The computer makes doing schoolwork easier for me than it was for my mom and dad. For example, when writing book reports and stories, I use Microsoft Word instead of a pen and paper. That way, after my teacher checks my work, I can go back and make revisions without having to rewrite the whole thing. And Microsoft Word has a spell check! I use it all the time.

For English class, we are reading The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton. As pre-reading homework, my teacher asked us to research teenage groups on the Internet. I tried Google, Encarta, and Yahoo first, and finally found an article on Time. com .

For geography homework on the United States, I used Encarta to learn about the Mississippi River. I needed to find out how deep the river is, how its widths and depths are different, what states it runs through, and what kinds of fish live in it. I used the information to show how the geography of a country influences its economy. For example, the river’s trade paths, the number of fish caught in it and the tourists it attracts directly affect Southerners’ jobs and incomes.

I never go to the library to do research. It takes too much time. Since I live in New York City and both my parents work, getting to the library isn’t always easy. For a big task or research project, I used to stay at the library to read, or sign out whatever books or magazines I needed. Now being able to find the information in my own living room makes everything a lot simpler. Online dictionaries and encyclopedias (百科全书) also save time.

Sometimes, I think the computer spoils my generation because it is so easy --- at least physically. But computers are not like television, which does the thinking for you. You still have to use your mind. I prefer using a computer, easy, fun, and fast.

小题1:What does the writer use when he writes book reports and stories? (no more than 3 words)

小题2:Why doesn’t the writer go to the library to do research? (no more than 6 words)

小题3:How does the writer complete a big assignment or research project at present? (no more than 10 words)

小题4:Why does the author prefer using a computer? (no more than 11 words)