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Urban development is having a direct impact on the weather in many cities worldwide. It has been noticed that the difference (1) _____ temperature is usually greater at night and the phenomenon occurs in both winter and summer. Experts agree that this is due to urban development, when open green spaces are replaced with asphalt roads and tall brick or concrete buildings. These materials retain heat generated by the Sun and release it through the night. In Atlanta, in the US, this has even led to thunderstorms (2) ______ occur in the morning rather than, as is more common, in the afternoon.

Large cities around the world are adopting strategies to combat this issue (3)______ it is not uncommon to find plants growing on top of roofs or down the walls of large buildings. In Singapore, the government has (4) ______ to tranform it into a “city within a garden” and, in 2006, they held an  international competition calling for entries to develop a master plan to help bring this about. One outcome was the creation of 18 “Supertrees” - metal constructions resembling very tall trees. Each one is a vertical freestanding garden and is (5) ______ to exotic plants and ferns. They also contain solar panels used to light the trees at night and also containers to collect rainwater, making them truly self-sufficient.

 (Adapted from “The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS" by Pauline Cullen, Amanda French and Vanessa Jakeman)

Urban development is having a direct impact on the weather in many cities worldwide. It has been noticed that the difference (1) _____ temperature is usually greater at night and the phenomenon occurs in both winter and summer. Experts agree that this is due to urban development, when open green spaces are replaced with asphalt roads and tall brick or concrete buildings. These materials retain heat generated by the Sun and release it through the night. In Atlanta, in the US, this has even led to thunderstorms (2) ______ occur in the morning rather than, as is more common, in the afternoon.

Large cities around the world are adopting strategies to combat this issue (3)______ it is not uncommon to find plants growing on top of roofs or down the walls of large buildings. In Singapore, the government has (4) ______ to tranform it into a “city within a garden” and, in 2006, they held an  international competition calling for entries to develop a master plan to help bring this about. One outcome was the creation of 18 “Supertrees” - metal constructions resembling very tall trees. Each one is a vertical freestanding garden and is (5) ______ to exotic plants and ferns. They also contain solar panels used to light the trees at night and also containers to collect rainwater, making them truly self-sufficient.

 (Adapted from “The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS" by Pauline Cullen, Amanda French and Vanessa Jakeman)

Urban development is having a direct impact on the weather in many cities worldwide. It has been noticed that the difference (1) _____ temperature is usually greater at night and the phenomenon occurs in both winter and summer. Experts agree that this is due to urban development, when open green spaces are replaced with asphalt roads and tall brick or concrete buildings. These materials retain heat generated by the Sun and release it through the night. In Atlanta, in the US, this has even led to thunderstorms (2) ______ occur in the morning rather than, as is more common, in the afternoon.

Large cities around the world are adopting strategies to combat this issue (3)______ it is not uncommon to find plants growing on top of roofs or down the walls of large buildings. In Singapore, the government has (4) ______ to tranform it into a “city within a garden” and, in 2006, they held an  international competition calling for entries to develop a master plan to help bring this about. One outcome was the creation of 18 “Supertrees” - metal constructions resembling very tall trees. Each one is a vertical freestanding garden and is (5) ______ to exotic plants and ferns. They also contain solar panels used to light the trees at night and also containers to collect rainwater, making them truly self-sufficient.

 (Adapted from “The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS" by Pauline Cullen, Amanda French and Vanessa Jakeman)

            The knock-on effect of volunteering on the lives of individuals can be profound. Voluntary work helps foster independence and imparts the ability to deal with different situations, often simultaneously, thus teaching people how to (1)______ their way through different systems. It therefore brings people into touch with the real world; and, hence, equips them for the future.

            Initially, young adults in their late teens might not seem to have the expertise or knowledge to impart to others that say a teacher or an agriculturalist or a nurse would have, (2)______ they do have many skills that can help others. And in the absence of any particular talent, their energy and enthusiasm can be harnessed for the benefit (3)______ their fellow human beings, and ultimately themselves. From all this, the gain to any community no matter how many volunteers are involved is (4)_______.

            Employers will generally look favorably on people (5)______ have shown an ability to work as part of a team. It demonstrates a willingness to learn and an independent spirit, which would be desirable qualities in any employee.

                                                                                                 (Adapted from “IELTS Testbuilder 2” by Sam McCarter)

Urban development is having a direct impact on the weather in many cities worldwide. It has been noticed that the difference (1) _____ temperature is usually greater at night and the phenomenon occurs in both winter and summer. Experts agree that this is due to urban development, when open green spaces are replaced with asphalt roads and tall brick or concrete buildings. These materials retain heat generated by the Sun and release it through the night. In Atlanta, in the US, this has even led to thunderstorms (2) ______ occur in the morning rather than, as is more common, in the afternoon.

