内容正文:
Unit 2 Using Language
(写作课讲义)
目录
1. Lead in
2. Pre-writing
3. While Writing
4. Post Writing
5. Homework
1. Lead in
一、问题链导入
Discuss in pairs:
1.Have you ever thought about studying abroad? Why or why not?
2.What do you think are the biggest benefits of studying in another country?
international friends, better career opportunities.
3.What do you think are the biggest challenges?
二、情境创设
Imagine this: A local newspaper has invited parents to share their opinions about studying abroad. Two parents, Wang Li (mother of twin girls) and Zhang Yi (father of one boy), wrote letters expressing their views. One is against studying abroad for young people; the other is in favour.
Question: Which side do you think you would agree with? Why?
三、话题词汇预热
Match the words with their meanings:
A. tuition fees
1. the money you pay for education
B. cultural envoy
2. a person who represents and promotes their culture abroad
C. culture shock
3. the feeling of confusion when you experience a new culture
D. global perspective
4. a way of understanding the world from an international viewpoint
E. competence
5. the ability to do something well
F. personal growth
6. the process of developing as a person
2. Pre-writing
Activity 1: Read and Identify Main Points
Read the two letters on pages 20-21 and underline each writer's main points. Then mark the reasons for their opinions.
A. Wang Li's View (against studying abroad)
Main Point
Reasons / Evidence
① Disadvantages are greater than advantages.
—
② Economic pressure
Tuition fees and living expenses are much more expensive than at home.
③ _________________________
Students may struggle with language, suffer from culture shock, feel depressed, or face safety issues.
④ Studying in China is a good choice.
China's educational environment has improved with great universities, facilities, and professors.
⑤ Conclusion: Think carefully.
—
Activity 2: Analyse the Argumentative Structure
Mark the parts of the argument in the letters (A–D).
Part
Description
Wang Li's Letter (Para)
Zhang Yi's Letter (Para)
A
Start with a question or a fact
Para 1
Para 1
B
State an opinion
Para 1
Para 1
C
Give reasons and evidence
Paras 2-4
Paras 2-4
D
State a conclusion
Para 5
Para 5
Activity 3: Identify Connectors
Underline the connectors in the letters and complete the table.
Category
Connectors from the Letters
Opinion
in my opinion, as far as I know, personally, it seems to me
Sequence / Addition
to begin with, another, finally, in addition, what is more, besides, moreover
Cause & Effect
Giving Examples
Contrast
Restating
Conclusion
Activity 4: Practice Using Connectors
Use the connectors in the box to rewrite the sentences below.
Connectors: as a result · besides · for instance · that is to say
Original Sentences
Rewritten with Connector
1. Students who want to study abroad must consider their parents' budget. They should think about whether they can afford the costs of studying overseas.
2. Studying abroad can put great pressure on young people. They may feel lonely and miss their families.
3. Studying abroad will give students a good education. It also helps them to gain a global perspective.
4. Global development strategies help to make connections between China and the rest of the world. Young people with language skills and strong cultural awareness are needed.
Activity 5: Brainstorming — Advantages and Disadvantages
Complete the table with ideas from the letters and your own ideas.
Advantages of Studying Abroad
Disadvantages of Studying Abroad
1. Personal growth and independence
2. Language barriers
3. Cultural exchange
4. Loneliness and homesickness
5. Improved language skills
6. Different teaching methods
7. (Your idea: _______________)
7. (Your idea: _______________)
Activity 6: Useful Sentence Patterns
Complete the table with useful phrases for each part of an argumentative letter.
Function
Useful Phrases
Opening / introducing the topic
In the past few decades, ... /
Stating your opinion
In my opinion, ... /
Adding points
To begin with, ... /
Giving reasons
This is because ... /
Giving examples
For example, ... /
Showing contrast
Although ... /
Showing cause & effect
Therefore, ... /
Restating
In other words, ... /
Concluding
In conclusion, ... /
3. While Writing
Activity 7: Plan Your Letter
Use the outline below to organise your letter to the editor.
Part
Content
Your Notes
Para 1
Introduction: State the topic and your opinion clearly.
_________________________________
Para 2
Body 1: Give your first reason + evidence/example.
_________________________________
Para 3
Body 2: Give your second reason + evidence/example.
_________________________________
Para 4
Body 3: Give your third reason + evidence/example.
_________________________________
Para 5
Conclusion: Summarise your opinion and restate your view.
_________________________________
Write a letter to the editor (120-150 words) expressing your opinion on studying abroad. Follow the structure below:
Paragraph 1: Introduce the topic and state your opinion clearly.
