Unit 3 Writing Task

You have examined multiple perspectives on technology. "Feathered Friend" shows the advantages of both high-tech and low-tech measures. In "Teens and Technology Share the Future," blogger Stefan Etienne argues that technology improves our lives. In "The Black Hole of Technology," blogger Leena Khan argues the opposite. "The Internet of Things" examines the comples systems that have resulted from improvements in technology.

Write a brief argument, in the form of an editorial, in which you state your position on this question:

Do electronic devices and online access really improve our lives?

Draw evidence from the texts to support your ideas.

For a model of a well-crafted argument, see the Launch Text, "That's Not Progress!"

Possible Argument Frame/ Sentence Starters

Most people assume that technology like electronic devices and online access improves our lives. The people who agree with this idea claim that ___________________. They also argue that ___________________. However, there are also strong arguments against this. For example, ___________________ believe that ___________________. After looking at the different points of view and the evidence for them, I think ___________________ because ___________________.

In my opinion, electronic devices and online access do/don't truly enhance our lives because…

After examining multiple perspectives on technology, I strongly believe that electronic devices and online access have a positive/negative impact on our lives.

One text that supports the idea that technology improves our lives is "Feathered Friend," which discusses the advantages of both high-tech and low-tech measures. According to the text, technology _.

Conversely, "The Black Hole of Technology" presents a different viewpoint, arguing that electronic devices and online access have drawbacks. The text mentions that _.

Additionally, "Teens and Technology Share the Future," by blogger Stefan Etienne, asserts that technology significantly enhances our lives. The author provides evidence such as _.

However, "The Internet of Things" explores the complex systems resulting from improvements in technology. It suggests that while there are benefits, there are also challenges such as _.

Considering the evidence from these texts, I would argue that electronic devices and online access have both positive and negative effects on our lives. On one hand, they (supporting evidence from the texts). On the other hand, they (contradicting evidence from the texts).

Exemplary Response:

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, the role of electronic devices and online access in our lives is a topic of hot debate. While some argue that these technological advancements bring about numerous benefits, others are quick to point out the adverse effects they have on our well-being. After examining multiple perspectives on technology, it is my firm belief that electronic devices and online access do, in fact, improve our lives.

In "Feathered Friend," the author highlights the advantages of both high-tech and low-tech measures in the field of ornithology. They state, "Half a million dollars worth of chemical and electronic engineering had let us down completely. Without Claribel, we should soon have been slightly dead." This demonstrates how people can sometimes rely too heavily on technology and forget that nature may serve them better. 

Furthermore, blogger Stefan Etienne makes a compelling argument in "Teens and Technology Share the Future." He claims, "The access to information and communication that electronic devices provide is unparalleled. It opens up endless opportunities for learning, connecting with others, and expressing oneself creatively" (Teens and Technology Share the Future). Etienne emphasizes the educational and social benefits that arise from electronic devices, highlighting their potential to enrich and enhance our lives.

Although there are critics of technology, Leena Khan's article "The Black Hole of Technology," it is important to consider her arguments with a critical eye. Khan argues that technology has created a sense of disconnection and isolation among individuals. While this perspective has validity, it fails to acknowledge the numerous ways in which technology has brought people together. For instance, online communities and social media platforms have allowed individuals to form connections and support networks, even from great distances.

Based on the evidence presented in these texts, it is clear that electronic devices and online access have the power to improve our lives in myriad ways. They enable us to gather and analyze data, expand our knowledge and understanding, and foster connections with others. However, it is crucial that we also recognize the need for balance and healthy boundaries in our use of technology to maintain our well-being and relationships.

Non-Exemplary Response:

I think electronic devices and online access are good but also bad. Some people say they help us but others say they don't. In the first article, they talk about how technology can help scientists track birds and stuff (Feathered Friend). It's cool that they can do that, but I'm not sure if it really makes our lives better. In the second article, the blogger says that technology is great for teens because it gives them access to info and they can connect with others (Teens and Technology Share the Future). But like, there are also problems with too much screen time, and it can make us feel lonely. I read another article that said that (The Black Hole of Technology). So, I think electronic devices and online access have good and bad sides, and it's up to us to decide how we use them.