Large cities around the world are adopting strategies to combat this issue (3)______ it is not uncommon to find plants growing on top of roofs or down the walls of large buildings. In Singapore, the government has (4) ______ to tranform it into a “city within a garden” and, in 2006, they held an  international competition calling for entries to develop a master plan to help bring this about. One outcome was the creation of 18 “Supertrees” - metal constructions resembling very tall trees. Each one is a vertical freestanding garden and is (5) ______ to exotic plants and ferns. They also contain solar panels used to light the trees at night and also containers to collect rainwater, making them truly self-sufficient.

 (Adapted from “The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS" by Pauline Cullen, Amanda French and Vanessa Jakeman)

            The knock-on effect of volunteering on the lives of individuals can be profound. Voluntary work helps foster independence and imparts the ability to deal with different situations, often simultaneously, thus teaching people how to (1)______ their way through different systems. It therefore brings people into touch with the real world; and, hence, equips them for the future.

            Initially, young adults in their late teens might not seem to have the expertise or knowledge to impart to others that say a teacher or an agriculturalist or a nurse would have, (2)______ they do have many skills that can help others. And in the absence of any particular talent, their energy and enthusiasm can be harnessed for the benefit (3)______ their fellow human beings, and ultimately themselves. From all this, the gain to any community no matter how many volunteers are involved is (4)_______.

            Employers will generally look favorably on people (5)______ have shown an ability to work as part of a team. It demonstrates a willingness to learn and an independent spirit, which would be desirable qualities in any employee.

                                                                                                (Adapted from “IELTS Testbuilder 2” by Sam McCarter)

            The knock-on effect of volunteering on the lives of individuals can be profound. Voluntary work helps foster independence and imparts the ability to deal with different situations, often simultaneously, thus teaching people how to (1)______ their way through different systems. It therefore brings people into touch with the real world; and, hence, equips them for the future.

            Initially, young adults in their late teens might not seem to have the expertise or knowledge to impart to others that say a teacher or an agriculturalist or a nurse would have, (2)______ they do have many skills that can help others. And in the absence of any particular talent, their energy and enthusiasm can be harnessed for the benefit (3)______ their fellow human beings, and ultimately themselves. From all this, the gain to any community no matter how many volunteers are involved is (4)_______.

            Employers will generally look favorably on people (5)______ have shown an ability to work as part of a team. It demonstrates a willingness to learn and an independent spirit, which would be desirable qualities in any employee.

                                                                                                 (Adapted from “IELTS Testbuilder 2” by Sam McCarter)

            The knock-on effect of volunteering on the lives of individuals can be profound. Voluntary work helps foster independence and imparts the ability to deal with different situations, often simultaneously, thus teaching people how to (1)______ their way through different systems. It therefore brings people into touch with the real world; and, hence, equips them for the future.

            Initially, young adults in their late teens might not seem to have the expertise or knowledge to impart to others that say a teacher or an agriculturalist or a nurse would have, (2)______ they do have many skills that can help others. And in the absence of any particular talent, their energy and enthusiasm can be harnessed for the benefit (3)______ their fellow human beings, and ultimately themselves. From all this, the gain to any community no matter how many volunteers are involved is (4)_______.

            Employers will generally look favorably on people (5)______ have shown an ability to work as part of a team. It demonstrates a willingness to learn and an independent spirit, which would be desirable qualities in any employee.

                                                                                                 (Adapted from “IELTS Testbuilder 2” by Sam McCarter)

            The knock-on effect of volunteering on the lives of individuals can be profound. Voluntary work helps foster independence and imparts the ability to deal with different situations, often simultaneously, thus teaching people how to (1)______ their way through different systems. It therefore brings people into touch with the real world; and, hence, equips them for the future.

            Initially, young adults in their late teens might not seem to have the expertise or knowledge to impart to others that say a teacher or an agriculturalist or a nurse would have, (2)______ they do have many skills that can help others. And in the absence of any particular talent, their energy and enthusiasm can be harnessed for the benefit (3)______ their fellow human beings, and ultimately themselves. From all this, the gain to any community no matter how many volunteers are involved is (4)_______.

            Employers will generally look favorably on people (5)______ have shown an ability to work as part of a team. It demonstrates a willingness to learn and an independent spirit, which would be desirable qualities in any employee.

                                                                                                 (Adapted from “IELTS Testbuilder 2” by Sam McCarter)

          When hosting an Olympic Games, a country has to take account of several considerations, among which the financial one is by far the most important. The costs of hosting the Olympics can (1) ______ tens of billions of dollars, and it is commonplace for budgets to double or even triple. In addition to the direct costs of hosting the Games (the opening and closing ceremonies, athletes’ village, security, etc.), cities often must build expensive new venues (2) _______ lesser-known sports. Once constructed, sports venues often incur additional maintenance costs long after the Games have ended.

