……

However, She does her homework every night. And yet, she hates it. Nevertheless,

4- To add a similar idea

Similarly, …… Likewise, ……

Equally, ……

Similarly , Rental fees are higher in Jeddah. Likewise , the percentage of the traffic accidents Equally , is not normal in this city.

5- To give an example

For example, …… For instance, ……

Mainly , …… Particularly, ……

For instance, The habit of smoking is hard to break . For example, many smokers look moody if they don’t smoke.

6- To introduce effect/

result

Therefore, …… Consequently, …… As a result, ……

Hence, …… Then,

Therefore,

It was raining. As a result, I took my umbrella. Consequently, , so

7- To add a conclusion

In brief, …… In short, …… In the end, …… All in all, …… To sum up, …… Eventually, ……

To sum up, In the end, parents have an obligation to guide their children to accept responsibilities , to manage their own affairs and to make career decisions.

Transition signals are words and phrases which connect the idea in one sentence to the idea in another sentence. They include sentence connectors, (first ,second , in addition ,…) ,coordinating conjunctions (and , or , so… ) and subordinating conjunctions, ( because, now that, since , although) The importance of transition signals in a paragraph is that they make its various parts stick together into a single entity. Moreover, they remind the reader of what preceded and signal what is to follow. So, the reader doesn’t have problems understanding the writer’s ideas. Without transition signals, writing becomes choppy or broken up. The following is a chart of the commonly used transition signals:


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PRACTICE 1- Fill in each blank with one of the transition words from the box. You should use each transition word just once . Punctuate appropriately. A)

For instance Fortunately Furthermore However In fact 1. I certainly thought he would do a good job..…………………………… , he failed miserably. 2. There are many ways to make a good impression on your boss. ……………………………, one way is to come to work on time. 3. You should always show up for work on time. ……………………………, you should never leave work early. 4. I believe you need to spend more time on this job. ……………………………, you should spend several hours on it. 5. He tried recently to get that job. ……………………………, that job is now his. B)

in contrast in summary moreover nonetheless therefore 6. Freshmen are taking the introductory course; juniors, ……………………………, are taking the advanced course. 7. Freshmen have already studied biology. …………………………, they must still take the introductory biology course. 8. A certain course is required for freshmen; all freshmen. ……………………………, must take the course. 9. Freshmen must take three lecture courses. ……………………………, they must take one laboratory course.

10. Juniors must take three lecture courses and three laboratory courses. ………………………… they will be very busy. C )

as a result for example in conclusion on the other hand surprisingly 11. One student studied really hard for the exam. …………………………… , she failed the exam. 12. A few students did quite well on the exam; the rest, …………………………… , did quite poorly. 13. There were a few high grades on the exam. One student, ……………………………, had 99% correct. 14. Some students did not prepare for the exam. ……………………………, they did not do so well. 15. The students who studied hard did well on the exam, and those who did not study hard did poorly; …………………………………, one can say that the exam grades depended on preparation.

consequently in addition indeed interestingly nevertheless D ) 16. Tickets are required for the concert. …………………………………, anyone who wants to go must purchase one 17. A sonata will be performed at the concert. ……………………………, a concerto will be performed. 18. Sue does not like classical music. ………………………………..…, her friends have finally made her join them. 19. There will be a guest performer at the concert. …………………………… , the guest performer is someone famous. 20. The audience truly appreciated the performance. ………………………..……………, the audience said the performance was wonderful.

2- The following paragraph doesn’t contain transition signals. From the list above[ in page 44] , fill in the blanks with the appropriate transition signals. Punctuate appropriately.

Energy is used to cause chemical changes. ……………………….………………, a chemical change occurs in the electroplating of metals when electrical energy is passed through a salt solution in which the metal is submerged. ………………………………… a chemical change occurs when radiant energy from the sun is utilized by plants in the process of photosynthesis. …………………………………, as we say, a chemical change occurs when heat causes mercuric oxide to decompose. ……………………………chemical changes are often used to produce energy rather than new substances. ……………………………the heat generated during the burning of fuels is more important than the products formed.


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3-Rewrite these sentences using the words or phrases in parentheses.

1. Physical labor can exhaust the body quickly. Excessive study can rapidly reduce mental power, too.(equally)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………

2. He owns a big chemical factory, and he runs a successful oil business. (as well as)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. She’s a scientific adviser and act as a consultant to the managing director. (In addition to ………, she also …. )

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5- Adjective Clauses & Relative Pronouns [who, whom , that , which & whose]

1-Relative Pronouns as Subject: who, that & which Relative pronouns function as subject. Consider the following examples: 1- I thanked the man. The man helped me fix my car. (The man is the subject of the 2nd independent clause.) I thanked the man who / that helped me fix my car. 2- Ann bought a nice car .The car /It cost her a lot .(The car /it is the subject of the 2nd independent clause.)

Ann bought a nice car that/which cost her a lot.

2-Relative Pronouns as Object: whom, that & which Relative pronouns function as object .Consider the following examples: 1- The man was Mr. Jones. I saw the man/him. (The man or him is the object of the second independent clause.) The man was Mr. Jones. I saw the man /him The man whom/ that I saw was Mr.Jones.

