Prompt : Write a complete feature article (800-1000 words) on the Silverwater Creek pollution issue.
Your article must include:
An engaging headline
A compelling hook
At least two paragraphs that follow the PEEL structure
Incorporation of ethos-building elements (expert quotes, data)
Balanced presentation of perspectives with a persuasive lean
Vivid descriptive language and imagery
A persuasive conclusion with call to action
Be prepared to share and discuss your article in the next session.
Please upload your homework as a comment below:
12 thoughts on “Day 7 Writing Homework”
What was once a vibrant, joyful and iconic area not only for kids, but also for adults and the elderly. Hearing the water swishing lusciously, hearing laughter and excitement filling up the kids heart. This is what the famous Silverwater Creek used to be. The Silverwater Creek is now filled with junk,plastics and all sorts of other atrocities. Are we going to let the Silverwater Creek gradually die out? We must take immediate action as if we dont we lose the precious thing in our community. The Silverwater Creek used to be amazing, beautiful, stunning. But now, it is trashed and completely disgusting.
Seven-year-old Jonathan Gad still grasps onto a photograph of himself when he visited the Silverwater Creek when the water was crystal-clear the trees and plants screamed of beauty. When the bushes and leaves swiftly shuffled past everyone. When everything was stunning. Now, when Jonathan walks past the Silverwater Creek, he leaves a trail of tears down his face as he hears the pots of trash crashing against the banks. And now he thinks to himself what no one should ever have to think, ” Why won’t anyone care to fix this beauty?”
It is essential that we take care of the creek not only for the environment, but also for the sweet children who used to play freely without any troubles of smelling the chemical foam that has been left behind from their very own community.
A science team that has inspected and analysed the creek have found chemicals such as phthalates, BPA and hydrocarbon. These chemicals are the chemicals that lead to things such as heart diseases. This isn’t the type of water that we want kids to be playing in is it? Dr Keen Shamen from the expert waterways conductions team even said ” The water from the Silverwater Creek is the worst water I have ever documented in my thirty year career. Doctor Kevin Chen from the local hospital reported a 67% increase in children that play in the Silverwater Creek getting rashes and other sort of dangerous sicknesses.
Although the cost of the restoration of the creek will be expensive, it will be completely beneficial for everyone. Just imagine the transformation, from depressed lonely kids, terrible reeky water filled with islands from trash, to happy, playful and happy children and a crystal clear water playing area where kids and parents will finally be able to enjoy the crystal clear lake again. Without any saying I think everybody should be committed in restoring and saving the terrible Silverwater Creek and make it great again.
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Dikshya – DAY 7
Silverwater Creek’s Toxic Burden: An Urgent Call for Remediation
The waters of Silverwater Creek, once a vital part of Parramatta’s natural landscape, now carry a concerning burden of pollution. Decades of industrial activity have left a legacy of contamination, posing a threat to local ecosystems and raising legitimate concerns within the community. This situation demands immediate and comprehensive attention.
The core of the Silverwater Creek pollution issue lies in historical industrial practices and ongoing urban runoff. Industries operating along its banks over the years have released heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants into the creek’s sediment and surrounding areas. A 2023 independent study provided clear evidence of this, identifying significant concentrations of substances like lead, mercury, and PFAS. According to Dr. Eleanor Vance, a toxicologist from the University of New South Wales involved in the research, “The levels detected present a clear and concerning risk to the health of the aquatic environment and potentially to human health through the accumulation of these toxins in the food web.” This historical contamination is further compounded by contemporary urban runoff, which introduces additional pollutants from roads and industrial zones directly into the creek. Addressing this requires tackling both the existing contamination and the ongoing sources.
While acknowledging the past economic significance of the industries along Silverwater Creek, it is crucial to recognize the long-term environmental costs. Representatives from local business circles have pointed to the economic benefits these industries provided. However, this perspective often overlooks the broader implications of environmental damage, including potential health issues and the loss of biodiversity. The community, on the other hand, is increasingly vocal about the need for action. Residents report noticeable environmental degradation, including unpleasant odours and reduced wildlife. Sarah Miller, from the “Friends of Silverwater Creek,” emphasizes, “This is about the health of our community and the environment we live in. We need authorities to take this seriously and implement effective cleanup measures.” This community advocacy, combined with the scientific data, underscores the ethical imperative for remidiation.
Restoring Silverwater Creek will require a determined and well-resourced effort. Implementing robust regulations on industrial discharge, alongside significant investment in remediation strategies, is essential. Furthermore, engaging the local community in the stewardship of the creek will be vital for its long-term recovery. The need to address the toxic burden of Silverwater Creek is clear. By taking decisive action now, we can work towards a future where this waterway once again supports a healthy and thriving ecosystem for the benefit of all!
