科技发展阅读 B1 · 中级
聚焦人工智能、互联网、智能设备等科技话题，四级阅读的高频主题。
Passage 1: Artificial Intelligence in Daily Life
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept from science fiction — it has become a part of our everyday lives. From voice assistants like Siri and Alexa to recommendation systems on streaming platforms, AI technology is everywhere.
One of the most significant applications of AI is in healthcare. AI systems can analyze medical images and help doctors diagnose diseases more accurately and quickly. In education, AI-powered tools can personalize learning experiences, adapting to each student's pace and style.
However, the rapid development of AI also raises concerns. Many people worry about job displacement — the possibility that machines will replace human workers. Others are concerned about privacy, as AI systems often require large amounts of personal data to function effectively. Finding the right balance between innovation and regulation will be one of the great challenges of our time.
What concern about AI is mentioned in the passage?
AI systems can help doctors _____ diseases more accurately. (诊断)
Passage 2: The Rise of Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the automobile industry. With growing awareness of climate change, more and more consumers are choosing EVs over traditional gasoline-powered cars.
The advantages of electric vehicles are clear. They produce zero direct emissions, which helps reduce air pollution. They are also cheaper to maintain, as electric motors have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines. Additionally, the cost of batteries has dropped dramatically over the past decade, making EVs more affordable.
Despite these benefits, challenges remain. The most common concern is "range anxiety" — the fear that the car will run out of power before reaching a charging station. To address this, governments and companies are investing heavily in building more charging infrastructure. Experts predict that by 2030, EVs will account for a significant proportion of all new car sales worldwide.
What is 'range anxiety'?
Passage 3: Social Media and Mental Health
Social media platforms have revolutionized the way we communicate and share information. However, a growing body of research suggests that excessive use of social media can have negative effects on mental health.
Studies have found that spending too much time on social media can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and low self-esteem. The constant comparison with others' seemingly perfect lives can make people feel inadequate. Furthermore, the addictive nature of social media — designed to keep users scrolling — can interfere with sleep, study, and face-to-face relationships.
That said, social media is not inherently harmful. When used moderately, it can help people stay connected, find communities of shared interests, and access valuable information. The key is to be mindful of how much time you spend online and to cultivate healthy digital habits.
According to the passage, what can excessive social media use lead to?
The key is to be _____ of how much time you spend online. (注意的；留心的)
Passage 4: Space Exploration in the 21st Century
Space exploration has entered a new era. Unlike the government-led space programs of the 20th century, today's space industry is increasingly driven by private companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic.
These companies have dramatically reduced the cost of launching rockets through reusable rocket technology. SpaceX's Falcon 9, for example, can land and be reflown multiple times, cutting launch costs by up to 80%. This has opened the door to ambitious projects such as building a permanent human settlement on Mars.
Space exploration also offers practical benefits for life on Earth. Satellite technology powers GPS navigation, weather forecasting, and global communications. The research conducted in space has led to advances in medicine, materials science, and environmental monitoring. As technology continues to evolve, the boundaries of human exploration will keep expanding.
How have private companies reduced space launch costs?
Passage 5: The Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of physical devices — from home appliances to industrial machines — that are connected to the internet and can communicate with each other.
In smart homes, IoT devices allow homeowners to control lighting, heating, and security systems remotely through their smartphones. Smart refrigerators can track food supplies and even suggest recipes. Wearable devices like fitness trackers monitor heart rate, sleep patterns, and physical activity, helping users make informed health decisions.
In industry, IoT technology is used to optimize manufacturing processes, predict equipment failures before they happen, and manage supply chains more efficiently. However, the widespread adoption of IoT also raises security concerns. With billions of devices connected to the internet, each one represents a potential entry point for hackers. Protecting these devices from cyber attacks is a critical challenge for the technology industry.
What security concern does IoT raise?
IoT technology is used to _____ manufacturing processes. (优化)