2- The movie wasn’t exciting. We saw the movie / it last night. (The movie /it is the object of the second independent clause.)

The movie wasn’t exciting. We saw the movie / it last night.

The movie which /that we saw last night wasn’t exciting.

3- Whose: is used only for possession (what you have/own)

A young man went to the police station. The young man’s car was stolen.

The young man whose car was stolen went to the police station

Note : who is used only for people

which is used only for things

that is used for both people and things.

Adjective Clause

Adjective Clause

Adjective Clause

Adjective Clause

Adjective Clause


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PRACTICE

1-Combine the sentences below. Use all possible forms. Example: Louis knows the employee. The employee helped us at the airport. Louis knows the employee who/that helped us at the airport.

1- The chair is an antique. Sally inherited it from her grandmother. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………

2- The man finished the job in four days. I hired him to paint my house. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………….…… 3- The architect is brilliant. Mario works with him. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...….……. 4- I took a picture of the rainbow. It appeared in the sky after the rainfall. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………… 5- The people were very hospitable. We visited their home. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………

2- Combine each pair of sentences below. Use the sentence in parentheses to make a relative clause.

1 Ann is very friendly. (She lives next door.) ........................................................................................................................……………………..........................................................................

2 We stayed at the Grand Hotel. (Ann recommended it to us.) ........................................................................................................................…………………….......................................................................... 3 We went to Sandra's party. (We enjoyed it very much.) ........................................................................................................................……………………..........................................................................

4 I went to see the doctor. (He told me to rest for a few days.)

........................................................................................................................……………………..........................................................................

5 John is one of my closest friends. (I have known him for a very long time.)

........................................................................................................................……………………..........................................................................


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1- Structuring a Paragraph

PRACTICE

1- Read attentively the paragraph below: Parents should guide their children in growing up. While children are still young, they should be assigned a few simple responsibilities, such as to keep themselves clean and shouldn’t wait for their parents to tell them to do so. Later, parents should help their children learn to manage some of their affairs like deciding on their bedtime and budgeting or planning their pocket money on a regular basis. When they become teenagers, parents have to guide them to the most important decisions in their lives .For instance, which college to go, which major to choose and how to choose decent friends or colleagues. Parents, then, have an obligation to prepare and guide their children to accept responsibilities, to manage their own affairs and to make career decisions. These three steps are very important to succeed in life.

2- Answer these questions briefly.

1- Look at the first sentence that opens the paragraph, what can you say about it if you compare it to the rest of the sentences ?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………

2- What’s the main idea of the paragraph?

………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………….

3- Is there in the paragraph a sentence which states the main idea ? Where is it stated?

……………………………………………………..……………………………………………………………………………….…………………..…...

4- There are three main sentences that explain the main idea , write them down. What can you say about the way they are ordered?

……………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………..………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………….……………….

A The main idea in a paragraph is called : Topic Sentence

B The sentences which support the topic sentence in a paragraph are called :Supporting Sentences C The sentence which summarizes the topic sentence and supporting sentences is called a clincher or a concluding sentence.

Most English writing is organized into paragraphs. A paragraph is a group of sentences that develops one main idea. It usually begins with a sentence that states the main idea. This sentence is called the topic sentence. The other sentences in the paragraph explain the main idea. They add details and give support. These sentences are called supporting sentences. A paragraph also has a concluding sentence or clincher . It is the last sentence of the paragraph.

A Topic Sentence

1- is the most general statement of a paragraph. 2- usually comes at the beginning of a paragraph. 3- is always a complete sentence which states the topic and its focus: Topic : The main idea. Focus : The main emphasis. Look at these two topic sentences. They have the same topic sentence ( nuclear power), but the focus in topic sentence A is different from the focus in topic sentence B. A. Nuclear power is our greatest hope for solving the energy crisis. B. Nuclear power is a huge threat to life on the planet

Paragraph


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Read the model paragraph below and study its main parts.

The students in the class come from many different parts of the world. Some are from European countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. Others are from Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt . Still other students were born in Asian countries, including Japan and Korea. The largest number of students are from Latin American countries like Mexico, Venezuela, and Peru. The class is an interesting mix of people from many different countries.

The chart below outlines the connection between the topic sentence, supporting sentence and the concluding sentence in a paragraph:

3- Organizing Ideas

Moving from General to Specific & Ordering ideas according to importance Consider the following chart:

indent the paragraph

They support the topic sentence: They give some information about it. We start with the least

important supporting sentence , then more important , and the last should be the most important.

a sentence which summarizes the whole.

Topic Sentence: The general idea (at the beginning of a paragraph)

Supporting Sentence 1 (less important)

Supporting Sentence 2 (more important)

Supporting Sentence 3 (the most important)

Clincher:

The concluding sentence: conclusion

Rank Order

Topic Sentence

Supporting Sentence 1 + details Supporting Sentence 2 rank order : order + details of importance Supporting Sentence 3 + details

Clincher : Concluding Sentence

General

Specific

Use transitions to connect the supporting sentences

To compose an effective paragraph you need to move from general to specific. Also you need to organize the supporting sentences according to their order of importance: First, the least important idea, then more important , and finish with the most important idea .This method of ordering is called rank order: To show rank order, we use these words and phrases:

First,…. Second, …. Third and the most important, ...

