(b)

　　Nowadays, an increasing number of people have become car owners. Yet there is no consensus on the development of private cars. Some people hold the positive view. They say that the car is the result of modern science and technology and everyone is entitled to enjoy it. They also argue that the development of private cars will vigorously stimulate the development of other industries and the whole national economy.

　　Others, however, hold the negative view. They point out that the increasing number of cars have led to a series of problems. First, they result in air pollution, which seriously damage people’s health. Secondly, too many cars on the road easily lead to traffic jams, which actually slow down the pace of life and work.

　　Weighing the pros and cons of these arguments, I am inclined to agree with the latter point of view. The government should put a ban on the development of private cars and exert more efforts to develop public transportation, such as buses and subways. In this way, we can both enjoy efficiency and a clean environment.

　　7. Studying Abroad: Hardships and Rewards

　　There is no denying the fact that studying abroad is a hotly debated topic today. Obviously, studying abroad has a number of rewards/advantages. In the first place, a student can have access to advanced science and technology as well as desirable working conditions which might not be available at home. In the second place, he can be exposed to entirely new ideas and trends. Last but not least, by living and studying in a foreign country, one can improve his foreign language much faster than at home.

　　Nevertheless, as every coin has two sides, studying abroad also confronts one with a series of hardships. For one thing, learning a foreign language is far from an easy thing at the beginning for most people. For another, a completely new environment with different customs and habits may also be a barrier to overseas students, especially to the young. An added difficulty lies with finance: it can cost a lot to study abroad.

　　From my point of view, the advantages of studying abroad outweigh its disadvantages. But it is a big decision to go abroad to study and one should take into consideration his financial conditions and his ability to adapt to new surrounding. Personally, I choose to go abroad and study if I find it necessary.

　　(Therefore, studying abroad should be viewed as a two-edged sword, which presents us with both benefits and troubles. The best policy, as I see it, is to take into consideration his financial conditions and his ability to adapt to new surrounding. Personally, I choose to go abroad and study if I find it necessary.)

　　8. Should the Golden Week Holidays Be Abolished?

　　There is no denying the fact that the introduction of the Golden Week holidays in China has considerably promoted the development of the nation’s economy and touring industry and enriched people’s life. People around the country have spent more time and money traveling and relaxing themselves.

　　As every coin has two sides, the Golden Week holidays have also brought about piles of problems. For one thing, due to the fact that people across the country are spending their vacations during the same period of time, it is terribly crowded almost everywhere: trains, buses, hotels, scenic spots, etc., which have ruined people’s mood for vacations. For another, some businessmen take advantage of the weeklong holidays and raise the priced of commodities and services.

　　Personally, I believe that it is necessary for people to have long vacations, but there is no need for them to have the vacations during the same period of time. Instead, they should be allowed the freedom to arrange their own vacations. Only in this way can they really relax and refresh themselves for a new round of work.

　　9.Internet — A Two-edged Sword

　　Internet is playing an increasingly important role in people’s life. As a newborn information delivering system, the Internet has made seas of information available at our fingers’ tips. Besides, the Internet serves as the most convenient means for communication. Through the Internet, people can discuss various problems and make friends who share common views.

　　But just as a coin has two sides, Internet has its own drawbacks which should not be neglected. First, it costs an alarming amount of money to construct the system and the cost is very high to most Chinese consumers. Second, it is sometimes difficult for people to find the right information they are looking for since there is too much rubbish on the net. Finally, it is also difficult to prevent the net from the invasion of criminals.

　　Therefore, the Internet should be viewed as a two-edged sword, which presents us with both conveniences and troubles. But we should not give up eating for fear of choking. The best policy, as I see it, is to further develop the net and exert proper supervision over it so that it can benefit us in a better way.

　　10. Water Shortage

　　No one can have failed to notice the fact that water shortage is a grave problem with which the whole world is confronted. Actually, it has become so widespread that it has severely affected people’s daily life and hindered the development of the global economy.

　　A number of factors could account for the problem, but the following might be the critical ones. First, with the development of agriculture and industry, an increasing amount of water is needed. Secondly, the ever-increasing population is another leading cause of water shortage. Besides, the global tendency of warming up also contributes to the problem. What’s worse, pollution and waste of fresh water aggravate the situation.

　　In view of the seriousness of the problem, effective measures must be taken before things get worse. First, it is essential that laws and regulations be worked out and enforced to protect water resources. Secondly, people should enhance their awareness of saving water. With these measures taken, it is reasonable for us to expect a brighter future.