1

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 I. Vocabulary 36. Hand luggage 147. novel/ novelist 96. Rival = competitor
37. Hiking/trekking 148. poem/ poetry/ poet = adversary
1. To accommodate 38. Holidaymaker 149. sculpture 97. annal
2. Accommodation 39. Hostel 150. paintings 98. orbit / orbital
3. To announce 40. Immigration officer 151. festival 99. suborbital
4. Announcement 41. Journey 63. To go camping
5. Bed & Breakfast 100. to launch
42. Leisure 64. To go for a walk 101. spaceship =rocket
6. Half board 43. Means of transport 65. To go hiking = shuttle = spacecraft
7. Full board 44. Package 66. To go on holiday 102. mystery
8. To book = to tour/holiday
reserve = to pay in
67. To go sightseeing 103. mysterious (adj)
45. Passenger 68. To land
advance 46. Public transport 104. edge
9. Booking (n) 69. To rent /hire 105. outer space
47. Regular/charter
10. Brochure/ Leaflet 70. To take off 106. to explore
flight
11. Ad / advertisement 48. Runway 71. To take photos 107. exploration (n)
12. To advertise 49. Schedule 72. Tour (n/ v) 108. to discover
13. Business class 50. Seaside village 73. Tourism 109. discovery (n)
ticket 51. Ski resort 74. Tourist 110. astronauts
14. Business trip 52. Special offer 75. Tourist office 111. risk (n) / risky
15. Campsite 53. Timetable 76. Tourist resort (adj)
16. Check in desk 54. To change money 77. Travel agency 112. danger(n)
17. Country cottage 125. Free = at no cost 78. Travel agent 113. dangerous(adj)
18. Crew 126. interactive 79. Traveller 114. hazard(n)
19. Cruise (v/ n) 127. to perform 80. Trip 115. hazardous(adj)
20. Historical 128. performance (n) 81. Voyage 116. adventure(n/ v)
monuments 129. refreshments
21. Statue 82. seaside 117. adventurous (adj)
130. renown = fame
22. Castle / palace 83. country walk 118. challenge
131. well-known
23. Landscape / 84. safari 119. exorbitant
= famous
scenery 85. art gallery
132. archipelago
24. Natural views 133. border/ frontier 86. billionaire Positive Adjectives
25. Currency 134. constituent 87. millionaire for Holidaying
26. Cut-price ticket 135. cosmopolitan 88. a couple of 1. Amazing/astonishin
27. Delay 136. year round 89. face-off g
28. To depart/ 137. residence 90. foothold 2. astounding
Departure (n) / 138. mortal (adj) 91. well-to-do 3. awe-inspiring
Departure lounge 139. mortality (n) 92. a deal 4. Awesome
29. Destination 140. immortal (adj) 5. Breath-taking
93. emerging
30. Domestic flight 141. immortality (n) 6. dumbfounding
94. spaceport
31. Double/single room 142. memory 7. extraordinary
95. space tourism 8. fabulous/ Fantastic
32. luggage/baggage 143. art shows 55. to compete 9. Grand/howling
33. First-class ticket 144. drama / dramatist 56. competition (n)
34. To fly/ Flight (n) 145. 3D cinema 57. Rivalry (n)
35. Guest house 146. Play/ playwright
10. improbable 20. terrific 3. Atrocious 13. Lousy
11. incredible 21. tremendous 4. Awful 14. Mean
12. Marvellous 22. unbelievable 5. Despicable 15. Nasty
13. miraculous 23. undreamt of 6. Detestable 16. Odious
14. rattling 24. wonderful 7. Dirty 17. Painful
15. remarkable 25. wondrous 8. Dreadful 18. Repugnant
16. spectacular Negative Adjectives 9. Execrable 19. Terrible
17. splendid for Holidaying 10. Filthy 20. Unspeakable
18. startling 1. Abhorrent 11. Hateful 21. Vile
19. stunning 2. Abominable 12. Loathsome

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 II. MAIN TOPICS

1. Benefits of travelling:
a. Fun : “A holiday gives one a chance to look backward and forward.” May Sarton
 To provide some excitement and an escape from the hum drum of ‘ordinary’ life.
 To break the ordinary daily routine
 To get rid of stress due to studies and work
 To have fun through different activities
 To recharge your batteries.
b. Knowledge “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page.”
 To attend art shows (give examples : festivals, art galleries, museums…)
 To broaden your horizons.
 To see the world beyond your four corners.
 To experience new cultures and lifestyles.
 To meet interesting and like-minded people.

2. Package Tour (pros & cons)

Pros Cons
 Guide explains everything  Only visit most popular sights
 Transport laid on  Compulsory "shopping stops"
 Baggage looked after  May dislike travelling companions
 No language problems  Someone else's timetable, no
 See a lot in a short time flexibility
 Meals at tourist-oriented restaurants

3. Individual Tour (pros & cons)

Pros Cons
a. Choose what you want to see a. Need to research beforehand
b. Go at your own pace b. Public transport system not always easy to understand
c. Flexible schedule according to c. Need to book own hotels
personal preferences d. No help at hand if you get into difficulties

4. Recommending about a holiday (a letter):

a. Accommodation : spacious room/ with a picturesque view/ calm and serinity of the place/ full options : air-
conditioning/ internet connection / spa/ gym
b. Food : luscious & varied as expected/ taste the spicy food …
c. The residence (hotel, house…) is two-minute walk to the beach/ the city centre not far/ transport available (as
advertised)
d. Staff/ guide/ room maid : friendly , helpful
e. Enjoyed the scheduled programme (visits/ sightseeing/ festivals/ excursions/ cruise)
5. Complaining about a holiday (a letter):
a. Accommodation : dirty room/ no view/ noise/ couldn’t sleep/no air-conditioning/ no internet connection (as
promised)
b. Food : disgusting/ rotten/filthy __ not luscious as expected - had to eat out and pay extra money/ son got sick
due to rotten food ___doctor
c. The residence (hotel, house…) is far away from the beach/ the city centre___ had to walk in the blistering heat
/ no transport available (as advertised)
d. Staff/ guide/ room maid : not friendly , not helpful_ always shouting
e. I’m looking forward to receiving a convenient compensation; otherwise I shall feel free to take the matter to
the court.

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 6. Space tourism : positive aspects
a. Personal experience
 Satisfying the human desire of adventure
 Challenge and making the impossibilities possible.
 Live a rare experience of weightlessness
b. Good for humanity/ part of scientific research
 Resolving mysteries that surround the outer space
 Discovering an all-new world
 Exploring space and discovering the yet undiscovered facts about space
 finding new minerals, new precious materials
 Finding new human-like species in the outer space

7. Space tourism : negative aspects

a. Dangerous : risk of death / flying in the outer space is still not safe
b. Costly & expensive : only the well-to-do can enjoy such an experience/ the poor are deprived of the dream
c. Unfair : the rich are splurging a billions of dollars to satisfy their silly personal whims while millions of
children in poor countries are starving to death

III. Proverbs on holidaying

1. “A holiday gives one a chance to look backward and forward.” May Sarton -
2. “If I were a medical man, I should prescribe a holiday to any patient who considered his work important.”
Russell 3. “He that travels far knows much”
4. “He who does not travel does not know the value of men.”
5. “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page.”

