PIRMĀ SEMESTRA NOSLĒGUMA TESTI
How Technology Is Changing Human Life and Thinking
In recent years, technology has not only transformed the tools we use but also changed how we think, interact, and understand the world around us. From artificial intelligence to wearable devices, modern innovations are shaping human behavior in ways that were once part of science fiction.
One major change is how people communicate. Social media platforms, messaging apps, and video calls have made it easier than ever to stay connected. However, this constant connectivity can also reduce the amount of face-to-face interaction and lead to digital fatigue. Many psychologists now study how screen time affects attention span, emotional well-being, and real-life relationships.Technology is also influencing how we think and solve problems. With search engines and smart devices always available, people rely less on memory and more on digital support. While this can improve access to knowledge, it may also reduce critical thinking skills and deep focus.In education and training, artificial intelligence is being used to personalise learning. Algorithms can track a learner’s progress and suggest materials suited to their pace and level. This makes learning more efficient, but it also raises moral questions about data privacy and human oversight. Even our sense of identity and community is changing. Online platforms allow individuals to express themselves in new ways and join communities based on shared interests rather than location. At the same time, social media can create unrealistic expectations, pressure to compare, or exposure to misinformation.Science and innovation are bringing many benefits – from smart health monitors that track heart rate to virtual reality that trains surgeons. Still, society must also consider the downsides. How much should we depend on machines? What does it mean to be “human” in a world filled with intelligent systems?As we move into the future, understanding the impact of digital life will be as important as learning how to use the technology itself. The goal is not just to adapt to new tools, but to think critically, act responsibly, and stay connected to human values.
Key Vocabulary:
attention span — [əˈten·ʃən ˌspæn] — the amount of time someone can concentrate on a task without getting bored; uzmanības noturība
digital fatigue — [ˈdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl fəˈtiːɡ] — tiredness caused by spending too much time on screens; digitālā pārslodze
identity — [aɪˈden.tə.ti] — a person’s sense of who they are and how they present themselves; identitāte
misinformation — [ˌmɪs.ɪn.fəˈmeɪ.ʃən] — false or misleading information spread online or in media; dezinformācija, maldināšana
moral — [ˈmɒr.əl] — relating to the standards of good or bad behaviour, fairness, honesty, etc. that each person believes in, rather than to laws; morāls, tikumisks
oversight — [ˈəʊ.və.saɪt] — control or supervision to make sure something is done correctly; uzraudzība
personalised learning — [ˈpɜː.sən.əl.aɪzd ˈlɜː.nɪŋ] — learning that is tailored to the needs and pace of each person; personalizēts mācību process
wearable device — [ˈweə.rə.bəl dɪˈvaɪs] — technology you wear, like smartwatches or fitness trackers; viedierīce, kas piemērota valkāšanai, nēsāšanai
oversight — [ˈəʊ.və.saɪt] — control or supervision to make sure something is done correctly; uzraudzība
personalised learning — [ˈpɜː.sən.əl.aɪzd ˈlɜː.nɪŋ] — learning that is tailored to the needs and pace of each person; personalizēts mācību process
wearable device — [ˈweə.rə.bəl dɪˈvaɪs] — technology you wear, like smartwatches or fitness trackers; viedierīce, kas piemērota valkāšanai, nēsāšanai
Practice: now that you have learned the key vocabulary, it is time to use it in practice. Think how you would answer the discussion-type questions, which will help you develop the ability to give longer answers and practise how to express your opinion — just as in an English exam or real conversation. For each question, an answer prompt is available to guide you.
Discussion-Type Questions
1. Do you ever feel digital fatigue? How do you manage your screen time?
"Personally, I’ve noticed that I sometimes experience digital fatigue, especially after spending many hours studying or working online. It seems to me that too much screen time makes my eyes tired and my concentration weaker. In my view, the best way to manage it is to take short breaks every hour and avoid screens during meals or before sleep. From my perspective, it’s also helpful to plan some offline time, for example, going for a walk or reading a real book. All in all, using technology is important, but finding balance keeps me healthier and more focused."
2. How has technology changed the way you connect with your friends and family?
2. How has technology changed the way you connect with your friends and family?
"In my experience, technology has completely changed how I stay in touch with friends and family. It’s clear to me that social media and messaging apps make communication much faster and easier. For example, I can video call my grandparents who live in another city and feel like we’re in the same room. From my point of view, this helps people stay emotionally close even when they are far apart. At the same time, I realise that online messages can never fully replace real conversations. Overall, technology has made communication more convenient, but personal contact is still the most meaningful."
3. What are the risks of relying too much on technology to solve problems?
3. What are the risks of relying too much on technology to solve problems?
"In my opinion, relying too much on technology can create several risks. To me, it seems that people may become less independent and forget how to solve problems on their own. For instance, many students use online tools to get quick answers instead of practising real problem-solving skills. From my perspective, another danger is that we might trust technology too much — if a system fails or gives wrong information, we may not notice it. What concerns me most is that overreliance on technology can reduce creativity and critical thinking. In conclusion, technology should support our decisions, not replace human judgment."
