Topic: The Double-Edged Nature of Technology
In the modern era, technology has become an inseparable part of human life. From smartphones and social media platforms to artificial intelligence and automation, technological advancements have transformed the way people communicate, work, and think. On the one hand, technology has made life considerably more convenient. Information can now be accessed within seconds, online learning has expanded educational opportunities, and digital tools have increased productivity in both academic and professional settings.
However, the rapid development of technology has also raised serious concerns. One major issue is the growing dependence on digital devices. Many individuals, especially young people, spend excessive amounts of time on screens, which may lead to physical health problems such as eye strain, sleep disruption, and lack of exercise. Moreover, technology can negatively affect mental well-being. Constant exposure to social media may cause anxiety, low self-esteem, or a distorted sense of reality, as people often compare their lives to carefully curated online images.
Another concern lies in the ethical implications of advanced technology. Artificial intelligence, for instance, has the potential to replace human workers in many industries, leading to unemployment and social inequality. In addition, the collection of personal data by large technology companies has sparked debates about privacy and digital surveillance. Although technology itself is not inherently harmful, the way society chooses to use and regulate it will determine whether it serves as a force for progress or a source of long-term problems.
Ultimately, technology should not be viewed as either entirely beneficial or entirely dangerous. Instead, it should be approached with critical awareness. Individuals must learn to use technology responsibly, while governments and organizations should establish clear policies to protect public interests. Only through balanced and thoughtful use can technology truly contribute to a better future.
Questions
Part A: Multiple Choice (Choose the best answer A, B, C, or D)
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. Technology is entirely harmful to modern society.
B. Technology should be banned because it causes many problems.
C. Technology brings both benefits and risks, depending on how it is used.
D. Artificial intelligence is the most dangerous form of technology.
2. According to the passage, which of the following is mentioned as a benefit of technology?
A. It reduces the need for education.
B. It improves access to information and learning opportunities.
C. It eliminates social inequality.
D. It prevents people from becoming dependent on devices.
3. The word “inseparable” in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to:
A. unnecessary
B. unavoidable
C. disconnected
D. temporary
4. Which of the following is NOT listed as a possible negative effect of excessive screen time?
A. eye strain
B. sleep disruption
C. improved concentration
D. lack of exercise
5. The phrase “carefully curated online images” most likely refers to:
A. photos edited and selected to present an idealized image
B. historical images stored in museums
C. educational graphics used in classrooms
D. random pictures taken by artificial intelligence
6. According to the passage, what is one ethical concern about artificial intelligence?
A. It makes education too easy for students.
B. It can replace human workers and increase unemployment.
C. It causes people to sleep more.
D. It completely prevents privacy issues.
7. The author’s tone in the passage can best be described as:
A. emotional and angry
B. humorous and careless
C. balanced and analytical
D. overly optimistic
Part B: True / False
8. The author believes technology is completely harmful.
9. Social media may negatively affect mental health.
10. The passage suggests that governments should create policies related to technology.
11. The author argues that technology should be avoided whenever possible.
Part C: Answer the Questions
12. Why does the author call technology a “double-edged” phenomenon?
13. What are two ways technology can negatively affect young people?
14. Why has data collection by technology companies become controversial?
15. According to the passage, what is necessary for technology to contribute to a better future?
Part D: Inference / Higher-order Thinking
16. What can be inferred about the author’s view of technological progress?
17. Why does the author mention both individuals and governments in the final paragraph?
18. If society fails to regulate technology properly, what does the passage suggest may happen?