IV. SAMPLE ESSAYS

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

2. Holidaying - A Letter of Complaint

Dear Sir/ Madam,
I’ve just come back from the most horrible 7-day vacation I’ve ever spent in my whole life at your miserable
hotel. I was extremely dissatisfied at all levels.
To start with, the room was not at all as we had been promised. It was not only dirty and untidy but also lacked
any natural view. Worse, we couldn’t even enjoy sleeping for the whole stay due to the unbearable noise coming
from the main street.
Add to this, though we had been assured that food would be varied and luscious, it was honestly inedible. Once,
we were served such a disgusting dinner that my son got terribly sick and I had to take him to the doctor, costing
me dearly.
Last but not least, the advertised schedule of our vacation in your brochure was a big lie. On the one side, we
were offered a very old coach that broke down more than once making us wait for repairing in the blistering heat of
summer and you may imagine what happened to our skin. On the other side, the guide was a real jerk who did
nothing for us but asking for tips.
I hope you agree that our vacation did not reach our expectations at all. I, hereby, look forward to receiving a
convenient compensation; otherwise I’ll feel free to take the case to the court.
With Regards,
Tom Jerry.
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 3. Holidaying - A Letter of recommendation
Dear Tom,
I heard you were planning to go on holiday but still hesitating about your destination. I’ve just come back from
the best 7-day vacation I’ve ever spent in my whole life (at hotel / in place). It was really awesome!!!
First of all, as soon as we arrived we had an amazing feeling of being so welcomed by our hosts. Everything was
perfect. The room had a great big window view to the sea. The food was luscious and varied. Their cuisine is the
place where you can taste all the goodness that nature has to offer.
Besides, the personnel were great, and everyone was so helpful and friendly! They make you feel so at home and
nothing is too much trouble for them. We were offered the best quality of services either inside the room, at the
restaurant or even by the poolside.
Most fascinating of all was the awesome entertainment. Staying there gave us the opportunity to explore and
become familiar with the natives and feel so welcomed! We mainly enjoyed the cruise to the nearby islands where
the scenery was magnificent! We took great pictures and we were so excited that we want to go back next year and
take both our children and a few other family members.
(Name of place) is definitely a paradise and it makes everything so accommodating!! I would earnestly
recommend this (hotel/ agency/ place) if you are eager to spend a memorable holiday.
Yours Sincerely,
Jerry.

4. Benefits of Space Tourism

No one can deny that travelling to space is very important in our life to see the outer world. It lets us experience
life in exciting different ways.
To start with, pace tourism satisfies the human desire of adventure. There are many brave people who wish to
take risks in life. They love accepting challenges, and they love making the impossibilities possible.
Add to this, this type of travelling will surely offer us great fun and excitement through experiencing the
weightlessness and seeing the planet from miles above.
Last but not least, space tourism may help us discover the undiscovered facts about space and resolve mysteries
that surround the outer space. It may bring about a dramatic change to our lives.

5. Blemishes of Space Tourism:

No one can deny that travelling to space is very important in our life to see the outer world. It lets us experience
life in exciting different ways. Yet, it has never been blemishless.
To start with, space tourism is still dangerous and space tourists risk their life. They might face deadly accidents
in an unfriendly environment.
Add to this, this type of travelling is still costly. Therefore, only the well-to-do can enjoy the beauty of this trip.
However, millions of ordinary people would be deprived of such fun.
Last but not least, it’s really unfair to spend millions of dollars on silly adventures; while millions of poor
children around the world are starving to death and suffering from illiteracy, ignorance and deadly diseases.

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7
I. VOCABULARY

1. Schooling 23. Eye-to-eye = face- to-face 38. devotion / solidarity humanitarian /

contact generosity helpless
2. attend /attendance
3. Enrol (Br)/ enroll (Am) 24. Multiply(x) / Subtract (-) Divide 39. Illiteracy≠ Literacy (n) (adj)
(/) / Add (+) Tackle / Handle= deal literate=educated ≠ illiterate
4. Register= enroll at a school/
with= solve 40. Poor (poverty) / = badly off ‡ rich =
university/ college Enrolment/
25. Hard work ≠ laziness Numeracy wealthy= well off / wealth
enrollment
5. access to & literacy skills Ability 41. Luck(n) (adj) lucky= fortunate
6. Scholarship/ School fees /School 26. able/ Ability/ unable / inability/ 42. ≠unlucky = unfortunate
report/ school term disabled/ disability / Capabilities 43. Development/improvement
7. Semester / trimester 27. low ≠high achiever 44. wealth / welfare
8. Timetable 28. Skill= gift= talent(n) skilled= 45. (v) Drop out of school= leave = quit
talented= gifted school (n/p) dropout= school leaver
9. master / doctorate /
10. non-credit 29. chievement= accomplishment (v) 46. Deny / Deprive ≠ Provide/ Provision
11. to pursue (continue) / to - a achieve= accomplish = fulfill 47. To boost = to increase ≠ to decrease
30. Advancement / Genius (v/n)= decline (v/n)= drop
graduate/ Graduation
Impediment / 48. needy = poor
12. degree
13. bachelor 31. improve 49. nourishing / Nutritious
14. To sit for an exam= to take an 32. intelligence= cleverness ‡ 50. Virtual Learning/ Online learning=
stupidity distance learning= virtual school /
exam / diploma
33. competence Distance learning / electronic learning
15. to pass an exam / to succeed
(success / successful/ successfully) 34. Philanthropy 51. updated
16. ‡ to fail(v) / Failure(n) /Philanthropist/ Activism /activist / 52. Flexibility
17. Post graduate altruism /altruist ≠egoism/egoist 53. Chance = occasion= opportunity
18. Tutoring= teaching Instruction/ donation /charity 54. contribution
Training/ 35. fund-raising / benevolence 55. Exchange (v/n)
voluntarism/volunteer / volunteerism 56. Experience(v/n)
19. candidate/ National
/ endowment 57. Lack of= shortage of /short of
exams/examiner
20. assignments / homework 36. Merely= barely= roughly 58. Lifelong learning
21. Prize= award 37. Motivation 59. Punishment ‡reward Memory
22. Bully / Bullied(adj) bullying(n)

II. Main topics

1. Importance of Education/ learning / lifelong learning (benefits)

‘to seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave’
a. Vocational purposes : to enrol and attend school - to study different subjects - to pass exams - to get degree - to
have necessary qualifications - to get a white-collar, prestigious, well-paying job - to get promoted at work
b. Non-vocational : to learn - to get knowledge - to combat illiteracy and ignorance - to be a good citizen - to
contribute to the progress of one’s community - to cope with the change ‘Never stop learning; knowledge doubles
every fourteen months.’ Anthony J. D'Angelo

2. Illiteracy/ out-of-school children/ drop outs (solutions)

a. Parents’ responsibilities : to be conscious of the importance of education/ to enrol and keep their children at
school/ support them / encourage them with studies
b. Community/ organizations/ governments : provide the basic needs of schooling/ provide tools and equipments
at schools/ take care of poor children and provide them with basic life necessities (food, clothes & shelter)
c. Rich countries : assume their responsibilities towards poor countries/ help & donate / provide the necessary
tools and expertise to boost the educational level

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 3. Virtual school (pros)
 Easy/ flexible/ convenient : learners feel free to study whenever & wherever they like, no more obligation of
attendance or travelling/ options are varied
 Cheap : just a pc and internet connection/ less expenses for transportation, books…
 Information : available, varied, up-to-date, easy access to get
 Coping with globalization process : the world is becoming a small village where the notions of time & space are
no more restricted behind walls.

4. Virtual school (cons)

 Not practical/ harder : needs costly equipments (software & hardware) not attainable for the poor/ requires
highly-skilled expertise (computer savvy people)
 Lack of motivation to learn / absence of competitiveness/ lazy students are more likely to fail
 Anti-pedagogic : necessity of face-to-face interaction/ the role of the teacher is minimized
 Anti-social : communication, friendship, community life___ more aloofness

5. Ability Grouping
Students are assigned to classes based on their measured ability or their achievements.
PROS CONS
 Students are not forced to rush or wait  Students May Get “Stuck” In a Group (nerdy vs
 better achievement dumb)/ snob
 selecting suitable material, approach, assignment.  superiority vs inferiority
 high achievers excel, progress faster, build self-  excuse to bullying / teasing
esteem, avoid boredom, compete more  lose self-esteem/ feel stigmatised
 low achievers provided with more individual  additional work for teachers
attention, repetition and review

III. Proverbs & Sayings on Education

a. The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet. Aristotle
b. Only the educated are free. Epictetus
c. Never stop learning; knowledge doubles every fourteen months. Anthony J. D'Angelo
d. "We now accept the fact that learning is a lifelong process of keeping abreast of change. And the most pressing
task is to teach people how to learn.”

