Hunger & Poverty

In this video we can see one of the most depressing pictures in the whole world.

Hunger is a problem that tortures a huge amount of our population. People like us pass away , because they do not have enough food. About 963 million people are hungry and approximately 16,000 of them are children who died from poverty. 

WHY MUST PEOPLE MUST DIE BECAUSE OF FAMINE ?

In my opinion , solutions should be found in order to eliminate this tremendous problem. Firstly, one proper step is to give poor people some cultivated land  to survive . By doing this action , we can increase people's health and productivity and, of course, the sense of hope . However, (comma) to make this step right, we should teach the undernourished countries how to grow plants and breed animals. Should we take these steps, we can reduce the high levels of poverty .

Hunger and poverty

Hunger is one of the most important problems the world has to face. It cannot be accepted that there are still people who are deprived of the ability to satisfy their most essental needs, in a world where technology and scinece have helped us achieve the unachievable. Hunger is considered the most serious form of poverty. Supporting that, it is no coincidence that out of 963 million people who battle hunder daily, 947 come from developing countries with a tenuous economic system. It is sad to know that millions of people worldwide suffer from a wide variety of problems caused by famine. This is the reason why it is inportant that something be done to help those in need.

A lot of problem in people's health are said to be caused by under-nurishment. Growth can be stunted and it can affect the way we think and act. Adding to that, it is a known reason for the development of mental retardation. As far as the economy is concerned, hunger can have tremendous repercussions on it as it consumes a lot of time and energy, thus leavig people with less time for work and earning an appropriate income. Concerning its social  consequences, it can influence people's relations as it feeds shame, so most hungry people are prevented to seek help.

It is clear that something needs to be done in order to come to aid of those people who lack a proper nutrition. To begin with, it is vital that we continue raising funds and awareness, as we cannot defeat hunger if we do not battle poverty, as well, since the two are so interrelated. Furthermore, we can create adequate job vacancies and offer incentives, so that low wage people manage to make enough money to look after their families. Another feasible solution would be to distrivute land and crop seeds to under-developed areas to urge the locals to cultivte their own land.

Concluding, I believe that famine is a formidable issue that has to be tackled in order for the world to go forward. Were we to alleviate the situation of those in hunger, the benefits to be reaped would be innumerable. 

Technology: a blessing or a curse?

Nobody can deny that, for the last few decades, technology has been a major part of our lives. However, it still remains a thorny issue. Some support the theory that technology will lead to the solution of all problems humanity suffers from. On the other hand, some detractors of technology claim that it will eventually cause the destruction of our lives. I am inclined to believe that, up to a certain point, both sides are correct.

Technology has undoubtedly resulted in a lot of benefits for us to reap and still has plenty to offer. To begin with, it is much easier nowadays to communicate with our friends and loved ones whether that is by using the telephone or via the Internet. Previously, it was virtually impossible, let alone time-consuming to contact people who were far away. Technology has brought us all together. Furthermore, as curiosity has always been one of humankind’s most basic qualities, people have used technology to explore the world around them. They have succeeded in learning about what existed underground, as well as in the sky. We have managed to travel in space and reach the moon, all thanks to technological advances and our need to explain the unknown. Last but not least, all fields of work and study have bloomed due to technological development. We wouldn’t have found the cure to various diseases and ailments, had there not been machines and equipment to do so. In addition to that, physics wouldn’t exist as a science as without adequate aid, we wouldn’t be able to explain the world around us.

Although the positive aspects of technology are impossible to ignore, there are two sides of that coin. Despite all the things it has helped us conquer, our excessive use of technology has had some crucial repercussions. The most important of those is, of course, environmental degeneration. We have let our love for technology and development cause the deforestation of various areas, global warming and the greenhouse effect, to name but a few, which has set our lives in huge danger, as pollution, floods and other natural disasters are a serious peril that can occur every day. Another argument against technology is our vast addiction to it. The Internet is part of our everyday lives and the various equipment existing in our house to facilitate our routine have rendered us unable to resist the comfort and well-being that technology offers to us, usually with a formidable impact on our health and social life.

Taking all into consideration, I strongly believe technology can be tremendously helpful and useful in helping us face and solve our problems, if we continue to co-exist with it, as it has already helped us deal with a lot of them. However, we should it cautiously as it is essential that we protect the environment and consequently, our lives. We should consider if technology is actually more worth ruining our planet and all that we have managed to build.

Microchip implants replacing ID cards

 There has been a lot of discussion recently concerning whether microchip implants are an effective substitute for identity cards. Some people are in favor of this idea as it would be easier to have your ID embedded in you, rather than having to carry your card everywhere. On the other hand, some others claim that microchips would bring an end to the privacy and anonymity everyone is entitled to. I am inclined to believe that it could be beneficial to have a microchip implanted under our skin.

