10.2
TRENDS IN TECHNOLOGY
98
READING AND SPEAKING
1
You are going to read an article about trends in modern
technology. Work in groups and predict what trends the article
might mention.
2
Skim the text and match the headings to the paragraphs.
1
Glitches
2
Personality detection
3
Introduction
4
Future challenges
5
Augmented knowledge
6
Quantum computers
3
a
Read the text again and make notes on the main points in each
paragraph.
3
b
Work with a partner and compare your notes.
4
a
Identifying examples
Look at the text and find six different
phrases used to introduce an example (paragraphs 2–5).
4
b
Look at the sentences below and think of an example for each
one. Add your idea to the sentence using a phrase from Exercise 4a.
1
A number of technology companies have become very rich due to
predicting future needs.
2
The leading countries in technological design are hoping for
innovations in the technology industry this year.
5
Work in pairs to discuss these questions.
1
What trends influence how you communicate with friends?
2
What social media tell you about someone’s personality?
3
If you could own any item of technology, what would it be?
4
Have you ever bought something technological just because it was
fashionable?
5
Does the technology industry exist mainly to persuade people to
spend money on things they do not really need?
VOCABULARY
TECHNOLOGICAL TRENDS
6
a
Match the words and phrases in the box with their meanings.
artificial intelligence biotechnology genetic
engineering nanotechnology robotics virtual reality
1
the scientific use of things that are very, very small
2
the practice of adding genes to something living to improve it
3
the use of plant and animal cells for scientific purposes
4
computer technology that can think and do things like humans
5
computer images and sounds that make us feel like they are real
6
the science of designing and building robots
6
b
Work in pairs and take it in turns to ask and answer these
questions.
1
What technologies are fashionable at the moment?
2
What is your favourite technological item?
3
Who is the most technological person you know? Explain why they
know so much technology.
4
Have you ever tried to create new software? What did you create?
5
What is the most useless technology you have ever bought?
LISTENING
7
Do you think it is exciting to work
in the technology industry? Why?/Why
not? Would you like to work in the
technology industry? Why?/Why not?
8
10.1
Listen to a conversation between
the manager of the company and a new
member of IT support, Chloe. Tick (
ü
) the
pieces of advice which the manager gives
Chloe.
1
Don’t talk to the other trainees.
2
Find out about other departments in
the company.
3
Always wear a suit.
4
Give employees a lot of attention.
5
Try to fix things as quickly as possible.