          While costs are the (3) _______ concern for a host city, there are other factors to consider. For one, an Olympic host city may receive substantial revenue from ticket sales, tourist spending, corporate sponsorship, and television rights. Cities such as Los Angeles (1984) and Seoul (1988) actually made a large profit from the Games they hosted. (4) _______, hosting the Olympic Games confers prestige on a host city and country, which can lead to increased trade and tourism. The Olympics are also an opportunity to invest in projects (5) _______ improve the city’s quality of life, such as new transportation systems.

                                                  (Adapted from “Skillful Reading & Writing 4” by Mike Boyle and Lindsay Warwick)

          When hosting an Olympic Games, a country has to take account of several considerations, among which the financial one is by far the most important. The costs of hosting the Olympics can (1) ______ tens of billions of dollars, and it is commonplace for budgets to double or even triple. In addition to the direct costs of hosting the Games (the opening and closing ceremonies, athletes’ village, security, etc.), cities often must build expensive new venues (2) _______ lesser-known sports. Once constructed, sports venues often incur additional maintenance costs long after the Games have ended.

          While costs are the (3) _______ concern for a host city, there are other factors to consider. For one, an Olympic host city may receive substantial revenue from ticket sales, tourist spending, corporate sponsorship, and television rights. Cities such as Los Angeles (1984) and Seoul (1988) actually made a large profit from the Games they hosted. (4) _______, hosting the Olympic Games confers prestige on a host city and country, which can lead to increased trade and tourism. The Olympics are also an opportunity to invest in projects (5) _______ improve the city’s quality of life, such as new transportation systems.

                                                  (Adapted from “Skillful Reading & Writing 4” by Mike Boyle and Lindsay Warwick)

          When hosting an Olympic Games, a country has to take account of several considerations, among which the financial one is by far the most important. The costs of hosting the Olympics can (1) ______ tens of billions of dollars, and it is commonplace for budgets to double or even triple. In addition to the direct costs of hosting the Games (the opening and closing ceremonies, athletes’ village, security, etc.), cities often must build expensive new venues (2) _______ lesser-known sports. Once constructed, sports venues often incur additional maintenance costs long after the Games have ended.

          While costs are the (3) _______ concern for a host city, there are other factors to consider. For one, an Olympic host city may receive substantial revenue from ticket sales, tourist spending, corporate sponsorship, and television rights. Cities such as Los Angeles (1984) and Seoul (1988) actually made a large profit from the Games they hosted. (4) _______, hosting the Olympic Games confers prestige on a host city and country, which can lead to increased trade and tourism. The Olympics are also an opportunity to invest in projects (5) _______ improve the city’s quality of life, such as new transportation systems.

                                                  (Adapted from “Skillful Reading & Writing 4” by Mike Boyle and Lindsay Warwick)

           When hosting an Olympic Games, a country has to take account of several considerations, among which the financial one is by far the most important. The costs of hosting the Olympics can (1) ______ tens of billions of dollars, and it is commonplace for budgets to double or even triple. In addition to the direct costs of hosting the Games (the opening and closing ceremonies, athletes’ village, security, etc.), cities often must build expensive new venues (2) _______ lesser-known sports. Once constructed, sports venues often incur additional maintenance costs long after the Games have ended.

          While costs are the (3) _______ concern for a host city, there are other factors to consider. For one, an Olympic host city may receive substantial revenue from ticket sales, tourist spending, corporate sponsorship, and television rights. Cities such as Los Angeles (1984) and Seoul (1988) actually made a large profit from the Games they hosted. (4) _______, hosting the Olympic Games confers prestige on a host city and country, which can lead to increased trade and tourism. The Olympics are also an opportunity to invest in projects (5) _______ improve the city’s quality of life, such as new transportation systems.

                                                  (Adapted from “Skillful Reading & Writing 4” by Mike Boyle and Lindsay Warwick)

Taking piano lessons and solving math puzzles on a computer significantly improve specific math skills of elementary schoolchildren, according to a new study. The results, (1) ______ were published in the journal Neurological Research , are the latest in a series that links musical training to the development of higher brain functions.

Researchers worked with 135 second-grade students at a school in Los Angeles after (2) ______ a pilot study with 102 students. Children that were given four months of piano training as well as time playing (3) ______ newly designed computer software scored 27 percent higher on math and fraction tests than other children.

Piano instruction is thought to enhance the brain's "hard wiring" for spatial-temporal reasoning, or the ability to visualise and transform objects in space and time, says Professor Gordon Shaw, who led the study. At the same time, the computer game allows children to solve geometric and math puzzles that boost their ability to (4) ______ shapes in their mind.

