Reading inference — technological change over time A paragraph describes the evolution of technology: early stone tools appeared about 2.5 million years ago; progress was very slow for hundreds of thousands of years; today, new technologies are reported daily on TV and in newspapers. Which statement is best supported by this paragraph?

Introduction / Context:The question asks you to identify the conclusion most directly supported by the text. The passage contrasts a long period of slow change in prehistory with the rapid pace of innovation today, as evidenced by daily media reports of new technologies.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Stone tools originated roughly 2.5 million years ago.
• Technological development was slow for hundreds of thousands of years.
• Currently, new technologies are reported daily on mass media.

Concept / Approach:Choose the inference that restates the present-day theme: frequent, ongoing technological development. Reject options that introduce claims not made or that misinterpret the timeline provided.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• A: The passage treats stone tools as technology, not as “not technology.”
• B: The passage states when they first appeared, not that they were used unchanged for the entire 2.5 million years.
• C: It asserts a time estimate, so we do have some knowledge.
• E: No comparative value judgment is made about significance.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing background facts (stone tools, prehistory) with the main claim. The core takeaway concerns the current pace of change.

Final Answer:In today's world, new technologies are constantly being developed