Topic Sentence: the main idea

Supporting Sentences explain the main idea

Concluding Sentence summarizes the whole.


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PRACTICE

1- The topic sentence is the most important sentence in a paragraph. It states the main idea and introduces the reader to the topic. So choose the best topic sentence for each group of supporting sentences. Write it down on the line provided.

1 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------. I usually go skiing every weekend in the winter even though, it is expensive. I love the feeling of flying down a mountain. The views are beautiful from the top of a mountain and along the trails. Even the danger of falling and getting hurt can't keep me away from the slopes on a winter day.

a. Skiing is expensive. b. Skiing is my favorite sport. c. Skiing is dangerous.

2. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------North Americans send cards for many occasions. They send cards to family and friends on birthdays and holidays. They also send thank you cards, get well cards, graduation cards, and congratulation cards. It is very common to buy cards in stores and send them through the mail, but turning on the computer and sending cards over the Internet is also popular.

a. Sending cards is very popular in North America. b. Birthday cards are the most popular kind of card. c. It is important to send thank-you cards.

3. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I enjoy summer sports like water skiing and baseball, The weather is usually sunny and hot, so I can go to the beach almost every day. Gardening is my hobby and I spend many summer days working in my garden. Unfortunately, the days pass too quickly in summer.

a. I like to garden in the summer. b. Summer is my favorite season. c. Summer is too short.

2- Write a topic sentence for each paragraph. Make sure your topic sentence expresses the main idea of the paragraph. 1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It is always sunny and warm. The beaches are gorgeous, with soft white sand and beautiful water. There are many fine restaurants in the Miami area, and most of the hotels offer terrific entertainment nightly. It's no wonder that Miami is my first choice for a vacation destination. 2 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He has collected stamps and coins ever since he was a child. He is very proud of his valuable collections. Paul also enjoys painting and drawing. Recently he has become interested in gardening. Out of all his hobbies, Paul's favorite one is reading. He usually reads at least one book every week. Paul keeps busy with all of his hobbies. 3. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I can't wait to come home from school and eat the delicious meals she has prepared. She is famous for her desserts like peach pie and chocolate soufflé. She always experiments with new recipes and trying different ingredients. No one in the world can cook the way my mother does.


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3- The supporting sentences develop the main idea in the topic sentence. They add details to the topic. So read the following paragraphs and underline the supporting sentences.

1. Use of the Internet has grown very quickly. In 1983, there were 562 computers connected to the Internet. By the turn of the century, there were 72.3 million computers in 247 countries online. Experts say that the Internet is now growing at a rate of approximately 40 percent a year. As time goes on, the Internet is becoming more and more popular.

2. Vegetables and fruits are an important part of a healthy diet. First , fruits and vegetables are packed with the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your body functioning smoothly. In addition, they give you the carbohydrates you need for energy. Fruits and vegetables have lots of fiber to help your digestive system work properly. Finally, many scientists believe that the nutrients in fruits and vegetables can help fight diseases. If you eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, you'll be on the road to better health.

4- Every supporting sentence in a paragraph must relate to the main idea stated in the topic sentence. A sentence which does not support the main idea is irrelevant to the topic .Now read this paragraph again. Which sentence is irrelevant ? Cross it out.

1. The students in the class come from many different parts of the world. Some are from European countries, such as France, Spain, and Italy. Others are from Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Still other students were born in Asian countries, including Japan and Korea. Korean food is delicious. The largest number of students are from Latin American countries like Mexico, Venezuela and Peru. The class is an interesting mix of people from many different countries. 2. Cats make wonderful house pets. They are very loving and friendly. Cats are also clean. They don't eat much, so they are not expensive. Unfortunately, some people are allergic to their hair. Cats look beautiful and they're fun to have in your home.

5- Supply the relevant supporting sentences for the following topic sentences. Use rank order words

to show order of importance. TS is for Topic Sentence, and SP is for Supporting Sentence.

1-TS Traveling overseas is interesting

SP 1 ...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

SP 2 ...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

SP 3...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

2-TS Reading English newspapers helps students improve their English.

SP 1...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

SP 2...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

SP 3...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

3-TS Television influences our lives in many ways.

SP 1...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

SP 2...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……

SP 3...................................…………………………………...........:.............................…… ......................................................……


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6. Write an appropriate clincher/concluding sentence for each paragraph below:

1. There are many reasons why I like wearing a uniform to school. First of all, it saves time. I don't have to spend time picking out my clothes every morning. Wearing a uniform also saves money. It's cheaper to purchase a few uniforms than to go out and buy lots of school clothes. In addition, I don't have the pressure of keeping up with the latest styles. Most importantly, wearing a school uniform gives me a sense that I belong. I really think it adds to the feeling of school spirit and community. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2. There are many reasons why I am against wearing my school uniform. For one thing, I don’t like the style of the uniform. The navy blazer and plaid skirt are too conservative for me. Secondly, the uniform isn’t comfortable . I prefer to wear baggy pants and a sweater instead of a skirt and jacket. Thirdly , I want the freedom to express my individuality through my style of dressing . --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*** *** ***

ASSIGNMENT

7- The following paragraph has a topic sentence and supporting sentences. Complete the paragraph by adding your own specific details to clarify each supporting sentence.

