Personal Letter

1. Definition

A personal letter is a type of informal written communication sent between individuals who have a personal relationship, such as family members, friends, or acquaintances. 

2. Aim

The aim of a personal letter is to communicate personal thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It may serve various purposes, such as:

• Maintaining relationships: Strengthening bonds between friends or family members.
• Sharing personal news: Informing the recipient about recent events or life changes.
• Expressing feelings: Conveying emotions such as gratitude, sympathy, or congratulations.
• Seeking or offering advice: Sharing advice or personal opinions in a friendly manner.
• Offering support: Showing concern or care for someone going through a tough time.

3. Structure

A personal letter follows a relatively flexible structure, but it generally includes the following parts:

• Sender's Address
• Date
• Salutation (Greeting)
• The greeting depends on the relationship with the recipient (e.g., "Dear John," "Hi Sarah," "My dearest Mom").
• Body of the Letter
• Opening: A warm introduction to set the tone of the letter.
• Main content: The core of the letter, where the writer conveys their personal message, thoughts, feelings, or updates.
• Closing: A final remark or sentiment before ending the letter.
• Complimentary Close 
• Examples :
• Love,
• Best wishes,
• Take care,
• Sincerely,
• With love,
• Regards,
• Your bestie,
• Your love.
• Best regards,
• Sincerely yours,
• Signature:
• The writer's name.

 4. Types of Personal Letters

• Friendly Letters: Written to friends or acquaintances to maintain personal contact and share news, experiences, or feelings.
• Family Letters: Sent to family members, such as parents, siblings, or grandparents, to share updates and express affection.
• Thank-You Letters: A form of letter used to express gratitude for a gift, favor, or kindness.
• Apology Letters: Sent to apologize for a mistake or hurtful action, expressing regret and seeking forgiveness.
• Invitation Letters: These are written to invite someone to an event or a special occasion, such as a birthday or gathering.
• Condolence Letters: Expressing sympathy and support when someone has experienced a loss or hardship.
• Congratulatory Letters: Written to congratulate someone on an achievement or special event, such as a promotion or wedding.

Examples :

Text 1

Pasar Senin, Jakarta

January 16, 2022

Dear Ratih,

It’s been a long time since we met. How are you? I hope you are doing well? I hope this letter finds you in good health.

As you know that vacation has already started, I was thinking of spending the vacations together in Jakarta. I want you to take you out on the city tour as well as introduce my friends and family to you. I would love to go out and have street food with you. 

I am just excited at the thought of me and you spending the vacations together. I just hope that you share your response with me and let me know if it possible for you to come to my place.

With lots of love,

Yours lovingly,

Vivi

Text 2

Pasar Kamis, Jakarta

July 15, 2023

Dear Setyo,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. Last week I got to know about your accident and I was highly depressed.

Thank God that he saved you from something very serious. Everything is going to be ok. I had a word with the doctor yesterday and he told me that there is nothing to worry about for the time being. Just a few more days in the hospital and you will be back home! I also had a talk with your mom and she was very upset with whatever has happened. But now she is happy that you are recovering.

I have good news for you. Your family and friends including me have decided to celebrate once you come back. My brother and other family members are also praying for your speedy recovery. Hope to see you soon and in good health!

Lots of Love,

Yours truly,

 Aditya

Text 3

February 11, 2024

Hi Alex,

I hope you’re doing well! I just heard from Sandra that you accepted the assistant swim coach position there. Congratulations! I know how challenging it can be to land your dream job right out of college, and I’m so honored to have provided you a letter of recommendation for that role. I know you will make an exceptional swim coach and make a real impact on the young athletes at UNS.

Congrats again. No one is more deserving of this role than you are, and I look forward to hearing about your new venture in person.

Sincerely,

Marcel

Text 4

Bantul, Yogyakarta

January 16, 2024

Dear Yuli,

I hope you are doing well. I know you are angry with me about what has happened at your birthday party. I wish to apologize and I want you to forgive me. I don’t our friendship to spoil.

I know whatever has happened was not right. The thing is I was not in a mood that day. My exams were not good and my mother really scolded me. I shouldn’t have behaved with you like that. I promise not to behave like that the next time. I am really sorry about what I said.