 To begin with, chips are much more convenient than ID cards. How many times have we been prevented from doing something because we did not have our identity cards on us? We need it in order to use our credit card or to book plane tickets. Our ID cards play a major role in our everyday life and activities, despite the fact that it is not that easy to carry it around and not to forget to take it with us. With microchips, you can be sure that your ID is always with you. Apart from that, implanted microchips have the power to cause a revolution as far as modern technology is concerned. For instance, automatic security doors, that allow in only those whose ID it recognizes or has been confirmed by the owner can be created and used for several purposes. It could be really useful if we take into account the crime rates nowadays.

 

 Another argument to support my opinion is that using microchips which contain our ID is much safer. There have been a lot of cases where people have lost or even had their cards stolen. When your ID is embedded in your skin, there is little to no chance of that happening. Last but not least, the country would be much more secure, should we adopt this identification system as terrorists would find it difficult to create a new identity and escape punishment easily.

All thing considered, it seems to me that microchip implants are a very advantageous way to replace identity cards, because not only do they protect us from various types of crimes(such as identity theft), but it also helps us feel safer and more at ease and is quite convenient. For all these reasons, I strongly support the use of microchips. Nevertheless, no matter what is chosen to be our next step, it should be done with respect to people and their rights.

Essay on vegetarianism :)

More and more people are deciding to quit consuming meat and other animal products and become vegetarians instead. Recent estimates suggest that the number of those people has grown greatly over the last few years. This alternative diet is particularly popular with youngsters and young adults, who are fond of the environment and defend the animals’ rights. Although there are some drawbacks to being a vegetarian, no one would deny that there are also some tremendous benefits.

To begin with, people who choose to follow a vegetarian diet tent to be generally healthier and slimmer than those who have a regular diet. The main reason is that their diet consists mainly of fruit and vegetables, which are essential for the proper development of our body. Furthermore, by choosing to become vegetarians, we lessen the chances of developing heart diseases or irregularities and even cancer later in our lives, as well as numerous other ailments. Last but not least, a diet as such can be almost equivalent to an ordinary one and the myths concerning the lack of proteins or iron it can cause can easily be proven wrong by combining the right foods.

However, we cannot deny the disadvantages of vegetarianism. First of all, there are very few vegetarian foods and goods available at local markets and they are quite difficult to find in shops. As a result, people with this kind of diet have to prepare their meals themselves, which can be inconvenient for those with a busy lifestyle. What is more, it is unhealthy for the children of vegans (extreme vegetarians who refuse to consume not only meat, but other animal products, as well) to follow in their parents footsteps, as they need dairy products (especially milk) and eggs, in order to be normally developed. The more their diet lacks of those, the worse their nutrition is.

On balance, I strongly believe being a vegetarian can have an extremely positive effect on our lives. Despite that, eating meat is a natural human behavior and we are not obliged to give that up, but consume it in moderation. Vegetarianism is simply a matter of choice.

Extra information on the death penalty

http://markaki-students.blogspot.gr/2011/09/c2-level-students-debate-death-penalty.html

 

Vegetarianism

Vegetarianism is becoming more & more popular with the younger generations. Approximately 2 million teenagers prefer vegetables to meat . As we know, a proper nutrition is necessary to everyone in the whole world , therefore we have to pay more attention to our eating choices . It is said that a vegatarian diet is the key to a healthy life . However, some people say that humans are not herbivores , so they have to eat meat, as well. Who is right? Is a vegetarian diet complete? Can it fulfill all the nutritional requirements of the body? The serious benefits and the tremendous drawbacks of being a vegetarian should be considered.

  First & foremost, vegetarians eat nuts, pulses, cereal, beans, grains in  musli, wholemeal flour,vegetables & fruits. Vegetables & fruits provide vitamins & minerals that are essential for our healthy body & they provide natural sugars, beneficial enzymes & elements. Green leafy  vegetables are a rich source of antioxidants . Moreover, vegetarianism can reduce the possibilities of developing te health problems caused by obesity . A vegetarian diet is also helpful for weight loss, since it lowers the blood cholesterol & decreases the risk of various and evil diseases , such as high blood pressure , osteoporosis & cancer . Vegetarians have a better digestive system than a meat-eater .
  
   On the other hand, a vegan diet is found to be low in proteins, calcium, vitamin B12 & iron . Vitamin B12 is found in meat products, fortified cereals & animal products . Meat is considered as the major source of vitamin B12 .Additionally, children who were raised as vegans will not get enough nutrients especially iron , vitamin D & B12 .Last but not least, protein plays an important role in any diet . It not only serves as a source of energy, but also as a bulding block to keep the body healthy . It is a nutrient that provides amino acids, which help repair injuries, such as cuts on the skin.
   