I. Suggested Essays
1. Out-of-school children / School Drop-outs (solutions)
Dropping out of school is a serious problem in the world, especially in poor and developing countries. Each year, in
Morocco alone, nearly 200,000 children leave school before completing their primary education. So, undoubtedly,
some measures to reduce the number of students who withdraw from school must be urgently offered.

Researchers and government officials largely attribute the phenomenon to the ignorance of poor parents who do not
realise the importance of education. Some parents, for example, withdraw their children from school due to the
competing demands for household income which often push children to work. Drop-out rates are higher among
children of illiterate parents. These rates can be reduced if we sensitize parents about the importance of sending their
children to school.

Teachers and headmasters are also responsible for implementing this plan. They have to assume their
responsibilities to adapt the school systems so as to raise students’ awareness to the negative consequences of
dropping out.

To see the issue from another broader angle, it’s highly recommended that we do our best to solve the reasons
behind this phenomenon. Citizens, charities and governments should all collaborate to provide poor families with the
basic life necessities such as food, clothing and shelter in order to ensure that children would not be forced to quit
school.

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 2. Tips to a student who wants to drop out of school
Yes, I do agree with you that school can be sometimes hard. It’s a lot of work, and there are lots of rules that you
may not like.
But understand this – THE MORE YOU LEARN, THE MORE YOU EARN. Education is your key to financial
security, and dropping out of school now will affect you for the rest of your life. It is a really bad idea, if things are
bad at school because you are being harassed or bullied try changing schools rather than quitting.

Besides, Drop outs have a harder time getting good, secure, decent paying jobs because more and more jobs
require a minimum o f high school graduation. Not to forget, too, that dropping out gives you a lot of free time,
even if you get a full time job, you are more likely to get in to a self destructive rut including drugs or alcohol.

Think again my friend. Dropping out is not cool, it does not make you a tough guy, nor does it mean you are
grown up or more mature - in fact it makes you the exact opposite of all these things. And while you’re at it, think
about going to college. People who have gone to college, even just for two years, have more job opportunities and
make more money than high school graduates.

So, are you still thinking of dropping out? Think again – dropping out is not a very good option. Talk with your
parents, teachers, friends, or anyone else you trust to help you make a good decision. Do what you need to do and
get the help you need to finish high school. Remember, the more you learn the more you earn!

3. Illiteracy / Solutions
Illiteracy is a worldwide problem nowadays. It is everywhere, in both children and in adults. To overcome
illiteracy, we have to approach the problem on different levels.

We should start from the basic unit of society - the home. One of the best solutions to solving the stubborn
problem of literacy is to teach parents to read, so that they can in turn teach their children. If the adult women are
educated first, each generation will be able to read and write, since mothers are the first educators of children. The
women will teach their children, both male and female, who will in turn teach their children. Besides, parents
should be attentive to the learning needs of their children. It is not enough that our children go to school; we must
support their educational development in every possible way.

Governments in developing countries, too, have to fully assume their responsibilities to combat illiteracy as well
as other social hardships such as poverty, child labour and juvenile delinquency. Schools, books and simple
learning equipments should be provided everywhere in a nation. Free education has to be supported especially in
distant poor areas. In other words, deprived families and regions should be offered equal learning chances and
opportunities.

Most important of all, rich and developing countries as well as international organizations like UNESCO,
UNICEF and The World Bank are tasked to boost literacy in the developing world through low-interest loans,
charity funds and mainly by sharing their expertise to develop education levels all over the world.

4. A speech of Philanthropy at school

Distinguished guests! Ladies and gentlemen!

It is my honour to be invited as a speaker in a charity event at this respectful school. It is a great pleasure for me
to be here today. I would like to seize the opportunity to congratulate us on launching this outstanding fundraising
campaign in which many people are involved.

Our donations in this year have amounted to 50, 000 dollars - the sum that will be endowed to poor families of our
dear schoolmates. The money will be donated for medical care, education expenses, and indispensable life
amenities. Our goal is to decrease the level of poverty. To achieve this noble goal, we have organized this Open
Day. I am honoured to thank all sponsors, organizations and private persons, who care for our needy siblings.

10
 Mahatma Gandhi once said: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” We all
know that some students are in a desperate economic condition. One can hardly imagine that all this may be
possible in the first decade of the 21st century. We are living in the world that needs great changes. We are
responsible for the future of the world as well. Our charity organization has been constantly working on
fundraising. Our mutual efforts, our support - Together, we will fulfil our duty of cherishing every human life.

In closing, I wish to thank all of you, our sponsors and donors, for your donations. Let's go on building the bonds
of friendship and goodness through cooperation and mutual respect.
Thank you all for being with us, joining us, and supporting us.
Thank you all!

5. Virtual Learning / Pros

Nowadays, it is more than evident that virtual learning is increasingly becoming one of the most crucial debated
controversial issues that may positively transform the educational system all over the world for several reasons.

First of all, a virtual course is as close as a computer with an Internet connection. Hence, students can take online
courses whenever they need them, not based on some college’s annual or semester schedule and with no set class
times, students themselves decide when to complete their assignments and readings. They personally set the pace.

Added to this, prices are often cheaper for online courses than traditional college and trade courses with no
housing or meals plans to worry about. Moreover, Students don’t feel the necessity to travel or move far away from
home for learning.

Last but not least, virtual school reinforces reading skills and offers up-to-date references and books. It may also
provide audio- visual learning aids such as clips, lectures, pictures and exam research papers.
I personally think that virtual learning can prepare students for real professional career via training courses on the
net in world that is becoming more and more digital and globalized.

6. Virtual learning / Cons

Nowadays, it is more than evident that virtual learning is increasingly becoming one of the most crucial debated
controversial issues that may positively transform the educational system all over the world. Yet, this system still
hides its own blemishes.

First of all, if applicable a virtual course requires high budgets for computer, software programs, and the Internet
connection. Such a fact may deprive poor families and even countries of the right of new educational tools which
would be restricted and monopolized by the most industrialized nations.

Moreover, at times virtual students may experience feelings of isolation or a sense of detachment from the real
school due to the lack of face-to-face interaction — especially in self-paced courses — or difficulty in developing
relationships with classmates.

To cap it all, students will be required to be able to work unsupervised and they will have to problem solve
solutions independently. So, unless they are self-motivated and disciplined to progress through their programme in
a timely manner, success will be highly farfetched.

Generally speaking, virtual learning as a new and innovated method of schooling surely imports its benefits; but it
wouldn’t reach its pragmatic and realistic features overnight.

11
12
I. VOCABULARY

1. Create 37. console 69. fieldsCheating 101. to hold

2. Creation 38. monitor 70. Disintegration 102. Have the credit
3. Creative VIDEO GAMES 71. Violence for doing
4. Creativity 39. Health 72. Delinquency 103. To value
5. Creator problems: 73. Smoking 104. Brain Drain:
6. creature 40. poor eyesight 74. alcohol 105. Immigrate
7. Invent 41. back ache 75. Educational 106. Emigrate
8. Invention 42. neck ache difficulties: 107. Migrate
9. Inventor 43. obesity 76. poor results 108. Exodus
10. inventive 44. Social hardships: 77. dropping out 109. Developed
11. Bless 45. Addiction 78. truancy countries
12. curse 46. Aloofness * 79. bullying 110. simulate
13. Beneficial 47. Developing 80. lack of discipline 111. Scheme
14. harmful countries 81. Loss of 112. visualize
15. Benefit 48. Skills concentration 113. fancy
16. Profit 49. Expatriates 82. Failure 114. conceive
17. Advantage 50. trends 83. maybe 115. flexibility
18. Harm 51. Shortage 84.Via/ through 116. consumption
19. disadvantages 52. gather 85.Release 117. interactivity
20. Drawback 53. pace 86.delay = put off = 118. analytical ability
21. inconveniences 54. expertise postpone 119. adaptability
22. Internet 55. expert 87.giant 120. cognitive skills
23. Web 56. key positions 88.envision 121. patience
24. PC 57. contentious issue 89. initial 122. neglect studies
25. Be connected to 58. in search of 90. Music players: 124. perfecting
26. Attachment 59. Incentive MP3 125. distinctions
27. Browser 60. Supply 91. Prize winners 126. ingredient
28. Download 61. Inspiration 92. pay tribute to 127. to found
29. Emoticon -smiley 62. Devise 93. commitment (founded)
30. Hypertext 63. Fabricate 94. in recognition of 128. entrepreneur
31. ICT 64. Design 95. Achievements 129. a will
32. Netiquette 65. Frame 96. to award 130. occur
33. Portal 66. Project 97. honouring 131. enable
34. search engine 67. carry out an 98. paths 132. magnify
35. spam experiment 99. at the expense of 133. patent
36. Play station 68. dedication 100. to cite

II. MAIN TOPICS

1. Technology (pros & cons)
a. Means of transport : (e.g car, plane, rocket) faster / easier/ time-saving/ more comfortable/ ability to explore
distant areas and the outer space ≠ deadly accidents, health problems, lack of sport, obesity, pollution….
b. Means of communication : (e.g mobile phone, internet, satellites) easier, cheaper, more practical ≠ health
problems, information is no more credible,
c. Means of entertainment: (e.g electronic games) fun, pastime, safe, develop mental skills, educative games ≠
addiction - health problems/ educational difficulties/ social hardships.