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Ira Charan – DAY 7
Once a Haven, Now a Hazard: Silverwater’s Tragic Transformation
Just a few years ago, Silverwater Creek was brimming with life – the crystal-clear water glistened in the sun while kids ventured through the grassy banks dotted with colourful blossoms that filled the air with a soft, floral perfume. But today, the creek tells a different story. The once pristine waters are now murky and polluted with benzene, trichloroethylene, and polychlorinated biphenyls, and the once fragrant flowers now wilt in the putrid smell of decay. What was once a beloved spot for families and wildlife is now unrecognisable and unsafe for both the people who live around here and the fauna that once called it home.
Recent environmental studies conducted by Garland University have revealed alarming levels of pollution in Silverwater Creek, with chemicals from nearby industrial sites contributing to the rising toxicity of the water. Dr. Elaina James, a local physician who has spent years monitoring the creek, has reported a 62% rise in animal fatalities occuring within 2 kilometers of the creek.
Proponents of the nearby industrial operations argue that stricter environmental regulations would threaten local jobs and force businesses to shut down. “We have been here for over twenty years,” says Jordan McRae, the owner of McRae’s Car Manufactuers. “If we were expected to close down and move somewhere else, it’d cost my company a lot of money.” However, his economic argument misses the bigger picture. Environmental damage is already costing the community emotionally, physically, and financially. Local Resident Lara recalls her daughter developing painful rashes after walking near the creek when walking to school. “She kept scratching until she bled. Eventually, the government had to step in to pay for the damages,” she says.
We now stand at a crossroads, where one path will take us to a barren wasteland, with contaminated waters and decaying flora and fauna, and the other will take us to a sanctuary where life can bloom once again. Silverwater Creek can be reborn. Pollution can be reversed. Cleanup technologies exist. But these solutions require what we have been missing: the collective will to protect our world. Before it’s too late, let us change this hazard into a haven.
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diem_nguyenicloud-com – DAY 7 (1)
Hi Amelie here, I’m just here to tell u that my PEEL paragraphs are: The Problem and The Impact. Tyy 🙂 Hope u like my writing
Surviving with Silverwater: A Cry for Clean Water
By Amelie
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A Silent Crisis Unfolds
There was once a gleaming lake populated by colourful fish, now a polluted dull river. Silverwater used to be a holiday destination, now a forgotten landmark. It’s once ecosystem, now dead from pollutants. We need to act fast, before Silverwater Creek perishes. It used to flow with pristine clarity, a haven for local wildlife and a cherished stop for families and friends. Today, it tells a different story – a tale of neglect and pollution that threatens its every existence. As we stand on its banks, the murky waters and pungent odour serve as a starkly reminder of the environmental crisis at our doorstep.
The Reality
Silverwater Creek’s problem is not just an environmental issue; it is a community crisis. Recent studies have shown alarming levels of pollutants, including sewage water and industrial waste. According to Professor Alexis Carter, head of the Environmental Institute of Australia, “The pollution levels in Silverwater Creek have reached a critical point. If immediate action is not taken, we will risk losing this vital ecosystem forever.” Even small acts of plastic waste reduction or using biodegradable products can help us get one step further to helping Silverwater Creek.
The Problem
Data from the University of Nature Protection (UNP) reveals that the creek’s water quality has deteriorated significantly, over the last two decades. The UNP discovered that levels of heavy metals and toxic chemicals have surpassed safe limits, with specific lead concentrations increasing by 40%, and mercury levels doubling. These contaminants originate from various sources, including nearby factories, agricultural runoff and untreated sewage. The accumulation of these pollutants disrupts the natural balance of the ecosystem, leading to the decline of amphibians and destruction of habitats. Addressing the pollution in Silverwater Creek is not about preserving the environment but safeguarding the health and safety of our community.
The Impact
The impact of Silverwater Creek’s pollution extends way beyond the environment, affecting the local neighbourhood’s quality of life. A survey conducted by the town mayor, found that residents living near the creek reported higher incidences of respiratory problems and skin conditions. Additionally, the once-thriving recreational activities like fishing and canoeing, have come to a halt due to safety concerns. Over 44% of residents expressed concern about the health risks associated with Silverwater Creek. The presence of harmful pollutants in the water not only endangers wildlife but also poses significant health concerns. The community’s connection to the creek has been served, leading to a loss of cultural and recreational value.
Community Voices
While the scientific data paints a grim picture, the voices of the community add a personal dimension to the severe crisis. John Mathews, a lifelong resident recalls, “I used to take my kids fishing here every Saturday. Now, I never dare let them near the water. It’s heartbreaking.” His sentimental anecdote is echoed by many who have witnessed the creeks decline firsthand. Sarah Thompson, a local teacher shares her concerns. “We used to come here for school field trips to learn about the world’s ecosystem, but now we have to find a new alternative because it’s too dangerous. This problem is both a loss to their education and our community.”
A Call for Action
The situation at Silverwater Creek is dire, but it’s not beyond repair. Experts like Dr. Williams advocate for a multi-faceted approach to tackle the pollution. “We need stricter regulations on industrial waste disposal, a better waste management, and community-driven clean-up initiatives.” she emphasises. “The local government must prioritize funding for environmental restoration projects and enforce stringent penalties for polluters.”
