Language Solution

2021 DSE Paper 2 Writing

Q1  Making an Announcement about Annual School Fair

Writing Tasks: You are helping your school organise the annual school fair. You have been asked to make an announcement about the event during the morning assembly.

Use the poster below to help you write your announcement. In your announcement:

  • Introduce the event.
  • Describe some of the activities that will take place.
  • Let students know how they can help out.

Write about 200 words.

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Annual (adj) 年度的

The school fair is an annual event that everyone looks forward to.
Assembly (n) 集會
The morning assembly will be held in the school hall.
Stall (n) 攤位
There will be various food stalls at the school fair.
Volunteer (n) 志願者
We need volunteers to help with the event.
Performance (n) 表演
The student performances will begin at 2 pm.
Alumni (n) 校友
Alumni are welcome to join the football match.
Display (n) 展覽
Students’ work will be on display during the fair.
Participate (v) 參加
We encourage all students to participate in the event.
Organize (v) 組織
The student council helped to organise the fair.
Craft (n) 工藝
The arts and crafts section will be very exciting.

Level 5

Anticipate (v) 預期
We anticipate a large turnout for this year’s fair.
Coordination (n) 協調
Coordination among different teams is crucial for the event’s success.
Extracurricular (adj) 課外的
The fair includes many extracurricular activities.
Fundraising (n) 籌款
The school fair serves as a major fundraising event for our projects.
Initiative (n) 主動性
Students are encouraged to take the initiative and volunteer.
Logistics (n) 後勤
The logistics of setting up stalls and stages are complex.
Participation (n) 參與
Active participation by students and parents is vital.
Program (n) 節目
The program for the fair includes performances, games, and displays.
Promote (v) 推廣
The event aims to promote school spirit and community involvement.
Venue (n) 場地
The school grounds will be the main venue for the fair.

Useful Sentences

Level 3

The school fair is an annual event that brings together students, teachers, and parents. (Simple Sentence) 學校園遊會是一個每年都會舉辦的活動,聚集學生、老師和家長。
There will be various food stalls, and students can also participate in games and arts and crafts activities. (Compound Sentence) 將會有各種食品攤位,學生也可以參加遊戲和工藝活動。
We need volunteers to help with the event, which will take place on May 29th. (Complex Sentence – Relative Clause) 我們需要志願者來幫助這次活動,活動將在5月29日舉行。
The morning assembly will be held in the school hall where we will introduce the event. (Complex Sentence – Relative Clause) 早會將在學校禮堂舉行,我們將在那裡介紹活動。
Students’ work will be on display, so parents can see their children’s achievements. (Complex Sentence – Cause and Effect) 學生的作品將展出,因此家長可以看到孩子們的成就。

Level 5

We anticipate a large turnout for this year’s fair, which has been promoted extensively through social media and newsletters. (Complex Sentence – Relative Clause) 我們預期今年的園遊會會有大量人參加,因為已經通過社交媒體和通訊廣泛宣傳。
Not only will the event serve as a major fundraising opportunity, but it will also foster a sense of community among participants. (Compound Sentence with Inversion) 這次活動不僅將成為一個重要的籌款機會,而且還將在參與者之間培養社區意識。
If the weather were to be unfavorable, alternative indoor arrangements would have been made to ensure the event’s success. (Conditional Type 2) 如果天氣不佳,將會有替代的室內安排來確保活動的成功。
The logistics of setting up stalls and stages are complex, necessitating careful planning and coordination to avoid any potential issues. (Complex Sentence – Cause and Consequence) 設置攤位和舞台的後勤工作非常複雜,需要仔細的計劃和協調以避免任何潛在問題。
By promoting extracurricular involvement through events like the school fair, the institution aims to enhance students’ holistic development, which is essential for their future success. (Complex Sentence – Relative Clause) 通過舉辦像學校園遊會這樣的活動來推廣課外參與,該機構旨在增強學生的全人發展,這對他們的未來成功至關重要。

Q2  Why Sales of Electric Vehicles are Low?

Although studies show electric cars are more environmentally friendly than petrol cars, less than 3% of all vehicles sold in 2020 worldwide were electric.

Write a letter to the editor of Hong Kong Post.

  • Discuss why sales of electric vehicles are so low.
  • Suggest what can be done to attract more people to drive these vehicles.

Write about 400 words.

