Directions: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to write a composition on the topic Sandstorms. You should write at least 150 words, and base your composition on the outline given below:
1. Sandstorms are becoming an urgent problem
2. Possible solutions
Sandstorms
There is no denying the fact that sandstorms have become a grave problem with which we are confronted. Reports are often heard upon sandstorms attacking North China and other parts of the world. Actually, sandstorms have become so widespread that they have severely affected people’s daily life and hindered the development of economy.
A number of factors could account for the rampancy of sandstorms, but the following might be the most critical ones. In the first place, overgrazing and clear-cutting have devastated the vegetation in formerly green mountains and plains. Consequently, desert has spread and become the major source of sandstorms. In the second place, the bare construction cites in cities also contribute to sandstorms.
In view of the seriousness of the situation, effective measures must be taken immediately before things get worse. In the first place, it is imperative that pertinent laws be worked out and rigidly enforced to protect vegetation. In the second place, a deep-going, widespread and ever-lasting campaign should be launched to enhance people’s awareness of environmental protection. With proper laws and an alert public, it will only be a matter of time before sandstorms become things of the past.