Re-read the text to find and highlight the arguments for and against the legalization of drugs.

2. Make a chart with two columns. Write For at the head of one column and Against at the head of the other. In note format, put the arguments you found in step 1 in the appropriate column.

Work with your partner and compare the arguments with the predictions you made before you read.

Focus on the Language

Look back at the text and find the verbs listed below. Notice how the writer has used different words to provide variety.

• Verbs used to express an opinion

think believe say feel argue

• Verbs used to take a position on an issue

be in favor of call for propose oppose

• Verbs used to discuss causes and consequences

cause encourage lead to

Fill in the blanks in the text below with one of the verbs given above, in the appropriate form. Vary the verbs you use. Then compare your answers with a partner.

Many drug experts now (1) __________________ the legalization of drugs. They (2) __________________ that making drug use illegal only (3) __________________ other social problems. They (4) __________________ that it can, for example, (5) __________________ police corruption, and (6) __________________ more crime. Some people also (7) __________________ that the money spent on fighting drug use would be better spent on fighting other crimes. Others (8) __________________ that drug use is a question of individual rights. However, some people (9) __________________ tough drug laws because they (10) __________________ that drug use is morally wrong or because they (11) __________________ drug use will (12) __________________ people to commit other crimes. Others (13) __________________ fighting the underlying factors of poverty and unemployment, which (14) __________________ the problem of drug use.

3. BUILDING VOCABULARY: FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE

Sometimes a writer uses figurative language - language that causes a picture to come to your mind. If you imagine this picture, it will help you understand the meaning of the expression that the writer is using.

Find a figurative expression in the text (paragraph indicated) to match the illustrations below. Write the expression next to the illustration.

1(par. 1)