The findings are significant (5) ______ a grasp of proportional math and fractions is a prerequisite to math at higher levels, and children who do not master these areas of math cannot understand more advanced math that is critical to high-tech fields.

                                                                                                       (Adapted from "Eye on Editing 2" by Joyce S. Cain)

Taking piano lessons and solving math puzzles on a computer significantly improve specific math skills of elementary schoolchildren, according to a new study. The results, (1) ______ were published in the journal Neurological Research , are the latest in a series that links musical training to the development of higher brain functions.

Researchers worked with 135 second-grade students at a school in Los Angeles after (2) ______ a pilot study with 102 students. Children that were given four months of piano training as well as time playing (3) ______ newly designed computer software scored 27 percent higher on math and fraction tests than other children.

Piano instruction is thought to enhance the brain's "hard wiring" for spatial-temporal reasoning, or the ability to visualise and transform objects in space and time, says Professor Gordon Shaw, who led the study. At the same time, the computer game allows children to solve geometric and math puzzles that boost their ability to (4) ______ shapes in their mind.

The findings are significant (5) ______ a grasp of proportional math and fractions is a prerequisite to math at higher levels, and children who do not master these areas of math cannot understand more advanced math that is critical to high-tech fields.

                                                                                                        (Adapted from "Eye on Editing 2" by Joyce S. Cain)

Taking piano lessons and solving math puzzles on a computer significantly improve specific math skills of elementary schoolchildren, according to a new study. The results, (1) ______ were published in the journal Neurological Research , are the latest in a series that links musical training to the development of higher brain functions.

Researchers worked with 135 second-grade students at a school in Los Angeles after (2) ______ a pilot study with 102 students. Children that were given four months of piano training as well as time playing (3) ______ newly designed computer software scored 27 percent higher on math and fraction tests than other children.

Piano instruction is thought to enhance the brain's "hard wiring" for spatial-temporal reasoning, or the ability to visualise and transform objects in space and time, says Professor Gordon Shaw, who led the study. At the same time, the computer game allows children to solve geometric and math puzzles that boost their ability to (4) ______ shapes in their mind.

The findings are significant (5) ______ a grasp of proportional math and fractions is a prerequisite to math at higher levels, and children who do not master these areas of math cannot understand more advanced math that is critical to high-tech fields.

                                                                                                       (Adapted from "Eye on Editing 2" by Joyce S. Cain) 

Taking piano lessons and solving math puzzles on a computer significantly improve specific math skills of elementary schoolchildren, according to a new study. The results, (1) ______ were published in the journal Neurological Research , are the latest in a series that links musical training to the development of higher brain functions.

Researchers worked with 135 second-grade students at a school in Los Angeles after (2) ______ a pilot study with 102 students. Children that were given four months of piano training as well as time playing (3) ______ newly designed computer software scored 27 percent higher on math and fraction tests than other children.

Piano instruction is thought to enhance the brain's "hard wiring" for spatial-temporal reasoning, or the ability to visualise and transform objects in space and time, says Professor Gordon Shaw, who led the study. At the same time, the computer game allows children to solve geometric and math puzzles that boost their ability to (4) ______ shapes in their mind.

The findings are significant (5) ______ a grasp of proportional math and fractions is a prerequisite to math at higher levels, and children who do not master these areas of math cannot understand more advanced math that is critical to high-tech fields.

                                                                                                     (Adapted from "Eye on Editing 2" by Joyce S. Cain)

Taking piano lessons and solving math puzzles on a computer significantly improve specific math skills of elementary schoolchildren, according to a new study. The results, (1) ______ were published in the journal Neurological Research , are the latest in a series that links musical training to the development of higher brain functions.

Researchers worked with 135 second-grade students at a school in Los Angeles after (2) ______ a pilot study with 102 students. Children that were given four months of piano training as well as time playing (3) ______ newly designed computer software scored 27 percent higher on math and fraction tests than other children.

Piano instruction is thought to enhance the brain's "hard wiring" for spatial-temporal reasoning, or the ability to visualise and transform objects in space and time, says Professor Gordon Shaw, who led the study. At the same time, the computer game allows children to solve geometric and math puzzles that boost their ability to (4) ______ shapes in their mind.

The findings are significant (5) ______ a grasp of proportional math and fractions is a prerequisite to math at higher levels, and children who do not master these areas of math cannot understand more advanced math that is critical to high-tech fields.

                                                                                                      (Adapted from "Eye on Editing 2" by Joyce S. Cain)

          When hosting an Olympic Games, a country has to take account of several considerations, among which the financial one is by far the most important. The costs of hosting the Olympics can (1) ______ tens of billions of dollars, and it is commonplace for budgets to double or even triple. In addition to the direct costs of hosting the Games (the opening and closing ceremonies, athletes’ village, security, etc.), cities often must build expensive new venues (2) _______ lesser-known sports. Once constructed, sports venues often incur additional maintenance costs long after the Games have ended.