There are many ways to economize on a trip to ……….…………………………………………..……..........................

…………………………………………………………..…….........................and still have a good time. First, you can shop

around for the best air tariff .……………………………………………..……...............................................................................

…………………………………………………………..……..................................................................................................................

Once you get there, you do not need to stay in the most expensive hotels. ……………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………..…….................................................................................................................

You can also economize on food. …………………………………………………………..……...................................................

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Finally, you should take advantage of all the free cultural and historical offerings. …………………………………….

…………………………………………………………..…….................................................................................................................

…………………………………………………………..…….................................................................................................................


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4- Ordering Ideas According TO importance

While developing the topic sentence through supporting sentences, remember to use the specific signal words below to guide the reader from one idea to the next ..

PRACTICE 1- Use the appropriate rank order words or phrases to order the supporting sentences that support the following topic sentence : the qualities of a good teacher. Make sure you structure the sentences accurately.

TS. Quality teaching requires from the teacher to have three main features: SS.1 …………………………………...……have enough knowledge about the subject. SS.2 …………………………………………care about students. SS.3 …………………………………………have the ability to explain clearly.

2- Now develop the paragraph below. The topic sentence has been given; use the supporting sentences above , but remember to include the appropriate rank order words. A good teacher usually has several important qualities. …………………………………………….…………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

First, …… Second, …… Third, …… Firstly, …… Secondly, …… Most importantly, …… For one thing, …… For another thing, …… The third and most importantly, …… One reason that, …… Another reason The most important reason, ……


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ASSIGNMENT Choose one of the topics below and develop it into a paragraph: 1- Exercise is necessary for good health 2- Education is getting more and more expensive A -Plan your ideas by filling the following chart Topic Sentence

Supporting Sentence 1

Supporting Sentence 2

Concluding Sentence

B - Develop your ideas in a paragraph a. Open your paragraph with a topic sentence. b. Include relevant supporting sentences and end up with a clincher. c. Use compound and complex sentences d. Use appropriate transitions.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………..


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PRACTICE 1. Read the paragraph below and answer the questions that follow.

In my opinion, children of immigrants should be taught in their native language. First of all, these children will feel more comfortable in a strange school if they hear and speak their native language. In addition, they will be able to understand subjects like math, history, and science more easily if they are taught in their native language and do not have to struggle with the new language. Finally, students who use their native language in school are better able to keep their cultural identity.

a. What is the author's opinion?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… b. What are the three reasons which the author included to support his or her opinion?

1-……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2-……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3-………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. Read the following sentences. Circle the word or phrase in parentheses that you think best expresses your opinion.

1. It …………is for mothers with small children to work outside of the house. [good, harmful] 2. Smoking ………….........be banned in restaurants. [should / should not] 3. Nuclear energy …………............the best way to meet our energy needs.[is / is not] 4. Women ……………………be required to serve in the army. [should / should not] 5. Prayer …………be allowed in the public schools. [should / should not] 6. It ……………………acceptable to use animals for laboratory experiments. [is / is not]

3. Write an opinion topic sentence for each of the statements in the previous activity. Use the appropriate phrases from the list below :

Example : 1. In my opinion , it is good for mothers with small children to work outside of the house.

2. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Stating Your Opinion Phrases If you are sure

Of course... I’m absolutely sure .. I’m quite certain that.. There is no doubt that.. Undoubtedly, ….. It’s likely .. There is likelihood ….. It is undeniable …..

If you are not quite sure

I think /guess ….. I suppose that……...

I’m not really sure , but As far as I can see…..

In my opinion…. From my point of view ….. To my mind,….. It seems to me that.... If I were asked, I would say…


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4. Match each statement on the left with its correct part on the right and add an appropriate preposition: in ,of, from, to, on

(c) 1- I have strong views …..…2- Most people believe …..…3- I was in favor …..…4- What does she think …..…5- This is absurd, …..…6- He's quite wrong, …..…7- Well, that's just silly,

a) my opinion. b) the proposed changes. c) marriage. d) my mind. e) life after death. f) the new teacher? g) our point of view.

Example: I have strong views on marriage

1- Most people believe …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………………..…..….

2- I was in favor …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………………..…..……..……

3- What does she think …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………

4- This is absurd, …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………..………………………

5- He's quite wrong, …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..……..……………………………………. 6- Well, that's just silly, …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………..……………………..….

5. Do you agree or disagree with the statements below? Write a topic sentence expressing your opinion .Use the appropriate phrases from the following list :

1. Mothers with small children should work outside of the house.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. Smoking shouldn’t be banned in public places.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. Nuclear energy the is best way to meet our energy needs.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. Women should be required to serve in the army.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5. Prayer ought not to be allowed in schools.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6. Students aren’t allowed to use their mobile phones while taking exams.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6- Rewrite these sentences using the verbs and expressions in parentheses.

