📘 Discursive Comprehension Passage: “Is Technology Making Us Less Social?”
In the modern era, technology has become an inseparable part of our lives. From smartphones to social media, we are surrounded by digital tools that connect us to the world. These innovations have brought convenience, speed, and global access to information. But while we are more connected than ever, there is growing concern that we may be becoming less social in the real sense.
Many people argue that technology has replaced face-to-face conversations with virtual messages. It is common to see families sitting together in a room, but each member is engaged with their phone. Social media platforms give the illusion of interaction, but often lack the depth and emotion of real-life conversations. Emojis and likes cannot fully express human empathy, concern, or joy.
On the other hand, technology has also allowed people to stay connected across distances. A student studying abroad can video call their parents daily. Activists can mobilize people through online campaigns. People with disabilities or those living in isolated places can find support and community online.
Therefore, the impact of technology on human interaction is not black and white. It depends largely on how people use it. If used mindfully, technology can enrich human relationships. If misused or overused, it can lead to loneliness and emotional detachment.
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the users. Setting boundaries for screen time, making time for real-life conversations, and using technology as a tool rather than a replacement for social interaction can help us find balance in a digital world.
❓ Questions
🔹 Short Answer Questions (2–3 sentences):
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What is the main concern about technology mentioned in the passage?
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How do social media platforms give the illusion of connection?
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Mention one way technology helps people stay connected.
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Why is the impact of technology described as “not black and white”?
🔹 Long Answer Questions (4–6 sentences):
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Discuss both the positive and negative effects of technology on human interaction as described in the passage.
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According to the passage, what steps can users take to ensure that technology does not reduce social interaction?
🔹 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
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What is one negative effect of overusing technology, according to the passage?
a) Improved communication
b) Emotional detachment
c) Better job opportunities
d) More knowledge -
What is the author’s tone in the passage?
a) Completely against technology
b) Strongly supportive of technology
c) Balanced and thoughtful
d) Indifferent and neutral -
What example is used to show a positive use of technology?
a) A person ignoring family at dinner
b) Someone playing games on the phone
c) A student video-calling parents from abroad
d) Posting selfies on Instagram -
What does the passage suggest about using emojis and likes?
a) They are more expressive than words
b) They are equal to real human feelings
c) They cannot replace real emotions
d) They make communication stronger
✅ Answers
✏️ Short Answer Keys:
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The concern is that technology is making people less social and reducing face-to-face conversations.
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Social media platforms allow people to interact quickly, but these interactions often lack emotional depth.
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Technology helps people connect over long distances, such as video calls between a student and their parents.
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Because technology can both help and harm human connections depending on how it’s used.
📝 Long Answer Keys:
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The passage discusses how technology has made communication easier and helped people stay in touch globally. However, it also points out that overuse can lead to less real-life conversation and emotional disconnection. For instance, families may be in the same room but engaged with their phones. On the positive side, people in remote areas can find online support, and distant loved ones can connect easily. So, technology has both positive and negative effects on human interaction.
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Users can take steps like limiting screen time, spending quality time with family and friends, and using technology to support—not replace—real-life connections. Being aware and intentional about how we use digital tools helps us maintain emotional bonds. The passage encourages mindful usage to keep the human aspect of relationships alive.
✅ MCQ Keys:
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b) Emotional detachment
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c) Balanced and thoughtful
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c) A student video-calling parents from abroad
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c) They cannot replace real emotions