Level 3

Vehicle (n) 交通工具
Electric vehicles are becoming more popular due to their environmental benefits.
Environmentally friendly (adj) 環保的
Using public transportation is more environmentally friendly than driving a car.
Petrol (n) 汽油
Petrol prices have been increasing steadily over the past few years.
Percentage (n) 百分比
A small percentage of students chose to study abroad.
Benefit (n) 好處
One of the benefits of electric cars is that they produce zero emissions.
Suggest (v) 建議
I suggest taking the bus to avoid traffic.
Discuss (v) 討論
Let’s discuss the pros and cons of electric vehicles.
Increase (v) 增加
The government needs to increase subsidies for electric cars.
Attract (v) 吸引
The new policy aims to attract more tourists to the city.
Policy (n) 政策
The government has introduced a new policy to promote renewable energy.

Level 5

Sustainability (n) 可持續性
Sustainability is a key factor in the development of new technologies.
Infrastructure (n) 基礎設施
Improving the infrastructure for electric vehicles is essential for their widespread adoption.
Incentive (n) 激勵措施
Financial incentives can encourage more people to buy electric cars.
Implementation (n) 實施
The implementation of new environmental policies has been challenging.
Emission (n) 排放
Reducing carbon emissions is crucial to combating climate change.
Adoption (n) 採用
The adoption of electric vehicles has been slow but steady.
Initiative (n) 倡議
The government has launched several initiatives to promote clean energy.
Market penetration (n) 市場滲透率
Market penetration of electric vehicles remains low in many countries.
Barrier (n) 障礙
High costs are a significant barrier to the adoption of electric cars.
Awareness (n) 意識
Raising public awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles is important.

 

Useful Sentences

Level 3

Electric vehicles are becoming more popular due to their environmental benefits. (Simple sentence) 由於環保的好處,電動車變得越來越受歡迎。
Using public transportation is more environmentally friendly than driving a car, but many people still prefer their own vehicles. (Compound sentence) 使用公共交通工具比開車更環保,但許多人仍然喜歡自己的車。
Although petrol prices have been increasing steadily, many people are hesitant to switch to electric cars. (Complex sentence: contrast) 儘管汽油價格一直在穩步上漲,但許多人仍然猶豫是否要轉換到電動車。
The government needs to increase subsidies for electric cars if they want to see a significant rise in sales. (Complex sentence: condition) 如果政府希望看到電動車銷售量顯著增加,就需要提高補貼。
One of the benefits of electric cars is that they produce zero emissions, which helps reduce air pollution. (Complex sentence: cause-effect) 電動車的好處之一是它們不排放廢氣,這有助於減少空氣污染。

Level 5

Improving the infrastructure for electric vehicles, which includes charging stations and maintenance facilities, is essential for their widespread adoption. (Relative clause) 改善電動車的基礎設施,包括充電站和維護設施,對其廣泛採用至關重要。
Not only does the implementation of new environmental policies require substantial investment, but it also demands public cooperation. (Inversion) 新環保政策的實施不僅需要大量投資,還需要公眾的合作。
If the government had provided more financial incentives earlier, the adoption of electric vehicles might have been quicker. (Conditional Type 3) 如果政府早些提供更多的財政激勵,電動車的採用可能會更快。
Financial incentives can encourage more people to buy electric cars because they lower the initial cost, making these vehicles more affordable. (Cause and consequence) 財政激勵可以鼓勵更多人購買電動車,因為它們降低了初始成本,使這些車輛更容易負擔。
Raising public awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles is crucial, as it directly influences consumer behavior and can lead to higher market penetration. (Cause and consequence) 提高公眾對電動車好處的認識至關重要,因為它直接影響消費者行為,並可能導致更高的市場滲透率。

Q3  Email to Online Fast Fashion Company 

You work in the sales department at Fast Fashion, an online company that sells clothes. Recently, you have received a number of complaints from customers about the company’s no-exchange/no-refund policy.

Write an email to the sales manager.

  • Explain why you think this policy should be changed.
  • Suggest what changes could be made.
  • Discuss ways to prevent customers from taking advantage of the new policy.

Write about 400 words.

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Complaint (n) 投訴
We received a complaint from a customer about the defective product.
Policy (n) 政策
The company has a strict no-refund policy.
Exchange (v) 交換
Customers can exchange items within 30 days of purchase.
Refund (n) 退款
The store offers a full refund if the product is returned within seven days.
Customer (n) 顧客
Our customers expect high-quality service from us.
Suggest (v) 建議
I suggest revising the current return policy to improve customer satisfaction.
Prevent (v) 防止
We need to prevent fraudulent returns to protect our business.
Change (v) 改變
The company decided to change its return policy to be more customer-friendly.
Advantage (n) 優勢
Offering flexible returns can give us a competitive advantage.
Implement (v) 實施
The new policy will be implemented next month.

