Question

Technology: Using it Wisely

Technology has helped humans advance rapidly in recent years. Be it in the field of medical sciences or home entertainment, the spectrum of sophisticated gadgets has improved drastically. The technology which seemed possible only in fictional movies and novels is gradually getting integrated to our normal lives. This fact raises one of the current serious concerns— is technology overrunning our lives?
The uses of technology are numerous but that should not let people "gadget-ize" their lives. Consider this, thirty years ago the number of children exposed to technology was far less than the number of children exposed to technology today. Most of the school-going children today know how to use a cellphone or a tablet. Many scientists and researchers believe that this limits the growth of creativity. Developing children need stimulating mental activity for healthy brain development. While computer games or entertainment on mobile phones are visually appealing, only a handful of them are intellectually challenging.
As the line between need and luxury blurs, the consumption of technology increases. The problem arises when we abuse technology to satisfy more than what may be our needs. For instance, today's socializing happens mostly in the virtual world. Certainly technology has connected people in every corner of the world, but its abuse has resulted in damage. Consequently, many people prefer socializing through the Internet rather than interacting personally. The problem is not technology but its exploitation, leading to people creating a comfort zone around them and moving away from reality.
Technology has even redefined the way we prepare and eat our meals. Microwave ovens have simplified cooking for many working men and women as they can simply get processed food, cook it in the oven, and eat it before hurrying out of their homes. Though this technology helps in saving time and satiating hunger, it adversely impacts health. Studies show that the radiation emitted in microwave cooking can negatively impact health. The convenience offered by technological innovations like the microwave oven has tempted people off traditional ways of cooking food.
Another area of our lives that technology has impacted negatively is the way we exercise. An umpteen number of health conscious individuals work out in gyms. After spending their day in a closed office space, working in front of the computer, they run on treadmills in a closed room with air conditioners to stay in shape. Meanwhile, our bodies, which need fresh air, are further robbed of nourishment in favor of convenience because of technology. A walk in the woods or an early morning open-air run is far more effective than running on the treadmill.
Many people plan their busy meeting schedules, birthday parties, official meets and many of their activities using a planner on their computers or smartphones. Additionally, they have reminders to remind them about their plans. In all this, we seem to forget one of the most marvelous machines in the world—the human brain. Today, several people find it difficult to remember a ten digit phone number because an unlimited storage capacity on cellphones or computers have replaced this ability!
Technology is a boon in which everyone should rejoice but at the same time we need to be cautious and know where to draw the line. In the haze of technological fervor, we can easily lose grip on what really matters. One cannot ignore technology completely but using it wisely is the key to avoid becoming addicted to its wonders.

1
Drag each label to the correct location on the image. Each label can be used more than once.
Match the words and phrases from the passage with the tone it conveys.
informative tone
critical tone
didactic tone

Answer 1

The passage explores the multifaceted impact of technology, providing informative insights, critical reflections, and didactic guidance. It delves into concerns of potential overreliance, emphasizing the need to use technology wisely.

Using an informative tone, the passage provides factual information and insights. It maintains a critical tone by addressing the potential negative consequences of technology. It also exhibits a didactic tone by imparting a lesson on using technology wisely. These tones collectively contribute to a comprehensive discussion on the subject.

The tones matched with the words and phrases are as follows:

1. "Technology has helped humans advance rapidly in recent years."

- Tone: Informative

2. "The uses of technology are numerous but that should not let people 'gadget-ize' their lives." - Tone: Critical

3. "Consider this, thirty years ago the number of children exposed to technology was far less than the number of children exposed to technology today." - Tone: Didactic

4. "As the line between need and luxury blurs, the consumption of technology increases."- Tone: Critical

5. "Technology has even redefined the way we prepare and eat our meals."- Tone: Informative

6. "Another area of our lives that technology has impacted negatively is the way we exercise." - Tone: Critical

7. "Many people plan their busy meeting schedules, birthday parties, official meets, and many of their activities using a planner on their computers or smartphones." - Tone: Informative

8. "In all this, we seem to forget one of the most marvelous machines in the world—the human brain." - Tone: Didactic

9. "Technology is a boon in which everyone should rejoice but at the same time, we need to be cautious and know where to draw the line.

- Tone: Didactic