2. Playing electronic games

PROS CONS
 Increased visual acuity.  become completely addicted
 A great social activity.  not to go to work (or school),
 Can teach people more about life.  not to eat properly/ not to exercise enough.
 Games can help improve problem solving and logic skills.  violence./ copying violent video game crimes
 To assist in education. Studies have shown that children  taking drugs, getting drunk and smoking
playing educational games learn more because they do not  give people false expectations of real life
realize that they are learning/ increases attention span
 They are fun.

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 3. Brain drain (solutions)
a. Brains’ responsibilities : they have the right to look for better opportunities abroad/ to assume one’
responsibility towards one’s nation/ to contribute to the progress of education and economy at home
b. Governments in developing countries : provide the highly-skilled intellectuals with the necessary tools of
scientific research/ to give extra privileges (high salaries) / encourage them to stay
c. Rich countries : assume their responsibilities towards poor countries/ help & donate / provide the necessary
tools and expertise to boost the educational & economic level / stop seducing and luring the brains from poor
countries via irresistible privileges/ more investment in poor nations

III. Proverbs on Technology

1. It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity.” Albert Einstein
2. Technology makes it possible for people to gain control over everything, except over technology” John Tudor
3. Technology is ruled by two types of people: those who manage what they do not understand, and those who
understand what they do not manage.” Mike Trout
4. The most exciting breakthroughs of the 21st century will not occur because of technology but because of an
expanding concept of what it means to be human” John Naisbitt
5. The greatest danger in modern technology isn't that machines will begin to think like people, but that people
will begin to think like machines”
6. Technology is so much fun but we can drown in our technology. The fog of information can drive out
knowledge.” Daniel J. Boorstin
7. “If we continue to develop our technology without wisdom or prudence, our servant may prove to be our
executioner. Omar Bradley

IV. SAMPLE ESSAYS

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

2. Technology - Cons
There is no doubt that modern science and technology have made our life easier, better and more comfortable.
Nevertheless, certain inventions have never been blemishless.
First of all, modern inventions and techniques are not for everyone. It’s only a rich man’s dream to fly a personal
jet with all the latest gadgets fitted in it. Today, we feel technological advances are also widening the gap between
the various classes of the society. I fear that this might cause unrest amongst the underprivileged or the less
privileged section of society and lead to more crimes and disparity.

14
 Besides, various inventions have proved that technology can be turned from a blessing into a deadly curse. How
can we forget Hiroshima? Throughout most of the world, the name Hiroshima has come to represent man’s
technological capacity for massive destruction. What is unfortunate is that Hiroshima seems to be recreated every
day with more and more scientist squandering their talent to improve weapons of mass destruction.
Other inventions, though less destructive in nature, can turn into killing monsters that threaten our life at all levels.
Video games, for example, are meant to be entertaining; but if ever misused they may cause incurable health
problems, inevitable educational hardships especially among teenagers. Cars, planes and ships are taking us to far
distances fast and comfortably; yet they are meanwhile turning our planet into a suffocating greenhouse.
Truth be told, the problem is if technology is mastered by wrong powers, it will destroy everyone.

3. Video Games / Cons

Video games have been very popular among children and teenagers. Where on one hand the games do prove to be
beneficial to an extent, at the same time, their ill effects cannot be ignored.
Starting with, specialists have confirmed that children who spend too much time playing computer games are
easily susceptible to long-term health problems such as obesity, poor eyesight as well as neck and back pain. The
situation may get worse with deadly heart attacks or blood clots.
Add to this, being addicted to electronic games might result in some educational difficulties when students neglect
their homework and studies, lose concentration in class or even fail in their exams. It has been proved that excessive
gaming may weaken learning motivation and mental development.
Last but not least, spending many hours in front of the monitor and not going out enough could also cause social
problems thus resulting in them becoming shy and introvert. Apart from that the games developed nowadays
happen to be a lot more violent thus the gamers do have a tendency to lose control and become more aggressive.
Undoubtedly, parents need to keep track of how much time their children spend in front of the screen playing
games and also as to what type of games they play.

4. Brain Drain / Effects

One of the main problems facing poor countries today is the so-called brain drain. Such a movement of highly
skilled, talented individuals is becoming so acute that many are worrying about its effects on the economic
development of the region.
More and more educated professionals such as engineers, doctors and scientists are looking for better job
opportunities and higher incomes in western countries. Also more students from developing nations receiving an
education in Britain, the US, or France stay after completing their studies.
Hence, it's not surprising that serious drawbacks are becoming more and more apparent and social, economic as
well as political conditions are getting worse. Poor countries are wasting efforts and energies in favour of the
western countries, while they are in need for their contribution in economics, education, health, planning, scientific
research and technology.
Moreover, we may notice a financial loss as a lot money is spent on education and training of students who are
favourable by the western countries for free. To make matters worse, scientific research in the developing countries
is declining compared to the contribution of migratory brains in the west.

5. How to help reduce 'Brain Drain'? (Solutions)

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

15
16
I. VOCABULARY 23.Breathe 43.oil-slick 68.earthquake 86.per annum
1. Health / to 24.cough 44.ozone layer 69.flood 87.potential
heal / healthy / regular meals 45.pesticide 70.tidal wave 88.proficient
unhealthy 25.Ecology 46.pollution 71.typhoon 89.seek: look for
2. Obesity 26.acid rain 47.extinct animal 72.volcanic 90.deadline
3. fruit 27.aerosol 48.rain forest eruption 91.Dismiss
4. Nutrition 28.animal welfare 49.unleaded petrol 73. to employ / 92.Training
5. hypertension 29.carbon dioxide 50.waste Employment 93.pay rise
6. diet 30.climate 51.nuclear waste 74. 94.work overtime
7. overweight 31.conservation 52.radio-active Unemployment 95.sacked
8. vegetable 32.endangered waste 75. Employer ± 96.prospects
9. protein species 53.Wildlife employee 97.shift work
10. exercise 33.energy 54.cut down 76. Jobless / 98.redundant
11. weight loss 34.nuclear energy 55.destroy joblessness 99.asset
12. vitamin 35.solar energy 56.dispose (of) 77.promotion 100. Urban
13. obese 36.exhaust fumes 57.dump 78.out of work exodus:
14. Smoking 37.fertilizers 58.protect 79.go on strike 101. city life #
15. quit = give 38.forest fires 59.pollute 80.to fire rural life
up = abandon 39.global 60.recycle 81.culprit: 102. country(side)
16. addicted to warming 61.save criminal 103. life
17. an addict 40.greenhouse 62.throw away 82.to reckon: expectancy
18. Addictive effect 63.use up think
19. Addiction 41.(non)- 64.environmental 83.apply for a job
20. taste renewable group 84.application
21. smell resources 65.green issues form
22. breath 42.nuclear 66.pressure group 85.bio data: CV:
radiation 67.drought curriculum vitae

II. MAIN TOPICS

1. Morals & Virtues
 Moral concepts consist of values, virtues and ethics that help individuals distinguish their actions as being
morally right or morally wrong
 Virtues are a moral concept categorized as intellectual or practical. Practical virtues are broken down into
moral or non-moral virtues. The most important moral virtues include courage and honesty, which are generally
considered morally right and a positive reflection of an individual's character
 Values are a moral concept used in decision-making and conflict situations. A person's mindset and behaviour
are directly connected to a person's value system, and most religious traditions specify values that should be
adhered to. Three important moral values are freedom, love and empathy, and these values are often taught within
the home and in schools
 Ethics are a set of rules that help determine right from wrong in regards to interpersonal interactions.
Responsibility and restraint are two important ethics, which strengthen a person's character and improve
interpersonal interaction when observed.