1-I've always suspected that ghosts don't really exist. (doubt)

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..………………………………………………………………………………………………………....…..…..…..…..……..….. 2- My view has always been that people should rely on themselves more. (advocate)

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………………………………………………………………....……………..…..…..…..……..…..

Agree / Disagree/Contradict

Agree I agree with the ......because ..

Well, I think so, too because…. I approve of .. because ...... I am in agreement with...... I am in favor of......... I advocate ......

Disagree /Contradict I’m afraid, I don’t agree because ... I disagree with ...... I don’t think so because ...... I don’t believe….. I doubt that... .. ... ...

It could be right, but I think …… I disapprove of.........

I totally oppose that …..


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3- Claudia is convinced that the teacher has been unfair to her. (As far as I can see,.......)

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..………………………………………………………………………………………………………....…..…..…..…..……..….. 4- I had a very strong feeling that I had been in that place before. (It seems to me)

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………....………………………..…..…..…..……..….. 5- I think we should have tried again to solve this exercise. (From my point of view,.... )

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…....…..…..…..…..……..….. 6- I don’t think Ali will pass the final exam this semester because he rarely studies. (It is unlikely)

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…....…..…..…..…..……..….. 7- Certainly, Ali will pass the final exam this semester because he always studies hard. (Undoubtedly)

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…....…..…..…..…..……..…..

2- Structuring Opinion Paragraph

1-Topic Sentence : Point of View

2- Supporting Sentence 1 :Reason one : ...................................................................................… Detail 1 + Example ..................................................…….........................................…… Detail 2 + Example ....................................………………........................................……

3- Supporting Sentence 2 :Reason two ........................……………………..…….……............ Detail 1 + Example ...................................................….….......................................…… Detail 2 + Example ..................................................................................................……

4- Supporting Sentence 2 :Reason three............................…...........:..........……………........... Detail 1 + Example .......................................................….......................................…… Detail 2 + Example .........................................…………….......................................……

5- Conclusion : Conclude your paragraph with a logical deduction on the basis of the reasons 1 , 2 and 3. The conclusion summarizes the 3 reasons. You may briefly include your comment on the topic.

To compose an effective opinion paragraph to convince the reader about one’s opinion , the writer has to open his paragraph with a topic sentence which states his point of view.

The topic sentence which presents the point of view should be developed through three reasons (evidence / arguments ) and each reason has to be developed at least through two or three supporting sentences that illustrate the reason . Eventually, an opinion paragraph always ends with a logical conclusion that is based on the three developed reasons . Consider the outline below


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3-Some Essential Steps to Compose an Effective Opinion Paragraph

1- Use Rank Order to organize the reasons which develop your Point of View After brainstorming and planning your opinion and the 3 reasons to develop it, support each reason with

three unified supporting sentences. The most important is that the three reasons should be ordered according to importance : from the least important to the most important. To make the rank order clear and obvious while you are developing the supporting sentences, use specific words and expressions such as :

First of all, ………………… Next,………………………………. Third and the most important ,……………………………….

Note : Rank order words and expressions are always followed by a comma if they come at the beginning of a sentence, but then and now are never followed by a comma even if they come at the beginning of a sentence.

2- Use Transition signals to join the supporting sentences: therefore , though, even though , similarly …. 3-Use formal expressions to state your point of view

I think …..

I believe …... In my point of view….. In my opinion…... I suppose that……... As far as I can see,…...

PRACTICE

Develop the three topic sentences below through three main reasons. Use the appropriate phrase to state your opinion and the rank order words to organize the reasons( supporting sentences) according to importance.

1. Mothers with small children should work outside of the house. 2. Smoking shouldn’t be banned in public places. 3. Prayer ought not to be allowed in schools.

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Reason 1: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..………………………………………………..…………………………………………....…..…..…..…..……..…..

Reason 2: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………………………………..……………………………....…..…..…..…..……..…..

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2. Your opinion[TS] : …..………….…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………….……………………….…..…..…..…..……..…..

Reason 1: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………………………………………………………………....…..……..…..……..…..

Reason 2: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………………....…..…..…..…..……..…..

Reason 3: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………………………………………....…..…..…..…..……..…..

3. Your opinion[TS] : …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………..………………….……………………….…..…..…..…..……..…..

Reason 1: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..…………………………………………………………..………………………..………......…..…..…..……..…..

Reason 2: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..……………………………………………………………………..…………….…………..…..…..…..……..…..

Reason 3: …..…..…..…..…..…..…..………………………………………………………………………………..………......…..…..…..…..……..…..


