Unit 7 – Technology in Our Lives
Warm-up and Vocabulary
Key Vocabulary
Technology and Innovation
- Ubiquitous: Present or found everywhere.
- Revolutionise: To completely change something so that it is much better.
- Device: A machine or piece of equipment designed to do a particular job.
- Access: The method or possibility of approaching or using something.
- Enhance: To improve the quality or value of something.
People and Dependence
- Reliant: Dependent on someone or something.
- Drawback: A disadvantage or problem.
- Digital Native: A person who has grown up in the age of digital technology.
Activity: Tech Ranking
Look at the list of five technologies below!
- Smartphone
- Laptop / Computer
- Internet
- GPS Navigation
- Online Streaming Services (e.g., Netflix, Spotify)
Decoding Words: Guessing Meaning from Context
When you read a TOEFL passage, you will see words you don’t know. That’s okay! You don’t need a dictionary. You can be a detective and use context clues to guess the meaning. Context is the group of words or sentences around the new word that provide hints.
Let’s look at two common types of clues.
1. Synonym or Definition Clues
Sometimes, the sentence gives you the definition or a word with a similar meaning (a synonym). Look for words like or, that is, and punctuation like commas (,) or dashes (—).
Example: “Many people today suffer from technostress, that is, a feeling of anxiety caused by the need to always be connected.”
- Clue: The phrase “that is” tells you a definition is coming.
- Meaning: Technostress means anxiety from being always connected.
2. Example Clues
The sentence might give you examples that help you understand the word’s general category. Look for phrases like such as, for example, and including.
Example: “I enjoy using various peripherals with my computer, such as a wireless mouse, a mechanical keyboard, and a webcam.”
- Clue: “such as” introduces a list of examples.
- Meaning: Peripherals are devices you connect to a computer.
By using these clues, you can save time and keep your reading flow smooth.
Tips for Success
Here are three key tips for decoding new words while reading:
- Read the Whole Sentence: Don’t stop at the unknown word. Finish the sentence and even read the next one. The meaning is often revealed after the word itself.
- Look for Opposites (Antonyms): Sometimes, the text will use words like but, however, or unlike to contrast ideas. This can help you understand what the word does not mean.
- Make an Educated Guess: After using the clues, make a logical guess. Replace the unknown word with your guess. Does the sentence still make sense? If yes, you’re probably right!
Skill Practice
Read the short passage below and complete the exercises that follow.
The Double-Edged Role of Smartphones in Our Daily Lives
Modern smartphones are versatile devices that have changed our daily lives. No longer just for calls, they function as our cameras, navigation systems, and entertainment centers. This convergence—the joining of many technologies into one device—has made life more convenient. For example, instead of carrying a separate map, camera, and music player, you just need one gadget.
However, being too reliant on this single device can have drawbacks. If you lose your phone or the battery dies, you suddenly lose access to many essential tools. Furthermore, the constant notifications can be a significant impediment to concentration. To be productive, many people have to consciously put their phones away to avoid this constant distraction.
A. Multiple-Choice Questions
B. Fill in the Blanks
C. Crossword Puzzle
D. Word Search
You’ve reached the end of the lesson. Click the button below to begin the Evaluation Quiz.