2. Keep fit/ healthy diet (solutions)

a. Strong will & determination
b. Follow a balanced & healthy diet (eat different types of food) ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’
c. Regular practice of exercises (sit-ups/ press-ups/ walking/ jogging..) ‘if you want to get thinner, diminish your
dinner.

 Proverbs on diet
• Your stomach shouldn't be a waste basket.
• One should eat to live, not live to eat. ~Cicero
• To lengthen your life, shorten your meals. ~Proverb
• If you wish to grow thinner, diminish your dinner. ~H.S. Leigh
• An apple a day keeps the doctor away

17
3. Drawbacks of smoking
 Health problems: Not being able to breathe properly/ Severe headaches/ Painful heartburn / migraines /
Lingering colds and bronchitis. / Racing heartbeat, more sweating. / Yellow skin, teeth and fingernails. / coughing
so hard / Trembling hands and fingertips. / Burning my lips on the filter. / Limited motivation and energy.

 Psychological problems: Anxiety from the fear about what I was doing to myself and the consequences. / No
relaxation, always feeling in need of something. A constant feeling of not being satisfied. / Feelings of shame
while spending time with non-smokers. / Fear. Of being unable to quit, of dying an untimely, painful death. /

 Social problems: social rejection due to the after-smell on my clothes, furniture, car, house, everything. / The
cost. All that money wasted on ruining my health and well-being.

4. How can we stop smoking?

1) Psychological factors: having the good- strong will to quit, the desire to give up your filthy habit of smoking./
not lose hope in case of failure till the final success / Being strongly determined to win the challenge over such a
disgusting behaviour.
2) Deep conviction of its drawbacks: to admit that smoking endangers our wellbeing and leads to severe health,
psychological and social problems (give examples)
3) Finding the right alternatives: To replace that sense of addiction to cigarettes. (healthy diet /sporting exercise
programme) - Avoid smoking reminders (public places /drinking coffee).

5. Ecology (solutions)
 Individuals’ responsibilities (R.R.R.) / energy saving / eco-driving / economical methods / cleanliness
 Governments & organisations: sensitizing people / pass and implement strict laws / find alternatives (factories,
control..)
 U.N. international community + super powers: sign, respect and implement the international treaties (Kyoto
Protocol) + ban polluting activities (chemicals & nuclear) + protect nature (forests, seas, species..)

6. Ecodriving
 Regular car maintenance (check oil & tyre pressure)
 Safe driving style (avoid sudden breaks/ smooth use of gear/ avoid unnecessary options)
 alternative ‘if it’s not far; don’t go by car’

7. Country life
 health vs disease , fresh air vs pollution
 calm vs noise , crowd vs open space
 community virtues vs moral decline

8. Employment Morale
 mutual respect bw employers & employees
 rights & duties guaranteed (salary, work hours, conditions, medical care insurance…
 priority for productivity, quality…

9. Apply for a job (letter)

 personal information (age, qualities, ambitions..)
 qualifications (degrees)
 experience
 enclosed docs + phone number
 looking forward

18
III. sample ESSAYS
1. How to keep a healthy diet?
Don't expect to remain healthy if you do not have a balanced diet. You cannot eat whatever you like and stay in
good health.
Firstly, you must eat the right things containing the necessary food substances such as carbohydrates, proteins,
fats, vitamins and mineral salts. So, you should eat bread, rice and fruits and drink milk for carbohydrates.
Proteins are found in meat, fish and eggs. Vitamins are found mainly in fresh fruit and vegetables.
Secondly, you should know why you eat these things. Carbohydrates, for example, give you the energy you need
to move and grow. Proteins are essential for growth and repair. Vitamins are required to keep you healthy.
Minerals like Calcium and Iron are essential for teeth, bones, muscles and nerves.
Yet, you should know that too much or too little of these substances may lead to various health problems such as
obesity, inappropriate growth, tiredness and several other incurable diseases. That’s why, you are highly
recommended to eat the right amounts of each kind of food.
I hope that you find my tips useful and fruitful. Never forget the proverbs which say that “Your stomach shouldn't
be a waste basket” and that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

2. Smoking
a. Proverbs on smoking
• “People always come up to me and say that my smoking is bothering them... Well, it's killing me!” Liebman
• “The best way to stop smoking is to just stop - no ifs, ands or butts.” Edith Zittler
• Cigarettes are killers that travel in packs.

b. Smoking (Drawbacks)- Shall we give up smoking?

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

c. How can we stop smoking?

For smokers, to stop Smoking is really a tough action to take. Majority of smokers want to quit smoking, but find
it difficult to do so as nicotine is very addictive and hard to get rid of. Yet, it’s never impossible if several
measures are taken into consideration.
There are three factors that will determine your success in quitting smoking for good- strong will to quit, deep
conviction of its drawbacks and finding the right alternatives.

19
First, you must have the desire to give up your filthy habit of smoking. If you’re thinking about quitting or have
stopped smoking but failed to quit, don’t lose hope because smokers often try to quit more than once before they
actually succeed. Be strongly determined this time to win the challenge over such a disgusting behaviour.
Second, you must learn about the effects of smoking, understand its consequences. You have to admit that
smoking creates an addiction that is hard to defeat and endangers the lives and quality of living of smokers and
non-smokers as well. On the one side, your health is extremely jeopardized due to long-term smoking which may
bring about lethal diseases such as cancer, asthma and heart failure. On the other side, smoking has psycho-social
side effects that hinder one's quality of life. Smokers may feel stigmatized after being rejected or belittled by
society due to their filthy habit and smell.
Finally, you ought to face the fact that you need to follow, finish and maintain a quit smoking plan. New
alternatives are necessary to replace that sense of addiction to cigarettes. You can start a healthy diet as well as a
sporting exercise programme to heal your mind and body and to help you regain your health and energy. Besides,
it’s highly recommended that you stop frequenting or getting exposed to smoking reminders like attending public
places or drinking coffee.

3. Ecology Matters
a. Proverbs on ecology
• I conceive that the land belongs to a vast family of which many are dead, few are living, and countless
numbers are still unborn.
• When we heal the earth, we heal ourselves. ~David Orr
• The activist is not the man who says the river is dirty. The activist is the man who cleans up the river. ~Ross
Perot
• We shall require a substantially new manner of thinking if mankind is to survive. ~Albert Einstein
• Man has been endowed with reason, with the power to create, so that he can add to what he's been given. But
up to now he hasn't been a creator, only a destroyer. Forests keep disappearing, rivers dry up, wild life's become
extinct, the climate's ruined and the land grows poorer and uglier every day. ~Anton Chekhov

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

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

20
 c. Eco-driving
It doesn’t matter what you drive; nevertheless it really matters how you drive. There are things you can do to save
money and reduce energy use, CO2 emissions and pollution. They are simple ideas that really will make a
difference.
To start with, regular maintenance of your vehicle is the key to keep your machine ecologically ‘green’. You
should get the car serviced regularly according to the manufacturer's schedule to maintain engine efficiency.
Besides, you’d better make sure you use the right specification of engine oil and check tyre pressures regularly
and before long journeys.
Add to this, your driving habits ought to be minded. While you are en route, you’re highly recommended to drive
smoothly, accelerate gently and read the road ahead to avoid unnecessary braking. Moreover, if you can keep the
car moving all the time, so much the better; stopping then starting again uses more fuel than rolling. Furthermore,
some unnecessary options should be avoided as much as possible such as air-conditioning, higher speeds, open
windows which increase fuel consumption.
Last but not least, it's certainly still possible to change your lifestyle and think twice before you decide to get your
car out of the garage. Is it really indispensable? Think of the proverb that says: ‘if it's not far don't take the car.” If
ever you find the alternative, never hesitate to walk short distances, enjoy cycling, or use public transport. That
would be cheaper, healthier and most important of all less polluting.

