1
How has the way people communicate changed compared to the past?
Communication has undoubtedly become far more immediate and visual. In the past, people relied on postal letters or fixed landlines, meaning exchanges were slower and more deliberate. Nowadays, instant messaging and video calls allow us to stay in touch effortlessly across borders. For instance, families separated by overseas work can chat daily. However, while we connect more frequently, some people argue that the depth of our conversations has diminished somewhat because digital messages tend to be brief and hurried.
2
Why do some older generations struggle to adopt modern digital tools?
I think it largely comes down to a lack of familiarity and intuitive design. Younger people have grown up surrounded by touchscreens, whereas older generations spent most of their lives using physical, mechanical equipment. For example, navigating multi-step mobile apps or remembering complex security passwords can feel daunting for an elderly person. That said, when user interfaces are kept clear and straightforward, many seniors do eventually become quite confident using them.
3
What are the main drawbacks of relying heavily on electronic devices?
One major drawback is the erosion of attention spans and genuine face-to-face interaction. People often find themselves glued to their screens, constantly checking notifications rather than engaging with the people around them. In social settings, like dinner with friends, it is common to see individuals distracted by their devices. Nevertheless, these devices do save an enormous amount of time, so the issue is perhaps more about self-discipline than the technology itself.
4
In what ways might technological advances alter the workplace in the future?
I imagine automation will phase out many repetitive, manual tasks, shifting the focus towards creative problem-solving and technical oversight. Many routine office duties, like data entry or basic scheduling, will likely be handled autonomously by software. This should give workers more freedom to focus on strategic planning. Even so, this transition could create significant challenges for individuals whose skill sets are not easily transferable to higher-skilled roles.
5
Should governments ensure that all citizens have equal access to the internet?
Yes, absolutely, because digital connectivity has practically become a fundamental public utility, similar to electricity or clean water. Without reliable internet, people are cut off from online banking, job applications, and educational materials. For instance, rural schoolchildren without stable broadband fall behind academically compared to urban peers. Having said that, rolling out high-speed infrastructure to remote regions is extremely costly, so governments must balance this investment against other essential services.
Use the shape, not the sentences: a view, a reason, an example, a limit. Examiners mark memorised answers down.