B1 English Technology Stories
B1 English technology stories for intermediate learners. Complex narratives, idiomatic expressions, and diverse vocabulary.
5 stories available
Learning to Code
Emma decides to learn programming and starts with an online Python course. After mastering the basics, she builds a calculator and then a personal website. Eventually, she creates a task management app that people actually use. Her determination pays off when she lands a job as a junior developer at a startup.
The Robot Helper
The Chen family welcomes MAX, a robot helper, into their home. MAX quickly becomes essential by cooking, cleaning, and helping the children with homework. Despite some mishaps like a messy pancake incident, the family grows to love MAX. When Mia gets sick, MAX takes excellent care of her, monitoring her health and keeping her comfortable. Over time, the family realizes that MAX has become more than just a machine—it has become a cherished member of their family.
The Smart Home
The Miller family moves into a fully automated smart home where everything can be controlled by voice or smartphone. While excited about the technology, they face challenges including malfunctioning systems and a security breach when someone hacks their network due to a weak password. Their teenage daughter Emma helps fix the security issue. Over time, they learn to balance technology with human connection by creating a technology-free hour each evening. The story teaches that technology should enhance life, not replace genuine human interaction.
Digital Detox
Emma, a graphic designer, realizes she spends too much time on her phone. After her friend Sarah suggests a digital detox, Emma tries a weekend without her smartphone. Despite initial anxiety, she rediscovers reading, nature walks, and meaningful conversations. By Sunday, she feels transformed. Emma makes permanent changes including deleting social media apps, limiting screen time, and creating phone-free zones at home. A month later, her work has improved, relationships are stronger, and she has rediscovered old hobbies. The story teaches that technology is a tool we must learn to use wisely.
App Addiction
Marcus downloads a mobile game recommended by a colleague and gradually becomes addicted to it. He spends increasing amounts of time and money on the game, neglecting his work and relationship with his girlfriend Anna. After Anna expresses her concern, Marcus researches app addiction and recognizes the symptoms in himself. Together, they create a plan to overcome his addiction. Through deleting the game, setting screen time limits, and exercising together, Marcus regains control of his life. He learns that technology is a tool that should serve us, not control us.