Hope you pardon me for my mistakes. Let’s meet if possible! Eagerly waiting for your response!

With love.

Yours truly,

Dian

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Expressing Opinion

Definition

What Are Facts and Opinions?

• Fact is A statement that can be proven true or false.
• Opinion is A personal belief or judgment that is not verifiable.

Expressing opinion refers to the act of stating or communicating one's thoughts, beliefs, or feelings about a particular subject, issue, or topic. 

It is a subjective statement, which may be based on personal experiences, feelings, knowledge, or preferences, and is often used in discussions, debates, essays, and conversations.

Differences Between Facts and Opinions

• Fact: Based on evidence and can be verified.
  Example: "Water boils at 100°C."
• Opinion: Based on personal feelings, preferences, or interpretations.
  Example: "I think chocolate ice cream is the best."

Aim of Expressing Opinion

The aim of expressing an opinion is to share personal views, persuade others, initiate discussions, or provide a perspective on an issue. It may be used to:

1. Inform others about personal beliefs.
2. Persuade or influence others' views.
3. Engage in dialogue or debate.
4. Clarify one's position on a topic.
5. Encourage critical thinking and reflection among others. 

Structure of Expressing Opinion

When expressing an opinion, it is essential to have a clear structure, particularly in written or formal communication. A basic structure can be:

1. Introduction: Introduce the topic or issue.
• Example: "I believe that climate change is one of the most critical issues of our time."
2. Opinion Statement: Clearly state your opinion or viewpoint.
• Example: "In my view, renewable energy is the solution to reducing global warming."
3. Supporting Arguments or Evidence: Provide reasons, facts, examples, or personal experiences to back up your opinion.
• Example: "Renewable energy sources like solar and wind produce little to no carbon emissions, which helps mitigate the effects of global warming."
4. Conclusion or Restatement of Opinion: Reaffirm your opinion or offer a summary of your points.
• Example: "Therefore, transitioning to renewable energy is essential for addressing climate change."

Types of Expressing Opinion

1. Personal Opinion: Based on an individual’s experiences, preferences, or beliefs.
• Example: "I prefer reading books over watching movies."
2. Objective Opinion: Based on facts or logical reasoning, not influenced by personal feelings.
• Example: "According to recent studies, exercise improves mental health."
3. Comparative Opinion: Involves comparing two or more options or ideas.
• Example: "I think that online education is more flexible than traditional classroom learning."
4. Judgmental Opinion: A more critical or evaluative stance, often based on personal standards.
• Example: "This movie was poorly directed and lacked originality."
5. Predictive Opinion: Offers a perspective on what is likely to happen in the future.
• Example: "I believe that technology will continue to shape the future of work."

Language Components Used in Expressing Opinion

1. Opinion Markers: Words or phrases that signal the speaker's or writer's viewpoint.
• Examples: I think, in my opinion, I believe, from my point of view, it seems to me, as far as I am concerned, personally, I feel.
2. Supporting Phrases: To give reasons, examples, or evidence to support the opinion.
• Examples: because, due to, for example, for instance, as a result, this is because, this shows that.
3. Conjunctions and Connectors: To link ideas, show cause and effect, or compare opinions.
• Examples: However, therefore, on the other hand, although, similarly, in contrast, consequently.
4. Modal Verbs: To express degrees of certainty or possibility.
• Examples: might, could, would, should, must, may.
5. Adverbs and Adjectives: To intensify or soften the opinion.
• Examples: I strongly believe, I honestly think, it's absolutely clear, it seems rather unlikely.
6. Conditionals: To express hypothetical situations or future possibilities.
• Example: If we continue to ignore climate change, it could have disastrous consequences.

Examples
- Facts

• The Earth revolves around the Sun.
• 1 kilogram equals 1000 grams.
• The capital of France is Paris.

- Opinions

• "This movie was amazing!"
• "I believe summer is the best season."
• "Eating healthy food is overrated."

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Advertisement Text

Definition

An advertisement text is a written or visual communication created with the purpose of promoting a product, service, or idea.