   Although there are certain advantages, vegetarianism entails  a number of serious disadvantages. Personally, I think that exaggeration is not the proper thing to do. So you can be a vegetarian, but not a vegan or you can be a meat-eater, but not with exaggeration. 

Film review

Jumanji

Jumanji is an adventure fantasy film directed by Joe Johnston and written by Jonathan Hensleigh and Greg Taylor. This movie is a bout two kids who are trapped in an old board game, called Jumanji, and after a decade are released into the real world. Then they have to face all the dangerous creatures, which are also released from the game on the city, and this can be achieved only if they manage to finish Jumanji.

The special effects are really spectacular, since very original and impressive techniques are used. In some sequences you even feel that the animals are coming out of the screen and instinctively you try to protect yourself. Consequently, they are very convincing, as well.

Jumanji has additionally other good aspects. For instance, the acting is believable as Robin Williams and Kristen Dunst star and give a great performance. Furthermore, the costumes are very well-designed and imaginative and represent exactly the situation that the actors are in each scene.

Overall, I would certainly recommend Jumanji because it’s an interesting film for the whole family and has a really outstanding directing. Don’t miss it.

 

Formal letter

Dear Mrs. Sanderson,

I am writing to give you my comments on your new teenage magazine.

Firstly, regarding if it is a good idea to be a magazine solely for teens, from my point of view, it will definitely work. The reason for this is that adolescents will stick with it, since they are very curious about fashion and body image. About how often it can be published, I think once a month is the best solution because teenagers will have enough money to afford it.

Concerning the topics that could be included. I suggest that that should be about fashion, body image and health problems. That is because many teenage girls aim to have an ideal body structure and they kid them selves that they have skin imperfections. As a result, they go on starvation diets and afterwards they look stick-thin. Furthermore, teenagers are very impressionable. Both boys and girls want to make an impression with their outfits and consequently they always follow the fashion.

Finally, as regards your TEEN HOBBIES magazine, in my opinion, it is not so successful because it has not got well-written interviews.

I hope these comments and suggestions are helpful.

Yours faithfully,

Mavradonaki Christina

Advice letter

Dear Angela,

I’m sure you feel irritated when your best friend wants to change herself and create another image which doesn’t represent her, but I can assure you that it’s a common problem nowadays. I’ll give you some advice to deal with it.

The best thing to do is to discuss with her and tell her how you feel. You should make her understand that being popular is not one of the most important aims that we have to achieve in life. Moreover, you could speak to her in order to help her comprehend that she doesn’t need to change her style of clothes or the music she likes to make herself stand out.

Furthermore, if I were in your shoes, I would spend some time with her productively and do something together to cheer her up and remind her how enjoyable those past days you spent happily was. This might be a good idea to make her realize that she doesn’t have to be cool in order to be accepted by another group of people.

I hope everything works out for you.

Yours,

David

Informal Letter

Dear Jo,

I got your letter yesterday, and decided to drop you a line straightaway. I’m writing to answer all your questions.

From my point of view, going to the careers talk will be very useful. That’s because you will be able to meet interesting people, ask them questions and discuss with them about your future. I think it’s a great opportunity! By the way, in my opinion, it would be better to go through the brochures. The reason for this is that you will focus on what you’re reading and also there you can find more detailed information than by speaking to the teachers.

As for the career I am interested in, I’m thinking of becoming a teacher in a primary school, since I’d live to be with young children and help them in their education. Furthermore, I would like to follow in my mother’s footsteps. Moreover, I want to apologise for not putting you up because that week we are offering hospitality to my godmother. I’m sorry.

Please write to me again soon, and tell me all your news.

Best wishes,

Christina

Essay

Many people think it would be perfect if they were rich and successful. At first glance, it looks ideal. However, the life of rich and successful people is not always easy and fun.

Of course, being rich and successful has its advantages. For instance, you can help people if you want by participating in charities. In addition, they may gain more respect from society. People would care for them and do everything they can, so that they are happy. Furthermore, they can live a happy life, because they can afford to buy everything they want and they can provide a nice future for their children.

On the other hand, there are some disadvantages in being rich and famous too. Because of their hard work, they usually do not spend enough quality time with their families. Another problem is that, when you are rich and successful, people make friends with you, just to benefit from your money. In other words, you do not know who are your real friends. Rich and successful people cannot enjoy and spend their money either. Their job, which might be stressful, may require time.

It would be nice if I were rich and successful, because I would like to use my money in good ways. However, I think that our family, our happiness and our health are more important than money. On balance, I do not think I would like to be rich and successful.

A review about a concert

Jonas Brothers Live

The Jonas Brothers gave a gorgeous concert in my town last week. It was part of their tour in order to promote their new album. It was on Saturday night at Pagrition Stadium, with a capacity crowd.