The Role of Education
Education plays a vital role in addressing the pollution crisis at Silverwater Creek. By incorporating environmental studies into school curriculums and organising community workshops, we can raise awareness about the importance of preserving our natural resources. Empowering the younger generation with knowledge and tools to protect the environment ensures that the efforts to save Silverwater Creek will continue for years to come.
A Vision for the Future
Imagine a future where Silverwater Creek is restored to its former glory-a vibrant atmosphere teeming with life, a safe haven for generations to enjoy. This insight is not a distant dream, but a tangible goal that requires collective effort. Community clean-up events, educational programs and sustainable practices can pave a way for a cleaner, healthier creek.
Join the movement
The fight to save Silverwater Creek is a fight for our environment, our health and our community. It is a call to action for every resident to take responsibility and contribute to the solution. By working together, we can turn the tide and ensure that Silverwater Creek flows clean and clear once more. Join us in this crucial endeavour, because every hand counts. To get involved in the efforts to restore Silverwater Creek, visit: https://www.helpthecreekwithus.com.au and sign up for upcoming clean-up events. Your participation can make a significant difference in preserving this precious natural resource, for generations to come.
Day 7
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Winni – DAY 7
my writing homework
Writing task silverwater lake
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Robyn – DAY 7
Headline:
From Pristine to Poisoned: The Tragic and Cataclysmic Transformation of Silverwater Creek
Hook:
Once a playground for dragonflies and a sanctuary for picnicking families, Silverwater Creek now runs like a wounded vein through the heart of our community—its once-sparkling waters now lifeless and choked with pollution.
Silverwater Creek, once a crystalline canvas, now a grotesque facade of decay. Swirling with hues of dull olive and ash grey, its waters reflect not the sky above, but the negligence and harm we’ve been pouring into it. Horrid scents blanket the environment like a toxic fog—an ever-present reminder of what’s been lost. Where children once skipped stones, sludge now clings to the banks, and dead fish float belly-up as if in protest.
The degradation of the creek has been no accident. It’s the product of years of unchecked industrial runoff, careless waste disposal, and minimal regulatory oversight. Nearby residents, like long-time local Melissa Tan, remember a very different scene. “You used to see kids swimming here on hot days. Now, you wouldn’t even let your dog touch the water.”
PEEL Paragraph 1: The Evidence of Decline
The environmental toll is undeniable. According to a 2024 report by the New South Wales Environmental Monitoring Authority, pollutant levels in Silverwater Creek have exceeded safe thresholds by 320%—including dangerously high concentrations of phosphates, nitrates, and heavy metals such as lead and mercury. These chemicals don’t just affect aquatic life; they seep into the surrounding soil and impact broader ecosystems, including the flora and fauna that depend on the waterway. As environmental scientist Dr. Leila Hossain explains, “We’re not just looking at water pollution. We’re witnessing the collapse of an entire micro-ecosystem.”
PEEL Paragraph 2: The Human Impact
But it’s not just the environment that’s suffering—the community is too. Families living near the creek report increased respiratory issues, skin irritations, and foul odors invading their homes. Residents of Silverwater Estate, a development located less than 500 meters from the water, have lodged over 80 complaints to local council in the past year alone. Despite this, little action has been taken. “It feels like we’re being ignored,” says Ahmed Fariq, a father of three. “We don’t want fancy reports. We want to feel safe letting our kids play outside again.”
Balancing Perspectives
Industry representatives, however, argue that the issue is more complex. Some claim that while certain factories near the creek have outdated waste filtration systems, they are operating within their legal discharge limits. “Our operations comply with current regulations,” states Lyndon Parks, spokesperson for Silverwater Industrial Group. “We’re open to working with environmental agencies to improve things, but the burden shouldn’t fall entirely on industry.” Yet, critics argue that “compliance” isn’t enough when the regulations themselves are outdated or poorly enforced.
Imagery & Descriptive Language
Walking along the banks of the creek today, you’d be forgiven for mistaking it for a scene from a dystopian film. The once-golden reeds now droop like mourners at a wake. A crust of unidentified foam gathers near drainage points. Birds hover hesitantly, then retreat. The air, once filled with the scent of eucalyptus and cool water, now reeks of rot and chemicals. Nature has not just receded—it has recoiled.
Call to Action: A Path Forward
This is not an unsolvable crisis—but it is an urgent one. We need immediate investment in creek restoration, stricter regulation enforcement, and transparency from polluting entities. Community-led clean-up initiatives, supported by council and local businesses, could begin to reclaim the creek’s natural beauty. More importantly, our leaders must be held accountable for turning a blind eye.
Silverwater Creek is more than a waterway. It’s a symbol of how carelessness can corrupt beauty—and how, with effort, it can be reversed. Let us not wait until the last fish dies or the last child forgets it was once safe to swim. The creek is calling. Are we ready to listen?
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madiha – DAY 7