综合写作：
During a period known as the Bronze Age, there were several urban civilizations in the eastern Mediterranean region that prospered by producing or trading for bronze, a metal alloy that was used to create products such as tools and building materials. However, this prosperity abruptly ended in a period called the Late Bronze Age Collapse, so that by approximately 1175 BCE, many of the region’s great cities had greatly diminished, and some had more or less ceased to exist. Historians have long tried to identify the primary reason for the collapse.
First, some point to a massive earthquake storm. Major earthquakes sometimes become very frequent for months or even years at a time in clusters known as storms. Scientists have discovered that the eastern Mediterranean region was hit by an earthquake storm around the time these civilizations collapsed. Some of the remains of walls built during the Late Bronze Age still exist. These large stone walls lean to one side over long distances; this kind of damage is often associated with earthquakes.
Second, others have proposed that the civilizations were conquered and destroyed by the Sea Peoples, a band of warriors from different Mediterranean states. Archaeologists discovered that a new style of pottery associated with the Sea Peoples became widespread in areas where some important cities were in decline. The Sea Peoples likely conquered these urban civilizations, leaving massive destruction in their wake.
A third theory holds that the collapse was due to climate change affecting food supplies. This theory is supported by written evidence, such as a letter sent not long before the collapse from the ruler of one important civilization to another. The letter has been translated as indicating, “I have no grain in my lands.” There is also geological evidence which suggests that before the collapse, the climate became much drier. The affected civilizations probably experienced extreme food shortages due to drought.
学术写作：
Instructions
Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. 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. Diaz
This week, we will be discussing the topic of workplace communication. In a company, effective communication between employees and supervisors is important. Some people believe that employees should communicate with supervisors daily to report on what’s happening with their tasks; others think that communication with supervisors should be less frequent or only occur when facing a big problem. So, which way do you think is more beneficial?
Claire
I believe that daily communication between supervisors and employees would greatly benefit the employees. By chatting regularly, supervisors can truly understand what is happening with the employees’ tasks and make necessary adjustments. This communication can help employees grow in their jobs.
Paul
I think less frequent communication with a supervisor is better. Daily feedback can sometimes hurt your confidence, especially if it’s negative. Less frequent communication actually keeps employees happier, more confident, and allows them to focus more on their work.
