睿途托福写作学术讨论合集 1.3

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托福写作学术讨论合集

目录
版本 1.3

⼀、官⽅样题
Sample 1-2 1

Sample 3-4 2

⼆、官⽅练习题
Question 1-2 3

Question 3-4 4

Question 5-6 5

Question 7-8 6

Question 9-10 7

Question 11-12 8

Question 13-14 9

Question 15-16 10

Question 17-18 11

Question 19-20 12

Question 21-22 13

Question 23-24 14

Question 25-26 15

Question 27-28 16

三、实考真题

真题1 (230726A)-真题2 (230726B) 17

真题3 (230730-真题4 (230731A) 18

真题5 (230731B)-真题6 (230802) 19

真题7 (230806)-真题8 (230808) 20

真题9 (230809A)-真题10 (230809B) 21

真题11 (230810)-真题12 (230811) 22

i
真题13 (230813)-真题14 (230815) 23

真题15 (230816)-真题16 (230819A) 24

真题17 (230819B)-真题18 (230821) 25

真题19 (230822)-真题20 (230823) 26

真题21 (230826)-真题22 (230827) 27

真题23 (230828)-真题24 (230829) 28

真题25 (230830)-真题26 (230903) 29

真题27 (230904)-真题28 (230906) 30

真题29 (230909)-真题30 (230910) 31

真题31 (230911)-真题32 (230916A) 32

真题33 (230916B)-真题34 (230917A) 33

真题35 (230917B)-真题36 (230918) 34

真题37 (230919)-真题38 (230920) 35

真题39 (230923A)-真题40 (230924) 36

真题41 (230926)-真题42 (231008) 37

真题43 (231010)-真题44 (231014) 38

真题45 (231016)-真题46 (231017) 39

真题47 (231018)-真题48 (231021A) 40

真题49 (231021B)-真题50 (231022) 41

真题51 (231028)-真题52 (231029) 42

真题53 (231101)-真题54 (231104) 43

真题55 (231111)-真题56 (231112) 44

真题57 (231115)-真题58 (231118) 45

真题59 (231122)-真题60 (231128) 46

真题61 (231203)-真题62 (231206) 47

真题63 (231209) 48

ii
Sample 1
Your professor is teaching a class on political science. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should:
• express and support your opinion
• make a contribution to the discussion

An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You will have 10 minutes to write it.
Dr. Gupta
As I mentioned in class, governments make public policies to describe their responses to various
problems that affect a community. Part of this process involves setting and defending priorities about
which issues deserve the most attention and resources. For example, governments need to decide
whether they should spend more money on education or on environmental protections. If you were a
policy maker, which issue would you argue is more important—education or environmental
protections? Why?

Kelly
We all live on planet Earth, and it is the only planet we have. Therefore, we must take care of it.
Clearly, protecting the environment should be the government’s priority over education. I think the
REAL question is, which approach to protecting the environment—restricting pollution, regulating
population, promoting clean energy, or something else—should be the government’s priority.

Andrew
I disagree with Kelly that that the environment is more important than education. Education is actually
the best way to protect the environment. Educated people can see how their decisions affect the world
around them. Also, with better science and technology education, we can develop solutions to
environmental problems. Therefore, I think the government should spend more money on education.

Sample 2
Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should:
• express and support your opinion
• make a contribution to the discussion

An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You will have 10 minutes to write it.
Dr. Achebe
When people are asked about the most important discoveries or inventions made in the last two
hundred years, they usually mention something very obvious, like the computer or the cell phone. But
there are thousands of other discoveries or inventions that have had a huge impact on how we live
today. What scientific discovery or technological invention from the last two hundred years—other
than computers and cell phones—would you choose as being important? Why?

Paul
I mean, we’re so used to science and technology that we are not even aware of all the things we use in
our daily lives. I would probably choose space satellites. This technology happened in the last hundred
years, and it has become important for so many things. Just think about navigation, or
telecommunications, or even the military.

Claire
I am thinking about medical progress. Like, for example, when scientists discovered things about
healthy nutrition. I am thinking of identifying all the vitamins we need to stay healthy. I am not sure
exactly when the vitamin discoveries happened, but I know they are very important. Our health is
much better than it was 200 years ago.

1
Sample 3
Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should:
• express and support your opinion
• make a contribution to the discussion

An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You will have 10 minutes to write it.
Dr. Diaz
Over the next few weeks, we are going to look at lots of different materials about the role of television
programs and television watching in people’s lives. But first, I want to know what you think about this
topic. So here’s a question for the class discussion board: What do you think is the most significant
effect that watching television has on people? Why do you think television has this effect?

Kelly
I know that one way that television influences people’s behavior is that when you are watching
television, you are not moving around or exercising. This is especially true for children. The American
Academy of Pediatrics says that when children spend a lot of time watching television, they have a
greater tendency to be overweight.

Paul
I think the main effect that television has on people is to broaden their experience. There are so many
programs devoted to nature and travel. Think of all the different places in the world you can
experience through television! Last night I watched a program about life in Antarctica, and it was
fascinating!

Sample 4
Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should:
• express and support your opinion
• make a contribution to the discussion

An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You will have 10 minutes to write it.
Dr. Diaz
We are all exposed to a lot of advertising, especially on the internet. And of course businesses spend a
lot of money to create and distribute advertising. Before next class, I would like for you to discuss this
question: Is advertising just a way of manipulating people to buy things they do not need, or is it an
important source of information that helps people make informed consumer decisions?

Karen
I don't think most people consider ads to be valuable. I read that in just one year, from 2018 to 2019,
the number of computers, tablets and mobile phones using ad blockers increased from 142 million to
615 million.

Brad
People can find out a lot about products from advertising. There's plenty of evidence that people
usually begin the process of making a big purchase by looking at ads and reviews. I have to go to
another class right now, but I'm going to post later about an advertisement that gave me a lot of useful
information.

2
Question 1
Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
Let’s think about population trends in urban and rural areas (villages). Living in urban areas can be
expensive; nonetheless, when they have a choice of where to live, people in some countries do not
wish to live in rural areas even if the cost of living there is lower. If governments of some countries
want to attract more people to live in rural areas or villages, what is the best strategy or approach that
governments can use? Why?

Claire
I would live in a rural area if the government gave more financial help to farmers. Although it may
cost very little to live in a rural area, it costs a lot to begin a career in agriculture. If I had financial
help, I would start my own farm and be happy to live in a rural area.

Kelly
In my country, urban centers are great places to live because you can access shops, restaurants, and
museums. If the government of my country wanted to attract me to live in a rural area, the area would
first have to attract more businesses focused on entertainment and culture than most rural areas have
now.

Question 2
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Gupta
This week, I want you to discuss assessment criteria. Some schoolteachers give high grades (marks)
only to those students who perform well on their homework assignments and tests. Other teachers,
however, may give high grades to students who have worked very hard on their assignments but have
not performed so well. Which approach do you think is better: Giving grades based only on
performance, or grading students not just on performance but also on their effort?

Kelly
I think grades should be based on performance only. It’s a matter of fairness. I’d be really upset if
another student got nearly the same grade that I did when I turned in work that was almost perfect and
the other student’s work had incorrect answers or unclear ideas. It wouldn’t matter to me if they
worked harder.

Paul
Sure, evaluation should mainly be based upon the student’s performance, but hard work should count
for something. A student who works hard, even when the final grade isn’t the highest in the class,
builds character, which will benefit the student later in life when they go to university or apply for a
job.

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Question 3
Your professor is teaching a class on environmental science. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
Nowadays, the world is facing a number of pressing environmental problems, and over the next few
weeks, we’ll be discussing various innovations that may help solve these problems. To begin our
discussion, I’d like you to think of one global environmental problem—for example, it could be
related to water, air, land, climate, biodiversity, energy, or something similar. Then explain what you
think would be an effective solution to this problem.

Kelly
One of the major environmental problems is the limited freshwater supply in many areas of the world,
which means that we need to find effective technologies to provide people with enough drinking
water. One solution is to improve the technology for removing salt from seawater, which could allow
us to use seawater to replenish dwindling freshwater supplies.

Paul
I think the biggest problem is the air pollution caused by the overuse of motorized vehicles. The
obvious solution is for local governments to promote alternatives, like building bike lanes in cities or
improving public transportation with electric buses. Both of these would be easy to implement as well.

Question 4
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
This week, we’ll look at how well students transition to university. Many recent high school graduates
have taken a gap year—a yearlong break after graduation—before studying at a university. During a
gap year, students may get jobs, travel, or simply relax and think about their future. Some students say
their gap year was beneficial, while others regret having taken one. In your opinion, does taking a gap
year create more advantages or disadvantages for students? Why?

Andrew
The gap year would be a good opportunity for students to reflect on their education goals and confirm
their plans for university. At least it would give someone time to investigate different fields and get a
better sense of what it means to be in business, to work in an office, or to work with their hands, etc.

Jake
Because university can be expensive, students should not take a gap year. Tuition, the cost of books,
and living expenses rise every year. The money a student might save during a gap year might not be
enough to cover the rise in prices when they enter university a year later.

4
Question 5
Your professor is teaching a class on environmental science. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
In our textbook, we read that parks and other green spaces with trees and plants have numerous
benefits for people in cities. But city governments sometimes must choose between using a piece of
available land as a green space or using it for other important purposes, such as for shopping areas or
for manufacturing plants. In your opinion, which is the better use for available urban space? Why?

Kelly
It's true that parks can benefit people in cities, especially health-wise. But it’s more important to use
the limited space for things that people cannot survive without, like hospitals or clinics. Medical care
is often an urgent necessity. Visiting a park is not.

Claire
I’m all for creating green spaces for people to enjoy, but you don’t necessarily need an open piece of
land to do that. Let the available land be used for business or housing purposes. Green spaces can be
created on the rooftops of existing buildings. And new buildings can be constructed creatively to
include open spaces with plants and trees.