Paragraphs 2-4: Give at least three reasons with examples/evidence.
Paragraph 5: Conclude by restating your opinion.
Useful opening sentences:
"In the past few decades, there has been a dramatic increase in..."
"Is studying abroad a good idea? In my opinion, ..."
Activity 9: Peer Review Checklist
Exchange your draft with a partner. Use the checklist below to review.
Criteria
Yes
No
Suggestions
Does the writer clearly state his/her opinion?
☐
☐
Does the writer give at least three reasons?
☐
☐
Does the writer provide examples or evidence?
☐
☐
Does the writer use appropriate connectors?
☐
☐
Does the writer have a clear conclusion?
☐
☐
Does the writer use correct grammar and spelling?
☐
☐
4. Post Writing
Activity 10: Self-Revision
After getting feedback, revise your essay based on your partner's comments. Pay attention to:
1.Structure: Does each paragraph have a clear function?
2.Content: Are your reasons well-supported with evidence?
3.Language: Have you used a variety of connectors?
4.Grammar: Are there any mistakes in tenses, articles, or sentence structure?
Activity 11: Reflect and Discuss
Discuss the following questions in groups:
1.Which parent (Wang Li or Zhang Yi) do you side with? Why?
2.What are some other advantages or disadvantages of studying abroad that were not mentioned in the letters?
5. Homework
Option 1: Letter Writing
Write a letter to the editor (120-150 words) expressing your opinion on ONE of the following topics:
Should high school students be encouraged to study abroad?
Should all college students have the opportunity to study abroad for one year?
Use the structure and connectors you learned in class.
Option 2: Connector Practice
Rewrite the following sentences using the connectors in brackets.
1.Studying abroad is expensive. Many families cannot afford it. (as a result)
2.Learning a new language is challenging. It is very rewarding. (although)
3.Students should learn about the culture before going abroad. They should prepare themselves mentally. (in addition)
4.Living abroad helps students become more independent. They learn to solve problems by themselves. (for example)
5.Studying abroad has many advantages. There are also some disadvantages. (however)
14 / 17
学科网(北京)股份有限公司
学科网(北京)股份有限公司
$
Unit 2 Using Language
(写作课讲义)
目录
1. Lead in
2. Pre-writing
3. While Writing
4. Post Writing
5. Homework
1. Lead in
一、问题链导入
Discuss in pairs:
1.Have you ever thought about studying abroad? Why or why not?
Free answers from students.
2.What do you think are the biggest benefits of studying in another country?
Suggested answers: Learning a new language, experiencing a new culture, becoming independent, making international friends, better career opportunities.
3.What do you think are the biggest challenges?
Suggested answers: Financial pressure, language barrier, culture shock, loneliness, different teaching methods.
二、情境创设
Imagine this: A local newspaper has invited parents to share their opinions about studying abroad. Two parents, Wang Li (mother of twin girls) and Zhang Yi (father of one boy), wrote letters expressing their views. One is against studying abroad for young people; the other is in favour.
Question: Which side do you think you would agree with? Why?
Free answers from students.
三、话题词汇预热
Match the words with their meanings:
A. tuition fees
1. the money you pay for education
B. cultural envoy
2. a person who represents and promotes their culture abroad
C. culture shock
3. the feeling of confusion when you experience a new culture
D. global perspective
4. a way of understanding the world from an international viewpoint
E. competence
5. the ability to do something well
F. personal growth
6. the process of developing as a person
Answers: A→1, B→2, C→3, D→4, E→5, F→6
2. Pre-writing
Activity 1: Read and Identify Main Points
Read the two letters on pages 20-21 and underline each writer's main points. Then mark the reasons for their opinions.
A. Wang Li's View (against studying abroad)
Main Point
Reasons / Evidence
① Disadvantages are greater than advantages.
—
② Economic pressure
Tuition fees and living expenses are much more expensive than at home.
③ _________________________
Students may struggle with language, suffer from culture shock, feel depressed, or face safety issues.
④ Studying in China is a good choice.
China's educational environment has improved with great universities, facilities, and professors.
⑤ Conclusion: Think carefully.
—
Answers:
③ Tremendous pressure / adaptation difficulties
B. Zhang Yi's View (in favour of studying abroad)
Main Point
Reasons / Evidence
① Advantages are greater than disadvantages.
—
② Personal growth
Become more independent; gain a global perspective; improve competence.
③ _________________________
Chinese students can act as cultural envoys; international students bring colourful cultures; gain insight into our own culture.
④ Career opportunities / contribution to China
China needs talented young people with global perspective, language skills, leadership, and cultural awareness.