Level 5

Satisfaction (n) 滿意
Customer satisfaction is essential for the success of our business.
Feedback (n) 反饋
We regularly gather feedback from customers to improve our services.
Transparent (adj) 透明的
A transparent return policy can build trust with customers.
Fraudulent (adj) 欺詐的
Measures must be taken to prevent fraudulent return claims.
Liability (n) 責任
The company accepts liability for any defective products.
Compliance (n) 合規
The policy must be in compliance with consumer protection laws.
Assurance (n) 保證
Providing assurance of quality can reduce the number of returns.
Proactive (adj) 積極主動的
Being proactive in addressing customer complaints can enhance loyalty.
Discrepancy (n) 差異
Any discrepancy between the product description and the actual product should be resolved promptly.
Ameliorate (v) 改善
The changes in policy are intended to ameliorate customer service issues.

Useful Sentences

Level 3

We received a complaint from a customer about the defective product. (Simple sentence) 我們收到一位顧客關於產品缺陷的投訴。
The company has a strict no-refund policy, but this has led to many customer complaints. (Compound sentence) 公司有嚴格的不退款政策,但這導致了很多顧客投訴。
Although the store offers a full refund if the product is returned within seven days, many customers are still dissatisfied. (Complex sentence: contrast) 雖然商店提供七天內退貨全額退款,但許多顧客仍然不滿意。
If we change the return policy to allow exchanges within 30 days, customer satisfaction will likely improve. (Complex sentence: condition) 如果我們將退貨政策改為允許30天內交換,顧客滿意度可能會提高。
Suggesting revisions to the current return policy could prevent further complaints and enhance our reputation. (Complex sentence: cause-effect) 建議修改現有的退貨政策可以防止進一步的投訴並提高我們的聲譽。

Level 5

A transparent return policy, which clearly outlines the conditions and procedures, can build trust with customers. (Relative clause) 一個明確說明條件和程序的透明退貨政策,可以建立顧客的信任。
Not only must the new policy comply with consumer protection laws, but it should also be easy for customers to understand and follow. (Inversion) 新政策不僅必須遵守消費者保護法律,而且應該讓顧客容易理解和遵守。
If the company had implemented a more flexible return policy earlier, customer satisfaction might have been higher. (Conditional Type 3) 如果公司早些實施更靈活的退貨政策,顧客滿意度可能會更高。
Proactive measures to address customer complaints can lead to higher loyalty, as customers feel their concerns are being heard and acted upon. (Cause and consequence) 積極解決顧客投訴的措施可以提高忠誠度,因為顧客覺得他們的關切得到了重視和處理。
Providing assurance of quality, coupled with a reasonable return policy, can ameliorate many customer service issues. (Cause and consequence) 提供質量保證,加上合理的退貨政策,可以改善許多客戶服務問題。

Q4  Job Application for Assistant Coach Position

You are a professional athlete looking for a career change. You have seen the job vacancy shown below and would like to apply for the position of Assistant Coach.

Hong Kong Sports Foundation is hiring Assistant Coaches

Main duties:

  • To design training programmes for elite athletes
  • To organise international sporting competitions
  • To identify and support local talent

Write a job application letter to the Human Resources Manager.

  • Introduce yourself and your athletic history.
  • Explain your interest and suitability for the job.

Write about 400 words.

 

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Foundation (n) 基金會
The foundation supports various sports initiatives across the region.
Vacancy (n) 職位空缺
There is a vacancy for the position of Assistant Coach at the Hong Kong Sports Foundation.
Programme (n) 計劃
I have designed a comprehensive training programme for the athletes.
Competition (n) 比賽
Organizing international competitions is one of the key duties of the job.
Talent (n) 人才
Identifying and nurturing local talent is crucial for the growth of sports.
Application (n) 申請
I am writing to submit my application for the Assistant Coach position.
Athlete (n) 運動員
As a professional athlete, I have participated in numerous national and international events.
Experience (n) 經驗
My extensive experience in the sports industry makes me a suitable candidate for this role.
Interest (n) 興趣
My interest in coaching stems from my passion for sports and helping others achieve their potential.
Support (v) 支持
I am eager to support the foundation’s mission to promote sports excellence.

