综合写作：
Across Europe, archeologists have discovered examples of a curious prehistoric artifact known as a perforated baton (stick). Made by prehistoric people out of deer antler, these batons have at least one drilled perforation (hole). They are typically 15-20 centimeters(6-8 inches)long, and their surface is usually carved. The original function of these perforated batons is unclear. Several theories about what they were used for have been proposed.
Arrow Straighteners
One theory is that perforated batons were used to manufacture arrows-weapons used for hunting since prehistoric times.
In order to fly straight and hit its target, an arrow needs to be straight. According to this theory, an arrow was passed back and forth through the baton’s hole until any bends were removed and the arrow was straight. Evidence of wear inside the holes of many perforated batons seems to support that they were used to straighten arrows.
Spear Throwers
Another theory is that perforated batons were used to throw spears-long hunting weapons-farther and more forcefully than could be done by the human hand alone.
A researcher who proposed this theory likened the perforated baton to some established, well-documented tools that are still used today as spear throwers. In fact, the researcher created an experimental model of a perforated baton and conducted a successful experiment with it, proving that the model was an effective spear thrower.
Ceremonial Objects
A third theory is that perforated batons were not practical tools but instead purely ceremonial or symbolic objects. In many cultures, people in power possess objects that indicate their authority within the social group. For example, kings of many civilizations, going as far back as ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia, have held scepters-long, narrow objects symbolizing their political authority. Scepters and other ceremonial objects are often elaborately decorated. Since perforated batons are also often decorated with carvings and other complex designs, their function may have been solely ceremonial, like that of a scepter.
学术写作：
Your professor is teaching a class on business management. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response, you should do the following:
- Express and support your opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Dr. Gupta:
This week, we’ll be discussing ways in which schools can help expose their students (aged 5 – 18) to learning experiences beyond the classroom. Let’s begin by discussing one popular idea that some schools are considering – offering outdoor classes once a month. On the day of outdoor classes, students will be transported to local parks or nature preserves, and teachers can help students explore nature and learn about the environment. Do you think this is a good idea? Why or why not?
Kelly:
Having outdoor classes once a month seems like an exciting way of providing students with interesting hands – on experiences. However, I don’t think these classes would be a worthwhile use of instructional time and school resources. These classes could put substantial pressure on the school’s financial resources and on teachers, who may have to redesign their lesson plans.
Paul:
On the other hand, outdoor classes can increase students’ motivation to learn about the interconnectedness of the natural world. These classes could provide great opportunities to teach students about pressing environmental issues, such as pollution, and ways to address these problems. It would deepen their understanding beyond what books alone could achieve and would be time well spent.