Question 6
Your professor is teaching a class on business administration. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
We’ve been discussing the importance of hiring and retaining highly skilled employees, but even the
best employees may need to periodically update or further develop their work skills. One question
facing managers is how much time and money to invest in improving the work skills of their
employees. Some managers argue that ongoing employee training is the most important investment a
company can make. What are your thoughts on the matter?

Andrew
I don’t think that employee training is the most important investment a company can make. The
company should be hiring the most skilled workers it can find in the first place. There are so many
other unavoidable things that a company needs to spend money on that have to take precedence over
training.

Kelly
Employees’ leaving their jobs is always a risk, but providing ongoing training and skill development is
more likely to make employees want to stay rather than go, in my opinion. When employers pay for
training, employees are likely to feel more valued by their employer, and this can only improve the
employer-employee relationship.

5
Question 7
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
Companies now make computer games designed to help very young children learn. The games are
advertised for use by children aged 2 to 8 years and often involve basic math and reading skills,
presented in a fun, game-like style. Some people say that this results in children spending too much
time looking at computer screens. Do you think it's a good idea for very young children to play
educational computer games? Why or why not?

Andrew
I think it’s completely inappropriate for children as young as 2 years old to play what are essentially
video games. Even if the games are educational, the same skills can be taught in traditional ways-by
reading books to children, for example. And it would be beneficial to interact with their parents in this
way.

Kelly
Considering how important computers are to human societies these days, I think it actually makes
sense to allow very young children to explore them. And if the computer games that children play also
give them early access to subject matter that will later be taught in school, all the better.

Question 8
Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
In 1930, a famous economist predicted that at the end of the twentieth century, an average worker
would work only 15 hours a week, thanks to advances in technology. This did not happen, as we all
know. Nonetheless, the balance between work time and free time remains an interesting question. So,
let me ask you today: Twenty years in the future, will people have more leisure time (free time) and
less work than they have today? Why, or why not?

Claire
I think it is likely that people will work shorter hours in twenty years than they do today. Our societies
are becoming wealthier all the time. It does not seem necessary for people to continue working as hard
as they do today. At some point, having more free time should be more important than creating more
wealth.

Paul
I am not sure people will work less in the future. As Doctor Achebe wrote, a shortening of the
workweek was predicted before. There are many factors that determine how long people work. Our
economic system is very competitive. Workers are pushed to work longer and longer hours so that
companies have a competitive advantage.

6
Question 9
Your professor is teaching a class on environmental science. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
This week, we've discussed how carbon dioxide released by gasoline-powered (petrol-powered) cars
pollutes the air and contributes to climate change. Let’s focus now on two proposals that governments
can consider as they try to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from cars. One proposal is to improve and
expand public transportation. The other is to provide financial support to companies that make electric
cars and to consumers who buy them. Which proposal do you think is better? Why?

Claire
I think improving public transportation would be more beneficial overall than giving tax breaks or
rebates to particular companies and consumers. If taking a train or a bus is significantly easier,
cheaper, and faster than driving a car, more people will want to use public transportation. With fewer
cars on the road, there will be less air pollution.

Paul
I believe that providing financial support to electric-car manufacturers and consumers is the better
innovative long-term strategy. Many people live in rural areas, and they need their own vehicles to get
around. These people would not benefit from, say, more train lines being built in a far-off city.

Question 10
Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
Our current unit looks at tourism and the benefit it has on a country's economy. Many argue that while
tourism can indeed be a money-making endeavor, it can do more harm than good, especially tourism
to small, remote places that are not heavily populated. Should local or national governments promote
tourism to remote regions not typically visited by tourists before? Why?

Andrew
Tourism has always been a lucrative business. Improving the economies of these rural regions,
especially if those regions are poor, can only have a positive effect. People can have a better quality of
life by showcasing their food and traditions to the outside world. It’s a chance the people might not get
without promotion from the government.

Claire
I don’t think governments should promote tourism to remote regions. The people are likely not asking
for this kind of industry or for this kind of attention. Instead, governments should develop other means
of improving a region’s economic situation, like expanding agriculture or other industries. These
efforts will have a stronger, more permanent impact on the region than bringing in groups of tourists.

7
Question 11
Your professor is teaching a class on public policy. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Gupta
This week, we will be discussing a shortage of affordable housing that exists in many countries.
In these places, housing-both apartments (flats) and houses—are expensive, because populations are
growing faster than new housing is being built. Now, think about places in your country that have a
housing shortage. In your post, I would like you to indicate the most effective way for the government
to address a housing shortage in your country. Please explain why you think so.

Claire
In my country, there is a lack of affordable housing in the big cities. Low-cost housing exists in areas
outside of the cities, but that means workers have long commutes to reach their jobs in the cities. I
recommend that my government create initiatives to encourage the construction of large buildings
with many affordable apartments in cities.

Paul
Claire’s recommendation is fine, but many people prefer to live in a house rather than an apartment,
even if they have longer commutes. Living in a house can be quieter and more private. So, I believe
my government should give subsidies or tax relief to construction companies to build small, affordable
single-family houses on unused land that surrounds many cities.

Question 12
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Gupta
Let’s discuss how teachers’ job performance is assessed or evaluated. Regular evaluations of teachers
help to ensure that students receive high-quality instruction, that good teachers are rewarded, and that
struggling teachers receive help to improve. But what is the best way to evaluate teachers? Should
teachers be evaluated based on their students’ test scores? Should more-experienced teachers evaluate
less-experienced teachers? Should students’ feedback be considered? Which approach is best and
why?

Andrew
I think experienced senior teachers are the best source of information for teacher evaluations. School
leaders can assign experienced teachers to observe their fellow teachers periodically during class, and
these senior teachers can then provide feedback on their colleagues’ performance. An experienced
teacher has the knowledge to determine what other teachers are doing well and what needs
improvement.

Kelly
I'm not convinced that any one person’s occasional visits to a classroom would provide accurate
information. I’d like a more objective, fairer source of data, so I’d prefer to rely on test scores to
inform teacher evaluations. If all students take the same test, and some classes perform better than
others, then we know which teachers have been most successful.

8
Question 13
Your professor is teaching a class on educational administration. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
Teachers often ask school administrators for permission to take their students on field trips (for
example, to museums or historical buildings). Some school administrators provide funding and
encouragement for teachers to organize educational trips for the entire class. Many believe that going
on field trips is an important part of a child’s education; others think that a child’s time is better spent
learning in a classroom at school. Which view do you agree with? Why?

Kelly
Field trips are so demanding of a teacher’s time; I can understand why some people aren’t in favor of
them. Teachers can’t just decide that it might be fun to take their class to an art museum. They must
plan carefully to help children get the most out of that trip while not losing too much instructional
time.

Paul
Field trips can affect kids’ futures in important ways. One time I went on a field trip to a space
museum when I was young. I even got to try on a space suit. That experience made me want to be an
astronomer. I might not have developed my interest in astronomy without that field trip experience.

Question 14
Your professor is teaching a class on career readiness. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Gupta
When students are preparing to graduate from university, they need to make decisions about what kind
of company they want to work for. They might consider large, older companies with an established
reputation, or possibly new start-up companies, which tend to be small but very focused on the future.
Consider the advantages of each. Would it generally be better for a new university graduate to begin
working for a large, established company, or for a small start-up company? Why?

Kelly
I think in general, the established company is the better choice. Because they’re already well-known,
these companies have a certain amount of respect in the business community, so it would look good to
have that job experience on your résumé. That advantage alone would be a great start for a recent
graduate.

Andrew
I see your point, Kelly, but taking a position at a start-up company would offer so much excitement.
They often have an energy that older companies can’t match—everyone can be focused on new,
innovative business practices and they would be more aggressive about getting new clients. That
would be a much better experience for someone fresh out of university!

9
Question 15
Your professor is teaching a class on human resources. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
Our next class will focus on how companies maintain their staffing levels. While it is important for a
company to look for new employees to fill open positions, many believe it is equally important for a
company to retain the workers it already has on staff. In your opinion, what is the best way for a
company to encourage its employees to stay at the company instead of seeking a different job
elsewhere?

Paul
I think the best thing a company could do to keep its employees is to create a work environment that
employees look forward to going to five days a week. Cramped office spaces or disorderly factory
floors are not places I would want to spend a third of my life.

Claire
I see Paul’s point. But even more important than a nice workspace is making sure the employees don’t
feel stuck in their jobs. Companies should offer opportunities for employees to advance their skills so
they can get new positions within the company if they want. Employees should feel like they have a
goal to work toward.

Question 16
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
This week, we’ll look at practices and activities used by primary and secondary school teachers. Let’s
begin by discussing journal writing activities. Some teachers ask students to keep a journal and to
regularly write down their thoughts about a recent lesson or respond to a question presented by the
teacher. There are also many teachers who never assign journal writing. Now, I’d like your opinion: Is
journal writing a worthwhile activity to support learning? Why or why not?

Claire
I think getting students into the habit of writing reflectively can be very beneficial. Journal writing
gives students an opportunity to develop their own ideas about what they’re learning whether it’s for a
math class or a literature class. It could also give the teacher an informal way to gauge how well
students are comprehending the lessons.

Paul
I’m not convinced journal writing is worthwhile in classes. Teachers have a lot of material to cover,
and students have much to learn. Unless a student is particularly interested in journal keeping, the
student might view journaling as just more busy work. For there to be a benefit, students would need
to take it seriously. I don’t think all would.

10
Question 17
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
Next, we’ll be discussing the future of higher education, focusing on proposals for making
postsecondary education (education after high school) more efficient and more accessible. One such
proposal is to make class attendance optional. For instance, under an optional-attendance policy,
university students could choose not to attend classes but instead study the course materials and
acquire the knowledge on their own time. Their grade would then be based entirely on exams or
papers. What are your thoughts on this approach?

Claire
I like the idea of optional attendance. University students have a lot going on, and sometimes it’s
difficult to make it to class. As long as students are held accountable for the information they’re
supposed to learn, I don’t see why they should have to attend every class session, especially for classes
that meet multiple times a week.

