Table 2.
The writing prompts for the argumentative and expository compositions.
| Argumentative 1 | Some people believe that the best way to learn about life is by listening to the advice of family and friends. Other people believe that the best way to learn about life is through personal experience. Which do you think is preferable? Use specific examples to support your preference |
| Expository 1 | Many students have to live with roommates while going to school or university. What are some of the important qualities of a good roommate? Use specific reasons and examples to explain why these qualities are important |
| Argumentative 2 | Some people learn best when a classroom lesson is presented in an entertaining, enjoyable manner. Other people learn best when a lesson is taught in a serious, formal way. Which of these two ways of learning do you prefer? Use specific reasons and details to support your choice |
| Expository 2 | Every generation of people is unique in important ways. How is your generation different from your parents’ generation? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your answer |
| Argumentative 3 | A growing number of people, especially the young, like eating at stands or restaurants, while many others prefer to prepare and eat food at home rather than eat out. Discuss both views and give your preference. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. |
| Expository 3 | Imagine that you are preparing for a trip. You plan to be away from your home for a year. You need to make some preparations for the trip. What will you take? Explain why this thing/these things is/are important. Use specific reasons and details to support your choice(s) |
| Argumentative 4 | For many university students there are two alternatives: one way is to find a job, the other is to pursue further study. Both have advantages and disadvantages, and it is difficult to say which is better. Discuss both views and then give your own opinion. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer |
| Expository 4 | People attend college or university for many different reasons (for example, new experiences, career preparation, and increased knowledge). Why do you think people attend college or university? Give reasons for your answer(s) and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge |