Technology – Gp Lah!

Science and technology have not allowed man to master the environment. Comment.

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management,

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management, but they have not enabled complete mastery due to unforeseen challenges, limitations, and unintended consequences.

I. Introduction

Hook: Technological leaps have not helped mankind to truly master the environment.
Background: Overview of technological advancements and their environmental impact.
Thesis Statement: Science and technology have advanced environmental management, but mankind has not achieved complete mastery due to his own limitations.

II. Supporting View 1: Unforeseen Environmental Challenges

Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment through science and technology have not allowed complete mastery due to unforeseen environmental challenges.
Example 1: The Australian bushfires (2019-2020) demonstrated the limits of fire prediction and prevention technologies. Extreme weather and climate change exacerbated fire conditions (source: BBC, 2020).
Example 2: Plastic pollution in the oceans (2015-2021) remains uncontrollable despite advanced waste management technologies. Microplastics have permeated marine ecosystems (source: The Guardian, 2020).
Example 3: European floods (2021) showed the inadequacy of current flood prevention infrastructure. Record rainfall overwhelmed existing systems (source: Reuters, 2021).
Analysis: Technological advancements often fail to predict or mitigate extreme environmental events. Over 18 million hectares burned, and billions of animals affected. Approximately 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans annually.
Counterargument: Advances in some areas have helped mitigate some risks.

III. Supporting View 2: Technological Limitations

Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment has not been enchanced through science as technological limitations impede the complete mastery of the environment.
Example 1: Japan’s struggle with nuclear waste disposal (2016-2021) highlights the long-term challenges of nuclear technology. Safe, permanent storage solutions remain elusive (source: The Japan Times, 2021).
Example 2: Inadequate renewable energy storage in Germany (2016-2021) limits the effectiveness of green energy solutions. Energy storage technology has not kept pace with renewable production (source: Reuters, 2019).
Example 3: Soil degradation in India (2017-2021) due to over-reliance on chemical fertilisers. Technological solutions have led to unintended soil health issues (source: The Hindu, 2020). 30% of India’s agricultural land is degraded.
Analysis: Technological solutions often have inherent limitations and unforeseen negative impacts.
Case Study: Fukushima’s ongoing challenges with radioactive waste.
Counterargument: Advances in nuclear technology have improved safety and efficiency.

IV. Supporting View 3: Unintended Consequences of Technological Solutions

Topic Sentence: Technological solutions can have unintended environmental consequences. As such the understanding of the environment is still not complete.
Example 1: China’s rapid urbanisation (2015-2021) led to severe air and water pollution. Industrial growth outpaced environmental regulations (source: The Guardian, 2019). Air pollution causes over 1 million premature deaths annually in China.
Example 2: Deforestation in Brazil (2016-2021) due to biofuel production. Policies promoting biofuels led to significant forest loss (source: BBC, 2021).
Example 3: Overfishing in Indonesia (2018-2021) driven by advanced fishing technologies. Technological efficiency led to depleted fish stocks (source: Reuters, 2020). 50% decline in fish populations over the last decade.
Analysis: Technological advances can create new environmental problems while solving others.
Counterargument: Urban planning and green technologies are improving urban environments.

V. Opposing View 1: Enhanced Environmental Monitoring and Management

Topic Sentence: Science and technology have enabled better environmental monitoring and management.
Example 1: Norway’s use of satellite technology (2017-2021) for forest monitoring. Improved deforestation tracking and conservation efforts (source: BBC, 2019). Satellite data reduced illegal logging by 40%.
Example 2: Singapore’s green plan and urban sustainability initiatives (2016-2021) using smart city technologies. Advanced systems reduced urban heat and improved energy efficiency (source: The Straits Times, 2020). 15% reduction in urban heat island effect. [Read: Singapore smart nation initiative]
Example 3: Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts (2015-2021) aided by GPS and drones. Technology helped track and protect endangered species (source: Al Jazeera, 2021). 25% increase in wildlife populations.
Analysis: Technological tools have significantly improved environmental management and conservation.

VI. Opposing View 2: Renewable Energy Advancements

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements have significantly increased renewable energy production.
Example 1: Denmark’s wind energy development (2016-2021) leading to a high percentage of renewable energy. Advanced turbines and grid integration boosted efficiency (source: Reuters, 2019). Wind energy provides 47% of Denmark’s electricity.
Example 2: India’s solar power expansion (2017-2021) reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Large-scale solar farms contributed to significant energy shifts (source: The Hindu, 2020). Solar energy capacity reached 40 GW in 2021.
Example 3: Costa Rica’s commitment to renewable energy (2015-2021) achieving nearly 100% renewable electricity. Hydropower, wind, and solar integrated into the national grid (source: BBC, 2019). 99% of electricity from renewable sources.
Analysis: Advances in renewable energy technology have made substantial contributions to sustainable energy production.

VII. Opposing View 3: Innovative Environmental Solutions

Topic Sentence: Innovations have provided effective solutions to environmental problems.
Example 1: Netherlands’ flood management systems (2015-2021) using advanced engineering. Innovative dykes and barriers mitigated flooding risks (source: The Guardian, 2018). Flood damage reduced by 80% with new infrastructure.
Example 2: Vertical farming in Singapore (2016-2021) addressing urban food security. High-tech farms reduced land use and improved local food production (source: The Straits Times, 2019). 25% of vegetables produced locally in vertical farms.
Example 3: Finland’s waste-to-energy plants (2017-2021) turning waste into electricity. Innovative technology reduced landfill use and generated power (source: Reuters, 2019). 10% of electricity from waste-to-energy plants.
Analysis: Technological innovations continue to provide effective solutions to environmental challenges.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Science and technology have advanced environmental management but have not achieved complete mastery due to various limitations.
Summary of Key Points: Unforeseen challenges, technological limitations, unintended consequences versus enhanced monitoring, renewable energy, innovative solutions.
Call to Action: Suggest specific steps individuals, governments, and organizations can take to improve environmental outcomes.
Final Thought: While technology has made strides in managing the environment, a holistic approach considering limitations and consequences is essential for true mastery.

Additional Examples

Copenhagen, Denmark: With its continuous investment in green tech and network of bicycle lanes, Copenhagen is one of the most sustainable cities. The city aims to be the first carbon-neutral city by 2025.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam — another on the list of most eco-friendly cities — promotes electric vehicles with citywide EV charging stations. Residents are encouraged to install rooftop solar panels and grow their own food or purchase locally, which contributes to the local economy.
Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm is a well-planned sustainable city with a goal to eliminate the use of fossil fuels within 20 years.
Berlin, Germany: Berlin is one of the best urban sustainability examples, with over 400 EV charging stations, and has been investing in green spaces since World War I.
Portland, Oregon: Portland has adopted a sustainability culture, and today ¼ of its citizens commute by bike or public transport. Rideshare systems and bike paths also support green commute methods.
San Francisco, California: San Francisco is one of the most sustainable cities in the US, with a zero waste program designed to divert 100% of waste from landfills by 2020. The city also banned products like plastic bags and water bottles.
Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town began installing wind farms to produce sustainable energy in 2008. The city’s residents also use solar panels and grow urban gardens for food production.
Helsinki, Finland: If you are an eco-traveler, Helsinki is worth visiting. A large percentage of the city’s hotel rooms have been certified as eco-friendly. The city is also developing sustainable living communities.
Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver produces the lowest amount of greenhouse gases in North America. The city’s environmental focus has created a local green economy boom for the residents, supporting more green jobs and locally grown food.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Reykjavik is making great strides towards eradicating generation of greenhouse emissions by inspiring people to walk, cycle, and use public transport. The city also encourages use of electric vehicles and plans to triple the number of hydrogen buses by 2030.

Technology is the only effective means of tackling social problems. Discuss.

Technology can effectively tackle social problems by improving access to services, fostering communication, and promoting innovation. However, it also poses challenges such as exacerbating inequality, privacy issues, and technological dependency

I. Introduction

Hook: Technology can effectively tackle social problems with speed and ease like never before.
Background: Overview of technology’s role in addressing social problems.
Thesis Statement: Technology offers effective solutions for social problems.

II. Supporting View 1: Improved Access to Services

Topic Sentence: Technology can effectively tackle social problems by improving access to essential services.
Example 1: India’s Aadhaar system (2010-present) provided millions with a digital identity, facilitating access to government services. Helped marginalised communities access subsidies and benefits (source: BBC, 2017).
Example 2: Kenya’s M-Pesa mobile banking (2007-present) enabled financial inclusion for millions without bank accounts. Revolutionised financial transactions and reduced poverty (source: The Guardian, 2015).
Example 3: Brazil’s Telehealth programme (2012-present) increased healthcare access in remote areas. Reduced healthcare disparities through telemedicine (source: Reuters, 2018).
Analysis: These examples show how technology enhances access to essential services, benefiting disadvantaged populations.

III. Supporting View 2: Fostering Communication and Awareness

Topic Sentence: Technology can effectively tackle social problems by fostering communication and raising awareness of social issues.
Example 1: #MeToo movement in India (2017-present) leveraged social media to highlight sexual harassment. Empowered survivors and initiated widespread social discourse (source: The New York Times, 2018).
Example 2: Hong Kong protests (2019-2020) used social media to organise and spread awareness. Enabled real-time coordination and global visibility (source: BBC, 2019).
Example 3: Chile’s feminist protests (2018-present) used digital platforms to mobilise and advocate for gender equality. Raised international awareness and sparked policy changes (source: Al Jazeera, 2019).
Analysis: These instances illustrate how technology can amplify voices and drive social change.

IV. Supporting View 3: Promoting Innovation and Efficiency

Topic Sentence: Technology drives innovation and efficiency in addressing social issues.
Example 1: Sweden’s smart cities (2015-present) use technology to enhance urban living and sustainability. Improved energy efficiency and quality of life (source: World Economic Forum, 2018).
Example 2: South Korea’s digital classrooms (2010-present) bridged educational gaps with e-learning. Equalised access to quality education (source: The Korea Times, 2017).
Example 3: Norway’s electric vehicle incentives (2010-present) reduced pollution and promoted sustainable transport. Became a global leader in EV adoption (source: The Guardian, 2019).
Analysis: These examples demonstrate technology’s role in creating innovative solutions for social problems.

V. Opposing View 1: Exacerbating Inequality

Topic Sentence: Technology can widen the gap between rich and poor.
Example 1: India’s digital divide (2015-present) left rural areas lagging in internet access. Exacerbated educational and economic disparities (source: The Hindu, 2020).
Example 2: South Africa’s unequal access to technology (2010-present) reinforced social inequalities. Marginalised communities missed out on technological benefits (source: Mail & Guardian, 2019).
Example 3: Brazil’s urban-rural technology gap (2010-present) highlighted systemic inequalities. Limited technological advancements to urban areas (source: Folha de S.Paulo, 2018).
Analysis: These cases show how unequal access to technology can deepen existing social disparities.

VI. Opposing View 2: Privacy and Security Concerns

Topic Sentence: Technology raises significant privacy and security concerns.
Example 1: China’s social credit system (2014-present) sparked global privacy debates. Extensive surveillance and data collection raised ethical issues (source: The Guardian, 2018).
Example 2: Europe’s GDPR violations (2018-present) highlighted the complexity of data privacy. Companies struggled to comply, risking user data (source: Financial Times, 2019).
Example 3: India’s Aadhaar data breaches (2010-present) exposed millions to privacy risks. Compromised personal information and security (source: The New York Times, 2018).
Analysis: These examples illustrate the significant privacy risks associated with technological advancements.

VII. Opposing View 3: Technological Dependency and Disruption

Topic Sentence: Over-reliance on technology can lead to dependency and disruption.
Example 1: Japan’s 2011 earthquake revealed vulnerabilities in technology-dependent societies. Disrupted essential services, highlighting risks (source: BBC, 2011).
Example 2: South Korea’s cybersecurity threats (2010-present) demonstrated risks of digital dependency. Increased vulnerability to cyber-attacks (source: The Korea Herald, 2020).
Example 3: Brazil’s digital economy (2015-present) faced challenges during internet outages. Economic activities halted, showing over-reliance on technology (source: Reuters, 2019).
Analysis: These instances show how technological dependency can lead to significant disruptions.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Technology offers effective solutions for social problems but also presents significant challenges.
Summary of Key Points: Improved access, communication, innovation versus inequality, privacy, and dependency.
Final Thought: Balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations is crucial for addressing social problems effectively.

Nota Benne:

Can laws be implemented to solve social problems? What about the role of education?

Technological advancements always have a democratising effect. What is your view?

Technological advancements can have a democratising effect by increasing access to information and resources, but they can also exacerbate inequalities and create new forms of control.