Level 5

Comprehensive (adj) 全面的
I have developed comprehensive training programmes that cater to athletes of all levels.
Initiative (n) 主動
Taking the initiative to implement new training techniques has always been my strength.
Meticulous (adj) 一絲不苟的
My meticulous approach to training ensures that athletes achieve peak performance.
Strategic (adj) 策略性的
Implementing strategic plans for athlete development is a critical aspect of coaching.
Proficiency (n) 精通
My proficiency in various sports disciplines allows me to provide versatile coaching.
Resilience (n) 韌性
Building resilience in athletes is essential for their long-term success.
Leadership (n) 領導能力
Demonstrating strong leadership skills has been a hallmark of my athletic career.
Endorsement (n) 支持
My coaching philosophy has received strong endorsement from several notable athletes.
Exemplary (adj) 模範的
I strive to be an exemplary coach, setting high standards for both myself and the athletes.
Synergy (n) 協同作用
Creating synergy among team members is key to achieving outstanding results.

 

Useful Sentences

Level 3

I am writing to submit my application for the Assistant Coach position at the Hong Kong Sports Foundation. (Simple Sentence) 我寫這封信是為了提交我對香港體育基金會助理教練職位的申請。
As a professional athlete, I have participated in numerous national and international events, and I believe my experience will be valuable. (Compound Sentence) 作為一名專業運動員,我參加過許多國內和國際比賽,我相信我的經驗會很有價值。
I am particularly interested in this position because it allows me to design training programmes, which is something I am passionate about. (Complex Sentence – Cause and Effect) 我對這個職位特別感興趣,因為它允許我設計培訓計劃,這是我非常熱衷的事情。
Although I have enjoyed a successful athletic career, I am eager to transition into coaching to share my knowledge with aspiring athletes. (Complex Sentence – Contrast) 雖然我享受了成功的運動生涯,但我渴望轉向教練工作,以便與有抱負的運動員分享我的知識。
My ability to identify and nurture local talent will contribute significantly to the foundation’s mission. (Complex Sentence – Relative Clause) 我識別和培養本地人才的能力將對基金會的使命做出重要貢獻。

Level 5

I have developed comprehensive training programmes that cater to athletes of all levels, ensuring they achieve peak performance. (Relative Clause) 我已經制定了全面的訓練計劃,適用於各級運動員,確保他們達到最佳表現。
Not only have I demonstrated strong leadership skills, but I have also shown the ability to foster teamwork and synergy among athletes. (Inversion) 我不僅展現了強大的領導能力,還顯示了在運動員之間培養團隊合作和協同作用的能力。
If I were to join the Hong Kong Sports Foundation, I would bring innovative training techniques and a strategic approach to athlete development. (Conditional Type 2) 如果我加入香港體育基金會,我將帶來創新的訓練技術和策略性的方法來發展運動員。
Because I possess a meticulous approach to training, athletes under my guidance have consistently achieved their personal bests. (Cause and Consequence) 因為我對訓練有一絲不苟的態度,在我指導下的運動員始終能夠達到他們的個人最佳成績。
Having received strong endorsements from several notable athletes, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to the foundation’s goals. (Participle Phrase) 在獲得了多位著名運動員的強烈支持後,我對自己能夠有效地為基金會的目標做出貢獻充滿信心。

 

Q5  Are Social Media Influencer More Trust Worthy Than Traditional Media Advertisements

A social media influencer is a person who is paid by a company to promote goods and services through their social media networks.

Surveys show that a majority of millennials trust the advice of social media influencers over traditional media advertisements.

Write an argumentative essay.

  • Discuss whether social media influencers are more trustworthy than traditional media advertisements.
  • Give reasons to support your point of view.

Write about 400 words.

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Influencer (n) 影響者
A social media influencer can greatly impact consumer behavior.
Advertisement (n) 廣告
Traditional advertisements are still widely used by many companies.
Network (n) 網絡
Social media networks have become essential platforms for marketing.
Survey (n) 調查
Surveys indicate a growing trust in social media influencers among millennials.
Millennial (n) 千禧一代
Millennials are known for their reliance on digital platforms for information.
Trust (v) 信任
Consumers tend to trust influencers more than traditional advertisements.
Promote (v) 宣傳
Companies hire influencers to promote their products on social media.
Platform (n) 平台
Instagram and YouTube are popular platforms for influencers.
Content (n) 內容
Influencers create engaging content to attract their audience.
Service (n) 服務
Influencers often promote both products and services to their followers.