⑤ Conclusion: Studying abroad is worthwhile.
—
Answers:
③ Cultural exchange / increased chance for cultural exchange
Activity 2: Analyse the Argumentative Structure
Mark the parts of the argument in the letters (A–D).
Part
Description
Wang Li's Letter (Para)
Zhang Yi's Letter (Para)
A
Start with a question or a fact
Para 1
Para 1
B
State an opinion
Para 1
Para 1
C
Give reasons and evidence
Paras 2-4
Paras 2-4
D
State a conclusion
Para 5
Para 5
Answers:
Part
Wang Li's Letter
Zhang Yi's Letter
A
"In the past few decades, there has been a dramatic increase..."
"Is studying abroad a good idea or not?"
B
"I think the disadvantages for young people are greater."
"In my opinion, the advantages are much greater."
C
Paras 2-4 (economic pressure, pressure/adaptation, studying in China)
Paras 2-4 (personal growth, cultural exchange, career opportunities)
D
Para 5 ("To sum up...")
Para 5 ("All in all...")
Activity 3: Identify Connectors
Underline the connectors in the letters and complete the table.
Category
Connectors from the Letters
Opinion
in my opinion, as far as I know, personally, it seems to me
Sequence / Addition
to begin with, another, finally, in addition, what is more, besides, moreover
Cause & Effect
because, as, so, therefore, as a result, consequently
Giving Examples
for example, for instance, such as
Contrast
although, though, however, on the other hand
Restating
in other words, that is to say, that means
Conclusion
to sum up, in conclusion, all in all, generally speaking
Activity 4: Practice Using Connectors
Use the connectors in the box to rewrite the sentences below.
Connectors: as a result · besides · for instance · that is to say
Original Sentences
Rewritten with Connector
1. Students who want to study abroad must consider their parents' budget. They should think about whether they can afford the costs of studying overseas.
Students who want to study abroad must consider their parents' budget. That is to say, they should think about whether they can afford the costs of studying overseas.
2. Studying abroad can put great pressure on young people. They may feel lonely and miss their families.
Studying abroad can put great pressure on young people. For instance, they may feel lonely and miss their families.
3. Studying abroad will give students a good education. It also helps them to gain a global perspective.
Studying abroad will give students a good education. Besides, it also helps them to gain a global perspective.
4. Global development strategies help to make connections between China and the rest of the world. Young people with language skills and strong cultural awareness are needed.
Global development strategies help to make connections between China and the rest of the world. As a result, young people with language skills and strong cultural awareness are needed.
Activity 5: Brainstorming — Advantages and Disadvantages
Complete the table with ideas from the letters and your own ideas.
Advantages of Studying Abroad
Disadvantages of Studying Abroad
1. Personal growth and independence
1. Economic pressure (high costs)
2. Global perspective
2. Language barriers
3. Cultural exchange
3. Culture shock
4. Better career opportunities
4. Loneliness and homesickness
5. Improved language skills
5. Safety concerns
6. Build international connections
6. Different teaching methods
7. (Your idea: _______________)
7. (Your idea: _______________)
Activity 6: Useful Sentence Patterns
Complete the table with useful phrases for each part of an argumentative letter.
Function
Useful Phrases
Opening / introducing the topic
In the past few decades, ... / There has been a dramatic increase in ... / Is ... a good idea or not?
Stating your opinion
In my opinion, ... / Personally, I think ... / From my perspective, ... / I firmly believe that ...
Adding points
To begin with, ... / In addition, ... / Furthermore, ... / Moreover, ... / Besides, ... / What is more, ...
Giving reasons
This is because ... / The reason is that ... / Due to the fact that ...
Giving examples
For example, ... / For instance, ... / Take ... as an example, ... / such as ...
Showing contrast
Although ... / While ... / On the other hand, ... / However, ...
Showing cause & effect
Therefore, ... / As a result, ... / Consequently, ... / This leads to ...
Restating
In other words, ... / That is to say, ... / That means ...
Concluding
In conclusion, ... / To sum up, ... / All in all, ... / To summarise, ... / On the whole, ...
3. While Writing
Activity 7: Plan Your Letter
Use the outline below to organise your letter to the editor.
Part
Content
Your Notes
Para 1
Introduction: State the topic and your opinion clearly.
_________________________________
Para 2
Body 1: Give your first reason + evidence/example.
_________________________________
Para 3
Body 2: Give your second reason + evidence/example.
_________________________________
Para 4
Body 3: Give your third reason + evidence/example.
_________________________________
Para 5
Conclusion: Summarise your opinion and restate your view.
