Example 3 (Point-by-Point; 平衡性比较)
Chinese children are different in several ways from American children. What characteristics of children of the two nations. Tell the difference between them.

Chinese Children and American Children
    All young children, whatever their culture, are alike in their charm and innocence — in being a clean slate on which the wonders and ways of the world are yet to be written. But during the years I study in a college near Chicago, I learned that American and Chinese children are different in several ways. （引出要比较的主题：美国小孩和中国小孩）
    First, young American children tend to be active, enthusiastic and direct. They express themselves openly whatever they want to say. Chinese children, on the other hand, tend to be passive, quiet and to beat around the bush when voicing their demand. They usually wait to be asked and are lacking in initiative spirit. （美国孩子主动，直率；中国孩子被动，婉转）
    Second, American children show their independence. They pride themselves on making their own decision and being responsible for it. Their Chinese counterparts, however, are still looking to their parents and grandparents to tell them what to do in terms of which school they should select and which job they should accept. （美国孩子独立性强；中国孩子依赖性强）
    Third, American children tend to more self-reliant. They are taught to believe that money is earned not given. They buy things with their own money. Every piece of housework — be it washing the dishes or mowing the lawn — has a price. But their Chinese counterparts don’t have any knowledge of earning money through housework. They take it for granted that their parents will pay for anything they fancy. （美国孩子做家务为了钱；中国孩子没有做家务挣钱的观念）
    Children who grow up in a particular culture share certain values and assumptions. It is not surprising that in a society where individualism and self-reliance are stressed, children behave more confidently and independently, while in a culture which places the value on respectfulness and moderation, children are more quiet and passive.（归纳：中美两国孩子多方面的不同反映了两国价值观念的不同）

常用连接词：
Comparison: likewise, as well as, just as, similarly, also, too, alike, etc.
Contrast: unlike, in contrast (to), differ from, whereas, while, but, nevertheless, as opposed to, on the other hand, etc.

Assignment: Write an essay about 150 words on the following topics respectively:
1. Where to Buy Houses
There is a tendency to buy houses in the suburbs. Why do people tend to move out of the city center? What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in the city center and in the suburbs？
2. Big Company or Small Company
College graduates tend to choose big companies. But there are some who like to work in a smaller company. What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in the big and small companies? What is your choice if you are a college graduate?
3. Knowledge or Experience
Some emphasize book knowledge; others stress practical experience. Which one is more important? Give your reasons to illustrate.
4. Movie Goers or Web Viewers
What do you prefer: seeing films online or going to the movie houses?
5. Is It Farewell to the Printed Book?
1) 电子图书悄然问世，带来了巨大的市场潜力，并对出版业造成一定的冲击
2）电子图书的优势和弊端
3）电子图书与纸质书刊的前景
4) 作文地带是您学习英语的好帮手
6. To Work at Home?
1)随着高科技的发展，越来越多的人选择在家工作
2）选择在家工作的利与弊
3）结论