Level 5

Authenticity (n) 真實性
The authenticity of influencers’ recommendations makes them more appealing to consumers.
Credibility (n) 可信度
The credibility of traditional advertisements is often questioned by younger audiences.
Engagement (n) 參與
High levels of engagement on social media can lead to successful marketing campaigns.
Transparency (n) 透明度
Influencers are expected to maintain transparency regarding sponsored content.
Persuasion (n) 說服力
The persuasion techniques used by influencers are highly effective.
Endorsement (n) 代言
A celebrity endorsement can significantly boost a product’s popularity.
Demographic (n) 人口統計
Different marketing strategies are used to target various demographics.
Perception (n) 看法
Public perception of influencers is generally positive due to their relatable content.
Monetization (n) 貨幣化
Influencers often monetize their content through brand partnerships.
Skepticism (n) 懷疑
There is increasing skepticism about the effectiveness of traditional media advertisements.

 

Useful Sentences

Level 3

A social media influencer can greatly impact consumer behavior through engaging content. (Simple Sentence) 社交媒體影響者可以通過引人入勝的內容極大地影響消費者行為。
Consumers tend to trust influencers more than traditional advertisements because they find their content more relatable. (Compound Sentence) 消費者往往比傳統廣告更信任影響者,因為他們覺得影響者的內容更有共鳴。
Although traditional advertisements are still widely used, the authenticity of influencers’ recommendations makes them more appealing. (Complex Sentence – Contrast) 雖然傳統廣告仍被廣泛使用,但影響者推薦的真實性使其更具吸引力。
Many companies hire influencers to promote their products on social media platforms, which are essential for reaching younger audiences. (Complex Sentence – Cause and Effect) 許多公司僱用影響者在社交媒體平台上推廣其產品,這對於接觸年輕受眾至關重要。
Surveys indicate that a growing number of millennials trust the advice of social media influencers over traditional media advertisements. (Complex Sentence – Relative Clause) 調查顯示,越來越多的千禧一代信任社交媒體影響者的建議,而不是傳統媒體廣告。

Level 5

The authenticity of influencers’ recommendations, which often stems from their personal experiences, makes them more appealing to consumers. (Relative Clause) 影響者推薦的真實性,通常源於他們的個人經歷,使其對消費者更具吸引力。
Not only do influencers create engaging content, but they also maintain transparency regarding sponsored products, which enhances their credibility. (Inversion) 影響者不僅創造引人入勝的內容,還保持對贊助產品的透明度,從而提高了他們的可信度。
If companies were to rely solely on traditional advertisements, they would likely miss out on the vast potential of influencer marketing. (Conditional Type 2) 如果公司僅僅依賴於傳統廣告,他們可能會錯失影響者營銷的巨大潛力。
Because public perception of influencers is generally positive, their endorsements can significantly boost a product’s popularity. (Cause and Consequence) 由於公眾對影響者的看法普遍積極,他們的代言可以顯著提升產品的受歡迎程度。
Having developed a strong connection with their audience, influencers are often perceived as more trustworthy than traditional media advertisements. (Participle Phrase) 由於與受眾建立了強烈的聯繫,影響者通常被認為比傳統媒體廣告更值得信賴。

Q6  The 21-day Gratitude Challenge

You took part in a social media challenge called ‘The 21-day Gratitude Challenge.’ For three weeks, you kept a journal about the things you were thankful for on a daily basis.

After completing the challenge, participants are invited to share their experience on the 21-day Gratitude Challenge website.

Write a blog post.

  • Explain why you accepted this challenge and what you hoped to achieve.
  • Reflect on the 21 days and whether taking on this challenge has changed you in any way.

Write about 400 words.

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Gratitude (n) 感激
I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the support I received from my friends and family during the challenge.
Journal (n) 日誌
Keeping a journal helped me to reflect on the positive aspects of my life every day.
Reflect (v) 反思
Each night, I would reflect on my day and write down what I was grateful for.
Achieve (v) 達到
I hoped to achieve a more positive mindset by focusing on gratitude.
Experience (n) 經驗
The experience of documenting my gratitude was transformative.
Challenge (n) 挑戰
The 21-day Gratitude Challenge was a new and exciting endeavor for me.
Positive (adj) 積極的
Writing about positive events each day made me more optimistic.
Mindset (n) 心態
My mindset shifted from focusing on problems to appreciating blessings.
Document (v) 記錄
I documented my feelings and experiences in my journal every day.
Transformative (adj) 變革的
The challenge was a transformative experience that changed my outlook on life.

