Get together with a partner and research the mid 1990s when the Internet began to play a major role in American life. Create a chart with two columns. As you do your research, use the first column to write down things about daily life that are now different because of the Internet. In the second column, write down the thing that was made possible by the Internet. For example, people used to use a book called “The Yellow Pages” that had the phone numbers to businesses in their area. Today, people use the Internet to find the phone numbers of businesses. Now that you have researched some of the major changes that the Internet has brought to daily life in today’s world, you might have a new perspective on how important the Internet is today. Not all communities in America have access to the Internet, usually due to poverty but also to failing infrastructure. Infrastructure is the wires, pipes, towers, and satellites that are all necessary for making the Internet function. Research (on the Internet) the percentage of homes in the United States that do not have internet access. Find out if there are communities near you where many people are still not connected to the Internet. With your partner, create a poster showing how many homes in the United States lack Internet access. A circle graph would be a good way to illustrate this. On your poster, include reasons why is it important for people to have internet access today.
Column 1: Changes in daily life due to the Internet
1. Communication: People now rely on email, instant messaging, and social media to communicate with others.
2. Information access: Instead of going to the library or using encyclopedias, people now search the Internet for information.
3. Shopping: Online shopping has become prevalent, allowing people to buy products and have them delivered to their doorstep.
4. Entertainment: Streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube have replaced traditional TV and video rental stores.
5. News consumption: Rather than relying solely on newspapers or television, people can now access news websites and online publications.
6. Job searching: The Internet provides platforms like LinkedIn and online job boards for people to find job opportunities.
7. Research: Scholars and researchers have easy access to online journals, articles, and databases for their studies.
Column 2: Things made possible by the Internet
1. Email: Instantaneous, convenient, and cost-effective communication method.
2. Search engines: Efficient access to a vast amount of information on various subjects.
3. E-commerce: Opening up a global marketplace for businesses and consumers to connect and transact.
4. On-demand streaming: Easy and personalized access to an extensive range of videos, movies, and music.
5. Online journalism: Wider dissemination of news and diverse perspectives.
6. Remote work and freelancing opportunities: Increased flexibility and connectivity for professionals.
7. Online education: Accessible learning platforms offering a wide range of courses and resources.
Percentage of homes in the United States without internet access: As of 2021, approximately 14.5% of households in the United States lack internet access.
Poster:
Title: Internet Access in the United States
[Circle Graph illustrating the percentage of homes without internet access]
Reasons why Internet access is important today:
1. Education: Access to online resources, research materials, and virtual classrooms.
2. Job opportunities: Online job searches, remote work options, and career development.
3. Communication and connectivity: Staying in touch with family and friends, especially over long distances.
4. Information access: Instant access to news, research, and valuable information.
5. E-commerce: Convenient shopping, access to a global marketplace, and economic opportunities.
6. Entertainment: Streaming platforms, online gaming, and digital media consumption.
7. Government services: Access to online government services and resources.
[Insert relevant images and statistics to support the information]