How has the telephone, television and the way we hear our home changed over time? - Teacher notes

Within the educational unit exploring technological advancements, students delve into the evolution of the telephone, television, and home heating systems. The journey begins with the telephone, an invention that radically transformed human communication. Initially, the telephone, as conceptualised by Alexander Graham Bell, facilitated direct communication between two individuals. To enhance understanding, students are presented with a historical overview of Bell's life and achievements through a recommended online resource. This sets the stage for a discussion on how telephones have evolved from their original purpose to the multifaceted devices we use today. Modern mobile phones, for instance, are no longer primarily used for making calls; in fact, calling accounts for less than 5% of mobile phone usage, as these devices now serve a myriad of functions beyond voice communication.

The unit also examines changes in television and home heating over time. Students are encouraged to reflect on how these technologies have transformed from their initial forms to the advanced versions we are familiar with today. Televisions have advanced from bulky, monochromatic sets to sleek, high-definition screens with smart capabilities, while home heating systems have become more efficient and environmentally friendly. The teacher's notes suggest that these topics be explored in a way that prompts students to think critically about the implications of technological progress and how it has reshaped everyday life.