Using the Ebook
A good way to use the ebook is to practise writing full paragraphs using the ideas given in it. Here are some example paragraphs about four different topics. I have underlined some of the words and phrases that link the ideas. Although the main ideas come from the ebook, it is sometimes necessary to expand on them and add examples; this is part of the practice.

1. Nuclear Power

Benefits: Nuclear power stations have several benefits. Firstly, nuclear power is a relatively sustainable energy source, meaning that it can be used to produce electricity without wasting limited natural resources like coal, oil or gas. Secondly, nuclear power stations are cleaner than fossil fuel power stations, and could help to reduce carbon emissions that cause global warming. Finally, with improvements in nuclear technology, the risk of accidents is being reduced. As a result, many countries are now considering nuclear power as a solution to high oil and gas prices, increasing demand for electricity, and worries about pollution and climate change.

Drawbacks (disadvantages): On the other hand, opponents of nuclear power worry about the safety of power stations. The Chernobyl disaster was an example of the dangers of a nuclear accident, and safety fears mean that the building of new nuclear power stations is unpopular; nobody wants to live near one. Apart from the risk of accidents, nuclear waste disposal is a significant problem as there is currently no way to decontaminate radioactive material. Waste has to be contained and stored, which is expensive and raises security issues. Another worry is that terrorists could steal radioactive materials and use them in a bomb.

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Using the Ebook

2. Immigration

Positives: From an economic perspective, immigration can be extremely positive. Many immigrants have skills that are needed in the country they move to. For example, countries sometimes lack key workers like doctors and nurses, and immigration is therefore encouraged. Immigrants who find work contribute to the economy of their new country with the skills they bring and the taxes they pay. At the same time, many immigrants send money to help family members in their home country, therefore helping to boost that economy too. From a social point of view, immigration has various benefits. First and foremost, immigration creates cultural diversity. The inhabitants of a country find themselves mixing with people of many different nationalities. This can help people to become more open-minded and tolerant.

Negatives: On the other hand, some people argue that immigrants take jobs that should go to local people, causing higher rates of unemployment. This can happen if companies are allowed to pay lower salaries to immigrant workers. Local people may find that companies prefer to employ foreign workers who will work longer hours for less money. Unemployment rates could also rise if there are too many immigrants and not enough jobs.

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Using the Ebook

3. Genetic Engineering

Advantages: From a medical perspective, human genetic engineering opens the door to some incredible possibilities. Scientists may be able to cure diseases and make us immune to viruses. Inherited illnesses would no longer exist because the genes causing them could be changed before a baby is born. It could also be possible to clone human organs. In this way, a person who needs a heart, liver or kidney transplant, for example, could be given a healthy copy of the organ, cloned from their own cells. We could all have replacement body parts made, to be used if we have an accident or illness. It is clear that this kind of technology would allow humans to live longer, healthier lives.

Disadvantages: However, there are some serious ethical concerns about human genetic engineering and cloning. Opponents of these technologies worry that parents will be able to choose their children’s characteristics, like height, hair colour and even intelligence. They argue that this would be unnatural, and it would be unacceptable in most religions. People are also afraid that cloning could go even further, with whole armies of soldiers cloned from the genes of the strongest or fastest people. This raises the human rights issue of whether clones would be produced and used like robots to do certain jobs. It has been suggested that clones might even be made to supply organ replacements.

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Using the Ebook

4. Study Abroad

Advantages: Many students choose to study abroad because there are greater opportunities in a particular foreign country. Foreign universities may offer better facilities or courses. They may also be more prestigious than universities in the student’s own country and have teachers who are experts in their fields. Therefore, by studying abroad, students can expand their knowledge and gain qualifications that open the door to better job opportunities. A period of study abroad can also broaden students’ horizons. In the new country, they will have to live and work with other students of various nationalities. Thus, overseas students are exposed to different cultures, customs and points of view. At the same time, students who study abroad need to learn to look after themselves without the support of relatives. It may be the first time that many young adults have lived alone with the responsibilities of cooking, cleaning and paying bills. Furthermore, most overseas students have to do all of this while learning a foreign language. Overall, these experiences all help to expand students’ understanding of the world around them.

Disadvantages: However, living and studying abroad can be difficult for several reasons. Firstly, many students have problems with paperwork such as visa applications and medical forms. They often have to translate their qualification certificates and register with embassies. Secondly, the language barrier can be a problem when students have to find accommodation and pay bills. They may also have to take tests in the foreign language before they can start a course. Studying in a foreign language is challenging and stressful. Finally, living alone in an unfamiliar culture can cause homesickness.

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Using the Ebook