EDU: Free Education or Paid One?

Should education be free?

      There are no doubts that good education is utterly important in the

contemporary world. In many countries people are obliged to pay if

they want to study and this is a norm of life. However, the opponents

of this system claim that the society is negatively affected by paid

education.

      Personally, I believe that both citizens and the government derive benefits

from free education. Firstly, this way the gap between the rich and the

poor is less yawning. All people, regardless of their social status and

income, should have a chance to study. Secondly, by providing

affordable education the government increases the overall intelligence

level in the country and reduces poverty. Finally, the more people are

qualified the better outlook for the future is in the global scale. The

work market is in need of enthusiastic and skillful employees who are

able to work hard for the sake of their own and the country’s

prosperity.

      Nevertheless, there is an opinion that paid education is more

effective. It is said that students treat studies more seriously when

they have to pay for it. Moreover, tuition fees enable colleges and

universities to buy expensive equipment essential for certain classes.

      Although they are partly right, I cannot help thinking about talented

poor students who cannot afford to study in a university. Their

intellectual capacity will be wasted on society and they are not going

to make a scientific breakthrough only because of a lack of money for

decent education.

      All things considered, I maintain that free education is not only

beneficial for people but also for the officials. Only intelligent and 

well-educated society is able to create a strong and developed state.

Cars Should be Banned

The car has become the most popular mean of transport in the

history of the world. However, some people say that the world

would be better without cars.

      There is no doubt that the invention of the car has changed the world

and nowadays we can hardly find a family without a car. Some people

claim that cars should be banned. In fact, there are too many cars in

our towns and cities which causes more pollution and more traffic

jams in rush hours. So, what is right in such situation?

      In my opinion, I do not mind reducing the number of cars. Without any

doubt, limited transport capacity contributes largely to the vexing

problems and people must definitely improve the situation. 

      As the matter of the fact, some people feel pessimistic about our

future with cars. They worry about pollution, poisoned air we breathe,

amount noise which are caused by cars, lack of space for green

gardens and playground.

     They are certainly right but only partly. I think our cars cannot be

banned at all. Also, using cars is very essential for people, as we can

get food using cars by delivering products to homes, business, work.

     In conclusion, I would like to say that everything is in our hands.

People can build efficient underground, tram service which will

certainly make our lives better and more comfortable. In addition,

environmentally friendly vehicles will reduce air pollution and

greenhouse gas emissions. They must be produced multitude and

sold in acceptable prices.

EDU: All Subjects Equally Useful?

Most teachers believe that all subjects at school are equally

useful.

     Most teachers believe that all subjects at school are equally useful.

People have varied interests, and therefore students want to study

different subjects at school. They think that it is better to focus on

determined subjects. But others believe that students must learn all

subjects equally.

     In my opinion, today all subjects at school play a important role for

people. Firstly, knowledge and skills obtained at school are applied.

Pupils can use it in the life. Secondly, today individual must be

comprehensively developed to achieve a great position. Finally, a

student increases the level of own culture by studying.

     On the other hand, there are those who think that students should be allowed to choose subjects they want to study. Development of the

ability in determined field and concentration on it will lead to success.

     I disagree with it, because if students do not develop

comprehensively, they will be able to exist in the world and even to

make friends.

     In conclusion, I am strongly convinced that pupils must be interested

in different subjects, as many-sided studying provides becoming

personality.

Detectives: For VS Against

Some people think that reading detectives is a waste of time.

     In today`s world there are many different kinds of books and all

people can find something suitable among the variety. However,

some think that detectives are a useless and stupid genre of books,

whereas others believe that there is no better way to spend time than

reading detectives. So where is the truth?

     In my opinion, reading crime stories brings any person many benefits

and advantages. Firstly, detectives usually have cunningly devised

motives of a crime and an investigation process. This characteristic

of the book allows readers to develop logic, observation and

understanding of human behavior, which can be very useful in real

life. Secondly, it is the best way to deal with depression because the

world of the book is able to capture and divert from real issues. As is

known, a person a little distracted from any problem later find a

solution quicker because of looking at the situation more objectively.