Andrew
I have to disagree with Claire. I think that class attendance policies foster another important kind of
accountability. They teach discipline and responsibility. Many of the jobs that university or trade
school students will pursue after graduation have their own attendance policies, so students should see
class attendance as good preparation for entering the workforce.

Question 18
Your professor is teaching a class on child development. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
We’ve been discussing ways that parents can help prepare their teenage children for adulthood. One
line of thinking is that parents should encourage their teenagers to take part-time jobs to help them
learn to be responsible, even if it is not an economic necessity for the teenagers to work. What are
your thoughts on the issue? Should parents urge teenage children to get a job? Why or why not?

Claire
Teenagers should work part-time. When I was 16, I washed dishes at a restaurant, and I’m glad I did. I
learned a lot about time management. I had to use my free time wisely to make sure I could complete
homework despite spending time working at a job. This is a valuable life skill.

Andrew
I would have to disagree. A teenager is still just a kid, and in my opinion, a kid needs to focus on going
to school and learning. A job would be an unnecessary distraction. If it’s all about learning
responsibility, I think there are a lot of other ways to do that without the commitment required by a
job.

11
Question 19
Your professor is teaching a class on human resource management. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
In our discussion on the importance of workplace mentoring, we learned that mentoring (training or
guiding someone) is typically associated with senior employees—that is, workers who have been at a
company for a long time and mentor younger colleagues. However, at some companies, especially
those use innovative technology, younger employees sometimes train or guide senior colleagues. Do
you think that it is a good idea for companies to encourage younger employees to mentor senior
coworkers? Why or why not?

Claire
I support the idea of having younger employees mentor senior ones. Technology is developing so
rapidly these days, and young people are much more skilled in dealing with technology than older
employees are. It’s the ideal way for senior employees to learn new digital skills.

Kelly
Claire makes a good point, but technology aside, I do not think that younger employees make good
mentors right away. When younger employees join companies, they often lack the experience needed
to be fully effective in their roles. They should be mentored by senior coworkers who have achieved a
high level of expertise in their work.

Question 20
Your professor is teaching a class on resource management. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
This week, we’ll be discussing how technological advances are transforming the job market, making
some jobs unnecessary. Let’s focus on government actions. Suppose the government had to choose
between two ways in which to support people whose jobs are no longer needed. The government could
either give them enough money to live on until they find new jobs or offer them free job training
without giving them money directly. Which of these two solutions do you think is better? Why?

Andrew
I believe that the government should prioritize providing free job training opportunities. Modern
training programs are usually costly, which means that many people will not be able to afford them
without the government’s funding. By participating in training programs, people will develop new, in-
demand skills and become more competitive in the job market.

Kelly
Although I agree that having access to free training programs sounds promising, I think the
government’s first step should be to give people enough money to live on until they find new jobs.
This money will go directly into people’s pockets and allow them to make their own choices
concerning their future.

12
Question 21
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
Teachers have to study for a long time to earn teaching degrees before they are ready to work in the
classroom. Some people feel that in addition to earning a university degree, teachers should be
required to take courses every few years to update their knowledge. Do you agree that there should be
a mandate for teachers to take courses every few years, so they know the latest developments in their
fields? Why or why not?

Andrew
I support this policy of making teachers continue to take courses throughout their careers. This is
especially important for science teachers because new scientific discoveries are made all the time.
Teachers need to be aware of any new developments in their content areas so they can update their
lesson plans as needed to make sure students are getting current information.

Claire
I think this mandate sounds good in theory, but it might be hard to implement. Teachers already have
very busy schedules, as they spend a lot of time preparing lessons, teaching, and grading. Teachers
also often participate in different professional development opportunities, so taking mandatory courses
on top of all this work might be burdensome for many teachers.

Question 22
Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Gupta
This week, we’ll be looking into family dynamics. One common concern in our field is that due to
busy schedules, many families have limited time to spend together, so connections within families
may grow weaker over time. Let’s begin by discussing the following viewpoint: the best way for a
family to strengthen family bonds is to work on something together, for example, cooking, gardening,
or working on a craft project. Do you agree or disagree with this viewpoint?

Andrew
I agree. Families feel more connected while working together rather than while doing passive
activities, such as watching TV. While working together, family members have an opportunity to
engage in an in-depth discussion and share their thoughts and feelings. Working toward a common
goal, such as planting a garden, helps families create happy memories and feel a sense of
accomplishment.

Claire
I don’t think working together is the best way for every family to strengthen family bonds because
every family is different and even within one family, it is difficult to find tasks that are interesting to
everyone. While working together, family members may disagree about how to best accomplish tasks,
which may result in an argument.

13
Question 23
Your professor is teaching a class on film studies. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Dr. Diaz
This week we looked at how the cinema—the physical building where we watch films—has evolved
over the years. Now, I want you to consider this question: with so many internet streaming services
available for viewing films at home, do you think cinemas will cease to exist in the future? Will a time
come when people stop going to cinemas entirely? Why or why not?

Paul
In my opinion, cinemas are here to stay. For thousands of years, people have been sharing the
collective experience of watching a show, whether it was a live performance at a theater in ancient
Greece or a recorded film in a cinema in today’s society. And they will continue to want that shared
viewing experience.

Claire
I agree that cinemas are becoming obsolete, but I don’t think it’s because of technology. Many of the
best films these days are being produced as ten- or twelve-part miniseries, with much more focus on
character development. These productions are meant to be watched on television. You don’t need a big
screen to enjoy them.

Question 24
Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
Next week, we’ll be discussing the role of museums in society, and we’ll explore the various contexts,
social and otherwise, in which museums operate. Today, I’d like you to think about the benefits of
museums. For a city and its residents, what do you think is the most significant advantage of having a
museum located in that city? Explain why you think so.

Andrew
Museums can inspire people in many ways. If a city has a museum, people have access to out-of-the-
ordinary experiences. Whether in a room with sixteenth-century paintings or some moon rocks, being
near fascinating objects from the past transports people out of their everyday lives. It can offer them a
new perspective or a sense of possibility in their lives.

Claire
Andrew makes a good point, but personally, I see greater benefit in the social aspect of museum-
going. I think the biggest advantage of having a museum nearby is that people can come together for
events like exhibitions and lectures or to volunteer. Museums foster a sense of community in a city.
They can unite people in a common appreciation of something.

14
Question 25
Your professor is teaching a class on business management. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Achebe
This week, we will be discussing leadership; more specifically, we will be examining the various
qualities found in all successful business leaders. To get you thinking about this topic, I’d like you to
consider the following question: What is more important for being an effective leader of a business—
excellent communication skills or a strong technical background in a particular industry?

Andrew
The best leaders are the ones who are good communicators. If employees clearly understand what is
expected of them—if their leader can articulate clearly and concisely what they need to do to achieve
their goals—they will be more productive and efficient in their work.

Kelly
It doesn’t matter how well a company’s leader communicates if they don’t have a deep understanding
of the business itself. Employees aren’t going to be motivated by a company president who gives a
great speech if it’s evident that the president doesn’t know what they do in their day-to-day work.

Question 26
Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Gupta
This week, we’ll study an issue that is often debated by economists. There are many large industries
that, while providing significant economic benefits, engage in practices that result in environmental
harm. Some would argue that economic success should never come at the cost of damage to the
environment. Do you agree with this view? Why or why not?

Paul
I can’t say I agree. Everyone talks about protecting natural resources, but what about protecting
humans? Humans need the ability to work and provide for their families, and sometimes this means
creating jobs through industries that might contribute to pollution. Those industries can just be
monitored by environmental agencies. That's a win-win solution.

Kelly
I see your point, Paul, but I don’t think there are many industries that are so essential for the economy
that their impact on the environment can be ignored or merely “monitored.” Continual environmental
damage will one day lead to the extinction of species that are essentials to agriculture. That will
endanger our food chain.

15
Question 27
Your professor is teaching a class on transportation. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
Starting this week, we will discuss how public transportation is funded. Public transportation gives
people from all social groups access to their homes, workplaces, and shopping. Some argue that public
transportation should be supported by tax revenue so that all people could have free access to it. What
do you think? Should public transportation be free to all? Why or why not?

Kelly
People already pay so much in taxes for things like schools, roads, and law enforcement. I don’t think
that adding one more tax—especially when some people don’t even use public transportation—would
be a good idea. People need money for other essentials for their families.

Paul
Free public transportation would result in having fewer cars on the roads. Also, it would mean cleaner
air for the cities, and there are many health conditions that could be improved with cleaner air. I think
the savings in health-care costs and less pollution would make it worth it.

Question 28
Your professor is teaching a class on consumer behavior. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Diaz
This week, we will be looking at how consumers feel about their purchases of technology. Many
people find that buying devices such as mobile phones or personal computers can be very difficult.
They feel like they’re not prepared to make the best decision to suit their needs. In your posts, I want
you to discuss the following question: What do you believe is the biggest mistake that people make
when buying tech products? Explain what this mistake is.

Claire
I think one problem is that people don’t match the product’s capabilities to their actual needs. My
brother just got a new mobile phone, and he is very excited about how highly rated the camera is. But
he hardly ever takes photos. So he paid for a feature that he doesn’t really need.

Paul
When people buy a new piece of hardware, like a laptop, they often don’t consider the software they
are purchasing along with the hardware. If the software is not what you are used to or doesn’t work
with your existing files, it can be frustrating to learn a new way of using your laptop.

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真题1 (230726A)

Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In today's discussion, we've covered how consumers these days are constantly bombarded with
information from various channels that shape their preferences and decision making. Now let's look at
a more specific example. When it comes to making purchasing decisions, individuals have access to a
wide range of information sources. Many opt to seek guidance from their parents or close friends,
valuing their insights and experiences. On the other hand, some individuals prefer to rely on internet
suggestions to aid their choices. Which approach do you prefer? Why?

Amy
Seeking guidance from parents or close friends would probably be my first choice because they often
have our best interests at heart and can offer insights based on their personal experiences. Their advice
might be more tailored to our individual preferences and circumstances, and their recommendations
may be more trustworthy since they know us well.

Rory
I would choose the second option because online reviews, recommendations, and product comparisons
can provide a broader perspective on various options. This approach allows us to research extensively,
read about other people's experiences, and potentially discover products or solutions that we might not
have considered otherwise.

真题2 (230726B)

Your professor is teaching a class on social media. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Social media has transformed the way we connect, share information, and influence each other's
choices. Influencers, with their large online following, wield considerable power over their audience.
As a result, companies and brands now actively collaborate with influencers as a strategic marketing
approach to reach and engage with their target demographics more effectively. But the question
remains: do influencers have a positive or negative impact on their followers? What do you think?

Amy
I'd say that overall influencers are a positive presence online. Numerous influencers use their
platforms to provide valuable educational content. They cover topics ranging from fitness and
nutrition to mental health and sustainable living. By disseminating useful information, influencers can
positively impact the lives of their followers, encouraging them to adopt healthier habits and make
informed choices.

Rory
One major concern I have is that influencers often portray an idealized version of their lives. This can
create unrealistic standards and expectations, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem
among their followers. The constant comparison to carefully curated images can have damaging
effects on mental health.

17
真题3 (230730)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
As the global concern for climate change continues to grow, it has become imperative for us to explore
effective solutions to mitigate our carbon footprint and protect the environment. Air travel is
undeniably one of the fastest-growing sources of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon
dioxide. In response, some have proposed a carbon tax on all air travels to rein in their emissions,
while others have argued that this may not be necessary or effective. So, would you support a carbon
tax on air travel? Why?

Amy
I believe it would be a great start. The revenue generated from the carbon tax could be used to invest
in sustainable and renewable energy sources. This could fund research and development of cleaner
aviation technologies, such as more fuel-efficient planes or the advancement of biofuels for aircraft,
ultimately contributing to a greener and more sustainable aviation sector.

Rory
I get the overall idea behind this, but I think it's easier said than done. Designing and administering a
carbon tax can be complex and challenging. Determining the appropriate tax rate, calculating
emissions accurately, and preventing tax evasion can be difficult, which leads to potential
inefficiencies and ineffectiveness of the policy.

真题4 (230731A)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Today, we will be discussing a crucial topic that affects us all – environmental protection, with a
specific focus on the role of taxation in reducing air pollution. As we are well aware, air pollution is a
significant environmental challenge that poses severe threats to human health and the overall well-
being of our planet. One of the key contributors to air pollution is vehicular emissions, specifically
those from burning fossil fuels in cars. To combat this issue, the question arises – should the
government raise taxes on car fuels to help improve air quality?

Amy
I would support such a policy because higher fuel prices might encourage people to use public
transportation or opt for more eco-friendly vehicles, which could help reduce emissions and improve
air quality in the long run.

Rory
While I agree that we need to come up with a plan to combat air pollution, I have some concerns about
this specific approach. Higher fuel taxes could disproportionately impact low-income families who
rely on their cars for transportation. They might struggle to afford the increased cost of fuel, which
could make their daily lives more challenging.

18
真题5 (230731B)

Your professor is teaching a class on communications. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Next week, we are going to talk about ways to evaluate online sources of information. As you know,
while there is a lot of information available on the Internet, it is not all equally reliable. Not all the
information you find on websites is accurate, and some of it is even intentionally misleading. When
looking for information online, what do you think is the best way to determine whether the
information is accurate and truthful?

Amy
If I need to be sure information is accurate, I consult scholarly, peer-reviewed sources, like academic
journals. If other experts have reviewed the information and approved it, then I know it is likely to be
reliable. If I have any doubts, I can always ask my professors.

Rory
While I agree with Amy to an extent, not all the information you need is available in academic
journals. If I need more general information online, I consider the source. Who posts the information
to the site? Do they have anything to gain from presenting inaccurate information-for example, are
they selling a product related to the topic? Asking these kinds of questions is important.

真题6 (230802)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In the next few weeks, we'll be talking about urban traffic management. Let's begin by discussing one
popular idea—creating car-free central zones. Some cities around the world have recently designated
their downtown areas as being automobile-free, which means that vehicles are not allowed to enter the
city centers. Do you think that more cities should make their central zones car-free? Why or why not?

Amy
I support the idea of establishing free-car zones, because this will result in one important benefit
because this will result in one important benefit for cit residents: it will be better for their health.
Instead of driving everywhere, people will be encouraged to walk or cycle more. It would be a great
way to incorporate exercise into people's routines.

Rory
It sounds like a good idea, but I'm skeptical. My main concern is that many businesses located in the
city centers, such as shops and restaurants, may suffer because the customers will no longer be able to
reach those businesses by car. For some customers, if they can't drive, they won't go at all.

19
真题7 (230806)

Your professor is teaching a class on childhood development. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week we covered different parenting styles. One idea we discussed was how much independence
and freedom we should give our children, especially young children. One related issue is whether
there should be an age limit on when children can have mobile phones. In this discussion post, I would
like you to discuss whether you agree or disagree with the idea of setting a minimum age for when
children can have a mobile phone. Explain your opinion.

Amy
I totally agree with the idea of not giving children phones before they reach a certain age, let's say ten
years or so. I believe children younger than ten are not yet ready to deal with the world that comes
with mobile phones, as it can put them in harm's way.

Rory
Honestly, I am against the idea of restricting mobile phone access for young children. I believe mobile
phones can help children communicate with their parents if they need their help for an urgent matter
when they are away from their parents at school or elsewhere. Maybe companies can invent a special
kind of mobile phone that is somehow kid friendly.

真题8 (230808)

Your professor is teaching a class on marketing. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week in class we are learning about different methods of advertising and their effectiveness. One
advertising strategy that companies often use is to ask celebrities, famous entertainers, or sports
figures to promote their products. However, some experts believe that it is more effective to have
ordinary people talk about the product, Which of these two advertising strategies do you think is
better?

Amy
I like the "ordinary people" approach. People are more interested in a product when they see people
like themselves using the product. I think this is even true for clothing advertisements, which
traditionally use famous models. People get a better idea of whether they like the clothes when they
see all kinds of different people wearing them, and not just models.

Rory
I think the use of celebrities is really effective. The first thing an advertisement must do is grab
viewers' attention. When a famous actor or sports figure appears in your advertisement, viewers first
notice the celebrity, "what's this? I really like that person." they think. Then, once you have the
viewers' attention, you can provide information about your product.

20
真题9 (230809A)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week, we'll examine issues in education reform. For example, some educators think that by
focusing mainly on foundational knowledge in subjects like reading, math, and science, schools are
not fully preparing students for success in the workplace. These educators argue that soft skills-
nonacademic skills such as being empathetic or having a strong work ethic-should be part of the
curriculum, with classroom time dedicated to developing these skills. Do you agree? Why or why not?

Amy
I agree. While students need a strong foundation in academic subjects, soft skills are important
because they affect how well students do their work. If classroom time is set aside for these skills,
students will take them seriously and their academic work will benefit. Teachers could design lessons
so that students learn about a skill and then do role-playing activities with classmates.

Rory
Soft skills are important, but I don't agree with using classroom time to work on them. I'm not sure
how teachers would measure students' progress in developing these skills. If students' progress can't be
measured on something taught, I'm not sure if there's any point to teaching.

真题10 (230809B)

Your professor is teaching a class on marketing. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
We are looking this week at different ways businesses market their products and services, especially
nontraditional methods. One thing that marketers pay close attention to is online reviews of their
products. A business might include customer reviews on their website or carefully monitor the reviews
on third-party sites. I would like you to discuss your own experiences with online reviews. Do you
find hem useful when deciding whether or not to buy a product or service? Why or why not?

Amy
I think online reviews are a great source of information because they are written by ordinary customers
who are like me. For instance, when I read a restaurant review by professional food critics, I'm not
interested in some of the details that are included, like how the food is prepared. I'm more interested in
aspects like the quality of the food and the service, which regular customers usually comment on.

Rory
To me, online reviews have some real problems. First people are more likely to post reviews after a
bad experience than after a good one. As a result, what you read is often weighted toward the negative.
Also, you have no way of knowing whether reviewers know what they are talking about or even if
they actually bought and used the product they are reviewing.

21
真题11 (230810)

Your professor is teaching a class on e education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Some educators think that in our global, tech-oriented world, students need to focus on nonfiction
texts, such as news stories technical manuals, or other informational materials. They say that reading
poetry, novels, and short stories is not the optimal use of the limited time that students have in the
classroom. How do you view this approach to education? Should schools limit the teaching of fictional
texts in favor of teaching more practical nonfiction texts?

Amy
Education has to evolve. Nowadays there's an enormous amount of economic and political data freely
available online. It's important that students can evaluate this information to understand local and
world events in order to be good citizens. Reading fiction is a wonderful hobby but school should
prepare students for adult life and its responsibilities.

Rory
I spent a lot of class time in high school analyzing literature. I'm studying to be an engineer, so I admit
that reading fiction in school was not directly applicable to my future occupation, but it did instill in
me a love of reading, which is very valuable. I feel better equipped now to understand all sorts of
written material.

真题12 (230811)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week we talked about how important taking time off from work or school is for people's well-
being. Some people believe they get the most benefit when that time off is structured: that is, it
involves planning in advance about what will be accomplished on that day. Others believe it is better
to enjoy the day with no plan for how to spend it. In this discussion post please indicate which of those
approaches to spending time off from work or school you prefer and why?

Amy
I find it beneficial to do some advance planning for my free time. I live far away from my family so
when l am getting ready to visit them during a school holiday, l always plan my time off from school
very carefully. That way l have enough time to visit with each family member.

Rory
Personally, I prefer not to make any plans for my free time. I go to school, and l have a part-time job
each week. I make a schedule to be sure l can complete both my work and my studies. So when I have
time off from work and school, I just want to relax with no plan.