Level 5

Introspection (n) 內省
Through introspection, I discovered the profound impact of daily gratitude on my emotional well-being.
Epiphany (n) 頓悟
I had an epiphany about the importance of appreciating the small things in life.
Profound (adj) 深刻的
The practice of gratitude had a profound effect on my overall happiness.
Metamorphosis (n) 蛻變
Participating in the challenge led to a personal metamorphosis.
Cognizant (adj) 認識到
I became more cognizant of the positive aspects of my life.
Perspective (n) 視角
The challenge helped me gain a new perspective on what truly matters.
Invaluable (adj) 無價的
The lessons I learned from this challenge were invaluable.
Mindfulness (n) 正念
Practicing mindfulness daily through gratitude journaling improved my mental clarity.
Catalyst (n) 催化劑
The challenge acted as a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement.
Resilience (n) 韌性
Focusing on gratitude increased my emotional resilience.

 

Useful Sentences

Level 3

I felt gratitude for the support I received. (Simple sentence) 我感激我收到的支持。
Keeping a journal helped me reflect on my daily life, and I became more positive. (Compound sentence) 記錄日誌幫助我反思我的日常生活,我變得更加積極。
Each day, I wrote about positive experiences that made me feel happy. (Relative clause) 每天,我都會寫下讓我感到快樂的積極經歷。
If you want to achieve a positive mindset, you should start a gratitude journal. (Conditional Type 1) 如果你想擁有積極的心態,你應該開始寫感恩日誌。
Although the challenge was difficult at times, it was ultimately rewarding. (Cause-effect relationship) 雖然挑戰有時很困難,但最終是值得的。

Level 5

Through introspection, I discovered the profound impact of daily gratitude on my emotional well-being. 透過內省,我發現每日感恩對我的情緒健康有深遠影響。
Had I not participated in this challenge, I would not have experienced such a profound change. (Inversion) 如果我沒有參加這個挑戰,我就不會經歷如此深刻的改變。
If I had known how transformative this challenge would be, I would have started it sooner. (Conditional Type 3) 如果我早知道這個挑戰會有如此變革,我早就開始了。
The challenge acted as a catalyst for personal growth, which led to a significant improvement in my outlook. 這個挑戰成為個人成長的催化劑,顯著改善了我的觀點。
The practice of daily gratitude journaling not only increased my mindfulness but also enhanced my emotional resilience. (Cause and consequence) 每日感恩日誌的練習不僅提高了我的正念,還增強了我的情緒韌性。

Q7  Scary Story about a Security Guard

You are joining a short story contest organised by a book shop.

  • Write a scary story about a security guard on duty one night.
  • Use the pictures to help you write your story. You can use the pictures in any order.

Write about 400 words.

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Patrol (v) 巡邏
The security guard patrols the building every hour to ensure everything is secure.
Alert (adj) 警覺的
He remained alert throughout his shift, despite the late hour.
Monitor (v) 監控
The security cameras monitor all areas of the building.
Suspicious (adj) 可疑的
He noticed a suspicious figure near the back entrance.
Alarm (n) 警報
Suddenly, the alarm went off, startling him.
Investigate (v) 調查
He decided to investigate the strange noises coming from the basement.
Enclose (v) 圍住
The building is enclosed by a tall, iron fence.
Dim (adj) 昏暗的
The hallway was dimly lit, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
Secure (v) 保護
His job was to secure the premises from any intruders.
Cautious (adj) 謹慎的
He moved cautiously towards the source of the sound.

Level 5

Premonition (n) 預感
He had a premonition that something bad was going to happen that night.
Apparition (n) 幽靈
He saw what looked like an apparition in the shadows.
Foreboding (adj) 不祥的
The foreboding silence made him uneasy.
Menacing (adj) 威脅的
The figure in the corner had a menacing presence.
Surveillance (n) 監視
The surveillance footage revealed a disturbing image.
Unnerving (adj) 令人不安的
The unnerving creaks and whispers filled the empty halls.
Intruder (n) 入侵者
He was certain there was an intruder in the building.
Malfunction (n) 故障
The malfunction of the security system left him vulnerable.
Vigilant (adj) 警惕的
He remained vigilant, despite the growing fear.
Adrenaline (n) 腎上腺素
The adrenaline rush kept him focused in the tense situation.