          While costs are the (3) _______ concern for a host city, there are other factors to consider. For one, an Olympic host city may receive substantial revenue from ticket sales, tourist spending, corporate sponsorship, and television rights. Cities such as Los Angeles (1984) and Seoul (1988) actually made a large profit from the Games they hosted. (4) _______, hosting the Olympic Games confers prestige on a host city and country, which can lead to increased trade and tourism. The Olympics are also an opportunity to invest in projects (5) _______ improve the city’s quality of life, such as new transportation systems.

                                                  (Adapted from “Skillful Reading & Writing 4” by Mike Boyle and Lindsay Warwick)

       A letter of application is a sales letter in which you are both salesperson and product, for the purpose of an application is to attract an employer's attention and persuade him or her to grant you an interview. To do this, the letter presents what you can offer the employer, rather than what you want from the job .

       Like a résumé, the letter of application is a sample of your work and an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and personality. If it is written with flair and understanding and prepared with professional care, it is likely to be very effective. While the résumé must be factual, objective, and brief, the letter is our chance to interpret and expand. It should state explicitly how your background relates to the specific job, and it should emphasise your strongest and most relevant characteristics. The letter should demonstrate that you know both yourself and the company.

       The letter of application must communicate your ambition and enthusiasm. Yet it must be modest. It should be neither aggressive nor compliant: neither pat yourself on the back nor ask for sympathy. It should never express dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer. And you should avoid discussing your reasons for leaving your last job.

       Finally, it is best that you not broach the subject on salary. Indeed, even if a job advertisement requires that you mention your salary requirements, it is advisable simply to call them "negotiable”. However, when you go on an interview, you should be prepared to mention a salary range. For this reason, you should investigate both your field and, if possible, the particular company. You don't want to ask for less than you deserve or more than is reasonable.

                                                        (Adapted from Select Readings - Intermediate by Linda Lee and Erik Gundersen)

       A letter of application is a sales letter in which you are both salesperson and product, for the purpose of an application is to attract an employer's attention and persuade him or her to grant you an interview. To do this, the letter presents what you can offer the employer, rather than what you want from the job .

       Like a résumé, the letter of application is a sample of your work and an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and personality. If it is written with flair and understanding and prepared with professional care, it is likely to be very effective. While the résumé must be factual, objective, and brief, the letter is our chance to interpret and expand. It should state explicitly how your background relates to the specific job, and it should emphasise your strongest and most relevant characteristics. The letter should demonstrate that you know both yourself and the company.

       The letter of application must communicate your ambition and enthusiasm. Yet it must be modest. It should be neither aggressive nor compliant: neither pat yourself on the back nor ask for sympathy. It should never express dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer. And you should avoid discussing your reasons for leaving your last job.

       Finally, it is best that you not broach the subject on salary. Indeed, even if a job advertisement requires that you mention your salary requirements, it is advisable simply to call them "negotiable”. However, when you go on an interview, you should be prepared to mention a salary range. For this reason, you should investigate both your field and, if possible, the particular company. You don't want to ask for less than you deserve or more than is reasonable.

                                                        (Adapted from Select Readings - Intermediate by Linda Lee and Erik Gundersen)

       A letter of application is a sales letter in which you are both salesperson and product, for the purpose of an application is to attract an employer's attention and persuade him or her to grant you an interview. To do this, the letter presents what you can offer the employer, rather than what you want from the job .

       Like a résumé, the letter of application is a sample of your work and an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and personality. If it is written with flair and understanding and prepared with professional care, it is likely to be very effective. While the résumé must be factual, objective, and brief, the letter is our chance to interpret and expand. It should state explicitly how your background relates to the specific job, and it should emphasise your strongest and most relevant characteristics. The letter should demonstrate that you know both yourself and the company.

       The letter of application must communicate your ambition and enthusiasm. Yet it must be modest. It should be neither aggressive nor compliant: neither pat yourself on the back nor ask for sympathy. It should never express dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer. And you should avoid discussing your reasons for leaving your last job.

       Finally, it is best that you not broach the subject on salary. Indeed, even if a job advertisement requires that you mention your salary requirements, it is advisable simply to call them "negotiable”. However, when you go on an interview, you should be prepared to mention a salary range. For this reason, you should investigate both your field and, if possible, the particular company. You don't want to ask for less than you deserve or more than is reasonable.

                                                        (Adapted from Select Readings - Intermediate by Linda Lee and Erik Gundersen)

       A letter of application is a sales letter in which you are both salesperson and product, for the purpose of an application is to attract an employer's attention and persuade him or her to grant you an interview. To do this, the letter presents what you can offer the employer, rather than what you want from the job .