22
真题13 (230813)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Secondary or high school students (ages 14-18) who plan to attend university must begin thinking
about what field of study they'll enter. Some students might be directed into certain fields by their
parents and teachers. Others prefer to make their own choice based on their own interests and feelings.
Do you believe that secondary school students should be allowed to choose their own field of study at
in university without being guided by parents and teachers? Why?

Amy
I think it's a mistake to let students at that age make such an important decision on their own. They
usually don't have the wisdom to choose appropriately. The people who know them best-their parents
and teachers-will be more objective and give the best guidance.

Rory
Choosing a field of study, and perhaps a career in that field, based mainly on what others tell you to do
seems wrong to me. My parents wanted me to study engineering, but I'm not interested in that; I want
to help people learn. I know I'll struggle more financially as a teacher, but I'm sure I'll be happier.

真题14 (230815)

Your professor is teaching a class on government policy. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In times of economic challenges, governments often face difficult decisions regarding where to
allocate limited resources. Given the government's constrained budget, which areas do you believe
should have reduced expenditures?

Amy
I believe there should be a reduction in the redundant staff in city hall. Often, there are unnecessary
personnel allocations in the city hall. By reasonably adjusting and reducing the staff, it's possible to
significantly reduce labor costs, thereby saving a large amount of money for the government.

Rory
I suggest replacing the plants in the park that require frequent maintenance with those that don't need
regular upkeep, as a way to reduce expenses. Frequent lawn maintenance not only increases the
maintenance cost but also requires a lot of time and manpower. Opting for plants that grow slowly and
don't require regular trimming can lower the park's maintenance expenses and is also more
environmentally friendly.

23
真题15 (230816)

Your professor is teaching a class on career. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In many countries, the standard workweek consists of eight hours of work each day for five days per
week. Now, though, some people advocate a shorter workweek: a four-day workweek with no
decrease in workers' pay. There are advantages and disadvantages to this of course. What is your
opinion about instituting a shorter, four-day workweek, and why?

Amy
I like that idea, but on one condition: that the workday is no longer than eight hours. I have heard
some plans require ten hours a day for a four-day week. Most employees would find that exhausting,
and it could actually be counterproductive to tire out your workers. Yes to four-day weeks, but no to
ten-hour days!

Rory
In my country, the workweek is Monday to Friday plus half a day on Saturday, so moving to a four-
day workweek would be too drastic a change! Workers might struggle to complete their tasks in a
four-day workweek. It seems less stressful to spread work out over more days rather than trying to
condense it all into a shorter week.

真题16 (230819A)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
As society progresses and career demands diversify, more and more adults are embracing lifelong
learning, seeking to enhance their competitiveness by acquiring new skills or knowledge. In the realm
of adult education, which field do you believe holds the most demand?

Amy
I believe learning a foreign language is particularly valuable in adult education. In today's globalized
world, language skills not only facilitate better communication with international partners but also
open doors for those looking to work or live abroad. Furthermore, learning a new language stimulates
the brain and strengthens memory, offering a superb cognitive exercise for adults.

Rory
While languages are vital, I feel arts education holds even more merit for adults. Engaging with the
arts can be a therapeutic way to relax and de-stress. It also fosters creative thinking and refines
aesthetic appreciation, both of which are invaluable skills in both professional and personal spheres.
Beyond that, arts can serve as a hobby, bringing joy and a sense of fulfillment to one's life.

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真题17 (230819B)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
As you may be aware, an increasing number of people these days choose to continue their education
and pursue an advanced degree. However, many of them faced a critical decision: whether to pursue
an advanced degree on a full-time basis or do so while simultaneously working. This choice can
significantly impact one's career trajectory, personal growth, and overall life experience. Which would
you choose?

Amy
Personally, I don't think it's a good idea to try and obtain an advanced degree while working. If we try
to juggle a full-time job and further studies, we might find ourselves struggling to concentrate on
either. Such a lifestyle might lead to suboptimal performance in both academics and professional
endeavors due to divided attention. Plus, the lack of ample rest and relaxation could result in health
issues or burnout.

Rory
I respectfully disagree. I believe there are unique benefits to pursuing further education while working.
For instance, we can directly apply what we learn in the classroom to our jobs, enhancing our
understanding and improving work efficiency and quality. This kind of experience allows us to better
grasp the connection between theory and practice, thereby preparing us more effectively for our future
careers.

真题18 (230821)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Today, we are going to discuss how successful software and tech products are launched and marketed.
When companies launch and market these products, early adopters are important. Early adopters are
customers who tend to buy the latest products and like to be the first to try out new features and
processes. In today's discussion, I would like you to describe at least one advantage or disadvantage of
being an early adopter. Please explain why you think this way.

Amy
One obvious disadvantage is that early adopters probably pay a lot more for brand-new technology.
When products first come out, they're often quite expensive, but once they've been on the market for a
while, the price usually drops. That's why I usually wait to buy new technology.

Rory
New tech products might not always be more expensive- sometimes the company will give people a
new product at a discount in exchange for trying it out and giving feedback on it. In fact, to me, that's
the biggest advantage of being an early adopter-your feedback can guide future improvements to a
product. That's a powerful feeling.

25
真题19 (230822)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week in class, we are discussing how concern about the environment is affecting consumer
behavior. One recent trend in some countries is that consumers are trying to reuse products and
materials as much as possible; for example, by buying used clothing or a used car instead of a new
one. In your posts, I want you to discuss either an advantage or a disadvantage of buying used or
recycled products as opposed to new ones.

Amy
Besides the benefits to the environment, one advantage is that many vintage, previously owned
products, have more charm. For example, old furniture has a lot of character and history, and it always
makes a room more interesting. People can even make furniture from reclaimed materials, like making
a table from an old wooden door, which always looks unique.

Rory
Buying used products has its drawbacks. New products are backed by the company that made them. If
you buy a new washing machine and it does not work properly, the company will replace or repair it.
If you buy something used and it breaks, it's your responsibility to fix it and the parts are not always
available.

真题20 (230823)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
As the global concern for climate change continues to grow, it has become imperative for us to explore
effective solutions to mitigate our carbon footprint and protect the environment. Air travel is
undeniably one of the fastest-growing sources of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon
dioxide. In response, some have proposed a carbon tax on all air travels to rein in their emissions,
while others have argued that this may not be necessary or effective. So, would you support a carbon
tax on air travel? Why?

Amy
I believe it would be a great start. The revenue generated from the carbon tax could be used to invest
in sustainable and renewable energy sources. This could fund research and development of cleaner
aviation technologies, such as more fuel-efficient planes or the advancement of biofuels for aircraft,
ultimately contributing to a greener and more sustainable aviation sector.

Rory
I get the overall idea behind this, but I think it's easier said than done. Designing and administering a
carbon tax can be complex and challenging. Determining the appropriate tax rate, calculating
emissions accurately, and preventing tax evasion can be difficult, which leads to potential
inefficiencies and ineffectiveness of the policy.

26
真题21 (230826)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Considering environmental protection issues, do you think imposing taxes and fines on polluting
companies is effective?

Amy
I don't think that method is necessarily effective. Some large or wealthy companies might choose to
simply pay the fine rather than change their production methods or polluting behavior. They might
find paying the fine more economical than altering their production processes.

Rory
I have a different perspective. I believe that levying environmental taxes and fines on companies is
effective. Firstly, taxes and fines can provide the government with funds that can be used for
environmental protection projects or research into clean technologies. Secondly, even if some
companies opt to pay the fines, many others will change their production methods to avoid these
additional costs.

真题22 (230827)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Do you prefer shopping at small retail stores or at big supermarkets that have everything?

Amy
I personally prefer small stores. They often have a more intimate and personalized environment. When
you shop at smaller establishments, you frequently interact directly with the owner or staff, enabling a
more tailored service and recommendations. Plus, buying from local shops is a way to support the
local economy and small business owners.

Rory
I lean more towards big supermarkets. Firstly, they offer a much broader range of choices; you can
find whatever you need all in one place, which is hugely convenient for shoppers. Secondly, thanks to
economies of scale, big supermarkets can often offer more competitive prices. Additionally, modern
supermarkets pay a lot of attention to customer experience, frequently hosting various promotional
events and membership programs, providing even more opportunities for customers to save.

27
真题23 (230828)

Your professor is teaching a class on science. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In the past, progress in science and technology was generally slow. However, in recent decades, the
pace of scientific and technological progress has increased dramatically, with new discoveries and
inventions being developed almost every day. Some people think that this rapid progress in science
and technology is beneficial for society overall and should be encouraged. Others believe this progress
is happening too quickly and could create serious problems. Which view do you agree with?

Amy
The faster discoveries are made, the better. For instance, thanks to advancements in medicine, our
lives are significantly better than those of our great-grandparents. Back then, due to a lack of
medications, life expectancies were much shorter, whereas today, medicines are affordable and widely
available. Anyone with a severe illness would hope for rapid scientific progress.

Rory
The fact that most people have no say in the implementation of these new inventions worries me.
Think about the unemployment caused by the automation of many jobs; in this age of rapid
technological change, this has become common. Those who lose their jobs might not believe that such
progress is beneficial.

真题24 (230829)

Your professor is teaching a class on government policy. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
We've been discussing government budgets and the difficult decisions governments must make
regarding the use of public funds. Some services are clearly essential and must be paid for by any
government. But what about public funding of the arts? Do you believe that governments should
provide financial support for artists- for example, painters, sculptors, musicians, or filmmakers? Why
or why not?

Amy
I enjoy art as much as anyone does, but public funds come from taxes, and I don't think taxpayers'
hard-earned money should be spent on impractical or inessential items and services. Artists should
support themselves by selling their work to private individual sand companies. If they can't find
enough buyers, then maybe they should change careers.

Rory
Personally I think art actually is essential. Lots of public spaces in my hometown just wouldn't be the
same without artwork. From statues in public parks to murals painted on the walls of government
buildings, m y hometown really benefits from funding the artists who created these works.The public
spaces are simply more enjoyable for visitors because of the artwork.

