综合写作：
Writing | Question 1 of 2
In the United States, students in many elementary schools (ages six to twelve years) take lessons in playing a musical instrument. In schools with such programs, students are given very basic instruction in playing the piano, the flute, the violin, or another instrument. There is some debate, however, as to whether this sort of music instruction is really worth the time, expense, and effort involved.
One criticism
is that time spent in music class is time not spent on other subjects. Each hour spent in music class is one hour less spent on subjects such as math and reading, which many people feel are more important. People who raise this criticism feel that lessons in playing an instrument are a waste of time because they leave students less time to practice reading and math.
A second criticism
is that instrument instruction is expensive. In a time when schools do not always have enough money for even basic supplies such as enough books, the costs associated with instrument instruction are just not practical. Schools not only have to pay the salary of a music teacher, they also have to purchase and maintain the instruments that the students use. All of these things add significantly to the overall cost of education.
Third
there does not appear to be any real practical or future – looking purpose in providing instrument instruction to students. Most students are not going to grow up to be professional musicians. And for the very few students who have the talent to later become professionals, these instrument lessons in school are not enough; these especially talented students will still need to take private music lessons to develop their skills. So basic classes in instrument playing fulfill no real purpose in the training of potential musicians.
学术写作：
Instructions
Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response you should do the following:
- Express and support your opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Dr. Achebe
We’ve been discussing trends in the travel industry. Next week, we’ll look specifically at accommodations for travelers. It has become popular for both tourists and business travelers to stay at private residences instead of traditional hotels. In fact, there are currently several websites dedicated to helping people with the process of renting out their properties to travelers on a temporary basis. Do you think this type of travel accommodation is a positive trend? Why or why not?
Claire
I think this trend of staying in private homes is positive. From a financial perspective, private residences often come at a cheaper price than traditional hotels. Plus, homeowners or hosts with vacant rooms can also benefit from this trend, as they can earn extra income from renting out their properties.
Paul
While it might be cost – effective, staying in private houses may not offer the same opportunities for socializing as traditional hotels do. For instance, in a hotel, one can meet other travelers in the lobby or during breakfast, building friendships. But you can’t do this in private homes, which could limit our social experiences while traveling.