I. Introduction

Hook: Modern day Luddites opine that tentacles of technology only cause more terror. Technology cannot bring about a democratising effect – only education can.
Background: Overview of technological advancements and their impact on society.
Thesis Statement: While technological advancements can democratise access, they can also deepen inequalities and enhance control mechanisms.

II. Supporting View 1: Increased Access to Information

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements provides widespread access to information and can also change the world.
Example 1: India’s Digital India initiative (2015-2021) expanded internet access in rural areas. Millions gained access to educational and financial resources.
Example 2: Kenya’s M-Pesa mobile banking system (2010-2020) revolutionised financial inclusion. Enabled millions without traditional bank access to perform financial transactions.
Example 3: Brazil’s use of digital platforms for education (2019-2021) during the pandemic. Allowed continued learning despite school closures.
Analysis: Increased access to information empowers individuals and communities.

III. Supporting View 2: Empowerment through Social Media

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements through social media empowers marginalised voices.
Example 1: Hong Kong protests (2019-2020) leveraged social media for organisation and awareness. Enabled activists to bypass traditional media censorship.
Example 2: Chile’s feminist movement (2018-2021) used social media to mobilise and advocate. Brought global attention to local issues.
Example 3: Nigerian End SARS movement (2020) used Twitter to coordinate and amplify protests. Highlighted police brutality and rallied international support.
Analysis: Social media platforms provide a voice to those traditionally excluded.

IV. Supporting View 3: Enhanced Civic Participation

Topic Sentence: Technology advancements enhances civic engagement and participation.
Example 1: Taiwan’s online participatory budgeting (2016-2021) enabled direct citizen involvement in budget decisions. Increased transparency and accountability in governance.
Example 2: Estonia’s e-residency program (2014-2021) facilitated global entrepreneurship and democratic participation. Broadened civic engagement beyond borders.
Example 3: Iceland’s crowdsourced constitution (2011-2021) engaged citizens in drafting governance policies. Leveraged digital tools for democratic participation.
Analysis: Digital tools can foster greater civic engagement and transparency.

V. Opposing View 1: Digital Divide and Inequality

Topic Sentence: Technology can widen the gap between rich and poor.
Example 1: India’s urban-rural digital divide (2015-2021) left many rural areas with inadequate internet access. Economic and educational opportunities remained unevenly distributed.
Example 2: South Africa’s unequal internet access (2010-2020) reinforced existing socioeconomic disparities. Wealthier areas benefitted more from technological advancements.
Example 3: Mexico’s digital exclusion of indigenous communities (2015-2021). Limited access to digital tools perpetuated marginalisation.
Analysis: Technological benefits are not evenly distributed, exacerbating existing inequalities.

VI. Opposing View 2: Surveillance and Control

Topic Sentence: Technology can be used for surveillance and control.
Example 1: China’s social credit system (2014-2021) monitors and restricts citizen behaviour. Extensive surveillance limits personal freedoms.
Example 2: Russia’s internet censorship (2010-2020) controls and suppresses dissent. Government uses technology to stifle opposition.
Example 3: Iran’s digital surveillance during protests (2019-2021) tracked and detained activists. Technology used to oppress rather than empower.
Analysis: Technological advancements can be tools for authoritarian control.

VII. Opposing View 3: Misinformation and Polarisation

Topic Sentence: Technology can spread misinformation and polarise societies.
Example 1: Brazil’s misinformation during the 2018 elections influenced voter behaviour. Fake news spread rapidly via social media.
Example 2: India’s WhatsApp misinformation campaigns (2016-2021) incited violence. False information led to real-world harm.
Example 3: France’s social media-driven protests (2018-2020) showed polarisation effects. Echo chambers reinforced divisive narratives.
Analysis: Technology can amplify misinformation, leading to social fragmentation.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Technological advancements can democratise access and empower individuals, but also deepen inequalities and enable control.
Summary of Key Points: Increased information access, social media empowerment, civic participation, digital divide, surveillance, and misinformation.
Final Thought: Balancing technology’s benefits and risks is crucial for a just society.

Nota benne:

The word ‘always’ in the question requires the student to show that it is perpetually so, or that tech never ceases to perform its function as an enabler of democracy. Students will be severly marked down if they fail to address the keyword ‘always’.

Technology is an effective social leveller. How far do you agree?

Technology has made us lazy. Discuss.

Supporting View 1: Technology has reduced physical activity and encouraged sedentary lifestyles.