28
真题25 (230830)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In the next few weeks, we'll be talking about urban traffic management. Let's begin by discussing one
popular idea—creating car-free central zones. Some cities around the world have recently designated
their downtown areas as being automobile-free, which means that vehicles are not allowed to enter the
city centers. Do you think that more cities should make their central zones car-free? Why or why not?

Amy
I support the idea of establishing free-car zones, because this will result in one important benefit
because this will result in one important benefit for city residents: it will be better for their health.
Instead of driving everywhere, people will be encouraged to walk or cycle more. It would be a great
way to incorporate exercise into people's routines.

Rory
It sounds like a good idea, but I'm skeptical. My main concern is that many businesses located in the
city centers, such as shops and restaurants, may suffer because the customers will no longer be able to
reach those businesses by car. For some customers, if they can't drive, they won't go at all.

真题26 (230903)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week, we'll examine issues in education reform. For example, some educators think that by
focusing mainly on foundational knowledge in subjects like reading, math, and science, schools are
not fully preparing students for success in the workplace. These educators argue that soft skills-
nonacademic skills such as being empathetic or having a strong work ethic-should be part of the
curriculum, with classroom time dedicated to developing these skills. Do you agree? Why or why not?

Amy
I agree. While students need a strong foundation in academic subjects, soft skills are important
because they affect how well students do their work. If classroom time is set aside for these skills,
students will take them seriously and their academic work will benefit. Teachers could design lessons
so that students learn about a skill and then do role-playing activities with classmates.

Rory
Soft skills are important, but I don't agree with using classroom time to work on them. I'm not sure
how teachers would measure students' progress in developing these skills. If students' progress can't be
measured on something taught, I'm not sure if there's any point to teaching.

29
真题27 (230904)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week we are studying how policy for public schools is created and how it may change over time.
One very important topic for educational policy involves what courses should be taught in schools.
Many people believe that new forms of communication and new kinds of employment require that
new and different kinds of courses be taught. The question I want you to discuss is whether new,
innovative subjects should be taught in public schools.

Amy
I definitely think public schools should offer new programs. For example, people are communicating
more and more on the Internet by sharing photos and videos. I think a course on video framing circles
—that is, how to make great and effective videos - would be really valuable for today's students. There
are many other similar topics that students might benefit from.

Rory
I really don't think the high school curriculum needs to be changed. The main purpose of most high
school programs is to prepare students for higher education, and these basic requirements have not
changed. If students want to learn some of the latest subjects, such as how to compose and edit a
movie, they can watch them on the Internet and don't need to take classes in school to learn these
things.

真题28 (230906)

Your professor is teaching a class on health. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In your opinion, which method is the most effective in maintaining good health?

Amy
I firmly believe that maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is key. What we consume directly
affects our body's functions. By ensuring we take in essential vitamins and minerals through our food,
we're giving our body the tools it needs to thrive.

Rory
While a healthy diet is important, I'd argue that regular exercise holds equal significance. Physical
activity not only strengthens our muscles and bones but also promotes cardiovascular health and
mental well-being. Incorporating even just 30 minutes of exercise a day can make a world of
difference.

30
真题29 (230909)

Your professor is teaching a class on public policies. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Local governments have limited budgets to spend on enriching residents' lives. Supporting arts
programs like concerts and museums offers cultural engagement, while funding outdoor activities like
building hiking trails and playgrounds promotes healthy lifestyles. Now, let's discuss whether local
funding should support arts programs or outdoor activities more. Which do you think better serves the
community and why?

Amy
I think local governments should prioritize spending on trails and playgrounds rather than arts
programs like museums and concerts. More people would use and benefit from improved outdoors
recreational facilities than arts venues. Since many residents probably aren't even that interested in the
arts, they won't go to museums or concerts even if government funds them.

Rory
I believe local governments should actually prioritize spending on arts programs. Precisely because
fewer residents are inherently interested in the arts, public funding is essential to sustain these cultural
institutions for the minority who appreciate them. Without support, access to the arts will decline and
society will lose these enriching, enduring outlets for creative expression.

真题30 (230910)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Let's consider how schools allocate their funds for various resources, with a focus on the allocation
between teacher salaries and other resources such as computers and books. What do you think is the
best way for schools to prioritize their spending? Should more funds go towards increasing teacher
salaries to attract and retain quality educators, or should they invest more in technology and learning
materials like computers and books?

Amy
I think raising teachers' salaries is crucial because it can encourage people to view teaching as a viable
profession rather than pursuing careers in other industries. Additionally, offering competitive wages
can attract some of the brightest and most talented individuals to become teachers. When teachers are
fairly compensated, it not only motivates them to excel in their roles but also enhances the overall
quality of education.

Rory
Teacher salaries are already quite competitive, and it may be more prudent to allocate resources
toward improving student equipment and providing up-to-date materials. Enhancing the learning
environment with better technology and modern educational resources can greatly benefit students'
education.

31
真题31 (230911)

Your professor is teaching a class on business management. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Today, we're going to talk about the benefits and drawbacks of remote work. Many companies have
implemented remote work policies in the past few years, and many others are considering joining
them. Given that this represents a major change in the way we work and interact with each other,
companies must carefully consider all relevant details before making a decision. What do you think? Is
remote work beneficial, or do you think it's a bad idea?

Amy
I think remote work is a very positive trend. When we work from home, we spend commuting and we
have more flexible schedules. Plus, many people find that they are more productive when working
from home. Some people say this is because they aren't distracted by their coworkers, while others
suggest it's because their energy isn't drained during a long and bothersome commute.

Rory
While I can see the benefits of remote work, I don't think it should become the new normal. There's
something to be said for the atmosphere that comes from being in the same physical space as your
colleagues. I also think that remote work can make it harder to build relationships and collaborate
effectively. This means it might limit our chances to earn promotions and raises. And what about
people who don't have enough room for a home office? They'll suffer if this trend continues.

真题32 (230916A)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
More and more, online shopping is becoming the primary way that many people obtain everyday
goods. But what are the ramifications for the society in which we live? On the one hand, online
shopping has advantages -for example, I can make a purchase without ever leaving my home.
However, with fewer people shopping at local shops, in some places, these establishments are having a
hard time competing. Do you think that online shopping is, on the whole, affecting society?

Amy
Indeed, online shopping has brought a lot of conveniences. I can now shop at any time and from
anywhere without leaving my home. This saves me a considerable amount of time, allowing me to
easily compare prices and choose from a broader selection of products that I need.

Rory
While I recognize the convenience of online shopping, I genuinely believe that it poses a significant
threat to brick-and-mortar stores. Many traditional shops, especially small local ones, find it hard to
compete with the major online retailers, leading them to lose business or even be forced to shut down.
This not only affects employment but also the sense of community and the relationships we've built
with local merchants.

32
真题33 (230916B)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
As we enter a new school year, there is an ongoing debate about school start times. Research shows
that teens naturally stay up later and wake up later due to changing sleep patterns during adolescence.
Some argue that starting school later would allow teens to get more sleep and be better rested for
learning. Given this background, I'd like you to consider whether schools should change the start time
to 8:30 a.m. rather than the current 7:30 a.m.

Amy
I believe school start times should be delayed. Studies have shown that teens tend to sleep later at
night and wake up later in the morning due to physiological changes during their teenage years. If
schools begin at 8:30 a.m. instead of 7:30 a.m., students can get more rest, which would enhance their
attentiveness and learning outcomes.

Rory
Though it's natural for teens to sleep a bit later, we should be educating them on good time
management and sleeping habits, rather than adjusting school timings to cater to their needs. Also, if
the start time is delayed, the end time will likely be pushed back too, which might impede
opportunities for extracurricular activities and part-time jobs.

真题34 (230917A)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
As of this semester, I have embarked on a study to explore the various factors influencing children's
cognition. It's becoming increasingly evident that a child's surroundings can significantly impact their
development. In light of this, the question arises: should parents allow their children to watch online
videos, whether for entertainment or educational purposes? Please share your insights on this matter,
considering the potential effects on a child's cognitive growth.

Amy
We should not allow young children, especially those under two years old, to watch videos. It's crucial
for their development to engage in real-life communication with others during this critical period.
Watching videos doesn't provide the opportunity for meaningful interaction. Even for older children,
it's essential to prioritize physical activity over extended screen time. Instead of sitting still in front of
screens, they should be encouraged to stay active to support their overall well-being.

Rory
I agree that very young children shouldn't be exposed to videos. However, I believe that older children
can benefit from watching certain videos, especially those that showcase animals or provide unique
insights not easily encountered in everyday life. These videos can be educational and expand their
horizons by offering a window into experiences they might not otherwise have access to.

33
真题35 (230917B)

Your professor is teaching a class on science. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In recent years, we've witnessed rapid advancements in science and technology that have transformed
various aspects of our lives. These advancements bring about both opportunities and challenges. Now.
let's delve into a critical question: ls the rapid pace of technological progress a positive or negative
development? Please share your thoughts on whether you believe the fast-paced nature of scientific
and technological advancements is ultimately beneficial or detrimental to society, and provide reasons
to support your perspective.

Amy
Certainly. Take, for instance, the field of healthcare. Medical advancements have significantly
improved our quality of life and extended our lifespans. These innovations include breakthrough
treatments, precision medicine, and cutting-edge medical technologies. As a result. diseases that were
once fatal can now be managed or even cured. The increased longevity and enhanced well-being
resulting from medical progress are compelling reasons to view rapid technological advancement as a
positive force in our society.

Rory
Indeed, there are concerns associated with the rapid pace of technological progress. One significant
drawback is the potential for job displacement. As technology advances, some traditional jobs become
obsolete. leading to unemployment for certain segments of the population. This issue of job loss raises
questions about income inequality and the need for retraining programs to equip workers with new
skills. Thus. it's essential to recognize that while progress is valuable, it also requires measures to
address its adverse consequences.