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A Sample of Opinion Paragraph

The law in many societies opposes euthanasia, or mercy killing, and doctors are never allowed to end the lives of some patients who suffer while there is no hope for them to keep alive In my opinion, euthanasia should be allowed for three mains reasons: First, allowing euthanasia stops the suffering of the patient’s family. In fact, when some nurses give the terminally ill patient only minimum care, the family must spend time to care for the special needs of their loved one. For example, Nancy was kept alive on life-support machines for eight years. There was no hope to recover from her incurable illness .However, during those years, her parents visited her regularly. Second, the medical costs are very high. Today the cost of a hospital room is very expensive and this costly medical care can cause financial problems for the family. For example, an eighty-two-year-old woman who was sleeping in hospital was in a coma for about four years. Since there was no chance for her recovery, her family asked the medical staff to withhold the medical treatment because they couldn’t keep paying too much money. Third and the most important ,these patients have no chance of recovery. They can never have normal lives and must be kept alive by life-support machines, such as respirators to help them breathe, and feeding tubes to provide them with food. They are clearly more dead than alive. For instance, after Samuel, an infant, had swallowed a balloon, he stopped breathing. The balloon was removed, but the lack of oxygen had caused brain damage and left him in a constant coma. As a result, Samuel was unable to breathe without the aid of a respirator, and there was no hope for his recovery. Finally , if the seriously ill patients have no chance to recover , they should be allowed to die because the medical costs are too high and spending too much money when there is no hope for recovery is useless.

PRACTICE

1- State your opinion about the following statements concerning TV. State your opinion first and support it with two main reasons. Use proper opinion expressions and transition signals.

A- Parents should check the TV programs their children watch. What do you think?

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Topic Sentence: Point of View

Reason 1 Reason 2

Supporting Sentences + Specific Details Reason 3

Clincher: Concluding Sentence

General Introduction


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B. There is nothing important you can learn while you’re watching TV. Do you agree or disagree?

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C. Governments need to control the programs on TV. What do you think?

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ASSIGNMENT Some people say “A book is better than a friend.”

What do you think of this statement? Do you agree or disagree with it.

Reason 4 + Details

Point of View

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1-Plan your opinion by completing the following chart

Reason 3+ Details

Reason 1+ Details Reason 2 Details


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1- Use appropriate opinion expressions. 2- Use transition signals to connect your ideas. Punctuate appropriately.

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2-Deve lop your opinion in a paragraph


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Comparison & Contrast Paragraph

1- Comparison & Contrast connectors A- Similarity: A=B

B- Differences : A≠B

Unlike the atmosphere in Jeddah, Abha is always cool in summer.

C- Contrasting two Different things in one event or person / people:

One is positive ≠ One is negative

Ali is a hard working student, but he always comes late to lecture . On the one hand, Ali is a hard working student. On the other hand, he always comes late to lecture.

PRACTICE

1-Combine the pair of sentences below. Use the words in parentheses. Punctuate appropriately.

1. Jane is insecure and unsure of herself. Her sister is full of self-confidence (on the other hand) …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……

2. Some students are sloppy and indecent others are neat and obedient (whereas) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………

just like the same as

1- The weather in Jeddah is in Riyadh

similar to equal to parallel to

2-The grades of Adel are his brother’s Ali.

Equally, Similarly Likewise,

3- The weather in Jeddah is always humid in summer . the temperature in Riyadh is regularly high in summer.

just like the same as

1-The weather in Jeddah isn’t in Abha

dissimilar to different from in contrast with

2-The grades of Adel are his brother’s Ali.

Dissimilarly, On the contrary,

whereas 3-The weather in Jeddah is always humid in summer. . the temperature in Abha

is regularly low in summer.


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3. Some people don't drink coffee. Some people don't drink tea. (neither. . . nor) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………………….………

4 Barbara is fluent in Chinese. She is also fluent in Japanese. (not only. . . but also) ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...…… 5.She can sing. She can dance. (both… . . and)

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2- Combine the following sentences. Use the words and phrases in parentheses. Punctuate appropriately. 1. Advertising brings people information about a product or a service. It is used to sell an idea or an event.(similarly)

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2. Advertisements influence a person's choice of food and other daily necessities. They influence a person's choice of vacation spots and restaurants. (not only ………….but also…..)

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3. Exercising daily keeps our bodies strong. Eating nutritious food is necessary for good health (likewise)

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3- Combine the following pairs of sentences using the connectors in parentheses. Punctuate properly.

1. Julia swims well. Maria swims poorly.

a …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………………… (but) b……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………………….……… (whereas) c …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..….…………………………… (however) 2. Fresh fruit and vegetables taste delicious. Canned fruit and vegetables are tasteless. a ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………… (in contrast) b…………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………….….............….… ( on the contrary ) c ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………… (unlike )

3. Eating well and exercising will keep you in good health. Exercising by itself will not.

a ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…..………………………………… ( yet ) b…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………..…....………….… ( however ) c …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………… ( in contrast ) 4. A university has a graduate school. A college usually does not.

a ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………….…

(on the one hand …… on the other hand) b…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………….… ( whereas ) c …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ( dissimilarly )


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4- Is a letter like an e-mail? Compose 10 connected sentences contrasting between a letter and an e-mail. Punctuate appropriately,and use the following phrases: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………..

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On the one hand On the other hand Not only… but also… whereas dissimilarly in contrast


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2- Comparison & Contrast Paragraph

Connecting Words Connecting Words

≠

Supporting Sentence 1 Supporting Sentence 2 Supporting Sentence 1 Supporting Sentence2 Details/Example Details/Example Details/Example Details/Example

Comparison &Contrast (Block Method ) Below are essential guidelines to help you remember what you need to do in each part of a comparison & contrast paragraph. Therefore, make sure your paragraph includes:

1. General Introduction : provides background information about your topic. 2. Topic Sentence : a sentence that states the main idea and focus of your paragraph.

