Guide to English Writing

a
u tion
29
Compare / Contrast / Discuss
21. Some students prefer to study near home while others want to study in another city or even 
another country. Compare these two options and say which you would prefer and why.
22. More and more companies are willing to view graduates of online universities on an equal 
level as those who attended brick-and-mortar classrooms. Discuss the advantages of both styles 
of learning as it relates to the working world.
23. Many parents these days want their children’s education to focus more on the sciences and 
mathematics because they believe this will better prepare their children for a good career. Some 
parents still appreciate the value of the arts in education. Compare the value of both academic 
approaches and say which you think is more beneficial for children.
24. Some students go directly to university or college after high school while others take a gap 
year to work or travel. Discuss both approaches and say which you prefer.
25. Some teachers prefer to evaluate their students’ progress by asking for an independent study 
project such as an essay or presentation. Others prefer to use multiple choice tests. Compare 
the benefits of both evaluation styles and say which you think is a better reflection of a student’s 
ability. 
26. Many schools these days require their students to contribute a minimum number of 
volunteer hours doing community service, believing this teaches them to be responsible and 
socially engaged. Some parents think this is a needless distraction. Compare both views and say 
which you agree with.
27. Many parents complain that their children have too much homework. Others complain that 
their children are not given enough homework. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
28. Some schools base their teachers’ salaries according to their students’ performance on 
standardized tests. Others base it on teacher evaluations submitted by students at the end of the 
school year. Discuss both approaches. Do you think there is a better way to decide a teacher’s 
value? 
other: 
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