Technology Passage

What lesson can readers learn from this text?

• Technology is frustrating and not worth having.

• Our dependence on technology can be scary at times.

• Robots and AI will take over the world one day.

• Y2K was the worst catastrophe in history.

Which is NOT a way that people addressed the Y2K problem according to the text?

• Programmers rewrote software.

• Companies upgraded their computer systems.

• Individuals threw away outdated computers.

• Governments created legislation

The following question has two parts. Answer Part A first, and then Part B.

Part A - How does the following passage from “Biometrics Are Not Better” work to affect the reader?

However, almost any technology can be bypassed by determined crooks. For example, we leave our fingerprints everywhere: on tables, mirrors, cars, and the very smart phones they are increasingly being used to unlock. Thieves can transfer those fingerprints to molds and create models using household materials.

• It makes the reader feel calm.

• It makes the reader feel excited.

• It gives the reader something to fear.

• It gives the reader something to hope for.

Part B - What is the most likely reason why the author chose to include this passage in “Biometrics Are Not Better”?

• to show that biometric technology is usually safe

• to show how everyone is vulnerable to the problems with biometrics

• to show how exciting a future filled with biometric technology can be

• to show the advantages and disadvantages of using biometric technology

The following question has two parts. Answer Part A first, and then Part B. Part A - What is the central idea of “Biometrics Are Not Better”?

• Many devices now use biometric technology.

• The security risks of biometrics outweigh the benefits.

• More research is needed to determine the benefits of biometrics.

• Older technologies are less reliable and harder to use than biometrics are.

Part B - Which sentence from “Biometrics Are Not Better” most clearly supports the answer to Part A?

• One research group estimates that about 650 million smart phones used biometrics in 2015.

• Users love the fact that the use of biometrics puts an end to confusing passwords.

• Using these new scanners can make you feel like you’re living in a science fiction movie.

• We should be very cautious before giving in to this new technology.

Read the passages from the two texts. "The Biometric Body" Variability is another problem. Your face's appearance changes with your mood, lighting, the seasons, and so on. "Biometrics Are Not Better" Many body measurements change over time or in specific situations. Fingerprints aren't useful if you cut yourself and need to wear a bandage. Which answer choice BEST states a similarity between the two?

• Both passages explain how biometric systems work.

• Both passages explain why biometrics are very reliable.

• Both passages highlight ways that biometric systems may be unreliable.

• Both passages describe an advantage to biometrics.

The author concludes “The Biometric Body” with the following paragraph:

And at Heathrow Airport, James Wayman says, “I don’t wait in line.” A machine scans his iris, and a printed slip welcomes him to the United Kingdom.

What is most likely the author’s reason for concluding the article in this way? Consider the rest of the article as your answer.

• The author wants to trick readers into ignoring the problems with biometrics systems.

• The author wants to show readers that biometrics systems work perfectly and have improved people’s lives.

• The author wants to remind readers that biometrics systems may be useful only in limited areas such as airport security.

• The author wants to leave readers feeling that biometrics systems have a hopeful future and have already started making life better.

Which of the following sentences from “Biometrics Are Not Better” best explains why biometric data theft poses a serious risk?

• Promoters also emphasize that biometrics cannot be stolen as easily as passwords.

• If your password is hacked, you can easily change it.

• You can’t replace your fingerprints, your eyes, or any of your biometric data.

• Nothing could be easier than swiping your finger or blinking your eyes.

What is the main theme of the passage about technology?

• The rapid advancement of technology

• The dangers of relying on technology

• The benefits of technology in education

• The impact of technology on communication