UNSEEN PASSAGE – 1

UNSEEN PASSAGE – 1

(1)In today’s fast-paced digital world, attention spans are shrinking at an alarming rate. Students often find it challenging to concentrate on a single task for more than a few minutes. Notifications, endless scrolling feeds, and the constant urge to multitask have rewired the way young minds function. What was once considered normal—sitting still and reading a chapter without distraction—now feels like an achievement worthy of applause.

 (2)Ironically, the same technology that distracts students also offers remarkable learning opportunities. Educational apps, interactive simulations, and virtual tours have made understanding complex concepts both fun and accessible. When used mindfully, technology can transform a boring lesson into an exciting intellectual adventure.

 (3)However, the habit of switching between tasks, known as “digital multitasking,” often creates an illusion of productivity. Students may believe they are accomplishing more, but research indicates that frequent transitions reduce both efficiency and memory retention. In many cases, multitasking becomes a barrier to deep thinking, preventing students from engaging fully with academic tasks.

 (4)Still, some educators argue that the digital era requires a new set of cognitive skills. They believe that jumping quickly between tasks mirrors the demands of modern life. Whether this skill is beneficial or harmful in the long run remains a topic of debate, but one fact is certain—technology has permanently altered the way young people learn, think, and interact with the world.

 (5)Ultimately, balancing screen time with focused learning is essential. Technology need not be abandoned, but it must be used wisely. Like fire, it can illuminate or destroy depending on how responsibly one manages it.

Questions

i. Which statement best reflects the author’s viewpoint?

A. Technology only harms students and reduces learning.

B. Technology is beneficial but must be used with discipline.

C. Multitasking makes students more efficient learners.

D. Students should avoid using technology altogether.

  ii. What tone does the author use in Paragraph (1)? Rationalise your answer in about 40 words.

"In today’s fast-paced digital world, attention spans are shrinking at an alarming rate…"

 iii. Complete the sentence appropriately:

The phrase “illusion of productivity” in paragraph (3) suggests that students __________.

 iv. Identify TWO sets of antonyms from the options below:

(a) harmful and beneficial

(b) accomplish and complete

(c) illuminate and destroy

(d) interactive and accessible

(e) accessible and available

 v. Complete the sentence appropriately:

The author’s tone in paragraph (4) becomes more balanced because __________.

 vi. In about 40 words, explain how using technology is similar to using a powerful tool.

 vii. What message does Rohan’s experience convey?

Rohan keeps switching between studying, messaging friends, and watching short videos. At the end of the hour, he realizes he remembers very little.

A. Multitasking reduces deep learning.

B. Switching tasks improves concentration.

C. Entertainment boosts academic memory.

D. Study breaks should be frequent and long.

viii. What gives rise to reduced academic engaging? (20 words)