Aim of Advertisement Text

The primary aims of an advertisement text are:

1. Promotion: To advertise a product, service, or idea to a target audience.
2. Persuasion: To influence the audience’s thoughts and behaviors toward a specific action, such as buying or interacting with the brand.
3. Informing: To provide relevant information that helps the audience make an informed decision.
4. Brand Recognition: To build brand awareness and loyalty by presenting a consistent, appealing message.
5. Engagement: To encourage interaction with the audience, often by creating an emotional or intellectual connection.

Structure of Advertisement Text

An advertisement text typically follows a structured format designed to appeal to the target audience. It usually includes the following elements:

1. Headline: The attention-grabbing opening statement that quickly communicates the main benefit or message of the ad.
2. Subheading: An additional line that supports the headline, providing more context or elaboration.
3. Body Copy: The detailed part of the ad, explaining the features, benefits, and value proposition of the product or service.
4. Call to Action (CTA): A clear instruction or invitation to the audience to take action, such as "Buy now," "Sign up today," or "Call for more information."
5. Visual Elements: Images, videos, or graphics that support the message and enhance its appeal.
6. Tagline/Logo: A memorable, concise statement that represents the brand or the ad’s core message.
7. Contact Information: Relevant details, such as a website, phone number, or address, that enable the audience to follow up or take the desired action.

Types of Advertisement Text

There are various types of advertisement texts depending on the medium and the target audience. Some common types include:

1. Print Advertising: Text-based ads in newspapers, magazines, brochures, and flyers.
2. Television and Radio Ads: Audio and visual advertisements broadcast on TV or radio stations.
3. Online Advertising: Digital ads placed on websites, social media, search engines, and other online platforms.
4. Outdoor Advertising: Billboards, posters, banners, and signs placed in public spaces.
5. Social Media Advertising: Sponsored posts, stories, and promotions on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
6. Email Marketing: Promotional messages sent directly to a recipient's email inbox.
7. Direct Mail: Physical letters, brochures, or postcards sent to potential customers.

Language Components Used in Advertisement Text

To effectively persuade and inform the audience, advertisement texts use specific language components:

1. Emotive Language: Words and phrases that evoke emotions, creating a strong connection with the audience. Examples include "exciting," "incredible," "life-changing."
2. Persuasive Techniques: Using rhetorical devices such as ethos (credibility), pathos (emotion), and logos (logic) to convince the audience.
3. Short and Clear Sentences: Simple, concise language is essential for clarity and impact. Long sentences are avoided, and the message is delivered quickly.
4. Imperative Mood: Commands or instructions to motivate action, often found in the call to action (e.g., "Buy now," "Call today").
5. Catchy Phrases or Slogans: Memorable phrases or taglines that reinforce the brand’s identity or the advertisement’s key message.
6. Hyperbole: Exaggeration to emphasize the benefits or features of a product (e.g., "World’s best coffee").
7. Rhetorical Questions: Questions that don’t require an answer but are used to engage the audience (e.g., "Why settle for less?")
8. Alliteration and Rhymes: These language devices help make the advertisement catchy and memorable.
9. Positive Language: Words that highlight benefits and create a sense of urgency or excitement (e.g., "Limited offer," "Hurry!")
10. Personalization: Directly addressing the reader using pronouns like "you" to make the message feel more relevant.

Examples

Advertisement 1

This advertisement is an advertisement about school bags which are currently offering discounts of up to 50% to welcome the new school year.

Advertisement 2

Mall Summarecon Bandung – Your New Shopping Heaven!

Experience the excitement at our newest shopping destination in the center of Bandung city, indulge in top-notch brands, delightful dining, and entertaining experiences in a modern and family-friendly environment.

Join us for the grand opening and get hundreds of shopping vouchers! Limited edition, only from 10 January – 20 January 2024!

Advertisement 3

Advertisement for a Beverage (Health Drink)

Feeling tired and drained? Boost your energy naturally with VitaJuice! Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it keeps you refreshed all day long. No artificial flavors, no added sugar—just pure, fruity goodness. Perfect for work, school, or post-workout recovery. Try VitaJuice today and feel the difference!