Moreover, we should take into account that reading books enriches

the lexicon and develops grammar skills.

     Nevertheless, many people share the opinion that reading detectives

is worthless activity. Nowadays this genre is made from a template,

so that every book is of the same plot.

     This may be true to some extent, but I assume that detectives of

different authors are varied. They have their own inner world and

fantasy, so plots of some books can be similar but it does not make

crime stories less interesting.

     In conclusion, I am firmly convinced that detectives are beneficial

books because of their ability to give food for thought, distract from

reality and develop logical thinking. I maintain that this genre cannot

be called `useless`.

Stray / Homeless Animals

Some people believe that animals without owners should have

the right to live on the streets in cities. Others say that they

could be dangerous and should be collected and found new

homes, or even put down.

     Some people think that it is quite acceptable that stray animals live in

the streets and people don`t worry about it. Others believe that it is

abnormal and can lead to some dangerous consequences. It is

required many attention and efforts from people to find comfortable

living places for homeless animals.

     In my opinion, the responsibility for animals is very important. The

problem of homeless animals requires special attention and

solution. Firstly, the responsibility for animals appeals to fewer and

fewer people. Secondly, many homeless dogs and cats suffer from

the lack of food and die of starvation on the streets. Such incidents

are heart-rending. So this cannot go on in this way. It is inhuman,

outrageous treatment in relation to our «small brothers».

Actually, this problem concerns every one and humanity must

improve the situation.

     On the other hand, there are those who don`t worry that stray animals

live on the streets, dumps, cellars, heating mains, deserted buildings.

I can`t stand this relation towards the defenseless I certainly agree

with people who don`t disregard to give help to “our little brother»:

keep animal shelters where people can find a pet, treat sick animals,

give them warmer care and attention.

     In conclusion, it should be noticed that it is good that some people are

indifferent in relation towards defenseless and unprotected animals.

Unfortunately, this happens less now. But anyway people should not

forget that they are responsible for those, who they have tamed.

Relationship: today VS past

Have relationships among people changed for the better in

comparison with the past times?

     It is not a rare case to come across a lot of criticism towards modern

society which is said to be callous and superfluous. However, there

are some people who believe that relationships between people have

undergone some positive alterations.

     In my opinion, it seems that contemporary people are so busy to keep

up with the fast pace of life that they hardly have any time for efficient

socializing. The first point to bear in mind is that life is very expensive

nowadays and many parents are forced to work long hours. As a

result, their children are deprived of certain amount of attention, not to

mention that this lifestyle does not contribute to good relationships

between the couple. Secondly, many people complain of a gradual

loss of moral values in the society. The elderly are not the most

respected members of it anymore and there is little compassion

shown towards people in a dire need.

     Nevertheless, the opponents of this point of view are in a hurry to

remind that the role reversal between men and women is obviously a

change for the better. Women have become more independent and

there are fewer prejudices of men staying at home and looking after

children.

     Although, this argument holds some water it seems to be a statistic

fact that the divorce rates have escalated compared to the old times

when people used to be more dependent on each other.

     Taking everything into account, it is possible to conclude that

contemporary lifestyle does not contribute to creating strong bonds

among people.

Studying History

Nowadays some people say that the study of history is largely a

waste of time as it prevents us from challenges of current life.

      Should we study history or should not? Some people consider the

study of history is a sheer waste of time, while others totally disagree

with that.

     In my view, learning history is far preferable to not learning. It offers a

wide range of benefits for us. To begin with, the process of history is

all about reasons and consequences. Studying this structure makes

us think logically. It is an important skill for life in general. What is

more, the study of history broadens our minds. By studying history

we will encounter customs, traditions, household of the people of all

walks of life in any century, we will get acquainted with political

systems too. Furthermore, the question of being well-educated is

partly based on your knowledge in history. One needs to know

history not to be considered as a fool, a simpleton.