真题36 (230918)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week, we covered the future of education in a global world. We discussed whether schools should
focus on equipping students with skills that will help them be successful anywhere in the world. These
skills include being respectful of unfamiliar cultures and studying the history of those cultures. In your
post, I would like you to discuss whether schools should make it a priority to prepare students for a
global society. Please explain your opinion.

Amy
In an effort not to lose sight of their true identity, students should focus on practicing the values that
their local culture holds dear. Attempts to cultivate global citizenship may result in students losing
their identity. Only after schools have given students a solid foundation in the history of their local
culture can they focus on learning the history of other countries.

Rory
Technology has made the world more accessible than ever before. As a result, we expect more people
to work outside their home countries, benefiting from learning global skills that will help them
succeed in any country.

34
真题37 (230919)

Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In today's discussion, we've covered how consumers these days are constantly bombarded with
information from various channels that shape their preferences and decision making. Now let's look at
a more specific example. When it comes to making purchasing decisions, individuals have access to a
wide range of information sources. Many opt to seek guidance from their parents or close friends,
valuing their insights and experiences. On the other hand, some individuals prefer to rely on internet
suggestions to aid their choices. Which approach do you prefer? Why?

Amy
Seeking guidance from parents or close friends would probably be my first choice because they often
have our best interests at heart and can offer insights based on their personal experiences. Their advice
might be more tailored to our individual preferences and circumstances, and their recommendations
may be more trustworthy since they know us well.

Rory
I would choose the second option because online reviews, recommendations, and product comparisons
can provide a broader perspective on various options. This approach allows us to research extensively,
read about other people's experiences, and potentially discover products or solutions that we might not
have considered otherwise.

真题38 (230920)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week we talked about how important taking time off from work or school is for people's well-
being. Some people believe they get the most benefit when that time off is structured: that is, it
involves planning in advance about what will be accomplished on that day. Others believe it is better
to enjoy the day with no plan for how to spend it. In this discussion post please indicate which of those
approaches to spending time off from work or school you prefer and why?

Amy
I find it beneficial to do some advance planning for my free time. I live far away from my family so
when l am getting ready to visit them during a school holiday, l always plan my time off from school
very carefully. That way l have enough time to visit with each family member.

Rory
Personally, I prefer not to make any plans for my free time. I go to school, and l have a part-time job
each week. I make a schedule to be sure l can complete both my work and my studies. So when I have
time off from work and school, I just want to relax with no plan.

35
真题39 (230923A)

Your professor is teaching a class on marketing. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week in class we are learning about different methods of advertising and their effectiveness. One
advertising strategy that companies often use is to ask celebrities, famous entertainers, or sports
figures to promote their products. However, some experts believe that it is more effective to have
ordinary people talk about the product, Which of these two advertising strategies do you think is
better?

Amy
I like the "ordinary people" approach. People are more interested in a product when they see people
like themselves using the product. I think this is even true for clothing advertisements, which
traditionally use famous models. People get a better idea of whether they like the clothes when they
see all kinds of different people wearing them, and not just models.

Rory
I think the use of celebrities is really effective. The first thing an advertisement must do is grab
viewers' attention. When a famous actor or sports figure appears in your advertisement, viewers first
notice the celebrity, "what's this? I really like that person." they think. Then, once you have the
viewers' attention, you can provide information about your product.

真题40 (230924)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
We are discussing recent trends in consumer behavior. One trend is a decrease in the use of cash
money. Consumers don't use physical money to pay for things as much as they used to. Online
shopping has a big impact on this. But even when shopping in person, more people are using credit
cards, cash cards, and phone apps to make purchases. So do you think the decrease in using cash is
positive or negative? Why?

Amy
I think it's great. I avoid using physical money. The main reason is that I don't want to carry around a
wallet stuffed with paper bills and coins. I carry my mobile phone with me anyway, so why carry two
things when I only need one? Using my phone to pay for things in the store is a huge convenience.

Rory
I think it's negative. It's easier to keep track of your spending when you use cash. When paying with
cards or phone apps, it's easy to ignore how much you spend and go over your budget. But with
physical money, you are more aware of your spending, and if you run out of cash, you can't spend
anymore!

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真题41 (230926)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Today, we are going to discuss how successful software and tech products are launched and marketed.
When companies launch and market these products, early adopters are important. Early adopters are
customers who tend to buy the latest products and like to be the first to try out new features and
processes. In today's discussion, I would like you to describe at least one advantage or disadvantage of
being an early adopter. Please explain why you think this way.

Amy
One obvious disadvantage is that early adopters probably pay a lot more for brand-new technology.
When products first come out, they're often quite expensive, but once they've been on the market for a
while, the price usually drops. That's why I usually wait to buy new technology.

Rory
New tech products might not always be more expensive- sometimes the company will give people a
new product at a discount in exchange for trying it out and giving feedback on it. In fact, to me, that's
the biggest advantage of being an early adopter-your feedback can guide future improvements to a
product. That's a powerful feeling.

真题42 (231008)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
We've been discussing employee working arrangements—whether employees should report to an
office or work at home. Some businesses require all employees to work in the office. Others choose
not to have a physical office and have all employees work from home. In industries where remote
work is possible, what is the most important factor for employers to consider when deciding where
employees should work, and why?

Amy
I don't think businesses should allow their employees to work from home, because creating a sense of
community and camaraderie among employees is so important for the success of a business, especially
if it's a small business.

Rory
I think the most important thing to consider is the bottom line keeping company expenses down. For
example, requiring all employees to work from home might be the best option from an economic
standpoint.

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真题43 (231010)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
On the day of outdoor classes, students will be transported to local parks. There, teachers will help
students explore nature and learn about the environment (for example, plants and animals),
environmental problems (such as pollution), and ways of addressing these problems. Do you think that
outdoor classes once a month will be a worthwhile use of students' instructional time and school
resources?

Amy
I think this is too expensive and a waste of money. From my perspective, the financial cost of
organizing these outdoor classes might not justify the benefits. Allocating resources for these trips
might not be the best use of our limited school funds.

Rory
I see the value in these outdoor classes. To me, it's an opportunity to gain knowledge that we can't get
in the regular classroom setting. Being in nature and understanding environmental issues firsthand can
provide insights that traditional teaching might not offer.

真题44 (231014)

Your professor is teaching a class on public policies. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Local governments have limited budgets to spend on enriching residents' lives. Supporting arts
programs like concerts and museums offers cultural engagement, while funding outdoor activities like
building hiking trails and playgrounds promotes healthy lifestyles. Now, let's discuss whether local
funding should support arts programs or outdoor activities more. Which do you think better serves the
community and why?

Amy
I think local governments should prioritize spending on trails and playgrounds rather than arts
programs like museums and concerts. More people would use and benefit from improved outdoors
recreational facilities than arts venues. Since many residents probably aren't even that interested in the
arts, they won't go to museums or concerts even if government funds them.

Rory
I believe local governments should actually prioritize spending on arts programs. Precisely because
fewer residents are inherently interested in the arts, public funding is essential to sustain these cultural
institutions for the minority who appreciate them. Without support, access to the arts will decline and
society will lose these enriching, enduring outlets for creative expression.

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真题45 (231016)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In project-based learning, students acquire and demonstrate knowledge and skills by working on a
course-related project, typically with other students. Before our class tomorrow, I'd like your opinion:
Do you think project-based learning is more effective at promoting learning than the traditional lecture
method?

Amy
I find the traditional lecture method to be more effective because the information students need to
know is given to them directly.

Rory
I think the process of project-based learning is more effective at helping you develop useful skills,
especially interpersonal skills that can be helpful in your career.

真题46 (231017)

Your professor is teaching a class on lifestyle. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
What is one poor eating habit that would be important for most people to change, and why?

Amy
It would be to eat a better breakfast. A good breakfast gives you more energy all day and keeps you
from eating too much later.

Rory
I think most people don't bother to learn much about the food that they eat. This ignorance is a kind of
bad eating habit. It can be burdensome, but you should try to read every food package label.

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真题47 (231018)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Compared with traditional university degree programs, do you think shorter periods of certificate
programs have an edge over the traditional one?

Amy
I believe that short-term certificate programs allow people to quickly change career directions. Such
flexibility is invaluable in today's job market.

Rory
While short-term programs have their appeal, traditional university degrees offer a more
comprehensive education. Many employers still highly value university degrees.

真题48 (231021A)

Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
What should children be learning in school? Many people believe that time in the classroom should be
spent acquiring foundational knowledge in subjects like math, reading, science, and history. Others
feel that it's important for a child's creativity to be nurtured, and thus the school curriculum must
include classes in art and music. There's so much to learn, yet so little time in school to learn it all.
What do you think should be included in the curriculum? Why?

Amy
I agree that traditional subjects like math, science, and reading are important,but so are classes in art
and music. Engaging with art and music can help children be more creative and can stimulate their
imaginations. That in turn facilitates critical thinking, which is essential in any curriculum, so I am in
favor of including art and music in the school day.

Rory
Sure, drawing pictures and listening to music is fun, but children can do that on their own time. The
school day is too short as it is. And there is so much foundational knowledge in math, reading, science,
and history that children need to learn: it is better to spend classroom time on that foundational
knowledge and let kids explore art and music at home.

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真题49 (231021B)

Your professor is teaching a class on space exploration. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week, we will be discussing space exploration. Some people think that it is a waste of money for
governments to fund space exploration. Others disagree with this view arguing that space exploration
is a valuable and necessary investment for our future. They think that it is worthy for governments to
fund space exploration. I want to know what you think about this topic. Do you think that
governments should fund space exploration? Why or why not?

Amy
I don't think that governments should fund space exploration because it will be too costly to build
spaceships and develop related technologies. Though space exploration tech costs billions, it doesn't
offer direct benefits to most people, which makes its funding a controversial issue.

Rory
Personally, I do think that all the costs will be worth it. The potential scientific discoveries and
technological advancements could have far-reaching impacts that justify the initial investment.
Imagine the new inventions that might come from this exploration. Such technology could greatly
improve our everyday lives.