Advertisement 4

Advertisement for a Mobile App (Budgeting App)

Struggling to manage your money? With SmartBudget, you can track every dollar and save smarter. Set spending goals, receive alerts, and take control of your finances—all from your phone. It’s easy to use, secure, and totally free. Download SmartBudget now and start your journey to financial freedom!

 

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Caption Text

Definition

Caption text is a short text used to accompany an image. Caption text usually appears below images, photos, graphs, posters, and even tables.

Aim

The primary aims of caption text are:
1. to describe what's in the image.
2. to emphasize the content of articles, essays, or reports.

Types of Caption Text

1. Identification Caption

This type of caption is typically used to describe or identify each person in the photo, but doesn't necessarily tell a story. The focus of this type of identification caption is on clarity.

2. Group Caption

Group captions are typically used to describe multiple images. These captions should contain at least two sentences per image and include quotes whenever possible. Group captions should clearly explain which image each caption describes.

3. Storytelling Caption 

Storytelling captions are ideal and can be used whenever possible. They tell a story behind the image. Using them often makes the image more engaging to read.

4. Summary Caption

For the summary caption type , it usually contains an explanation of the subject in the image, the activity carried out in the image, the time of the incident, the location of the incident and the reason why the activity was carried out.

5. Quote Caption

Quote caption means it contains a quote from someone in the picture.

6. Cutline Caption

The cutline caption is the most common type found in images and text in newspapers and other media, both offline and online. A cutline caption describes the subject in the image and what the subject is doing.

7. Expanded Caption

The expanded caption type is the most comprehensive type of caption. As the name suggests, this expanded caption text is an extension of the previous text, specifically the summary caption.

Structure

Here is the generic structure of caption text.
1. Title
2. Lead
3. Section heading

Language Components

English captions can be written in any sentence, but it's best to use the simple present tense . This is because simple present tense sentences are easier for readers to understand, making the message easier to convey.

How to Write Caption Text 

1. Accuracy
You need to know what you want to convey. Don't write or make judgments about the moods of the people in the picture.

2. Don't Be Too Real
Avoid phrases that tell the reader about very obvious actions, such as shaking hands, looking at each other, gesturing, chatting, etc.

3. Avoid Clichés
Avoid clichés or trite words. Avoid using words that describe actions with feelings, such as happy, rejoicing, jumping happily, clapping happily, etc.

4. Showing the Photo Subject
Don't show the subject of the photo in a way that sounds like talking to them like "Hey Joe, what are you doing in front of that building?" "Hey Jane, where are you right now?" and so on.

5. Style of Language
The style of language can be adapted to the image. For example, a humorous photo can have a humorous caption . Serious photos, such as tables and graphs, should also have serious captions.

 

 

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Making Reservation

Definition of Reservation

A reservation is a formal arrangement made in advance to secure a service, product, or space at a specific time and location.
Common examples include booking hotel rooms, restaurant tables, or tickets for travel or events.

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Expression of  Reservation

I'd like to book ... please. ...
Could I reserve ... → "Could I reserve a dinner reservation for tomorrow night here?"
Can I make a reservation ... → "Can I make a reservation for my daughter's birthday on the eighteenth?"
I'd like to make ...

1. Can I order a few tables for a family gathering tomorrow?
2. We would like to book several places for a school reunion later.
3. We would like to have a room within the villa.
4. Excuse me, we will order several menus for a meeting later this afternoon.
5. Excuse me, could you help me to book a plane ticket from Jogjakarta to Bali for Thursday?
6. I would like to reserve two bus seats for a trip to Malang tomorrow.

Aim

The aim of making a reservation is to ensure the availability of a desired service or item at a specific time while providing clear and accurate information to facilitate the booking. It is also intended to avoid misunderstandings or double bookings and ensure the user's requirements are met.

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Structure

1. Introduction/Opening
• Greeting the service provider.
• Stating the purpose of the call/message (e.g., "I’d like to make a reservation...").
2. Providing Details
• Specify the service or item being reserved (e.g., table at a restaurant, hotel room).
• Include relevant details such as:
• Date and time.
• Number of people.
• Special preferences (e.g., non-smoking area, view preference, dietary requirements).
3. Confirmation
• Request confirmation of availability.
• Repeat the reservation details to confirm accuracy.
4. Closing
• Express thanks.
• Provide contact information, if needed.
• End the conversation politely.

