Passage 1: Development of Writing Systems
The invention of writing systems marks one of the most transformative moments in human
history. Writing allowed societies to record information, communicate ideas, and preserve
knowledge. While spoken language predates writing by millennia, the advent of written
communication facilitated the emergence of advanced civilizations, trade networks, and cultural
continuity.
The earliest writing systems date back to around 3200 BCE in Mesopotamia and Egypt. The
Sumerians developed cuneiform, using wedge-shaped symbols pressed into clay tablets to
document transactions, laws, and religious texts. Simultaneously, the Egyptians created
hieroglyphics, combining pictorial symbols and phonetic elements. Initially used for
administrative purposes, these systems gradually encompassed storytelling and artistic
expression.
Other regions independently developed writing systems. The Indus Valley Civilization created a
script that remains undeciphered, while ancient Chinese logographic writing evolved into
modern Chinese characters. In the Americas, the Maya developed hieroglyphic writing to record
their calendar systems and historical events. These diverse systems highlight humanity’s
ingenuity in representing language through symbols.
Alphabets revolutionized writing by simplifying earlier systems. Around 1200 BCE, the
Phoenicians developed an alphabet that influenced Greek and Roman scripts, forming the basis
of modern Western writing. Simultaneously, scripts like Arabic and Devanagari evolved,
reflecting the linguistic diversity of their regions.
Writing transformed societies. Codified laws ensured consistency and fairness. Religious texts,
such as the Bible and Quran, shaped spiritual practices. Scientific knowledge, preserved through
manuscripts, fostered intellectual progress. The works of ancient Greek philosophers, recorded
in writing, influenced the Renaissance and Scientific Revolution.
The invention of the printing press in the 15th century by Johannes Gutenberg revolutionized
writing by enabling mass production of books. This democratized access to knowledge, fueling
movements like the Reformation and Enlightenment. Writing shifted from an elite domain to a
widespread tool for education and communication.
Today, digital technologies have transformed writing further. Computers, smartphones, and the
internet make written communication instantaneous and global. While traditional forms like
books persist, digital platforms enable new forms of expression and connectivity.
Despite technological advances, the purpose of writing remains unchanged: to communicate
and preserve ideas. From ancient tablets to modern screens, writing continues to reflect
humanity’s capacity for innovation and cultural expression.
Questions 1–7
True/False/Not Given Questions
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage?
In boxes 1–7 on your answer sheet, write:
True if the statement agrees with the information.
False if the statement contradicts the information.
Not Given if there is no information on this.
1.
The Sumerians used writing mainly for artistic purposes.
TRUEX
2.
The Indus Valley script has been fully deciphered.
False/
3.
Phoenician writing influenced modern Western alphabets.
True/
4.
The invention of the printing press limited the spread of written knowledge.
False/
5.
Digital technologies have replaced all traditional forms of writing.
False/
6.
The primary purpose of writing has remained consistent over time.
True/
7.
Chinese characters were derived from Phoenician writing systems.
Not Given/
Questions 8–13
Gap Fill Questions
Complete the sentences below using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage.
Write your answers in boxes 8–13 on your answer sheet.
8.
The Egyptians combined pictorial symbols with in their hieroglyphics. Phonetic elements/
9.
The Indus Valley Civilization developed a script that remains . undeciphered /
10.
The Phoenicians’ alphabet influenced the Greek and alphabets. Roman/
11.
The press enabled the mass production of books.
12.
Digital technologies allow written communication to be . Global
13.
Writing continues to reflect human and cultural expression. innovation
