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Is the ability to read and write more important today than in the past? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Today more than at any time in the history of the world it is important to be able to read and write. This change has been brought about by the Internet which we use to communicate with one another, to get our news, and to sell our products.

Millions of people communicate today through e-mail using the Internet. In the past people would have face-to-face meetings or call one another on the phone; today they use e-mail and chat rooms. It is obviously necessary to be able to read and write in order to participate in this technological revolution.

Today, one can subscribe to news and information services on the Net. When you turn on your computer in the morning, you are given the headlines, financial news, sports scores, or social events that you requested. The news is tailored to your specifications. In the not distant past, most people got their news from television or radio-as many still do. Yet, getting your news from the Internet is more efficient since the news is tailored to your specific interests.

E-commerce also demands that people be able to write and read. Of course, the people who design the retail web sites, must be able to express themselves clearly in writing. The potential customers must he-able to read the product descriptions. In the past, people would go into stores (as many still do) and point to objects that they would like to buy. This physical approach to shopping does not require any special language skills.

The Internet will force us all to be literate not only in reading and writing, but also with computers. Today, we must be skilled readers and writers to be successful in the high tech world.