4. Benefits of Living in the Country

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

5. Applying for a job

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

21
 TESTS
EXERCISES
READING
LANGUAGE
WRITING

22
 READING COMPREHENSION 1

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

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

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

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

Adapted from African Business April 2011

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

The best title for the text is:
a. Compulsory primary education
b. Post-war problems
c. Never too late to learn

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

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

3. Correct the following False statements with details from the text
a. Maruge didn’t receive any help after he was denied the right to attend school. (p.2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------

b. The old Kenyan man became well-known after he had delivered his address at UN Organisation. (p.3)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --

c. Maruge succeeded in finishing his primary education. (p.4)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

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

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

23
 READING COMPREHENSION 2

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

2) Find details in the text to show that these statements are false. (2 marks)
a. Stephen reacted violently when other pupils made fun of him. (p.3)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------------
b. Stephen answered the teacher’s question without permission. (p.4)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------

3) Read the list below and complete the table with 4 (four) adjectives that best describe Stephen (4 marks)
faithful / anxious / irresponsible / determined / self-confident/ insecure / stubborn
Before answering the teacher’s question After answering the teacher’s question
a. -------------------------------- a. --------------------------------
b. --------------------------------
b. --------------------------------

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

a. upset/ made angry. (p.1) --------------------------------
b. unpleasant look, smile or comment (p.3) --------------------------------
c. hit with force (p.5) --------------------------------

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

24
 READING COMPREHENSION 3

Stan Burridge, 44, who lived on benefits for 15 years, tells how getting a job a year ago was worth much more
than just money.
1. I came through the care system as a kid, lived rough on the streets for five years and had issues including
one major mental breakdown. When I came off the streets it was far easier to stay on benefits and do nothing. It
almost became a dependency. I have spent about 15 years claiming benefits and there seemed to be a fear factor
attached to letting that go and stepping into the big unknown.
2. I kept turning down jobs because my life had meant I had never stuck at anything. What if the job didn’t
work out? That would leave me with nothing. It was easier to stay on handouts.
3. Getting a job in a call centre has done a lot more for me than just giving me more money. I can now plan
for the future. Since starting work, I have a new carpet for my flat. I went on a holiday to Egypt — my first real
holiday — paid for out of what I had earned. For the first time this Christmas I can afford some nice things for
myself.
4. All these things were alien to me before. I had never taken so much control of my life. Now I’m proud to
pay my own rent and cover my bills and enjoy a decent social life. In some ways I was lucky there were people
around me who gave me a little push in the right direction. Others may need the incentives the Government will
give them.
5. Getting up to go to work has got me into a healthy routine. Mine is not the best-paid job, but it’s not the
worst — and it’s one hundred times better than being on benefits. I still get a small amount from the
Government, but it’s £100 a week less than the Government would be paying me on full benefits.
6. Having the self-esteem and personal satisfaction of having a job? Absolutely priceless!
THE SUN, NOV. 13, 2010 (adapted)

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

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

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

3) Answer the following question

For 15 years, Stan refused to have a steady job. What was he afraid of? (1 mark)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------------
4) Tick (√) the right alternative (2 marks)
 ‘priceless” (p.6) means almost the same as:
a) worthless □
b) valuable □
c) free □
 ‘who gave me a little push in the right direction” (p.6) means they
a) helped and encouraged me □
b) threatened and bullied me □
c) obliged me to follow them □

5) Getting a job gave Stan both financial and psychological gains in addition to a decent life. Complete
the lists below with reference to the text (4 marks)
Financial gains Psychological gains
a. A new carpet Pride
b. Nice things for Christmas Healthy routine
c. Cover all his bill Personal satisfaction
d. ------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------
e. ------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------

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

25
 GUIDED WRITING
1. Use the notes below to write a 4-line paragraph about the organization. (4 marks)

Organization World Health Organization

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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

Type KDL- 40 VES

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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -

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

Birth Kenya 1 April 1940

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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------

4. Develop the following notes into correct sentences to make a coherent paragraph. Make the necessary additions
and changes. Supply the right tenses and forms of the verbs. Don’t change the order of words. (4 marks)
a. Doris Lessing / award / Nobel Prize / literature / 2007
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------
b. At 88, Lessing is / old person and only / / 11th woman / win the award since it / start in 1901
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------
c. In a career / more than 50 years, she / touch generations / readers / her stories of colonial Africa, feminism and politics
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------
d. Her / famous book, ‘The Golden Notebook’, / become / iconic text / the Women’s Movement
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---

26
5.Develop the following notes into correct sentences to make a coherent paragraph. Make the necessary additions and
changes. Supply the right tenses and forms of the verbs. Don’t change the order of words. (4 marks)
a. These are tips on / to save fuel / drive economic / during / petrol crisis
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------
b.Plan / route. Take the / direct way / avoid / hours
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
c. Check / tyres / under-inflation / increase consumption / 15%
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------
d.Keep a steady / while drive / and turn / the engine / a jam
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------

6.Use the notes below to write a four-line paragraph about the UNESCO. (4 marks)
 Foundation: November 4, 1946
 Composition: 195 member states / 8 associate members
 Interests: education, sciences, culture
 Aims: promote peace, social justice, human rights , international security
............................................................................................................................. ....................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................. ..............................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

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

27
 LANGUAGE
1) Fill in the blanks with 6 words from the list below. (3 marks)
sharply- inspire - pulled – quitting - declined - pressure – struggle - oblige
Smoking is addictive, but quitting may be contagious, according to research that suggests social networks shape people's
behaviour far more powerfully than previously suspected.
Although many smokers see their battle with nicotine as an individual (1) _________________, the study shows that people
actually give up smoking in groups, (2) _________________at the same time as others in their social network. Researchers
found that someone who stops smoking may (3) _________________not just his friends but distant members of his "social
niche" — a friend of a friend of a friend — whom he doesn't even know. Those who quit appear to have done so under (4)
_________________from others in their group.
The number of smokers in the study fell (5) _________________from 1971 to 2003, mirroring national trends. In the past 40
years, the smoking rate has (6) _________________from 45% to 21%, the study shows. Peer pressure also appears to have
pushed people to quit years before the creation of anti-smoking laws.

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

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

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

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

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

5) Fill in the blanks with 6 words from the list below. (3 marks)
hinder / inevitable / stress / about / why / increase / determined / when
I was fifteen when I started to smoke. My friends and my parents were smoking, so it was (1) _________________ that I should
smoke. I found out that I enjoyed smoking and that it relaxed me. But I also worried (2) _________________ the effects of
smoking on my health and my. This came out when my children started asking (3) _________________ daddy was going
outside all the time. The critical time came when I was informed at the age of 40 that I had type 2 diabetes and that quitting
smoking would (4) _________________ my chances of living longer. I made up my mind to quit then. But it took me at least a
year and a half to finally do it. I tried to quit several times but gave in to temptation or to (5) _________________. So I went to
talk to my doctor for help. I have been now smoke-free for seven months. I am (5) _________________ not to pick up the habit
again with a little help from the doctors.

6) Circle the right alternative (3.5 marks)

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

28
7) Put the bracketed words in the right tense or form. (3.5 marks)
Facebook is the world's largest social network. There are 845 million active (use) _________________ around the world, and (rough)
_________________ 200 million in the United States, or two-thirds of the population. Created in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg in his dorm
room at Harvard, Facebook (grow) _________________ from being a simple site for college students into a popular platform that is
used to sell cars and movies, win over voters in presidential (elect) _________________ and organize protest movements. It offers
advertisers a (globe) _________________ platform. Facebook (take) _________________
its first step toward becoming a publicly traded company in February 2012, when it filed to sell shares on the stock market. The
service is soon to be the (large) _________________ initial internet public offering ever.