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Language Components Used

1. Polite Expressions:
• "I would like to..."
• "Could you please check if...?"
• "Would it be possible to..."
2. Specific Vocabulary:
• Booking, reservation, availability, date, time, confirmation, cancellation policy, preferences.
3. Numbers and Dates:
• Clearly stating times, dates, and quantities (e.g., "10th of January at 7 PM for two people").
4. Questions:
• "Is it available on [date]?"
• "Do you have any openings at [time]?"
• "Can you accommodate [number of people]?"
5. Responses:
• "Yes, that works for me."
• "Thank you for confirming."
• "I appreciate your help."

Examples :

Dialogue 1

Officer: Good morning, Sir. Can I help you?
Fajar: Good morning, I would like to book train ticket for this weekend. The destination is Jakarta.
Officer: Okay, can I know the exact date, Sir?
Fajar: I want to reserve for 19th March for departure from Solo and March 27th from Jakarta.
Officer: So, is it a round-trip? How many people?
Fajar: Yes, it is. For two people, both is adult.
Officer : Okay, I accept your data and the date that you requested is still open for reservation. I can proceed this reservation if you give your identity card along with other passenger’s identity.
Fajar: Thank you, here are our identity cards.

Dialogue 2

You: Hi, I’d like to book a room for tonight.
Receptionist: Sure, let me check our availability. We have a single room available. Would you like that?
You: Yes, please. How much is it per night?
Receptionist: It’s $90 per night.
You: That sounds good. I’ll take it.

Dialogue 3

Receptionist: Good afternoon, Grand Plaza Hotel. How can I assist you?
You: Good afternoon. I’d like to book a room for two nights, starting from the 20th of July.
Receptionist: Let me check our availability. We have a double room available for those dates. Would you like to proceed with the reservation?
You: Yes, please.
Receptionist: May I have your name and contact details?
You: My name is Alice Johnson, and my phone number is 555-1234.
Receptionist: Thank you, Ms. Johnson. Your reservation is confirmed. You will receive a confirmation email shortly.

Dialogue 4

You: Hi, can you tell me if the hotel has a swimming pool? 

Receptionist: Yes, we have an outdoor swimming pool on the rooftop, open from 7 AM to 9 PM. 

You: Great! Is there a restaurant in the hotel? 

Receptionist: Yes, our restaurant is located on the ground floor and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

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Making Intention

Definition of Intention
A clear aim or purpose you set for yourself or a detailed proposal for achieving something.

How to Make Intentions/Plans

• Define your goals clearly.
• Break them into smaller, actionable steps.
• Set a timeline.
• Monitor your progress.

Patterns and Examples :

BE + going to + simple verb

1. I am going to my friend’s house tonight
2. The United State Circus is going to be perform in New York tomorrow
3. Are you going to join me in a music contest?
4. What are you going to do this weekend?

BE + planning to + simple verb

1. She is planning to go swimming in the public pool next week
2. I am planning to knit a sweater for my boyfriend
3. Are you planning to run away from here?
4. Are you planning to date him?

BE + planning on + V ing

1. She is planning on translating the Japanese textbook tonight
2. I am planning on fixing my dad’s old car tomorrow
3. Are you planning on playing video games this weekend?
4. Are you planning on running to the hill tomorrow morning?

Would like to + simple verb

1. I would like to present my science project at this moment
2. I would like to get a ticket for tomorrow
3. Would you like to discuss the recycling project tomorrow at 7 p.m?
4. Would you like to come with me?

Will + simple verb

1. I will make my birthday cake at home
2. We will celebrate our first anniversary by going to the beach
3. Will you attend his birthday party tonight?
4. Will you marry me?

Would rather + simple verb + than + simple verb

1. I would rather bring my own food than buy food in the restaurant
2. She would rather stay in the house than go out with their family
3. Would you rather buy a new book or buy the old one?
4. Would you rather live in a country side or live in the middle of town

Would prefer + V ing + to + V ing

1. I would prefer buying instant food to making a food at home
2. My sister prefers watching tv to playing with her friends
3. Do you prefer cooking in the kitchen or cooking in the yard?
4. Do you prefer swimming in the ocean or in the lake?