_________________________________
Activity 8: Write Your Draft
Write a letter to the editor (120-150 words) expressing your opinion on studying abroad. Follow the structure below:
Paragraph 1: Introduce the topic and state your opinion clearly.
Paragraphs 2-4: Give at least three reasons with examples/evidence.
Paragraph 5: Conclude by restating your opinion.
Useful opening sentences:
"In the past few decades, there has been a dramatic increase in..."
"Is studying abroad a good idea? In my opinion, ..."
Sample Essay (for reference):
Dear Editor,
In the past few decades, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of students studying abroad. In my opinion, although studying abroad has some disadvantages, the advantages are much greater.
To begin with, studying abroad promotes personal growth. Students become more independent because they have to handle all kinds of difficulties by themselves. For example, they must learn to cook, manage their finances, and deal with homesickness — all of which help them mature.
In addition, studying abroad provides excellent opportunities for cultural exchange. Chinese students can act as cultural envoys, sharing our traditions with people from other countries. At the same time, they can learn about different cultures, which gives them a broader global perspective.
Furthermore, studying abroad opens up better career opportunities. With a global outlook and cross-cultural communication skills, students are more competitive in the job market and can better contribute to China's development.
All in all, studying abroad is a life-changing experience that is certainly worthwhile. Students who study abroad gain not only knowledge but also valuable life skills and cultural awareness.
Activity 9: Peer Review Checklist
Exchange your draft with a partner. Use the checklist below to review.
Criteria
Yes
No
Suggestions
Does the writer clearly state his/her opinion?
☐
☐
Does the writer give at least three reasons?
☐
☐
Does the writer provide examples or evidence?
☐
☐
Does the writer use appropriate connectors?
☐
☐
Does the writer have a clear conclusion?
☐
☐
Does the writer use correct grammar and spelling?
☐
☐
4. Post Writing
Activity 10: Self-Revision
After getting feedback, revise your essay based on your partner's comments. Pay attention to:
1.Structure: Does each paragraph have a clear function?
2.Content: Are your reasons well-supported with evidence?
3.Language: Have you used a variety of connectors?
4.Grammar: Are there any mistakes in tenses, articles, or sentence structure?
Activity 11: Reflect and Discuss
Discuss the following questions in groups:
1.Which parent (Wang Li or Zhang Yi) do you side with? Why?
Free answers from students.
2.What are some other advantages or disadvantages of studying abroad that were not mentioned in the letters?
Suggested answers:
Advantages: Make lifelong friends, learn a new language fluently, become more adaptable, experience different teaching methods.
Disadvantages: Discrimination/racism, visa issues, difficulty finding jobs locally, missing important family events.
5. Homework
Option 1: Letter Writing
Write a letter to the editor (120-150 words) expressing your opinion on ONE of the following topics:
Should high school students be encouraged to study abroad?
Should all college students have the opportunity to study abroad for one year?
Use the structure and connectors you learned in class.
Sample Essay (for reference — topic: "Should high school students be encouraged to study abroad?"):
Dear Editor,
Should high school students be encouraged to study abroad? In my opinion, although it has some disadvantages, the benefits are worth considering.
To begin with, studying abroad helps students develop independence. Living alone in a foreign country forces them to deal with all kinds of challenges, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing money. These skills are important for their future life.
Moreover, studying abroad broadens students' horizons. They get to experience a different culture, make international friends, and learn a new language. This global perspective will benefit them in their future studies and careers.
However, there are also disadvantages. High school students may not be mature enough to handle the pressure of living abroad. They might suffer from culture shock and loneliness. Besides, the cost is very high.
In conclusion, I believe studying abroad is a good choice for mature and independent high school students. Parents should carefully consider their child's personality before making a decision.
Option 2: Connector Practice
Rewrite the following sentences using the connectors in brackets.
1.Studying abroad is expensive. Many families cannot afford it. (as a result)
2.Learning a new language is challenging. It is very rewarding. (although)
3.Students should learn about the culture before going abroad. They should prepare themselves mentally. (in addition)
4.Living abroad helps students become more independent. They learn to solve problems by themselves. (for example)
5.Studying abroad has many advantages. There are also some disadvantages. (however)
Answers:
1.Studying abroad is expensive. As a result, many families cannot afford it.
2.Although learning a new language is challenging, it is very rewarding.
3.Students should learn about the culture before going abroad. In addition, they should prepare themselves mentally.
4.Living abroad helps students become more independent. For example, they learn to solve problems by themselves.
5.Studying abroad has many advantages. However, there are also some disadvantages.
14 / 17
学科网(北京)股份有限公司
学科网(北京)股份有限公司
$