Examples:

The rise of food delivery apps in the UK has led to a decrease in people cooking at home.
Japanese youth increasingly prefer indoor, tech-based activities over outdoor sports and recreation.
In Australia, excessive screen time has been linked to rising obesity rates among children.

Supporting View 2: Technology has diminished our cognitive efforts and problem-solving skills.

Examples:

British schools report a decline in mental arithmetic skills due to calculator reliance.
German employers note a decrease in job applicants’ ability to perform simple tasks without digital aids.
Indian parents express concern over children’s reduced creativity, attributing it to increased tablet use.

Opposing View 1: Technology has enabled greater productivity and efficiency in various sectors.

Examples:

American farmers use GPS-guided machinery to optimise crop yields and reduce labour.
South Korean hospitals employ robotic assistants to enhance surgical precision and patient care.
Swedish companies implement remote work technologies, improving work-life balance for employees.

Opposing View 2: Technology has facilitated access to information and learning opportunities.

Examples:

Rural African communities access education through mobile learning platforms, bridging educational gaps.
Chinese language learners use AI-powered apps to practise speaking with virtual tutors.
European museums offer virtual tours, making art and history accessible to global audiences

Only science can save the environment. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In the face of mounting environmental crises, the question of how best to protect and restore our planet has become increasingly urgent.
Background: Brief overview of the contributions of scientific advancements to environmental conservation and the role of other disciplines.
Thesis Statement: While science plays an essential role in addressing environmental issues through technological innovation, social, political, and cultural efforts are equally crucial in creating sustainable change, indicating that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to effectively save the environment.

II. Supporting View 1: Technological Innovations

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements provide vital technological innovations that address environmental challenges.
Example 1: Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, have significantly reduced reliance on fossil fuels and decreased greenhouse gas emissions. See Germany’s Energiewende.
Example 2: Advances in environmental engineering, such as water purification systems and sustainable agricultural practices, help mitigate pollution and promote resource conservation. See China’s and India’s green revolution.
Analysis: Discuss how these technologies highlight the indispensable role of science in developing practical solutions to environmental problems.

III. Supporting View 2: Data-Driven Solutions

Topic Sentence: Science offers data-driven solutions that are critical for understanding and managing environmental issues.
Example 1: Climate modelling and satellite monitoring provide accurate data on climate change patterns, guiding policy decisions and mitigation strategies. See strategy in Kenya to help farmers.
Example 2: Scientific research on biodiversity loss informs conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and wildlife corridors. See expansion of conservation efforts in Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Peru.
Analysis: Examine how these scientific contributions enable informed decision-making and effective management of environmental resources.

IV. Opposing View 1: Importance of Political Will and Policy

Topic Sentence: Effective environmental conservation also requires strong political will and comprehensive policy measures.
Example 1: International agreements like the Paris Agreement rely on political cooperation and commitment to reduce global carbon emissions.
Example 2: National policies promoting sustainability, such as the Rwanda and UK’s ban on single-use plastics, demonstrate the impact of legislative action on environmental protection.
Analysis: Discuss how these political efforts are crucial for implementing and enforcing scientific solutions, highlighting the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach.

V. Opposing View 2: Role of Social and Cultural Change

Topic Sentence: Social and cultural change is essential for fostering environmental awareness and sustainable behaviours.
Example 1: Grassroots movements like Extinction Rebellion and Fridays for Future mobilise public support and pressure governments to take action on climate change.
Example 2: Educational campaigns and community initiatives, such as recycling programmes and sustainable lifestyle workshops, promote environmental responsibility and engagement. See recycling initiatives in Germany and Taiwan.
Analysis: Explore how these social efforts complement scientific solutions by changing public attitudes and behaviours towards the environment.

Science has more value than art. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In contemporary discourse, the debate over whether science or art holds more value is both prevalent and polarising.
Background: Brief overview of the contributions of science and art to society, highlighting their differing but complementary roles.
Thesis Statement: While science undeniably offers crucial advancements and practical benefits to society, art holds significant value through its capacity to enrich human experience, foster creativity, and provide cultural and emotional insights, demonstrating that both domains are essential in their unique ways.

