Blind people can learn to type by feeling the keys but they can't find and correct a mistake. In order to help blind people use a computer Dr. Tom Vincent has made a system that reads aloud what has been typed.
He added a voice to a cheap microcomputer. "The computer is programmed to repeat each letter as it is typed and to read what is displayed on the computer screen - it can be a letter, a word or whole sentences. It is programmed to pronounce English words. If a word is not in its memory the computer spells it. Any mistakes can easily be corrected. When the text is complete, a printed copy can be made in the usual way.
The system has won a prize and is already in use, so blind students at a college in Wales can use computers. Dr. Vincent is now working at an optical sensor that can recognize printed words and read them aloud.
I. Choose the title to the text.
1) Dr. Vincent's help
2) Talking typewriter
3) Computers for Welsh students
4) Correction system
II. Complete the statements according to the text.
1. It is difficult for blind people to use a computer because ...
1) they can't spell English words.
2) they can't see and correct mistakes on the screen.
3) they can't learn to type.
4) they can't work with CD User Guide.
2. Dr. Tom Vincent has made a system that ...
1) easily corrects mistakes.
2) makes printed copies in the usual way.
3) reads aloud what is displayed on the computer screen.
4) can translate what has been typed into any foreign language.
3. Dr. Vincent is now developing a new optical system that ...
1) can recognize and read aloud printed words.
2) is programmed to repeat each letter as it is typed.
3) can be used at a college in Wales.
4) will win a prize.
III. Find the sentence with the verb in the Present Indefinite Passive.
1) It can be a letter, a word or whole sentences.
2) "The system has won a prize and is already in use.
3) It is programmed to pronounce English words.
4) If a word is not in the memory the computer spells it.
IV. Choose the correct form.
Some years ago blind students at a college in Wales ... use computers.
1) can
2) can't
3) could
4) couldn't