Key:

I. 1. target 2. trend 3. medium

4. thefts 5. curriculum

II. 1. acquisition 2. surrounding 3. enlarge

4. dedication 5. announcement

III. 1. keep in mind 2. In the absence of

3. take the form of 4. get ahead

5. stand out

IV. 1. The meeting yesterday was of great importance.

2. Continued education is the key to moving ahead.

3. He soon adjusted himself to the new life.

4. There's no point (in) arguing further.

5. Whether right or wrong, he usually wins the argument.