      However, there are people who oppose this opinion. They say that

since it is past, it does not matter at all. In their opinion, modern

society is too different from the previous one. Besides, they say the

speed of modern life is too fast to learn something about the past, the

history.

      But what they forgot about is that some bases and rules exist for

ages. So they are not right at all.

      In conclusion, I strongly believe that knowledge of history is a matter

of vital importance for all of us. Everybody should study the history.

Eating out VS home meal

Some people prefer to eat out. However. many people still like to cook meals at home What is your opinion about having meals at home?       Nowadays eating out is becoming much more popular than earlier. So, some people like to eating out: in restaurants, in cafe for example and do not less their time for cooking, but others prefer to eat at home. Who is right?       To my mind, it is nothing better than eating at home. So, I do not support people who likes to eat out. I think, home meals is healthier and you should not care about freshness of your products. Also, meals from restaurants are not always tasty. You can make tasty food at home and spend less money.       But others people often think eating out is more practical. They argue that we are living in new era: 21th century. It is time of development science and technologies,and the time where career stand on the first place, thats why we do not have enouth time for cooking. If you eat out you do not waste time for cooking, it is fast. You only have to order some meals.       But I do not agree and wait some minutes. It is convenient with these position and think that it is better to spend some time in the kitchen, but to be sure that you eat quality food.       I prefer to eat at home because, to my mind, home meals are tastier and healthier. But it is only my opinion, and everybody decided what

to eat and chosing their way of life.

Teenagers' Behaviour

Some people believe that teenagers today are rude, lazy and

badly behaved. Other people,however, think that teenagers have

a bad reputation for no reason.

      Nowadays there are so many teenagers, who are very impolite,

naughty, but most of them are very outgoing, hardworking and

purposeful.

      In my opinion, teenagers are not very rude, evil and lazy; they have a

bad reputation for no reason. Firstly, a lot of teenagers attain

success; they enter universities and have got well-paid jobs. And it

proves that they are not lazy. Secondly, now teenagers create social

advertisements, where they ask people to save their lives and give

up bad habits. Thirdly, they help adults and children who need help,

such as, the sick and the disabled. Now a lot of charity organization,

where teenagers work there as volunteers.

      However, there are some people, who believe, that teenagers are

generally rude, lazy and badly behaved. They think so, because they

notice only bad features in them. For example, they think that all

teenagers smoke and take drugs. I do not agree with them: firstly,

none of teenagers in my school smoke or take drugs; secondly, I am

sure that modern teenagers lead healthy lifestyle.

      To sum up, I think that teenagers are very good, kind and

sympathetic. The main thing for them is kindness to people. I hope

that there will be more people, who will believe in them and will

understand that teenagers are the modern generation, which

continues the way to the future.

FLL (Foreign Language Learning)

Some people think that you can master the language only if you study it abroad, in the native speaking environment.      Nowadays many people believe a foreign language can be studied independently (on one’s own) and it is not necessary to live abroad, but others totally disagree with this point of view and I can understand them.      In my opinion, a language can be completely mastered if you only have lived abroad. First of all, if a person is going to study a language abroad, he/she will learn it much faster, communicating with native speakers. Secondly, life in another country gives a chance to immerse in traditions, history and habits of another country and to understand better their way of life. Finally, life abroad allows people to communicate with the natives and understand their pronunciation.      On the other hand, a number of people argue that studying abroad is a waste of time and money and it is not worth going there. Besides, they claim people should find a good teacher and learn a language with him/her.       I do not consider these arguments really crucial because people will never gain a language experience in their own country. A person, who really wants to know a language and understand it on a perfect level, will never regret spending money or time on his/her hobby.      In conclusion, I am totally sure that the best way of learning a foreign language is to live abroad and communicate with native speakers.