 

Useful Sentences

Level 3

The security guard patrols the building every hour. (Simple Sentence) 保全每小時巡邏一次大樓。
He remained alert, but the late hour made it difficult to stay awake. (Compound Sentence) 他保持警覺,但很難熬過深夜。
He noticed a suspicious figure near the back entrance while he was monitoring the cameras. (Relative Clause) 當他監控攝像頭時,他注意到後門附近有一個可疑的人影。
If he investigates the strange noises coming from the basement, he might find the cause of the disturbance. (Conditional Type 1) 如果他調查從地下室傳來的奇怪聲音,可能會找到擾亂的原因。
The alarm went off suddenly, causing him to jump in surprise. (Cause-Effect Relationship) 警報突然響起,讓他驚跳起來。

Level 5

The unnerving silence, which seemed to echo through the halls, made him feel as though he was not alone. (Relative Clause) 令人不安的寂靜,似乎在走廊回響,讓他感覺並不孤單。
Not only did he see an apparition, but he also felt a cold breeze sweep past him. (Inversion) 他不僅看見了一個幽靈,還感覺到一陣冷風掠過。
If he had been more vigilant, he might have noticed the malfunctioning camera earlier. (Conditional Type 3) 如果他當時更警覺,可能會早些發現故障的攝像頭。
The adrenaline rush that he experienced was a result of the sudden loud noise, which also heightened his senses. (Cause and Consequence) 他所經歷的腎上腺素激增是由突然的巨響引起的,這也提高了他的感官。
The menacing figure, who appeared out of nowhere, seemed intent on approaching him. (Relative Clause) 突然出現的威脅人物似乎打算接近他。

Q8  New Friends and Old Friends

You read this poem in class and your teacher has asked you to write an essay on the theme of friendship.

New Friends and Old Friends

Make new friends, but keep the old.
One is silver, the other is gold.

Friendships that have stood the test—
Time and change—are surely best.

Cherish friendship in your breast—
New is good but old is best.

Joseph Parry (1841-1903)

Use these questions to help you write your essay:

  • What is the difference between old and new friendships?
  • Do you agree that older friendships are better than new ones?

Write about 400 words.

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Cherish (v) 珍惜
It is important to cherish the memories created with old friends.
Endure (v) 忍受
True friendships endure the test of time and remain strong despite challenges.
Foundation (n) 基礎
The foundation of any lasting friendship is built on trust and mutual respect.
Nostalgia (n) 鄉愁
She felt a wave of nostalgia when she thought about her childhood friends.
Resilience (n) 彈性;恢復力
Friendships that show resilience often become deeper and more meaningful.
Transient (adj) 短暫的
New friendships can sometimes feel transient and less stable than old ones.
Mutual (adj) 互相的
Mutual understanding and shared experiences are crucial for a strong friendship.
Bond (n) 聯繫
The bond between old friends can be incredibly strong and comforting.
Value (v) 重視
We should value both new and old friendships, as each brings different benefits.
Loyalty (n) 忠誠
Loyalty is often a defining characteristic of long-term friendships.

Level 5

Endure (v) 忍耐
True friendships endure through life’s ups and downs.
Companionship (n) 陪伴
The companionship provided by old friends is irreplaceable.
Resilient (adj) 有彈性的
Friendships need to be resilient to survive the test of time.
Nostalgia (n) 懷舊
Nostalgia often plays a role in the value we place on old friendships.
Acquaintance (n) 熟人
Turning an acquaintance into a friend takes time and effort.
Unwavering (adj) 堅定的
Unwavering support from friends is invaluable.
Foster (v) 培養
It is essential to foster both new and old friendships.
Intrinsic (adj) 固有的
The intrinsic value of old friendships cannot be overstated.
Rejuvenate (v) 恢復活力
New friendships can rejuvenate one’s social life.
Persevere (v) 堅持
Friends who persevere through difficulties together often form the strongest bonds.

 

Useful Sentences

Level 3

Old friendships often hold a special place in our hearts. (Simple Sentence) 舊友誼通常在我們心中佔有特別的位置。
Friendships can evolve with time and change, and this makes them stronger. (Compound Sentence) 友誼可以隨著時間和變化而發展,這讓它們變得更強。
If you cherish your friendships, they will last longer and bring more joy. (Conditional Type 1) 如果你珍惜你的友誼,它們會持續更久,帶來更多快樂。
The bond between old friends is often unbreakable, which makes it unique. (Relative Clause) 老朋友之間的聯繫通常是牢不可破的,這使它變得獨特。
Shared experiences strengthen the bond between friends, creating deeper connections. (Cause-Effect Relationship) 共同的經歷加強了朋友之間的聯繫,創造了更深的聯繫。

Level 5

True friendships endure through life’s ups and downs, which test their resilience. (Relative Clause) 真正的友誼經得起生活的起起落落,這考驗了它們的彈性。
Not only did the companionship provided by old friends prove irreplaceable, but it also offered a sense of stability. (Inversion) 舊朋友提供的陪伴不僅被證明是無可替代的,還提供了穩定感。
If we had fostered new friendships as diligently as we did old ones, our social network would be much richer. (Conditional Type 3) 如果我們像培養舊友誼一樣勤奮地培養新友誼,我們的社交網絡會豐富得多。
Nostalgia often enhances the intrinsic value of old friendships, leading to a deeper appreciation. (Cause and Consequence) 懷舊情緒通常會提升舊友誼的固有價值,導致更深的欣賞。
The resilient nature of old friendships, which allows them to persevere through adversities, is what makes them invaluable. (Relative Clause) 舊友誼的彈性特質使它們能夠在逆境中堅持,這使它們變得無價。

Q9  TV Drama Series about Three Generations of a Family

Learning English through Drama

You want to be a screenwriter and have an idea for a TV drama series about three generations of a family.

