Questions 1–2: In the following two examples, combine or separate sentences or passages as appropriate. Delete any nonessential passages. Start a new paragraph only when a new topic is introduced.

1. Arson destroys neighborhoods as surely as mass bombings.

Only a few people commit the crime, but all residents must suffer the consequences.

How could it be otherwise, given the nature of the problem, with its tangle of social and economic issues?

Decaying buildings are torched by their owners to collect insurance money. This is a despicable crime and ought to be vigorously investigated and punished. Most arsonists escape punishment. Burnt-out structures are, in turn, a haven for gangs and drug traffickers, who cause even more arson.

Once several blocks have been gutted, a kind of collective hopelessness grips those who can’t afford to move. The young may continue to set fires from hatred or from despair of ever escaping their crumbling prison.

The old and sick become the prey of robbery or random violence, their final years drawn into a whirlpool of fear.

The end comes when the municipal government gives up, curtails most services, and abandons the neighborhood.

2. Proponents and opponents of nuclear plants disagree on a number of issues. In particular, the question of safe disposal of nuclear wastes has created strong feelings and considerable conflict. Nuclear power has helped many communities. It provides the additional electricity desperately needed during stress periods such as extremely cold winters and hot summers. Nuclear power has proved to be an important supplement to fossil fuel sources, especially in areas where fossil fuel is scarce.