Extreme Sports: Character

Some people think that extreme sports help to build character.       Different groups of people have opposite opinions about extreme sports. Some people believe that this kind of sports can develop negative character traits. Anyhow, nowadays there are a lot of people who keen on it.       In my opinion, doing adventure sports is much useful for a person. And it is more preferable than sitting in front of television or computer, for example. First of all, participation in extreme sports teaches people to cope with difficulties, to overcome fears, to be more confident in their selves. Secondly,sports force to be in motion, that can help to stop being lazy. Finally, it is the best way to get rid of tension, negative emotions such as rage, anxiety, anger and so on. Instead of it, this sport brings new energy for life, adrenaline and positivity.      However, many people think that extreme sports can do a person selfish.Moreover, those people who like to do something adventurous put their lives at risk.Although this is true to some extent, but I think, people should do in for sports with friends in order to stop development of self-interest.      Consequently, they will develop team spirit. And I am sure if people observe basic safety rules there will be no reasons for fear of life.To sum up, I am strongly convinced that advantages to doing extreme sports considerably outweigh the disadvantages. And it helps people to develop some traits of character which can be useful in everyday life.

ENV: Nature vs People

Some people think that nature will take steps to rectify any damages in the environment caused by people.      The problems of the environment have been a subject of hot debates for the last decade. There is an opinion that if we keep on rejecting responsibilities to take care of nature and ecology the human race is doomed to failure. However, there are those with more optimistic views.       In my opinion, people overestimate the recovering capacities of nature and one day may find themselves living on barren lands and breathing poisonous air. The first point to bear in mind is that air pollution created by fabric emissions and car fumes effect the ozone layer a lot. If it is destroyed completely the Earth will be exposed to scorching sun rays and end up being burnt. A further point is that there is no way nature will be able to recreate the population of endangered species ones man has hunted them to the point of extinction. As result of it the balance in the ecosystem will be devastated and some animals will fail to find food and gradually die out.       However, there are some people who claim that we have nothing to worry about as all the changes in the environment are inevitable and natural. According to them, the ozone layer is self-repairing and the ecosystem is regenerative.       With all due respect, I tend to disagree with this point of view as the truth is that but for humans there would never be polluted rivers without fish and rainforests abandoned by animals.        To sum up, even though nature does have a great ability to rejuvenate some damages caused by people it is obvious that it will not be able to win the fight against the humans’ distractive actions.

«Если деньги не служат тебе, они станут господствовать над тобой» (Ф.Бекон)

Впервые я столкнулась с фразой английского философа, историка, основателя эмпиризма Ф. Бэкона, ставшей темой моего эссе, читая книгу известного американского миллионера Роберта Кийосаки «Богатый папа, Бедный папа». Позже, я обнаружила такую же цитату в книгах «Думай и Богатей» Н.Хилла и «Код счастья» В.Довганя. Авторы всех этих книг указывали на неугасающую актуальность этого высказывания, и я не могу с ними не согласиться.

Представим себе жизнь среднестатистического человека в Российской Федерации. Утром он просыпается от звонка будильника, мечтая поспать еще хотя бы минут 15, съедает яичницу и бежит на работу. Отработав среднестатистические 8 часов, в течение которых он только и мечтал о конце рабочего дня, наш россиянин без сил возвращается домой, покупает по дороге, какие-нибудь среднестатистические пельмени в пачке – ужин для детей и работающих родителей. Во вторник утром снова зазвенит будильник и все повторится сначала. Так же, как и в среду, и в четверг, и так далее. Единственной радостью для этого россиянина становится день выдачи зарплаты. На минуту, ему кажется, что эти деньги его, но на самом деле, они уже распределены: на оплату счетов, долгов и т.д. Служат ли деньги этому человеку? Думаю, нет. Вот и получается, что этот человек ни кто иной, как раб денег. Они управляют его жизней. У Кийосаки это называется «Крысиные бега».