3 Advantages & Disadvantages 3-1 Advantages : 2 Supporting Sentences + details ( examples or facts ) 3-2 Disadvantages : 2 Supporting Sentences + details ( examples or facts )

4-Conclusion : Summarizes the advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages (Positive Points) Similarities A= B

Disadvantages (Negative Points) Differences A ≠ B

Topic Sentence

Conclusion Sentence: Summarizes the advantages & disadvantages.

On the one hand ,… Partly, …

On the other hand, … Partly , … On the contrary,.. In contrast , …

In a comparison and contrast essay, we often write about the similarities and differences, advantages and disadvantages between two people, places, things, or ideas. When we compare, we focus on similarities; but when we contrast, we focus on differences. To compose an effective comparison and contrast paragraph , it is better to organize your ideas following the chart below:


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A Sample of Comparison & Contrast Paragraph

[ Block Method ]

Nowadays, we can see lots of great technological developments. No doubt, these developments have made life much easier, but at the same time they have some disadvantages. On the one hand , the swift developments , for example ,in the field of communication have produced advanced mobile phones and computers. In fact, with this new technology, one can not only hear clearly the person he is calling, but also see him at the same time. Therefore, the technology has made communication much easier and faster than before. In addition, the developments in the medical field is noticeable as with the discovery of curing weak eyesight with “laser” is a fruitful new revolution because it represents a successful alternative for wearing glasses. On the other hand, there are some disadvantages for these new scientific developments. However, they are less than the advantages. It’s true that using mobile phones and computers can harm our ears and eyes. But this negative effect can be easily reduced by way of wearing protection glasses and by avoiding using mobile phones for a long time. After all, some recent medical reports have shown that weak eyesight may be cured after only few months following the eye surgery. So, these small and slight disadvantages can never bring down the so many profitable advantages of the technological developments. Finally, I think even though the technological developments have some disadvantages, the advantages are limitless, and it is evident that the only way to a comfortable life is the technological developments.

PRACTCE

1- Put the sentences below in the correct order. Write the number on the line.

Is nuclear power a good alternative to other sources of power such as oil, gas and hydroelectric power?

…….…a. On the other hand, oil and gas can cause much damage to the environment. …….…b. For example, nuclear power is relatively cheap. ………c. Although the cost of building a power plant is high, the running costs are very low. ………d. Nuclear power is also very clean. ………e. There are many points in its favor. ………f. Not only does the process of producing power cause very little pollution, but also there is very little damage to the environment through mining and transporting plutonium.

However, there are many strong arguments against using nuclear power.

………a. There is also the problem of nuclear waste. ………b. Nuclear power has a poor safety record and there have been many accidents around the world. ………c. For these reasons nuclear power is likely to decline in popularity. ………d. For example, the explosion at a reactor in Chernobyl in the Ukraine caused hundreds of deaths. ………e. The most powerful argument is safety. ………f. Nobody knows how we can get rid of it safely.

General Introduction + Topic Sentence Advantages Disadvantages Conclusion

[summarizes advantages and disadvantages]


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2- Plan the ideas mentioned in the sentences above by completing the following chart. Write only three main advantages and disadvantages. Don’t include details in your plan.

Topic Sentence

Advantages of Nuclear Power

Disadvantages of Nuclear Power

Concluding Sentence

3- Now combine the sentences you put in the correct order to write a paragraph about the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power. Make sure first your paragraph opens with a topic sentence; second ,the topic sentence is supported by the supporting sentences and then conclude with a clincher. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……….………………… …

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3- A foreign friend is thinking of moving to either Amman or Beirut. Look at the chart below.

Amman Beirut Description

Capital of Jordan, industrial and commercial centre, centre for tourism.

Capital of Lebanon, commercial, and banking centre, port.

Location

North Jordan, on seven hills.

On the coast of Lebanon, on the Mediterranean Sea.

Climate

Hot and dry summers, cool winters with some rain.

Hot and humid summers, mild and wet winters.

Population

About 2 million mainly Muslims and Christians.

About 1.5 million - mainly Muslims, Christians and Druze.

A- Complete the outline below with the similarities and differences between Amman and Beirut.

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B- Now , develop the ideas you outlined in the chart above. Compose a paragraph comparing between Amman and Beirut.

First, make sure your paragraph opens with a topic sentence; second, the topic sentence is supported by the supporting sentences and then conclude with a clincher. Use the following

connectors to combine your ideas : On the one hand,… On the other hand,… On the contrary, Similarly,.. Likewise,... Concerning… , Regarding… , Not only… but also…. , Furthermore,…

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ASSIGNMENT

4- First, plan and second develop a paragraph of about 100 words on one of the topics below.

1- Compare and contrast between the advantages and disadvantages of living in a city.

2- Compare and contrast between the advantages and disadvantages of using the Internet.


