📖 Part 1: Text Analysis

Read the following passage carefully, then answer the questions below:

The old lighthouse keeper had watched over Tasman Bay for thirty-seven years. Each morning, he climbed the spiral staircase to check the beacon that had guided countless ships safely to shore. But today felt different. The letter in his pocket contained news that would change everything—the lighthouse was being automated. Modern technology would replace his watchful eyes and experienced hands. As he gazed across the familiar waters one last time as keeper, he wondered if the ships would truly be as safe without human intuition guiding them through the treacherous rocks that lay hidden beneath the surface.

1. What is the main conflict in this passage?

The lighthouse keeper is afraid of heights

Technology is replacing the lighthouse keeper's job

The lighthouse beacon is broken

Ships are avoiding Tasman Bay

2. How long has the lighthouse keeper been working at this lighthouse?

_________________ years

3. What can you infer about the lighthouse keeper's feelings about automation?

He is excited about the new technology

He is worried that ships won't be as safe

He thinks automation will work better

He doesn't care about the change

4. Which phrase from the text best shows the lighthouse keeper's experience and skill?

"climbed the spiral staircase"

"watchful eyes and experienced hands"

"thirty-seven years"

"modern technology"

🧠 Part 2: Inference and Analysis

5. Using evidence from the text, explain why the lighthouse keeper might be concerned about automation replacing him.

6. What does the phrase "treacherous rocks that lay hidden beneath the surface" suggest about the challenges ships face in this area?

7. The author uses the phrase "human intuition" in the passage. What does this mean in the context of the lighthouse keeper's work?

Following written instructions exactly

Using experience and instinct to make decisions

Relying only on technology

Working during daylight hours only

✍️ Part 3: Critical Thinking

8. Do you think the decision to automate the lighthouse is the right choice? Explain your reasoning using evidence from the text and your own knowledge.

9. What theme or message do you think the author is trying to convey about the relationship between humans and technology?