READING
Read the text
MODERN TECHNOLOGY
A. Modern technology is changing the way we live our lives. Clever gadgets make everyday activities easier and enable people to use their time effectively. But what impact will this change have in the future and is it really a positive thing? People are busier than ever before.
B. Technological advances (0) mean that things are often possible with the touch of a button. A hundred years ago, however, things were very different. Everyday jobs, like doing the laundry, would take a whole day, and the telephone was a new invention! Nowadays, almost every household has a washing machine and a dishwasher, and there are more than 70 million mobile phones in use in the United Kingdom alone.
C. Research shows that around 28% of children in the UK are obese. Some people are concerned that this is because young people (1) spend too much time online and not enough time socialising with their friends and playing outside. In the past, nearly all children walked to school because their parents didn’t have a car. They didn’t have all the luxuries that many children have now, so they used their imaginations and played outdoors in the fresh air.
D. Years ago, when people wanted to stay in touch with their friends and family, they wrote letters. These days, however, E-mail communication and social networking sites, such as Facebook, allow (2) instant, free international communication.
E. There are many benefits of using technology but we need to be responsible in the choices we make. Modern equipment is often very expensive and does not (3) last a long time. It is important to consider how much we really need these things and the impact they have on our health, the environment and society.