真题50 (231022)

Your professor is teaching a class on science. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Some people believe that all scientific discoveries should be shared freely among scientists all around
the world and that governments and businesses should not keep any discoveries secret. What do you
believe and why?

Amy
I don't think all discoveries should be shared. Even if that discovery benefits everyone, the business
has a right to keep the discovery secret so that it can develop a profitable product from the research.

Rory
Sharing knowledge is crucially important to most scientists. Being recognized as the person who made
a discovery is the biggest reward forward scientist.

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真题51 (231028)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In today's rapidly changing world, the debate between urban and rural living has become increasingly
relevant. While cities pulsate with energy, offering a myriad of cultural, educational, and professional
opportunities, the countryside promises serenity, close ties with nature, and a different pace of life.
Given the distinct characteristics and benefits of both settings, it brings us to the question: Do you
prefer living in the countryside or the city?

Amy
I prefer living in the countryside because it's quieter. The village has less noise, which allows for a
more peaceful and serene environment. It's a refreshing escape from the bustling sounds of urban
areas.

Rory
I lean towards the countryside as well. The competitive pressure in the city is overwhelming. Living in
the village offers a respite from the intense urban competition, providing a more relaxed and stress-
free atmosphere.

真题52 (231029)

Your professor is teaching a class on economics. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In today's discussion, we've covered how consumers these days are constantly bombarded with
information from various channels that shape their preferences and decision making. Now let's look at
a more specific example. When it comes to making purchasing decisions, individuals have access to a
wide range of information sources. Many opt to seek guidance from their parents or close friends,
valuing their insights and experiences. On the other hand, some individuals prefer to rely on internet
suggestions to aid their choices. Which approach do you prefer? Why?

Amy
Seeking guidance from parents or close friends would probably be my first choice because they often
have our best interests at heart and can offer insights based on their personal experiences. Their advice
might be more tailored to our individual preferences and circumstances, and their recommendations
may be more trustworthy since they know us well.

Rory
I would choose the second option because online reviews, recommendations, and product comparisons
can provide a broader perspective on various options. This approach allows us to research extensively,
read about other people's experiences, and potentially discover products or solutions that we might not
have considered otherwise.

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真题53 (231101)

Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Today, we are going to discuss how successful software and tech products are launched and marketed.
When companies launch and market these products, early adopters are important. Early adopters are
customers who tend to buy the latest products and like to be the first to try out new features and
processes. In today's discussion, I would like you to describe at least one advantage or disadvantage of
being an early adopter. Please explain why you think this way.

Amy
One obvious disadvantage is that early adopters probably pay a lot more for brand-new technology.
When products first come out, they're often quite expensive, but once they've been on the market for a
while, the price usually drops. That's why I usually wait to buy new technology.

Rory
New tech products might not always be more expensive- sometimes the company will give people a
new product at a discount in exchange for trying it out and giving feedback on it. In fact, to me, that's
the biggest advantage of being an early adopter-your feedback can guide future improvements to a
product. That's a powerful feeling.

真题54 (231104)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Considering environmental protection issues, do you think imposing taxes and fines on polluting
companies is effective?

Amy
I don't think that method is necessarily effective. Some large or wealthy companies might choose to
simply pay the fine rather than change their production methods or polluting behavior. They might
find paying the fine more economical than altering their production processes.

Rory
I have a different perspective. I believe that levying environmental taxes and fines on companies is
effective. Firstly, taxes and fines can provide the government with funds that can be used for
environmental protection projects or research into clean technologies. Secondly, even if some
companies opt to pay the fines, many others will change their production methods to avoid these
additional costs.

43
真题55 (231111)

Your professor is teaching a class on international relations. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
With so many opportunities to connect nowadays, some people believe that no matter which country
we come from. we have more similarities than we have differences. However, others have observed
that differences between themselves and people from other countries are growing. In your view, are
differences between people from different countries increasing, or are they diminishing? Why?

Amy
I think the differences among us are decreasing as our exposure to products from other countries
grows. We can enjoy food from any country. We can watch movies made in faraway places. We can go
to a store and buy authentic goods from around the world. These things become part of our normal life
and make our differences seem smaller.

Rory
I understand what Amy is saying, but for some people, being exposed to differences makes them
retreat into their own corner even more. Look at social media. We are exposed to many different
people and ideas, but a lot of people talk to only those they agree with and ignore the rest. This only
makes the difference between people increase.

真题56 (231112)

Your professor is teaching a class on consumer behavior. Write a post responding to the professor’s
question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
We've been discussing the idea that human well-being is not necessarily improved by ever-increasing
production and consumption of goods and services. Some people argue that humans already consume
too many goods, from clothing to electronics to food; they believe that excessive consumption has
created serious problems for humanity and even the planet. Do you agree that excessive consumption
—buying more than we truly need—has become a serious problem? Why or why not?

Amy
I absolutely agree. We buy far more than we need, and that can't continue indefinitely. For years
people have used shopping as a form of recreation. The products bought on a whim are filling up
landfills, and the energy expended producing the goods has created a global warming crisis. We should
start gradually reducing consumption.

Rory
I disagree with the idea that over-consumption is a dramatic problem. I agree there is some over-
consumption, but it happens mostly with wealthy people. I think in general almost everyone else
already buys only what they need. In fact, many people around the world are not even able to obtain
everything they need.

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真题57 (231115)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Is it better to have many friends or a small group of close friends?

Amy
Personally, I believe having a few close friends is crucial. These intimate connections provide a
support system that can help you navigate challenges and solve problems. Quality matters more than
quantity when it comes to friendships.

Rory
I lean towards having many friends. The diversity in perspectives that comes with a larger social circle
is valuable. Having numerous friends allows for engaging discussions and exposure to different
viewpoints, contributing to personal growth and a broader understanding of the world.

真题58 (231118)

Your professor is teaching a class on p sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Is using to-do lists an effective time management strategy?

Amy
I agree. Having a well-structured to-do list every day can be very effective. It helps in organizing tasks
and ensuring that everything is completed in a timely manner. This method provides a clear roadmap
for the day and enhances productivity.

Rory
I disagree. Every day brings about many different and interesting things. Rigidly sticking to a to-do list
might hinder spontaneity and the ability to embrace unforeseen opportunities. Life's unpredictability
can make it challenging to adhere strictly to a predetermined plan.

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真题59 (231122)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
This week, we'll be discussing ways to address air pollution. One idea is introducing environmental
taxes on air travel. Such taxes, also referred to as ecological taxes or green taxes, are extra charges that
get added to the price of airplane tickets. Money collected from these taxes could be invested in
environmentally friendly technologies or in promoting other cleaner modes of transportation. Do you
think there should be an environmental tax on air travel? Why or why not?

Amy
We should impose environmental taxes on air travel. These taxes might encourage people to find
cheaper, more eco-friendly ways to get places. in my country, many people use planes to fly a short
distance because flights are relatively cheap, when they could just as easily take a less polluting form
of transportation.

Rory
Additional taxes on air travel will do little to solve the problem of air pollution. Airplane tickets would
become more expensive, punishing passengers without incentivizing airlines to become more
environmentally friendly. The airlines should pay the price to protect the environment, not their
customers.

真题60 (231128)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Can children benefit from having pets?

Amy
Yes. Having pets can teach children a sense of responsibility and a caring attitude toward animals.
They learn skills such as feeding on a schedule, cleaning cages, or walking the dog, which are
valuable life skills. Additionally, spending time with pets may help children develop patience and
empathy.

Rory
No, it ends up being the parents who take care of them. I know that often, children enthusiastically
want to have a pet, but after a while, the responsibility of caring for the pet often shifts to the parents.
Children may lose interest, and parents end up being responsible for the pet's care.

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真题61 (231203)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
In today's world, the escalating environmental challenges demand collective efforts at the grassroots
level. As local communities grapple with issues such as pollution, resource depletion, and habitat
destruction, individuals play a pivotal role in initiating positive change. Given the urgency of the
situation, the question arises: What is the most useful action for people to help the environment in their
local communities?

Amy
I believe avoiding buying things that are not environmentally friendly is crucial. This includes being
mindful of our purchases, opting for sustainable and eco-friendly products, and reducing overall
consumption.

Rory
Planting trees and creating parks can have a significant impact. Trees contribute to cleaner air and
provide habitats for various species, while parks offer green spaces for the community to enjoy and
connect with nature.

真题62 (231206)

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental protection. Write a post responding to the
professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
Charitable giving, which refers to the voluntary donation of money to charities, is important in many
societies. Some individuals prefer donating to charities that provide assistance globally, while others
opt for local charities focusing on addressing issues within their own community. For those who wish
to support only one type of charity, either international or local, which is the better choice? And why?

Amy
By donating to a local charity, such as a shelter that helps homeless animals, you can visit the shelter
and see for yourself how donations are being used to confirm that your money is being well spent. You
may even be encouraged to give more because you were able to witness the positive effects your
contribution had on the organization.

Rory
It is more effective to donate money to international charities that work on issues that affect us all,
such as the effects of climate change. Some charities that operate on a large scale have influenced
national governments to adjust their air and water pollution policies, which is a great way to make a
big impact.

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真题63 (231209)

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following.
• Express and support your opinion.
• Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.


Doctor Smith
As urban areas grapple with increasing traffic congestion, the concept of congestion pricing has gained
traction as a potential solution to alleviate gridlock and reduce environmental impact. This system
involves charging drivers additional fees during peak hours, aiming to incentivize alternative
transportation methods and mitigate traffic congestion. However, a contentious question arises: Is it
good to impose congestion pricing on drivers during busy times?

Amy
I think it's a good idea to make drivers pay more during busy times. It can help reduce traffic and make
people use other ways to get around, which is better for the environment.

Rory
I don't like the idea of making drivers pay extra during busy times. Some people might not have other
ways to travel, and it could be too expensive for them. We should find a different solution that's fair
for everyone.

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