       Like a résumé, the letter of application is a sample of your work and an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and personality. If it is written with flair and understanding and prepared with professional care, it is likely to be very effective. While the résumé must be factual, objective, and brief, the letter is our chance to interpret and expand. It should state explicitly how your background relates to the specific job, and it should emphasise your strongest and most relevant characteristics. The letter should demonstrate that you know both yourself and the company.

       The letter of application must communicate your ambition and enthusiasm. Yet it must be modest. It should be neither aggressive nor compliant: neither pat yourself on the back nor ask for sympathy. It should never express dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer. And you should avoid discussing your reasons for leaving your last job.

       Finally, it is best that you not broach the subject on salary. Indeed, even if a job advertisement requires that you mention your salary requirements, it is advisable simply to call them "negotiable”. However, when you go on an interview, you should be prepared to mention a salary range. For this reason, you should investigate both your field and, if possible, the particular company. You don't want to ask for less than you deserve or more than is reasonable.

                                                        (Adapted from Select Readings - Intermediate by Linda Lee and Erik Gundersen)

       A letter of application is a sales letter in which you are both salesperson and product, for the purpose of an application is to attract an employer's attention and persuade him or her to grant you an interview. To do this, the letter presents what you can offer the employer, rather than what you want from the job .

       Like a résumé, the letter of application is a sample of your work and an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and personality. If it is written with flair and understanding and prepared with professional care, it is likely to be very effective. While the résumé must be factual, objective, and brief, the letter is our chance to interpret and expand. It should state explicitly how your background relates to the specific job, and it should emphasise your strongest and most relevant characteristics. The letter should demonstrate that you know both yourself and the company.

       The letter of application must communicate your ambition and enthusiasm. Yet it must be modest. It should be neither aggressive nor compliant: neither pat yourself on the back nor ask for sympathy. It should never express dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer. And you should avoid discussing your reasons for leaving your last job.

       Finally, it is best that you not broach the subject on salary. Indeed, even if a job advertisement requires that you mention your salary requirements, it is advisable simply to call them "negotiable”. However, when you go on an interview, you should be prepared to mention a salary range. For this reason, you should investigate both your field and, if possible, the particular company. You don't want to ask for less than you deserve or more than is reasonable.

                                                        (Adapted from Select Readings - Intermediate by Linda Lee and Erik Gundersen)

       A letter of application is a sales letter in which you are both salesperson and product, for the purpose of an application is to attract an employer's attention and persuade him or her to grant you an interview. To do this, the letter presents what you can offer the employer, rather than what you want from the job .

       Like a résumé, the letter of application is a sample of your work and an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and personality. If it is written with flair and understanding and prepared with professional care, it is likely to be very effective. While the résumé must be factual, objective, and brief, the letter is our chance to interpret and expand. It should state explicitly how your background relates to the specific job, and it should emphasise your strongest and most relevant characteristics. The letter should demonstrate that you know both yourself and the company.

       The letter of application must communicate your ambition and enthusiasm. Yet it must be modest. It should be neither aggressive nor compliant: neither pat yourself on the back nor ask for sympathy. It should never express dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer. And you should avoid discussing your reasons for leaving your last job.

       Finally, it is best that you not broach the subject on salary. Indeed, even if a job advertisement requires that you mention your salary requirements, it is advisable simply to call them "negotiable”. However, when you go on an interview, you should be prepared to mention a salary range. For this reason, you should investigate both your field and, if possible, the particular company. You don't want to ask for less than you deserve or more than is reasonable.

                                                        (Adapted from Select Readings - Intermediate by Linda Lee and Erik Gundersen)

       A letter of application is a sales letter in which you are both salesperson and product, for the purpose of an application is to attract an employer's attention and persuade him or her to grant you an interview. To do this, the letter presents what you can offer the employer, rather than what you want from the job .

       Like a résumé, the letter of application is a sample of your work and an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and personality. If it is written with flair and understanding and prepared with professional care, it is likely to be very effective. While the résumé must be factual, objective, and brief, the letter is our chance to interpret and expand. It should state explicitly how your background relates to the specific job, and it should emphasise your strongest and most relevant characteristics. The letter should demonstrate that you know both yourself and the company.

       The letter of application must communicate your ambition and enthusiasm. Yet it must be modest. It should be neither aggressive nor compliant: neither pat yourself on the back nor ask for sympathy. It should never express dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer. And you should avoid discussing your reasons for leaving your last job.

       Finally, it is best that you not broach the subject on salary. Indeed, even if a job advertisement requires that you mention your salary requirements, it is advisable simply to call them "negotiable”. However, when you go on an interview, you should be prepared to mention a salary range. For this reason, you should investigate both your field and, if possible, the particular company. You don't want to ask for less than you deserve or more than is reasonable.

