2. Paraphrase the following phrases:

To work jointly on an activity; a sum of money charged for teaching; a private teacher; to have a permanent home in a particular place; reciprocal action or influence; behavior that is not acceptable to other people; to become completely involved in something; physically challenged; a deduction from the usual cost

7. Sport

Sample Essays

• Some people think that physical exercises are essential for everyone. Do you agree with the statement? What is your opinion?

There is no doubt that it is very important for many people to be in good shape. Some people go in for sports, follow a diet and control their weight, while others do not pay due attention to their appearance. So, can we live without physical exercises and healthy lifestyle? Personally, I am an enthusiastic supporter of a healthy lifestyle.

The ancients said, “A sound mind in a sound body”. I fully agree with this statement. Firstly, those people who do their morning exercises tend to be more cheerful and energetic. Secondly, sports case-harden the spirits. People who do some sports have got will for victory. Thirdly, physical exercises improve posture and strengthen the muscles of all body. Moreover, sports have a wholesome effect on emotional well-being and lifestyle.

On the contrary, there are people who avoid any physical activity. Some of them allege illness, others complain of the shortage of time. In my judgment, everything depends on your wish. As far as I am concerned, I would highly recommend everyone to follow the example of disabled people who, in spite of everything, take part in Paralympic competitions and win medals.

Taking into consideration all mentioned above, I consider that our life is impossible without physical exercises. If people do not want to suffer from such illness as scoliosis or osteochondrosis they should better go for a jog every morning or do some simple gymnastics training at home.

(238 words)

• Some people think that Physical Education should be an optional subject. Do you agree with the statement? What is your opinion?

It is common knowledge that Physical Education is compulsory in many countries. Today more and more parents do not want their children to participate in any physical activities at school, while others consider that sport is vitally important for everyone. Personally, I strongly believe that parents should teach their children to lead a healthy lifestyle and to do some physical activity since early childhood.

Firstly, physically active lifestyle has a great impact on children’s health. Secondly, sports activities at school contribute to forming lifelong habits of exercise. Thirdly, PE is a perfect way for emotional release. In my judgment, it is essential for children to balance mental stimulation and physical activities. Moreover, school competitions form the will for victory and promote teamwork.

On the contrary, some people think that sport is a waste of time. They insist that children should better concentrate 011 the core subjects such as mathematics, physics and chemistry. As far as I am concerned, I do not share their opinion. I consider that every subject is important in its own way. Besides, it is generally known that “A sound mind in a sound body”.

Taking into consideration all mentioned above, I consider that Physical Education is one of the core subjects of the school curriculum. Hence, under the assumption that it is a determinant of children’s health and well-being, it should be compulsory at schools.

(229 words)

• Some people think that dangerous sports should be banned. Do you agree with this statement? What is your opinion?

One issue that has caused lots of controversy over the recent years is legitimacy of dangerous sports. Some people consider that extreme sports devotees are in the jaws of death and suggest taking dramatic measures. In this essay I would like to find out if there is a necessity to ban extreme sports.

In my opinion, extreme sports, such as diving, surfing, rafting and wakeboarding give people unforgettable experience and vivid emotions. Firstly, they help to relieve stress, anxiety and tension. Secondly, thrill seekers get an adrenaline rush and enjoy the feeling of exhilaration. Thirdly, extreme sports help to overcome fears, which is very important for personal development.

On the contrary, there are people who consider that it is too dangerous to participate in extreme sports. According to their point of view, life is a precious gift and we should not expose it to unnecessary risks. As far as I am concerned, I think that life itself is risky, whether you drive a car or cross the street. And if people want to run hazards, they are free to choose.

Taking into consideration all mentioned, I think that nothing ventured, nothing gained. It is up to you to decide whether to take risk or not, but I am convinced that people have the right to choose any activity they are interested in. Hence, there is no need to ban dangerous sports.

(231 words)

Topical Vocabulary