Intend to + simple verb

1. I intend to visit my grandmother this week
2. He does not intend to continue his studies
3. Do you intend to return home next year?
4. Do you intend to transfer the property to your daughter?

Hope to + simple verb

1. We hope to see you again soon
2. She hopes to go to college this years
3. Does he hope to repair his car at your garage?
4. Do you hope to have a bigger store this year?

Want to + simple verb

1. I and my sister want to bake a cake for my mom’s birthday
2. I just want to wish you a happy birthday and wish you all the best!
3. Do you want to talk about it tomorrow? 

4. Do you want to make a trip schedule for this year?

Dialogues

Dialog 1

A: Could you buy me some meat and vegetables?
B: Sure. What are you going to do with them?
A: I’m planning to cook vegetables and meat stir fry
B: what is that for?
A: I want to give it to my mom. She really likes meat and vegetables. So, i intend to cook for her.
B: Wow, that’s cool. OK, i’ll buy them for you.
A: thanks a lot!

Dialog 2

A: What would you like to do after you graduate from school?
B: I would like to take undergraduate program on law education
A: Are you going to prepare yourself as a lawyer?
B: Yes, I love studying law. I would like to become a good lawyer.
A: What a nice goal you have
B: Thank you. What About you?
A: Well I am going to apply for English program. I want to be a teacher
B: wow that’s cool.

Dialog 3

A: What would you like to do this weekend?
B: I have no idea about it. What are you going to do?
A: I am going to vacation with my family.
B: That’s awesome. I hope i can go with you.
A: Well, Would you like to come with me and my family?
B: Are you sure?
A: Yes, the more the merrier, right?
B: I think I would enjoy the vacation.

Dialog 4

A: Hi, John. What are you going to do this weekend?
B: Hi, Sarah. I am planning to go hiking with some friends. How about you?
A: That sounds fun! I would like to relax at home and read some books.
B: Nice. Maybe we can catch up next week.
A: Sure! I hope to finish my book by then.

Text 1

A vacation plan to Samarinda

My family and I are going to visit Samarinda next month for our holiday. We are going to travel by plane because it is faster and more comfortable. When we arrive, we are going to stay at a hotel near the Mahakam River so we can enjoy the beautiful view every morning. We also are going to try some local food, especially amplang and other traditional dishes.

During our stay, we are going to explore many interesting places in Samarinda. We are going to visit the Islamic Center Mosque, which is famous for its grand architecture. Then we are going to take a boat trip along the Mahakam River to see the city from the water. At the end of our trip, we are going to buy souvenirs for our friends and family. Our holiday in Samarinda is going to be an unforgettable experience.

Text 2

A vacation plan to Surabaya

My family and I are going to visit Surabaya during the school holiday next month. We are going to travel by train because we want to enjoy the scenery along the way. When we arrive, we are going to stay at a hotel near Tunjungan so we can easily explore the city center. We also are going to try Surabaya’s famous foods, such as rujak cingur and rawon.

During our trip, we are going to visit several interesting places. First, we are going to go to the Heroes Monument to learn more about the city’s history. Then, we are going to explore the Surabaya Zoo and take photos of the animals. At the end of our vacation, we are going to shop for souvenirs at Tunjungan Plaza. Our holiday in Surabaya is going to be exciting and unforgettable.

Text 3

A plan to work at PT Pupuk Kaltim

After I graduate from SMK Negeri 1 Bontang, I will apply for a job at PT Pupuk Kaltim. I will prepare all the required documents, such as my certificates and portfolio, to support my application. I will improve my skills and knowledge so that I can meet the company’s standards. I will work hard to pass the selection process because working at PT Pupuk Kaltim is one of my biggest dreams.

If I am accepted, I will give my best effort in every task and responsibility. I will learn from senior employees and will participate in training programs to develop my abilities. I will contribute to the company by working with discipline and dedication. In the future, I will build a successful career at PT Pupuk Kaltim and make my family proud.

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