T&T 010-01 Common Errors in Topicalized Expression 主題的措辭

T&T 010-01
TEXT: Common Errors in English Topicalized Expression  主題的措辭
http://vlc.polyu.edu.hk/common/
Chinese learners of English tend to overemphasize the topic of their speech or writing. They do this by using certain language devices (e.g. “For” and “Concerning”) to put the topic at the beginning of a sentence. The topic is often then repeated as a pronoun.
For example:

For making a gold ring, it involves several complex steps.

A more standard way of expressing the sentence above would be:

Making a gold ring involves several complex steps
or:
There are several complex steps in making a gold ring.

Now, correct the topicalization in the following sentences. Think carefully about how you will begin each sentence to avoid too much emphasis. Write your revision in the box below and then press the button to see the model answer. You can then compare this with your own writing.
Test
1. For many people who wish to fulfill study ambitions, they must develop a high level of proficiency in English, since most reference and study materials are written in English.

2. Newspaper proprietors do not wish to ban cigarette advertisements; it is because advertise tobacco products, can earn substantial revenues.

3. Concerning dieting, we should avoid food high in carbohydrate because it may make us fat.

4. For many early computers some features were not satisfactory.

5. Go on holiday is an important way to reduce stress.

6. Hong Kong is a small island, have many people.

7. The first example shows an incorrect use of the past tense.

8. In Asia, can buy film relatively cheaply.

9. For my assignment, it will emphasize the importance of effective study skills.

10. According to my analysis of the problem, there have many complex issues involved.
Topicalized Expression (Answer key)
1. Many people who wish to fulfill study ambitions must develop a high level of proficiency in English.
2. Newspaper proprietors do not wish to ban cigarette advertisements, because advertising tobacco products can earn substantial revenues.
3. We/You should avoid food high in carbohydrate when we/you diet because it may make us/you fat.
4. Some features of many early computers were not satisfactory. Or
Many early computers had a number of unsatisfactory features.
5. Going on holiday is an important way to reduce stress.
6. Hong Kong is a small, densely-populated island.
Or Hong Kong is a small island with a large population.
7. The first example shows an incorrect use of the past tense.
8. You/One can buy film relatively cheaply in Asia.
Or (more impersonally):
It is possible to buy film relatively cheaply in Asia.
9. My assignment will emphasize the importance of effective study skills.
10. My analysis of the problem shows/demonstrates (that) there are many complex issues involved.