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1- Friendly Letter

PRACTICE 1- Read carefully the following friendly letter and correct all the errors related to layout (form), punctuation, spelling and grammar. Write down the correct version.

Dear susan, Berkeley is a veri good city i realli like it here! Theres alwayz a lot to do. Every day after skool,

I uzually go to telegraph avenue and my favorite coffe shop to met my friends. on the evening, there are always something interesting to do in the town or on the university campus, such as sea a movy or hear some live musik on saturday, my friends and me take the bus to san fancisco for the day It is a beautiful plase.

I love the shops and restaurants, and its a great city for just walking around in golden gate park We often go to chinatown to have lunch, and than we go shopping on the afternoon On sunday i like to play tennis with my friends or we watch a sports event, like a fotball game or a baseball game, on TV at houme I think american football is very exciting

well, thats all for now . take care. I look forward to hear from you soon.

Rosa

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2- Your brother-in-law, from Riyadh, is having his wedding party next weekend. He has invited you, but

unfortunately you can’t go because you have to study for the final exams. Write a letter to him apologizing for not being able to attend.

Note: layout , spelling , use of vocabulary , punctuation, and grammar count


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2- Formal Letter Formal Letter Sample

Your address without name

P.O.Box 1347, Riyadh 21548, K.S.A Telephone: 6897067

Date: September 28th , 2009 The addressee’s name/ position / address

The Personnel Manager, Safety Insurance Corporation, Premium Building, Riyadh, K.S.A

Sub.: Applying for a Job

Dear Sir,

I would very much like to apply for the post of junior secretary advertised in today's Arab News.

Concerning my educational background and job history, after leaving school with a Senior Certificate in English, mathematics and three other subjects, I succeeded in securing a post as filing clerk with ABC Uptown Distributors. Meanwhile, I used to attend evening classes in office routine and typewriting at Highlands College, and I gained certificates in both. Accordingly, I was promoted to the post of typist, and then went back to Highlands College to learn shorthand. In fact, I achieved a certificate at 100 w.p.m. In addition, I have acted as a temporary secretary during periods of illness and holidays. A couple of months ago, I successfully completed a diploma course on private secretarial from Professionals Institute. Recently, I am 20 and have been with my present employer for nearly three years. Although I will be sorry to leave, I feel I must do so to progress in my career. Actually, my manager, Mr. Mohamed, is aware of this and is willing to provide me with a enough testimony about my performance and record.

Eventually, I look forward to receiving a favorable reply and call me for an

interview to submit copies of credentials and any further information you may need.

Yours respectfully , your signature + your name

The subject The greeting The Opening Paragraph: The reason for writing

The body Conclusion

The addresser’s signature + name +

In a formal letter, never use informal concluding expressions like : see you , goodbye , take care , with love … Use : Yours respectfully, or Yours truly, or Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully,


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PRACTICE 1- Below are the parts of a business letter about requesting information on travel agency courses. However, the parts are all mixed up. First, read each part of the letter; second, put the parts in order and write the number on the line.

………Dear Sir or Madam: ………Sender’s signature ………date ………sender’s name ………sender’s address

………Subject: Requesting Information about Travel Agent Courses ………Sincerely yours, ………California School of Tourism 2555 Lindo Lane Espinacas, California 90022 ………I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible. ………I am writing in response to your ad. ………As for my experience, I have been a tour guide in a travel agency for the last three years. ………I saw it in Travel News magazine, and I am very interested in taking a travel agent course this summer at the California School of Tourism. ………I think I meet the requirements mentioned in the ad. I have already taken an airline ticketing course. I studied at the San Fernando School of Hotel Management for three months. ………I would also like an application form and information about tuition. ………Before I worked at the travel agency, I worked at the Castro Hotel in San Francisco for eight months. ………Would you please send me more information about the times and the dates of the travel agent training courses?

2- Combine the sentences above in a layout of a business letter. Punctuate appropriately.

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3- You aren’t satisfied with your salary at the company you have been working for nearly 2years. Write to your manager requesting salary increase, .Compose a business letter of about 150 words. In formal style, explain the reasons that have forced you to apply for an increase of your current salary.

Note: layout, spelling, use of vocabulary, punctuation, and grammar count

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References

A. Franklin Parks et al (eds.) ( 1991), Structuring Paragraphs , A Guide to Effective Writing ,3rd ed. , St. Martin’s Press , N Y.

Alice Oshima & Ann Hogue ( 1997), Introduction to Academic Writing 2nd ed., Longman . Cambridge International College (2003), Professional English for Everyday & Business Use , Jersey ,UK. Gene Stanford & Marie N.Smith (1980) , Better Writing , From Paragraph to Essay, Holt , Rinehart & Winston, Inc, FL. Holt , Rinehart & Winston (1998), Grammar , Usage & Mechanics : Language Skills Practice , A Harcourt Education Co., NY Michael McCarthy & Felicity O’Dell (2001), English Vocabulary in Use, Upper Intermeidate,2ND ed., CUP.

Sheena Gillespic et al (eds.) (1989), The Writer’s Craft , A Process Reader ,2ND ed. Scott, Foresman & Company, NY .

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