                                                        (Adapted from Select Readings - Intermediate by Linda Lee and Erik Gundersen)

          Henry is the undisputed star of Dronfield School near Sheffield. Whatever the achievements of other members of the comprehensive school, it is Henry, with his soulful eyes and glossy hair, who has hogged the limelight, appearing on television in Britain and abroad. Yet despite all the public adulation, Henry stirs up no envy or resentment among the 2000 students - in fact, they all adore him. The dog who first arrived six months ago, is a super dog, who has improved students' behaviour and encouraged more students to focus on their academic achievement.

         Andrew Wainwright, a student at Dronfield School, says there is something magical and calming about being able to interact with Henry during his time at the school's catch-up classes, and that if he falls behind, that opportunity will be denied. Even doubting staff have finally been won round. Perhap that is because Henry, who lies on the floor during staff meetings, has also had a calming effect on them.

         It was Andrew's teacher, Wendy Brown and the school counsellor, Julie Smart, who first proposed buying a school dog. "Julie and I were talking one day about how looking after dogs can positively affect children's conduct," says Brown. "We did some research and discovered that the presence of pets has been shown to be therapeutic. A number of studies have shown that animals improve recovery after surgery or illness and have a calming influence on people in a lot of settings. Some of my kids can be a handful and some of the children Julie counsels have terrible problems."

          Could the school dog become a craze? Other schools such as the Mulberry Bush, a primary school for children with behavioural problems, have stepped forward to point out they already have one. Rosie Johnston, a Mulberry staff member has been bringing her golden retriever, Muskoka, into school for three years. Apart from being a calming influence, Muskoka even plays his part in literacy lessons. Children at the school can be too shy to read to adults so they read to Muskoka. "Their anxiety about mispronouncing something or getting the words in the wrong order is reduced when they read to him," says Johnston.

           Psychologist Dr Deborah Wells from Queen's University Belfast specialises in animal-human interaction. She believes that the underlying key to the Henry effect is that dogs offer unconditional love and that cheers up adults and children and helps with self-esteem. But traditionalist Chris Woodhead, the former chief inspector of schools says, "I don't see why a teacher cannot create a positive learning environment through the subject they teach and their personality. Dogs strike me as a bit of a publicity stunt. It's the kind of sentimental story journalists love." Despite this sentiment, Henry remains as popular as ever.

                                   (Adapted from "Ready for Advanced" by Roy Norris and Amanda French with Miles Hordern)

        Henry is the undisputed star of Dronfield School near Sheffield. Whatever the achievements of other members of the comprehensive school, it is Henry, with his soulful eyes and glossy hair, who has hogged the limelight, appearing on television in Britain and abroad. Yet despite all the public adulation, Henry stirs up no envy or resentment among the 2000 students - in fact, they all adore him. The dog who first arrived six months ago, is a super dog, who has improved students' behaviour and encouraged more students to focus on their academic achievement.

         Andrew Wainwright, a student at Dronfield School, says there is something magical and calming about being able to interact with Henry during his time at the school's catch-up classes, and that if he falls behind, that opportunity will be denied. Even doubting staff have finally been won round. Perhap that is because Henry, who lies on the floor during staff meetings, has also had a calming effect on them.

         It was Andrew's teacher, Wendy Brown and the school counsellor, Julie Smart, who first proposed buying a school dog. "Julie and I were talking one day about how looking after dogs can positively affect children's conduct," says Brown. "We did some research and discovered that the presence of pets has been shown to be therapeutic. A number of studies have shown that animals improve recovery after surgery or illness and have a calming influence on people in a lot of settings. Some of my kids can be a handful and some of the children Julie counsels have terrible problems."

          Could the school dog become a craze? Other schools such as the Mulberry Bush, a primary school for children with behavioural problems, have stepped forward to point out they already have one. Rosie Johnston, a Mulberry staff member has been bringing her golden retriever, Muskoka, into school for three years. Apart from being a calming influence, Muskoka even plays his part in literacy lessons. Children at the school can be too shy to read to adults so they read to Muskoka. "Their anxiety about mispronouncing something or getting the words in the wrong order is reduced when they read to him," says Johnston.

           Psychologist Dr Deborah Wells from Queen's University Belfast specialises in animal-human interaction. She believes that the underlying key to the Henry effect is that dogs offer unconditional love and that cheers up adults and children and helps with self-esteem. But traditionalist Chris Woodhead, the former chief inspector of schools says, "I don't see why a teacher cannot create a positive learning environment through the subject they teach and their personality. Dogs strike me as a bit of a publicity stunt. It's the kind of sentimental story journalists love." Despite this sentiment, Henry remains as popular as ever.

