English Reading Skills Part B Passage 8
___ is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of ___.
Answer
English Reading Skills Part B Passage
Read the passage and answer the questions below:
Inventions have played a significant role in shaping human history. From the wheel to the internet, they have revolutionized the way people live, work, and communicate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century made knowledge accessible to a larger population, marking the beginning of widespread education. Similarly, the steam engine powered the Industrial Revolution, transforming industries and transportation.
The 20th century witnessed remarkable inventions like the telephone, airplane, and computer. These innovations connected people globally and increased efficiency in many fields. The invention of the internet in the late 20th century further transformed communication, making instant access to information possible. Today, advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence and renewable energy, continue to shape the modern world.
However, inventions come with challenges. While they improve lives, they can also create problems like pollution, resource depletion, and job displacement. For example, industrialization led to environmental damage, and automation has replaced human labor in some industries. Balancing innovation with sustainability is crucial to ensure that inventions benefit humanity without harming the planet.
Inventions highlight human creativity and the desire to solve problems. They reflect the progress of civilizations and the potential for future development. By addressing challenges responsibly, humanity can continue to innovate and build a better world.
2. Answer any five questions: (4×5=20)
(a) How have inventions shaped human history?
(b) Why was the invention of the printing press significant?
(c) How did the steam engine impact industries?
(d) What are some notable inventions of the 20th century?
(e) How has the internet transformed communication?
(f) What challenges do inventions bring?
(g) Why is balancing innovation with sustainability important?
(h) What does the passage suggest about the future of inventions?
Solution
(a) Answer: Inventions have shaped history by changing how people live, work, and communicate. Innovations like the wheel, the printing press, and the internet revolutionized human progress. They transformed industries, increased efficiency, and improved access to knowledge. Inventions reflect human creativity and the drive for advancement.
(b) Answer: The printing press was significant because it made knowledge accessible to more people. It allowed books and information to be distributed widely. This led to better education and cultural growth. The printing press marked a turning point in sharing ideas and learning.
(c) Answer: The steam engine impacted industries by powering the Industrial Revolution. It transformed transportation and manufacturing processes. Factories became more efficient, and goods were produced on a larger scale. The steam engine also revolutionized travel by making trains and ships faster.
(d) Answer: Notable 20th-century inventions include the telephone, airplane, and computer. These inventions connected people globally and improved communication. They increased efficiency in industries and everyday life. The internet, invented later in the century, revolutionized access to information and technology.
(e) Answer: The internet transformed communication by allowing instant access to information. It connects people globally through emails, video calls, and social media. The internet has made sharing ideas and knowledge faster and easier. It has become essential for modern communication and learning.
(f) Answer: Inventions bring challenges like pollution, resource depletion, and job displacement. Industrialization caused environmental damage, while automation replaced human labor in some industries. Balancing the benefits of inventions with their negative effects is necessary to ensure sustainable development.
(g) Answer: Balancing innovation with sustainability is important to protect the planet. Inventions should benefit humanity without causing harm. Addressing problems like pollution and resource use ensures progress is responsible. Sustainability allows future generations to enjoy the benefits of innovation.
(h) Answer: The passage suggests that inventions reflect human creativity and potential. The future of inventions depends on addressing challenges like environmental harm. By innovating responsibly, humanity can continue to create solutions and improve life. Inventions will play a key role in shaping the future.