Nick is often punished because he is lazy. 
Because of …being lazy, Nick is often punished…………………………………………………………………….
7.    She didn’t eat much though she was hungry. 
Despite    ……being hungry, she didn't eat much………………………………………………………………..
8.    I accepted the job although the salary was low. 
In spite of…the low salary, I accepted the job….. …………………………………………………………………
9.    He didn’t leave school even though his family was poor. 
Despite …his poor family, he didn't leave school……………………………………………………………………….
10.    The flight was not delayed though it was foggy. 
Despite    …the foggy weather, the flight wasn't delayed……………………………………………………