They gave a brilliant performance. The audience were cheering and applauding bringing the house down. The crowd went wild when they played their hit "SOS". Suddenly, Kevin, the oldest of the three brothers, threw his guitar and everyone was shoched. Generally, the atmosphere was very energetic. The lights didn't stop tyrning on and off and the sounds that the mixer table made were really cool. I loved their final encore. It was my favourite song, "When You Look Me in the Eyes".

However there were two little problems. The T-shirts that some people were selling were too expensive and I couldn't buy one. Also, some fans wanted to get near the stage but the security guards pushed them back and there was a small fight which fortunatelly didn't last long.

Apart from that, the evening was marvelous. I'd definitely recommend Jonas Brothers (JB) to everyone who likes pop music. If they visit you, don't miss their concert. You won't regret it!

PET Writing...

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!

Last Saturday, I saw a film called Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It was pretty nice.

It is based on a book. The main character in the film is Charlie Bucket who is a kind loving child growing up in a very poor family. He lives with his mother, father (who was recently laid off from his job at a toothpaste factory), and his four grandparents directly down the street from the famous chocolate factory.Many years ago, the owner of the factory, Willy Wonka, had decided to close it because other chocolate factories had been stealing his ideas.That led him to fire all his employees, among them Charlie's Grandpa Joe. One day, Wonka informs the world of a contest in which five Golden Tickets have been placed in five random Wonka Bars worldwide and the winners will be given a full tour of the factory as well as a lifetime supply of chocolate. One ticket holder will be given a special prize at the end of the tour.

It was a great movie. The special effects were fantastic and the plot was so exciting and original. The music was also excellent! I loved the Oompa Loompas! I would definitely recommend to anyone who likes fairy-tales and magic!

Source: Wikipedia.

Email to Nick and Anna

Dear Nick & Anna,

Hi, my name is Rafaela. I am 13 years old & I live in Heraklion Crete.  I'm the girl who was not there when you visited our school. I have a brother who is 12.

I'm a plump girl of medium height. I'm good-looking with shoulder-length straight brown hair. I'm honest responsible ,cheerful and kind . I live with my parents and my little brother in a big house.

What about you? How old are you? Are you twins? Are you from New Zealand ?

I am looking forward to your reply.

Best wishes,
Rafaela

A letter to our new e-pals

Dear Anna & Nick,

How are you? I hope you're well and everything is fine there in New Zealand. What the weather like in your country? Is it hot, warm or cold? Here in the mornings is really cold but then is being hotter and hotter. However, in the afternoon is warm again and we have to wear jackets.

Well, let's talk about school for a bit. As I have already told you-but you may don't remember-I'm in the second grade of Junior High School. My class is on the 1st floor of our building and it's very hot but it's perfect. Maybe is the best class. Also our teachers are very good. My favourite subject is Ancient Greek, because we're very close with the teacher and I like the way she teaches us. I always have a good time. What's your favourite subject?

Have you attended to an after-school club? If so, what kind of club is like? If you ask me, I haven't joined one, but it wouldn't be a bad idea. A few years ago, I had take part in a painting club which was every Saturday. I used to go there with my best friend named Alithia but now she lives in Athens. I'm so sad.

That's all for now. I'm looking forward to hearing your news.

Best wishes,
Christina

Email to Nick and Anna

Hi Nick and Anna!

How are you? I hope you are fine! I'm Nassia, one of the girls you met when you visited our English school. I'm 13 years old and I'm from Heraklion, Greece, but I'm sure you already know that... I would like to tell you more about my life.

In my free time, I like playing the keyboards. I love music, especially pop and rock, but I'm not a very good dancer or singer..:P! My favourite singer is Avril Lavigne. I don't really like sports, but I'm into volleyball.I usually play volleyball with my dad at the weekends. I like spending time with my family, although both my brother and sister live and study in Athens...

My sister's name is Helen. She is 21 years old and she studies in the university. My brother's name is John. He is 25 years old and he works for a company.I've got three pets, two dogs named Lara and Charlie and a cat named Kazabooboo(:D).

What about you? Write back soon and tell me more about your country, your hobbies and your family!

Best wishes!Nassia

How to make your own games

What do you do in your free time? Of course some of you ,watch TV or play video games . If it is too boring, would you like to do something more interesting? All of you have wild imagination ,so you can make your own games!


Lisa Green ,who's 35 years old ,has been making her own games since she was 5 .I asked her How she started that hobby.She told me that she didn't like the games which other children play, so she started to make her own games. Then ,I asked her If it was difficult to make her own games. She told me that it wasn't difficult and,If you had imagination ,you would be a very good player too.


Lisa yesterday invented a new game which is called table tennis with hand .You paint a court of table tennis , then you take the ball and throw it to the other. If you want to use a net make one! Isn't it a fantastic game ?


With a bit practise, you'll be make your own games in no time !!

Rafaela's summer story (Well Done!)

A special day on the beach by Rafaela

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