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

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

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

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

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

10) Fill in the gaps with words from the list. There are two extra words. (3 marks)
apparent – physicians - firmly – reported – survivor – first – cigarettes - death
In 1964, for the first time, the public was made aware about the early known dangers of smoking. The link to lung cancer was
...................................... established and the risks of heart disease were becoming ...................................... . Those who actually
read the report and understood the implications of the early studies were the ...................................... groups of people to reduce
smoking and among their ranks were ...................................... and dentists. As more time passed and hundreds and then
thousands of studies were ......................................, the link between smoking and premature ...................................... was
becoming established.

11) Put the bracketed words in the right tense or form. (3 marks)
Writing a letter of application is essential in the search of a job. Job application forms and letters should, of course, be (fill)
....................................... in carefully and correctly. When additional information is asked for, job (seek) ......................................
should describe their qualifications. They should try (balance) ...................................... their own (able) ...................................... with
the employer’s needs, explain why they are (particular) .................................................. interested in a career with that company. They
try to show that they (have) ........................................... an idea about it for some time.

29
ESSAYS (2008 --- 2018)
A. BAC SCIENTIFIQUES
1. (BAC 2008 PR.) You have just come back from a holiday organized by Dream Tours Travel Agency. You are quite happy
with the quality of the service and the facilities available. Write a letter to your friend recommending the agency. No more than
12 lines. Do not write your name or sign the letter.
2. (BAC 2008 CO.) Your English teacher has asked you to write a 12-line article for your school magazine about the benefits
of technology and its dangerous effects if not properly used. Do write your name or sign the article.
3. (BAC 2009 PR.) Your friend Slim spends many hours a day playing videogames. He neglected his family, friends and
studies. Write a letter to advise him to cut down on videogames. Insist on the risks of addiction to such games.
4. (BAC 2009 CO.) Many developed countries are engaged in a race to attract highly qualified and talented foreigners. Write
a 12-line article in which you react to this phenomenon. Draw your readers’ attention to the negative effects of “brain drain” on
one’s native country.
5. (BAC 2010 PR.) A friend of yours is thinking of moving from the countryside to live in the city. Write your friend a letter
in which you mention the numerous benefits of country life and try to persuade him/her not to move.
6. (BAC 2010 CO.) Your school magazine is helping make readers more aware of the threats endangering our planet. You
have decided to contribute a 12-line article suggesting ways to reduce pollution and protective measures to save life on earth.
7. (BAC 2011 PR.) Energy consumption is increasing. Unfortunately, on day we may run the risk of not having enough
energy supplies as they are not renewable. Write an article to the editor of Businessweek to suggest practical solutions to save
energy.
8. (BAC 2011 CO.) One of your friends is thinking of moving from the city to settle in the countryside, where you live,
assuming that he would enjoy a better life. He wants to know what you think of his intention. Write him a 12-line letter telling
him what you think of his plans.
9. (BAC 2012 PR.) You were offered a well-paid job by a company in a foreign country because of your qualifications. Write
a 12-line letter to the company manager to let him/her know whether you accept or reject the offer. Give reasons for you
decision.
10. (BAC 2012 CO.) Nowadays, more youngsters are increasingly dependent on their cell phones, video and computer games,
and social networking websites. Write a 12-line article for your school magazine in which you warn teenagers of the adverse
effects of addictions on their health, school results and social relationships.
11. (BAC 2013 PR.) Last year, you went on a package tour holiday. You had a great time and you were very satisfied with the
place the tour operator had chosen and the services offered. Once home, you decided to write a letter to the tour operator to
thank him/
12. (BAC
social her. Write
networks
2013 the letter
CO.) You read below. (DO
an article byNOT WRITEmother
a teenager’s YOURwho NAME)was deeply concerned about her son’s attachment to
(Facebook, Twitter, etc …)
Write a 12-line article where you share your views about the issue and where you tell her whether her worries are justified.
13. (BAC 2014 PR.) The Health Club in your school is organising an anti-smoking campaign. As a member of this club, you
have decided to write a 12-line article in your school magazine in order to warn your school mates against the hazardous
effects of smoking and give them some tips to quit this unhealthy habit.
14. BAC 2013 CO.) Clara is an electronic newspaper editor. She received the following email from Margaret. Dear Clara, I‘m
a divorced mother. I have a 14-year-old son. As I don‘t earn enough money in my country, I‘m planning to work abroad to
ensure a good future for him. But the problem is that I can‘t take him with me because of his studies. I‘m torn between being a
good mom and a good provider. What should I do? Please help me. Write Clara‘s answer.
15. (BAC 2015 PR.) Josephine is an advice columnist in a woman’s magazine. She has received the following letter:
“dear Josephine, Now that my children have grown up, I want to go back to university and pursue my studies and graduate. I
don’t know whether it’s too late for me to fulfil my lifelong dream. Please help me. Yours Mrs Jones.”
Write Josephine’s reply to Mrs Jones. Do not write more than 12 lines.
16. (BAC 2015 CO.) Many developing countries lose each year a good number of their brightest students who decide to stay
and work in developed countries.
Write an article for your school magazine in which you express your opinion about the problem.
17. (BAC 2016 PR.) Speaking about global warming, the scientist Thomas Lovejoy wrote on his blog: “the planet is about to
break out with fever. We, as human beings, are the disease!” In reaction to Lovejoy’s opinion, write a 12-line article to be
published on the blog. State whether or not you share the scientist’s views on humans’ responsibility for global warming and
suggest some ways to limit it.
18. (BAC 2016 CO.) While surfing the net, you came across an article published on Business News by a Tunisian university
graduate. He wrote “I really can’t see any benefit in working as a government employee. It’s much more interesting to set up
one’s own business.” As a youth, you feel concerned with the issue of career planning. Write a 12-line article in which you
respond to the graduate’s article. Express your views about your own career plan and state the reasons behind your choice.
19. (BAC 2017 PR.) You have read the following statement in an e-magazine: “Scientific inventions are meant to serve
humans.” Write a 12-line article for your school e-magazine to explain the statement. Support your explanation with concrete
examples.
20. (BAC 2017 CO.) you have noticed that your classmates are using their mobile phones excessively. Write a 12-line article
for your school blog, entitled “Wise Use of Technology”, to explain how the excessive use of mobiles can affect their health
and social life.
21. (BAC 2018 PR.) Some of your friends still think that travelling is a waste of time and money. Do you share this point of
view? Write a twelve-line post for your friends on Facebook to express your opinion. Support it with strong arguments.
22. (BAC 2018 CO.) The use of plastic bags has become a real concern. Write a twelve-line article for your school magazine
to state the threats of this phenomenon and suggest some solutions.

