Article - Is life easier for current teenagers? - Oct/Nov 2011

Adults are constantly moaning that teenagers these days have it so much easier than teenagers in the past. I believe that there is some truth in this; however, life is not all a bed of roses for today’s generation of teenagers.

There is no doubt that the new technologies have made life easier for everyone, not just teenagers. For example, ubiquitous mobile devices and internet connectivity allows us to easily connect with family and friends. Furthermore, a multitude of information is now at our fingertips, making it easier to do homework or research various topics. Moreover, tedious chores that needed to be done by hand in the past can now be done much quicker and with less effort thanks to devices such as microwaves, blenders and automatic washing machines.

However, the increasing speed of modern life if placing teenagers under a lot more stress. Jobs have become increasingly technical, so teenagers must study harder to get into the “right” college or university. In addition, the sheer speed at which technology and fashion becomes outdated is putting pressure on teenagers to have the latest gadgets and items of clothing.

In conclusion, advances in technology have made life for current teenagers easier, but this wealth of technology and choice is also making life more stressful.

Letter - Missing a friend - Oct/Nov 2010

Hi Jim,

How are things? You’ve been away for three months now so hopefully you have settled in by this stage. Even though I know it’s a great opportunity for you to study abroad, I must admit that I’m really missing you and the things that we used to do together. Anyway, I writing to let you know about a couple of cool things that I’ve done recently.

As you know, I’m really keen of football, in particular Manchester United. I entered a competition on the radio and, unbelievably, I won first prize, which was an all-expenses paid trip to see them play at Old Trafford. I just got back last week and, let me tell you, it was unforgettable. And to cap an absolutely fantastic week, I was picked by the school to represent them at the inter-schools debating competition. Not only did I get to meet some wonderful people my age, I also got to meet the famous talk-show celebrity David Frost. He was an incredibly inspiring individual.

So as you can see, despite missing you, I’ve been doing some interesting things. How about you? Please write soon to let me know about your new life.

All the best,
Bob

Letter - School Performance - Oct/Nov 2010 (v3)

Hi Sally,

How are you? First of all, I’m sorry I haven’t written to you for so long but I’ve been really busy with my school’s annual end-of-term performance.

This year’s performance is Peter Pan, and I’m playing the part of the Wendy, who is one of the main characters and a heroine in the play. Preparing for the performance is extremely exhausting. We must practice after school almost every day and we even have to come in some Saturdays for whole cast rehearsals. Not only that, but I also have to practise at home to make sure that I remember all my lines. It’s really stressful, particularly when the drama teacher shouts screaming and shouting when everything is not going as smoothly as he wants or when some of the cast starts fooling around.

Anyway, the rehearsals are almost finished and the big day will be upon us soon. It runs for three days, from June 13th until June 15th, at 7pm each evening. I would really like you to come to the performance. Don’t worry about the cost, it’s on me! Please write soon and let me know which day is best.

All the best,
Mary