Class 8 English Unit 8: Reading II: Historical Inventions

 

Reading II: Historical Inventions

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJIpcyax8_g 

Vocabulary

1.           invention /ɪnˈvɛnʃən/ noun - a creation or device that is new

2.           advancement /ədˈvɑːnsmənt/ noun - progress or development in a particular area

3.           invented /ɪnˈvɛntɪd/ verb - created something new that did not exist before

4.           steam /stiːm/ noun - the vapor into which water is converted when heated

5.           realized /ˈrɪəlaɪzd/ verb - became fully aware of something as a fact

6.           locomotive /ˌləʊkəˈməʊtɪv/ noun - a powered rail vehicle used for pulling trains

7.           swift /swɪft/ adjective - moving or capable of moving with great speed

8.           expelled /ɪkˈspɛld/ verb - forced out or ejected

9.           white /waɪt/ adjective - the color of milk or fresh snow

10.       coal /kəʊl/ noun - a combustible black or dark brown rock used as fuel

11.       wonder /ˈwʌndə/ noun - a feeling of amazement and admiration

12.       spaceship /ˈspeɪsʃɪp/ noun - a vehicle designed for travel in outer space

13.       artificial /ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl/ adjective - made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally

14.       satellite /ˈsætəlaɪt/ noun - an artificial body placed in orbit around the earth or moon

15.       telegraphy /təˈlɛɡrəfi/ noun - the long-distance transmission of messages without physical transport of letters

16.       remarkable /rɪˈmɑːkəbl/ adjective - worthy of attention; striking

17.       paved /peɪvd/ verb - covered a surface with a hard material to make it suitable for travel

18.       foundation /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/ noun - the lowest load-bearing part of a building; the basis on which something is grounded

 

A.         Find the words from the above text that mean the same for the following:

a.      an object that causes a feeling of great surprise and admiration: wonder

b.     made by people, often as a copy of something natural: artificial

c.      understood a situation: realized

d.     an idea or fact that something is based on: foundation

e.      unusual or surprising in a way that causes people to take notice: remarkable

f.       the use of a communication system that works by sending electric signals through wires or by radio waves: telegraphy

g.     forced somebody to leave a place/state: expelled  

B.    Match the inventions with their inventors. (Answers only)

Column A	Column B
a.      Application of Steam Engine	James Watt
b.     Motor car	Daimler
c.      Electricity	Michael Faraday
d.     Spaceship	A group of scientists
e.      Mobile phone	Reginald Fessenden

C.    Read the text again and answer these questions.

a.      What incident inspired James Watt to invent the steam engine?

His observation of the lid of a kettle that rises due to the pressure of steam from boiling water inspired him to invent the steam engine.

b.     Mention a benefit of the motor car compared to the train.

Motor cars are cheaper than trains.

c.      Why is electricity called 'white coal'?

Electricity is called 'white coal' because water is used to generate it.

d.     Why is a spaceship thought to be a wonder?

A spaceship is thought to be a wonder because of its movement in space beyond the atmosphere of the Earth.

e.      When was the first spacecraft launched to the moon?

The first spacecraft was launched to the moon on 4 Oct. 1957.

f.       How old are mobile phones?

Mobile phones are nearly one-hundred-year-old because it was invented by Martin Cooper in 1973. 

 

D.   What modern appliances or gadgets do you use? Make a list of them and discuss how they have aided in your life.

I use many modern home appliances for different purposes in my daily life. Some of them are laptops, cell phones, air conditioners, closed circuit televisions, washing machines, televisions, smartwatches, induction, Wi-Fi, etc. I have drafted a short paragraph on how they have aided in my life below:

Laptop

Laptops have revolutionized the way we work and learn, providing unparalleled flexibility and convenience. With their portability, they allow us to perform tasks from anywhere, whether at home, in a café, or while traveling. Laptops enable access to vast amounts of information and resources online, facilitating education and professional development. They also support various forms of communication, such as video calls and emails, keeping us connected with colleagues and loved ones. Additionally, laptops serve as entertainment hubs, offering streaming services, games, and multimedia capabilities.

Cell Phone

Cell phones have become indispensable in our daily lives, offering constant connectivity and communication. They allow us to stay in touch with family and friends through calls, texts, and social media, no matter the distance. With smartphones, we have access to the internet, apps, and services that make everyday tasks easier, from navigation to online shopping. Cell phones also serve as powerful tools for capturing and sharing moments through photos and videos. Moreover, they provide a sense of security, enabling us to reach out for help in emergencies.

Air Conditioner

Air conditioners have significantly improved our quality of life by maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. They provide relief from extreme heat, ensuring a pleasant living and working environment. By regulating humidity levels, air conditioners also contribute to better indoor air quality and health. They enhance productivity and concentration, especially in hot climates where excessive heat can be debilitating. Additionally, modern air conditioners are energy-efficient, offering effective cooling while minimizing environmental impact.

Closed-circuit television (CCTV)

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems have enhanced home and business security by providing continuous surveillance. They act as a deterrent to criminal activity, reducing the likelihood of theft and vandalism. CCTV footage is invaluable for investigations, helping to identify perpetrators and gather evidence. These systems offer peace of mind, allowing homeowners and business owners to monitor their properties remotely. Additionally, advancements in technology have made CCTV systems more affordable and accessible, contributing to widespread adoption.

Washing Machine

Washing machines have transformed household chores, making laundry care efficient and less labor-intensive. They save time and effort by automating the washing process, allowing us to focus on other activities. Modern washing machines come with various settings and features to handle different types of fabrics and stains, ensuring optimal cleaning results. They also help conserve water and energy compared to traditional hand-washing methods. With reliable washing machines, maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in our clothing and linens is easier than ever.

Smartwatch

Smartwatches have become essential devices for health monitoring and daily convenience. They track various health metrics such as heart rate, steps, and sleep patterns, promoting healthier lifestyles. With smartwatch notifications, we can stay updated on calls, messages, and social media without constantly checking our phones. Many smartwatches also offer fitness and workout features, encouraging regular physical activity. Additionally, they often include functionalities like GPS, contactless payments, and voice assistants, making everyday tasks more convenient.

Induction Cooktop

Induction cooktops have modernized kitchen appliances by offering faster and more energy-efficient cooking methods. They heat cookware directly through electromagnetic induction, reducing cooking times and energy consumption. Induction cooktops provide precise temperature control, enhancing cooking accuracy and safety. Their sleek, flat surfaces are easy to clean and maintain, contributing to a more organized kitchen. Furthermore, induction cooktops remain cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns and improving kitchen safety.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi has revolutionized how we access information and communicate by providing wireless internet connectivity. It enables multiple devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and smart home gadgets, to connect to the internet simultaneously. Wi-Fi has facilitated the rise of remote work and online education, offering flexibility and access to global resources. It also supports smart home technologies, allowing us to control appliances and systems through mobile apps. By enabling seamless streaming, gaming, and browsing, Wi-Fi has become an essential component of modern life.

 

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