In an online writing class just now, we read our students’ papers on this topic:

One of my strengths is _____________; it helps me by _____________.

Here is a paper from Ryan, a high school student in Hsinchu, Taiwan.

BEFORE 

One of my strengths is English reading, it helps me with my school work. English is one of the most widely used languages. Most companies will require staffs to learn English. This international language could be useful when talking to any foreigners. English is also a school subject, but it is difficult for students to understand because of the different grammar rule. Because I use to live in the US, I have a great opportunity to learn English. After I left America, I still practice my English skills. So instead of focusing on basic grammar, I could have more time practicing my writing and reading skills.

 

 

AFTER

One of my strengths is English reading; it helps me with my school work. English is one of the most widely-used languages. Most companies will require their staff to learn English. This international language could be useful when talking to any foreigners. English is also a school subject, but it is difficult for students to understand because of the different grammar rules. Because I used to live in the US, I have a great opportunity to learn English. After I left America, I still practiced my English. So instead of focusing on basic grammar, I could have more time practicing my reading and writing skills. I am so thankful for my English abilities.