Exercise #3: Past Simple



Write about the following topic:

Life in the 21st century has indeed become fast-paced and frantic compared to that of 50 years ago, when the pace of life was slower.

What do you think were the advantages and disadvantages of living a slower paced life?

Write at least 250 words.

The pace of life in today’s society is much faster than in the past, because of changes in people’s habits and in the world of work. In the past, there were both advantages and disadvantages to living a slower paced-life.

There were a number of benefits of people's lifestyle in the past. Firstly, people probably suffered less from stress because they were not often in a hurry. Secondly, they spent more time with friends and family, especially at mealtimes and on traditional holidays. People worried less about being the best in their job or about earning a lot of money. They probably felt happier.

However, in my view, the slower pace of life also had several important disadvantages. People travelled much less, either for work or holidays, so their lives were more limited. Basic tasks such as carrying objects, cleaning and washing took up a lot of their time. As a result, they enjoyed their free time less than people today. The slower pace of life also meant that it was more difficult for people to change or improve their situation by studying of finding a better job.

All in all, I believe that the disadvantages of the slower pace of life in the past were greater than the advantages. People had more free time but they were not always able to benefit from it because they had less control over their lives, both at home and at work.