Write a letter to the production manager at TV-Station X.

  • Introduce the characters, plot, and setting of your TV drama.
  • Explain why you think this idea would be popular with viewers.

Write about 400 words.

Useful Vocabulary

Level 3

Generational (adj) 世代的
The generational differences between the characters create interesting dynamics.
Family bonds (n) 家庭凝聚力;親情
The drama explores the family bonds that keep them together despite conflicts.
Conflict (n) 衝突
The story includes a major conflict between the eldest and youngest family members.
Tradition (n) 傳統
The family struggles to maintain their traditions in modern society.
Heritage (n) 遺產
The family’s cultural heritage plays a significant role in the storyline.
Narrative (n) 敘述
The narrative spans three generations, revealing the evolution of the family.
Dynamic (adj) 動態的
The dynamic relationships between the family members are central to the plot.
Resilience (n) 韌性
The family’s resilience is tested through various challenges.
Legacy (n) 遺產
The grandfather’s legacy influences the actions of the younger generations.
Character development (n) 角色發展
The series focuses on the character development of each family member.

Level 5

Intergenerational (adj) 跨世代的
The intergenerational conflicts add depth to the storyline.
Patriarch (n) 家長
The family patriarch holds a significant influence over the family’s decisions.
Matriarch (n) 女家長
The matriarch of the family is a pillar of strength and wisdom.
Narrative arc (n) 敘述弧
The narrative arc intricately weaves the past and present of the family.
Socioeconomic (adj) 社會經濟的
The family’s socioeconomic background adds layers of complexity to the plot.
Multigenerational (adj) 多世代的
The multigenerational storyline appeals to a wide range of viewers.
Cultural dichotomy (n) 文化二分法
The series explores the cultural dichotomy between the older and younger generations.
Character-driven (adj) 角色驅動的
The character-driven plot focuses on personal growth and family dynamics.
Emotional resonance (n) 情感共鳴
The show aims to create a strong emotional resonance with its audience.
Nuanced (adj) 細膩的
The nuanced portrayal of family relationships makes the series compelling.

 

Useful Sentences

Level 3

The story focuses on three generations living under one roof. (Simple Sentence) 故事集中在三代同堂的生活。
The family’s tradition is to have dinner together every Sunday, but the younger generation prefers to dine out. (Compound Sentence) 家庭的傳統是每週日一起吃晚餐,但年輕一代更喜歡外出就餐。
If the family can resolve their conflicts, they will grow stronger together. (Conditional Type 1) 如果家庭能解決他們的衝突,他們將一起變得更強大。
The grandfather, who is the patriarch of the family, often shares stories from his youth. (Relative Clause) 祖父是家族的家長,他經常分享他的青年故事。
The family bonds are tested when they face financial difficulties, but their resilience shines through. (Cause-Effect Relationship) 當他們面臨財務困難時,家庭紐帶受到考驗,但他們的韌性顯現出來。

Level 5

The intergenerational conflicts, which highlight the clash between tradition and modernity, add depth to the narrative. (Relative Clause) 跨世代的衝突突顯了傳統與現代之間的衝突,為故事增添了深度。
Not only does the family struggle with external challenges, but they also face internal conflicts that test their bonds. (Inversion) 家庭不僅面臨外部挑戰,還面對考驗他們紐帶的內部衝突。
If the younger generation had respected the heritage passed down, they might have avoided some conflicts. (Conditional Type 3) 如果年輕一代尊重傳下來的遺產,他們可能避免了一些衝突。
The emotional resonance of the series, resulting from the nuanced portrayal of relationships, captivates the audience. (Cause and Consequence) 系列的情感共鳴來自對關係的細膩描繪,吸引了觀眾。
The character-driven plot, which emphasizes personal growth amidst familial challenges, makes the series compelling. (Relative Clause) 角色驅動的情節強調了家庭挑戰中的個人成長,使得系列引人入勝。