А теперь представим себе того, кого все тот же Кийосаки называл «Инвестор». Этот человек не живет на зарплату. Его резидуальный доход превышает его расходы, поэтому он никак не зависит от такого явления, как зарплата.  Он находится на «Скоростной дорожке» и может позволить себе жить так, как он этого захочет. Почему? Потому что он не служит деньгам, деньги служат ему.  Но таких людей, к сожалению, очень не много.

В чем же разница между среднестатистическим россиянином и инвестором? На самом деле, в наличии резидуального дохода, но вот как он формируется? Здесь и раскрывается смысл слов Ф.Бэкона. Я абсолютно убеждена, что власть над деньгами, о которой говорил Бэкон, означает владение источником резидуального дохода, ведь только тогда человек не зависит от зарплаты, а, следовательно, деньги работают на него.

Одна из причин неугасающей актуальности в России высказывания основателя эмпиризма заключается в полном бездействии государства, в отношении данной проблемы. В нашей стране не принято богатеть и любые попытки вырваться с «Крысиных бегов» осуждаются обществом. Норма, как известно, понятие устанавливаемое большинством,  а ввиду тотальной финансовой неграмотности российского населения, любой, кто пытается вырваться из порочного круга, воспринимается как сумасшедший. Государство же, вместо того, чтобы бороться с этим явлением, лишь усугубляет его: по телевидению показывают страшных, лысых, жадных олигархов; говоря о крупных бизнесменах, выставляют их, как абсолютное зло, вместо того, чтобы рассказывать о меценатстве и вкладе в экономику России. Само слово «олигарх» ни с чем хорошим не ассоциируется. Ввиду этого, большинство россиян и живут так, как было описано мной в первом примере.

Именно поэтому, высказывание Бэкона сейчас так актуально и требует немедленного применения к российской действительности. Уже сейчас этим занимаются О.Тиньков в передаче «Бизнес секреты с Олегом Тиньковым», В.Довгань в своей «Школа Победителей» и другие; но, в действительности, эта задача по силам лишь государству.

«Политическая партия - это союз людей, которые соединились для того, чтобы добиться нужных им всем законов» (И. Ильин)

    В данном высказывании Ильин поднимает вопрос о деятельности политических партий , для чего они служат и как влияют на общество. Автор говорит о том, что образование политических партий объясняется тем, что объединение людей в них служит для достижения нужных им законов.
     Я согласна с мнением автора. Политической партией называется добровольная и устойчивая политическая организация, объединяющая лиц с общими интересами и идеалами. Люди, объединяющиеся в партию, стремятся к власти, к установлению своих законов, чтобы преобладала в обществе их идеология. Для достижения власти партия ищет поддержки у населения, стремится привлечь электорат, выражает интересы социальных групп, старается приобрести свой правовой статус, дающая более эффективное выполнение своих функций.
      Примером служит ЛДПР, главным лидером данной партии является Жириновский. Данная партия выступает за либерализм и демократию, она категорически отрицает коммунистическую идеологию и марксизм. ЛДПР призывает к восстановлению России как великой державы без разделения на национальные республики, выступает за парламентскую форму праления. Одна из позиций ЛДРП состоит, чтобы над частной собственностью осуществлялся жесткий контроль, ЛДПР представляет себя как патриотическая партия.
      Так же одной из современных политических партий является «Единая Россия», лидером которой является Дмитрий Медведев. Данная партия выступает за социальный консерватизм, за защиту общего культурного пространства, русского языка, исторических традиций, укрепление суверенитета России, обеспечение нового качества жизни граждан путём продолжения реализации национальных проектов, значительного повышения заработной платы, пенсий и стипендий, оказания помощи гражданам в решении жилищной проблемы обороноспособности страны.
      В России присутствует многопартийность и я считаю, что это правильно, ведь различные интересы социальных групп должны иметь свое место существования.

