Discussion point Discuss these questions with a partner. 1 Look at the picture. How does it make you feel? It makes me feel … 2

2

take an elevator / five years

3

go to the dentist / 10 years old

4

speak in public / two years

3

Think about your fears and when they started. Write sentences explaining

how long you have had the fear.

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UNIT 7

FEAR

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riting skills

ISBN_SKILLFUL_RW_SB2_2p.indd   74

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Have you ever felt afraid in an enclosed space like an elevator? You may have what is known 

as claustrophobia. This is a fear of being in a space you feel you cannot leave. If somebody 

with claustrophobia enters a small space like an elevator, they will probably panic when the 

doors close. Many situations, such as traveling in an elevator, subway train or airplane, cause 

claustrophobic people to panic, but in the worst case, even closing the door to a room can cause 

this feeling.

BRAINSTORM

You are going to write a paragraph about a common fear. Think about fears you have or other people have. Take notes.

PLAN

Plan your paragraph. Look back at your brainstorm and write a topic sentence. Decide how you want to organize your 

paragraph. 

WRITE

Write a paragraph describing a common fear. Pay attention to your paragraph structure, especially the topic sentence 

and supporting details. Try to provide an example using a conditional sentence.

SHARE

Exchange paragraphs with a partner. Look at the checklist on page 109 and provide feedback to your partner.