4. Do you think AI can make better decisions than humans in some areas? Why or why not?
4. Do you think AI can make better decisions than humans in some areas? Why or why not?
"As I see it, artificial intelligence can sometimes make better decisions than humans, especially when it comes to analysing data or spotting patterns quickly. For example, AI can detect diseases from medical scans or predict traffic more accurately than people. In my view, machines are good at logic and calculation, but they don’t understand emotions or ethics. That’s why, in areas like education or healthcare, human judgment is still very important. To sum up, AI can help people make smarter choices, but it shouldn’t completely replace human decision-making."
5. Should children have personalized learning through AI, or should a human teacher always be involved?
5. Should children have personalized learning through AI, or should a human teacher always be involved?
"From my point of view, AI can make learning more personalized and effective for children. For instance, smart learning apps can adjust the difficulty of tasks and give instant feedback, which helps students learn at their own pace. At the same time, it seems clear that technology cannot replace the human side of teaching. In my experience, a teacher gives emotional support, motivation, and understanding that a machine can’t provide. Therefore, the best solution is to combine both – AI for practice and progress tracking, and teachers for guidance and encouragement. Overall, learning works best when technology and people work together."
6. What responsibilities do tech companies have when it comes to digital privacy or misinformation?
6. What responsibilities do tech companies have when it comes to digital privacy or misinformation?
"In my view, technology companies have a serious responsibility to protect users’ digital privacy and prevent misinformation. To me, it seems that they should be honest about how they collect and use personal data. For example, social media platforms should clearly explain who can see our information and how it is shared. Moreover, companies need to check the content that appears online, because false news can spread very quickly. From my perspective, earning people’s trust is just as important as making money. In conclusion, tech companies should act ethically and make sure technology helps society, not harms it."
7. Can online communities replace traditional ones? What are the pros and cons?
7. Can online communities replace traditional ones? What are the pros and cons?
"As far as I’m concerned, online communities can never completely replace traditional ones, but they do offer some real advantages. For example, people can find friends with similar interests, join study groups, or get support even if they live far away. On the other hand, digital communication sometimes feels less personal, and it’s easy to misunderstand messages or emotions. From my point of view, real-life contact helps build trust and stronger emotional connections. To sum up, online communities are useful and inclusive, but traditional communities remain important for real human interaction and a sense of belonging."
Practice speaking more:
In real life and English exams, you may need to discuss a topic or defend your opinion in a short conversation. For example, during a speaking test, you might have to agree or disagree with a statement and explain your reasons. In class, you usually do this in pairs or small groups to practise real communication. Take a look at the task.
In real life and English exams, you may need to discuss a topic or defend your opinion in a short conversation. For example, during a speaking test, you might have to agree or disagree with a statement and explain your reasons. In class, you usually do this in pairs or small groups to practise real communication. Take a look at the task.
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Pair speaking task: discuss and defend your opinion
Topic: Has technology improved or damaged human relationships? Instructions for Students: 1. Work in pairs. One of you will take the “Yes, it has improved relationships” position, and the other will take the “No, it has damaged relationships” position.
2. Take 1–2 minutes to prepare your arguments. Use examples from your own life, from school, or from what you’ve read/heard.
3. Discuss for 4–5 minutes. Take turns explaining your point of view. Listen actively and respond to each other’s ideas.
4. Try to:
5. At the end, agree on one of the following:
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Learn: now let's study some vocabulary that would help you to succeed in this task:
1. Giving or Supporting Your Opinion (used to express what you think and explain your reasons)
I believe that... because...
One strong example of this is...
2. Showing Contrast or Partial Disagreement (used to introduce the opposite side or respond politely to a different opinion)
On the other hand, you could argue that...
I see your point, but I think...
3. Inviting or Opening Discussion (used to ask for your partner’s opinion or suggest considering both viewpoints)
Do you agree that...?
Let’s consider both sides.
1. Giving or Supporting Your Opinion (used to express what you think and explain your reasons)
I believe that... because...
One strong example of this is...
2. Showing Contrast or Partial Disagreement (used to introduce the opposite side or respond politely to a different opinion)
On the other hand, you could argue that...
I see your point, but I think...
3. Inviting or Opening Discussion (used to ask for your partner’s opinion or suggest considering both viewpoints)
Do you agree that...?
Let’s consider both sides.
Model answer. Read and listen:
1. Agree: Technology has improved human relationships
"I believe that technology has improved human relationships because it helps people stay connected wherever they are. One strong example of this is that families can video call and share moments instantly, even when they live in different countries. On the other hand, you could argue that online communication feels less personal, but I see it as a chance to keep contact when meeting in person is impossible. I see your point, but I think technology makes relationships stronger by giving us more ways to communicate and support each other. Do you agree that digital tools can help us stay emotionally close? Let’s consider both sides before deciding if the effects are mostly positive or negative."
2. Disagree: Technology has damaged human relationships
"I believe that technology has damaged human relationships because people spend more time on their phones than actually talking face to face. One strong example of this is when friends sit together but focus only on their screens instead of each other. On the other hand, you could argue that technology connects people online, but sometimes those connections are weaker or less real. I see your point, but I think we need more real conversations, not just likes or messages. Do you agree that too much online contact can make relationships colder? Let’s consider both sides to understand how technology really affects the way we communicate."