II. Supporting View 1: Practical Benefits of Science

Topic Sentence: Science provides practical benefits that are indispensable for the advancement and well-being of society.
Example 1: Medical breakthroughs, such as the development of vaccines and treatments for diseases, have significantly improved life expectancy and quality of life. For instance, the rapid development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.
Example 2: Technological innovations like the internet and renewable energy sources have transformed industries and everyday life, enhancing connectivity and sustainability.
Analysis: Discuss how these advancements highlight the practical and transformative impact of scientific progress on society.

III. Supporting View 2: Advancement of Knowledge and Problem-Solving

Topic Sentence: Science advances knowledge and addresses critical global challenges through rigorous problem-solving methods.
Example 1: Climate change research in environmental science has provided crucial data and strategies for combating global warming, such as the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Example 2: Space exploration, led by agencies like NASA and ESA, expands our understanding of the universe and drives technological innovations that benefit multiple sectors.
Analysis: Examine how the pursuit of scientific knowledge and solutions to complex problems underscores the intrinsic value of science.

IV. Opposing View 1: Enrichment of Human Experience Through Art

Topic Sentence: Art enriches human experience by fostering creativity, emotional expression, and cultural understanding.
Example 1: The popularity of contemporary art movements, such as street art by artists like Banksy, which provoke thought and dialogue on social issues.
Example 2: The role of music, literature, and visual arts in promoting mental health and well-being, as seen in initiatives like art therapy and music therapy programmes.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples illustrate the profound impact of art on emotional well-being and cultural enrichment.

V. Opposing View 2: Cultural and Emotional Insights Provided by Art

Topic Sentence: Art provides valuable cultural and emotional insights that are essential for a well-rounded understanding of the human condition.
Example 1: The resurgence of interest in eclectic arts such as performance art and digital media art, which reflect and shape contemporary cultural and social dynamics.
Example 2: The influence of literature and theatre in exploring complex human emotions and societal issues, exemplified by works like Shakespeare’s plays and modern novels addressing social justice.
Analysis: Explore how these forms of art contribute to a deeper appreciation of human experiences and societal issues, highlighting their enduring relevance.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While science offers practical advancements and problem-solving capabilities crucial for societal progress, art enriches human experience, fosters creativity, and provides cultural and emotional insights, underscoring the unique and complementary value of both domains.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasise the need to value and support both science and art, recognising their distinct contributions to a balanced and thriving society.

Examine the extent to which information and communications technology is having a negative impact on your country.

Points to discuss negative impact of information and communications technology

assess the productive uses of information and communications technology (ICT) within a society
evaluate scenarios where the use of ICT may not be positive
make a judgement, based on the consideration of the evidence and argument put forward.
how ICT is having a positive effect in developing systems, procedures and methods
the benefits of ICT in the enforcement of the law
the use of ICT as a form of communication enabling remote meetings
the use of ICT within medicine and science as a tool for treatment, research, and the evaluation of data
how the overuse of ICT can cause a sense of being monitored and curb freedoms
the unreliability of some systems and platforms where data is lost
ICT being used to improve business efficiency and responsiveness to the market
the lack of the personal touch that ICT can bring.

Using a telephone is the best way of communicating. To what extent do you agree?

Discover the benefits and drawbacks of using a telephone for communication.

examine the benefits of using the telephone to communicate
evaluate the comparative advantages of other communication methods
make a judgement, based on considering the evidence and argument put forward.
communicating on the telephone or in-person encourages oral skills, fluency, and self-confidence
calls taking place in real-time with instant reaction and response
using text messages when travelling, therefore avoiding disturbing other people with conversation
enhanced phone technology allowing video messages and a range of other effective methods of communication
verbal communication offering less opportunity for being misunderstood
face-to-face contact allowing parties to experience emotional reactions
how shy and introverted people can communicate more readily than they would in live conversation
in-person communication is more personal and effective as humans are social beings.

To what extent has modern technology allowed people to spend their money more effectively?

• examine how modern technology has enabled people to spend their money
• assess whether it has helped people to spend their money more effectively
• make a judgement , based on the consideration of the evidence and argument put forward.
• modern technology allowing for more secure, varied and fast transactions
• money being saved on a variety of items and processes that used to be more costly
• the lack of pressure from salespeople allowing consumers to take their time over spending decisions
• the convenience of spending money from home saving time and money
• a wider range of products are available at a greater range of prices
• the dangers of fraud and security breaches impacting on a person’s privacy and finances
• the lack of a personal interaction as many prefer to visit stores and go into banks
• there can be delays in delivery and other problems with online only services.