Page 29 - Journeys B1 (Student Book)

Famıly and Frıends 2

Writing

A. What are the advantages and disadvantages of growing up in a very small and a very large family?

B. Read the text below. How many of your ideas in exercise A are mentioned? Are bigger families better?

I grew up in a very small family, it was only me and my mum. My best friend, Angela lives in a huge house
with her mum, dad, two brothers, grandma and grandpa. You might think our families are very different,
but I’m not so sure.

Both small and extended families can be full of love and laughter. Similarly, there is always someone you
can turn to for help. When I have a problem I always go to my mum. Angela also has people to help her,
although she has more people to choose from than me.
On the other hand, a small family can sometimes get a bit lonely. Especially during the holidays when the
parent goes to work and the child is at home. I don’t think Angela gets lonely. Instead, she can have a
problem finding some peace and quiet.

To sum up, every family is different and has its own advantages and disadvantages. As for me, I’m very
happy with the family that I have.

C. Number the paragraphs to form a compare and contrast text.
Things that are different Introduction

Things that are the same Conclusion

D. Tick the good advice for writing a compare and contrast text.
1. Give balanced arguments. 4. Give your overall opinion in the conclusion.
2. Include examples to illustrate ideas. 5. Use neutral language.
3. Only give one point of view. 6. Only write about your own personal experience.

E. What are the similarities and differences between growing up in a nuclear and an extended family?
Write your ideas in the diagram.

Nuclear Family Both Extended Family

F. Write a compare and contrast text about nuclear and extended families. Use the advice in exercise D,
and your ideas from exercise E.

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