EDU: Online VS Traditional

Some people say that online education is an excellent alternative to traditional education. But others people believe that virtual education can not substitute traditional one.       In today`s world online education is rapidly increasing thanks to development of computer technology. So some people assume that such education plays a more significant role than education at school, whereas others doubt that traditional education might be replaced.in my opinion, virtual education is not as effective as traditional one. Firstly, students do not have an opportunity to communicate with their teachers and classmates face to face. They are isolated from one another that has a negative influence on their character. Their social and communicative skills are poorly developed. Secondly, at class pupils can exchange ideas and thoughts. Therefore it makes easier and more interesting to master subjects.Moreover, while studying online, students become addicted to a computer.On the other hand, supports of virtual education are sure that it provides an easier and more comfortable way of obtaining knowledge, as there is no need to attend classes and spend time to get to school. Also they claim that pupils are not restricted in a schedule that allow them to distribute time more rational.It might be true, but if students are free from a schedule, they will spend more time themselves. So it will badly affect studying.In conclusion, I am strongly convinced that traditional education should not be substituted. However, it is possible that both education will be mixed.

STREET MUSICIANS

There are many opinions about street music. Some people think thatit is the way of earning money ; others say that there mustn't be anyamateur performances at the streets.       Street music has always been very popular among people. The issue about street music is contraversial: some people are fond of it while others are sure it should be banned.       In my opinion, street music brings us a great deal of pleasure and favour. To begin with, it gives us a chance to listen to live music for free of charge while walking on the street. Secondly, it is a great possibitity for creative people to introduce themselves to public and, probably, to become famous. Finally, some musicians earn money by making street perfomances,so it is their only way to exsist.       Nevertheless, there is a widely spread opinion that street music is not accessible. People claim that this music is rather noisy, it annoys them and distracts them from work. I strongly disagree with this opinion because this music is often very nice and a smile appers on my face when I hear it somewhere. Everyone can afford visiting street perfomances and it is a really interesting leisure activity.       To sum up, street perfomances are not just a way to earn an extra penny for singers, but it is a good way to spend your free time with pleasure.

School Uniform

At many schools, it is compulsory for pupils to wear a uniform. to school. This much better than letting students wear their own clothes. What is you opinion?      Our parents wore a school uniform many years ago. In the beginning of 21 century this rule was cancelled. Nowadays many schools want to return old tradition. Is it good or bad?      In my opinion school uniform is good way for pupils to be organized. They should understand that on the important meetings you must wear formal clothes. Furthermore, uniform makes pupils equal in material sense. Children from poor families won’t think that they are worse than others. Also your parents won’t spend much money for clothes every year, because school orders uniform for all pupils at once.      However, many people think that the same uniform doesn’t feel yourself individual personality. Besides, uniform often has dark color, for example black or brown, and it can spoil the pupil’s mood. Moreover by the end of the year uniform becomes untidy and not pleasant to look at it.      In conclusion I want to say that pupils must wear strictly uniform, because it makes them to study better.

Sports: Watching VS Participating

Some people think it's important to do sports regularly whileothers would rather watch a sporting event on TV.      Nowadays many people relate to sport as to an integral part of their lives. However, not all of them do sport themselves as they prefer watching it on TV. In my opinion people should do sports on a daily basis as it is utterly beneficial for their health.      Firstly, sportsmen are said to have good immune system as a result of their regular exercise and this enables them to stave off getting sick. What is more, for people who are complaining about being overweight due to sedentary lifestyle, sports seems to be the only way to get into shape and lose a couple of kilos. Finally, when people lead an active life they do not have time to get bored and consequently sports may become an excellent tool to entertain yourself and boost your energy level.      Nevertheless, they opponents claim that watching sport events on TV brings enough excitement and they do not need to be involved in it personally. Additionally, while doing sports one may get injured and end up in hospital.      Although they allegations may hold some water but it is also true that only by doing sports we are able to strengthen our body and improve our health.      All things considered, while I agree that watching sports may make an amusing pastime but regardless of this every person should do some sports as it is a prerequisite for good health.