30
B. BAC LETTRES
1. (BAC 2008 PR.) Your teacher asked you to collect information about famous philosophers, writers and scientists who have
contributed to universal culture. Write a 12-line report about some of those people.
2. (BAC 2008 CO.) Your civic education club is organizing a writing competition about the values and attitudes that foster
good relationships between students. Write a 12-line article about the topic.
3. (BAC 2009 PR.) Illiteracy is a major problem in many parts of the world where many people have had little or no
education. Write a 15-line article in which you suggest ways of dealing with illiteracy and overcoming it.
4. (BAC 2009 CO.) Nowadays, an illiterate person is someone who doesn’t know how to use a computer. Write a 15-line
article in which you state your opinion about the issue and support it with convincing arguments.
5. (BAC 2010 PR.) Would you take up a well-paid job you don’t like or a less well-paid job you like? Write a 12-line
paragraph for your school magazine in which you state your preference and justify it.
6. (BAC 2010 CO.) You saw a sign calling people to protect the environment by not using plastic bags for shopping. Write a
12-line article for your school magazine in which you raise the issue of pollution and strongly advise your school mates to save
the environment where they live.
7. (BAC 2011 PR.) Write a 12-line article for your school magazine and explain why you prefer to review for exams on your
own or with a group of friends.
8. (BAC 2011 CO.) Teenagers are often blamed for selfish behaviour, cheating and violence. Write a 12-line letter to a
newspaper editor in which you explain whether you agree or not.
9. (BAC 2012 PR.) You have recently read: “...brain drain has always been taking from the poor and giving to the rich.” In
reaction to what you have read, you wrote a 12-line letter to your brother Sami- a qualified biologist residing and working in
Canada- to persuade him to come back home and to contribute to the progress of Tunisia.
10. (BAC 2012 CO.) Some people believe that learning is related to age. Others, however, think it is never too late to learn.
Write a 12-line article for your school magazine in which you express your opinion about the issue and support it with
arguments.
11. (BAC 2013 PR.) School violence is a widespread problem. Write a 12-line article for your school magazine in which you
state the harmful effects of school violence and suggest ways to avoid violence and enjoy a peaceful school life.
12. (BAC 2013 CO.) Which do you prefer, travelling with a group or travelling on your own? Write a 12-line article for your
school magazine in which you state your preference and support it with arguments.
13. (BAC 2014 PR.) While using Facebook, you read the following quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask
what you can do for your country.” Impressed by these words, you decided to write a 12-line article for your school magazine
to express your opinion and persuade your schoolmates to contribute to the prosperity and progress of your country.
14. (BAC 2014 CO.) Your school is celebrating Earth Day. As a member of the environment club, you volunteered to deliver a
12-line speech to persuade your schoolmates to contribute to the protection of the environment. Write the speech.
15. (BAC 2015 PR.) Mary, an advice columnist in a weekly magazine, received the following letter: “Dear Mary- I have
recently discovered that my closest friend, whom I have always trusted, is unreliable and dishonest; telling lies about me and
revealing my secrets. I feel desperate and I’ve lost faith in all people. I don’t know what has happened to moral values. What
can I do? I need your helpful advice. Samantha” - Write your 12-line reply.
16. (BAC 2015 CO.) Some billionaires spend a fortune to take a space flight just for pleasure while millions of people in the
world are dying from hunger. Write a 12-line article for your local newspaper in which you state your opinion about the issue
and support it with good arguments.
17. (BAC 2016 PR.) Some parents think that their children’s access to the internet should be not only limited but also
supervised because of its numerous risks. Are you in favour of or against these restrictions? Write a 12-line article for your
school magazine in which you state your opinion and support it with strong arguments.
18. (BAC 2016 CO.) Your close friend’s dad wants to buy his son / daughter on his / her birthday a special present, but he’s
hesitant what to buy him/her: ad encyclopedia or a computer. Write the father an email in which you give your opinion and
help him decide what to buy. Use sound arguments.
19. (BAC 2017 PR.) The Ministry of Education has created a Facebook page on which people share ideas about educational
matters. Write a 12-line post in which you suggest ways to improve education in your country.
20. (BAC 2017 CO.) Someone said: “I would rather own little and see the world than own the world and see little of it.” Do
you agree with this?
Write a 12-line article about travelling to be published in your school magazine. Support your opinion with examples and
sound arguments.
21. (BAC 2018 PR.) You have just read on a news website that a 64-year-old Tunisian lady is sitting for the baccalaureate
exam. Write a 12-line article for your school magazine in which you state your opinion about pursuing studies a an advanced
age. Support your ideas with sound arguments.
22. (BAC 2018 CO.) “After qualifying as a doctor, I was offered a position in a small village. I’ve always lived in a big city, as
you know. And I got used to life there. I’ve got mixed feelings. I don’t know what to do. Shall I accept to practice in the small
village, or shall I wait till I get another job opportunity in a big city? Please help me take a decision.”
Write a 12-line e-mail to Samir to help him make up his mind and take the right decision.

31
C. BAC Techniques
1. (BAC 2008 PR.) You want to take part in a forum about the impact of technological progress on humans. Write a 10-line
article showing the benefits of modern technology.
2. (BAC 2008 CO.) You are an advice columnist working for “Youth Magazine”. You have received a letter from Janet
Williams. She is worried about her son –John, 15- who spends many hours a day playing video games. He has neglected his
studies and he’s been getting low marks. Write a reply to Janet to give her advice.
3. (BAC 2009 PR.) You have received this letter from a friend.
My mother has always exaggerated fears about my education. She is overprotective. She wants to enrol me in a virtual school,
thinking that it is safer and more time saving. I’ve tried to convince her about the necessity of class contact and social
relationships, but without success.” Reply giving your opinion about the issue. Do not exceed 12 lines.
4. (BAC 2009 CO.) You have just come back from a two-week holiday abroad. You were not satisfied with your stay for
several reasons. Write a letter of complaint to your travel agency about the conditions of your stay.
5. (BAC 2010 PR.) You were a heavy smoker and quitted smoking. You have decided to contribute to the national anti-
smoking campaign. Write a 10-line article in which you describe your experience and persuade heavy smokers to quit
smoking.
6. (BAC 2010 CO.) A travel agent suggested a nice holiday resort to you. You did not like the place. Write a letter of
complaint to the travel agency manager about the bad quality of services and facilities and ask for compensation.
7. (BAC 2011 PR.) Space tourism is a great challenge today but it is very costly. Write a 10-line article for your school
magazine to show whether you are for or against space tourism.
8. (BAC 2011 CO.) “Facebook is one of the internet wonders these days. People use it for different reasons and most
teenagers enjoy it, yet it can be a source of trouble if not wisely used.” For your school magazine, write a 10-line article in
which you draw the students’ attention to the drawbacks of Facebook when it is not used appropriately.
9. (BAC 2012 PR.) You obtained a scholarship to study in the USA. After finishing your degree, you hesitated about whether
to stay abroad or go back home. Write a 10-line article to your local magazine and give the reasons for your final decisions.
10. (BAC 2012 CO.) Few months ago, you left the city and settled in the countryside. You have recently realized that you miss
many things you used to enjoy in the city. Write a letter to your friend to tell her about what you miss.
11. (BAC 2013 PR.) More students in your school spend many hours a day playing video games. Write a 10-line article for
your school magazine to draw their attention to the disadvantages of such games. Suggest better activities.
12. (BAC 2013 CO.) As a member of the Fitness Club in your school, you contributed to the international Health Day. Write a
10-line article for your school magazine in which you give students some advice on how to keep fit and healthy.
13. (BAC 2014 PR.) As an activist in the “Save Your City” association, you decide to write a 10-line article for your school
magazine in order to draw the readers’ attention to the dangers of overconsuming energy. Give them advice on how to be an
energy saver.
14. (BAC 2014 CO.) As a member of the Green Club, you were asked to write a 10-line article for your school magazine about
the causes of climate change and the harmful effects it has on the environment.
15. (BAC 2015 PR.) Because of the huge amounts of rubbish piled up in the streets, you have decided to write a 10-line article
for the local newspaper to call for an action plan to clean up your neighbourhood.
16. (BAC 2015 CO.) Many young people are migrating illegally to Europe. Write a 10-line article for your local newspaper in
which you discourage them from risking their lives and explain what problems they may face even if they arrive in Europe
safely.
17. (BAC 2016 PR.) Your friend is an engineer and has been offered a job in a foreign country. However, he/ she is hesitant
about whether to accept the offer or turn it down. Write him/ her a 10-line letter in which you advise him/ her not to miss this
opportunity.
18. (BAC 2016 CO.) Facebook has become a very popular social network among teenagers and even children. Some people
think this means of communication has negative effects on youths. Do you agree or disagree? Write a 10- line article to be
published on your Facebook page in which you state your opinion about the issue.
19. (BAC 2017 PR.) The following question has been posted on Facebook: “have inventions and scientific discoveries really
improved people’s lives?” write a 12-line comment stating your opinion about this issue
20. (BAC 2017 CO.) As tourism in Tunisia is going through hard times, you have decided to write a 10-line advertisement to
post on your Facebook page in which you encourage tourists to visit your country.
21. (BAC 2018 PR.) As the debate over Lifelong learning is in progress, you have decided to contribute a 12-line article for an
educational blog showing the importance of learning for life.
22. (BAC 2018 CO.) Journalist Andrew Brown wrote: “the internet is so big, so powerful that for some people it is a complete
substitute for life.” In reaction to Andrew Brown’s opinion, write a 12-line article for your school magazine in which you
express your point of view about the changes in people’s lives that are caused by the use of the Internet.

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