                                   (Adapted from "Ready for Advanced" by Roy Norris and Amanda French with Miles Hordern)

          Henry is the undisputed star of Dronfield School near Sheffield. Whatever the achievements of other members of the comprehensive school, it is Henry, with his soulful eyes and glossy hair, who has hogged the limelight, appearing on television in Britain and abroad. Yet despite all the public adulation, Henry stirs up no envy or resentment among the 2000 students - in fact, they all adore him. The dog who first arrived six months ago, is a super dog, who has improved students' behaviour and encouraged more students to focus on their academic achievement.

         Andrew Wainwright, a student at Dronfield School, says there is something magical and calming about being able to interact with Henry during his time at the school's catch-up classes, and that if he falls behind, that opportunity will be denied. Even doubting staff have finally been won round. Perhap that is because Henry, who lies on the floor during staff meetings, has also had a calming effect on them.

         It was Andrew's teacher, Wendy Brown and the school counsellor, Julie Smart, who first proposed buying a school dog. "Julie and I were talking one day about how looking after dogs can positively affect children's conduct," says Brown. "We did some research and discovered that the presence of pets has been shown to be therapeutic. A number of studies have shown that animals improve recovery after surgery or illness and have a calming influence on people in a lot of settings. Some of my kids can be a handful and some of the children Julie counsels have terrible problems."

          Could the school dog become a craze? Other schools such as the Mulberry Bush, a primary school for children with behavioural problems, have stepped forward to point out they already have one. Rosie Johnston, a Mulberry staff member has been bringing her golden retriever, Muskoka, into school for three years. Apart from being a calming influence, Muskoka even plays his part in literacy lessons. Children at the school can be too shy to read to adults so they read to Muskoka. "Their anxiety about mispronouncing something or getting the words in the wrong order is reduced when they read to him," says Johnston.

           Psychologist Dr Deborah Wells from Queen's University Belfast specialises in animal-human interaction. She believes that the underlying key to the Henry effect is that dogs offer unconditional love and that cheers up adults and children and helps with self-esteem. But traditionalist Chris Woodhead, the former chief inspector of schools says, "I don't see why a teacher cannot create a positive learning environment through the subject they teach and their personality. Dogs strike me as a bit of a publicity stunt. It's the kind of sentimental story journalists love." Despite this sentiment, Henry remains as popular as ever.

                                         (Adapted from "Ready for Advanced" by Roy Norris and Amanda French with Miles Hordern)

         Henry is the undisputed star of Dronfield School near Sheffield. Whatever the achievements of other members of the comprehensive school, it is Henry, with his soulful eyes and glossy hair, who has hogged the limelight, appearing on television in Britain and abroad. Yet despite all the public adulation, Henry stirs up no envy or resentment among the 2000 students - in fact, they all adore him. The dog who first arrived six months ago, is a super dog, who has improved students' behaviour and encouraged more students to focus on their academic achievement.

         Andrew Wainwright, a student at Dronfield School, says there is something magical and calming about being able to interact with Henry during his time at the school's catch-up classes, and that if he falls behind, that opportunity will be denied. Even doubting staff have finally been won round. Perhap that is because Henry, who lies on the floor during staff meetings, has also had a calming effect on them.

         It was Andrew's teacher, Wendy Brown and the school counsellor, Julie Smart, who first proposed buying a school dog. "Julie and I were talking one day about how looking after dogs can positively affect children's conduct," says Brown. "We did some research and discovered that the presence of pets has been shown to be therapeutic. A number of studies have shown that animals improve recovery after surgery or illness and have a calming influence on people in a lot of settings. Some of my kids can be a handful and some of the children Julie counsels have terrible problems."

          Could the school dog become a craze? Other schools such as the Mulberry Bush, a primary school for children with behavioural problems, have stepped forward to point out they already have one. Rosie Johnston, a Mulberry staff member has been bringing her golden retriever, Muskoka, into school for three years. Apart from being a calming influence, Muskoka even plays his part in literacy lessons. Children at the school can be too shy to read to adults so they read to Muskoka. "Their anxiety about mispronouncing something or getting the words in the wrong order is reduced when they read to him," says Johnston.

          Psychologist Dr Deborah Wells from Queen's University Belfast specialises in animal-human interaction. She believes that the underlying key to the Henry effect is that dogs offer unconditional love and that cheers up adults and children and helps with self-esteem. But traditionalist Chris Woodhead, the former chief inspector of schools says, "I don't see why a teacher cannot create a positive learning environment through the subject they teach and their personality. Dogs strike me as a bit of a publicity stunt. It's the kind of sentimental story journalists love." Despite this sentiment, Henry remains as popular as ever.

                                           (Adapted from "Ready for Advanced" by Roy Norris and Amanda French with Miles Hordern)​