Question

SPEAKING Work in pairs. Discuss what you know about when the main roads railways and telephone lines were built in your country. Think about. 1 how and when the main roads (and/or railways) were built, and by whom. 2 how communications, such as telephone lines, started, and when. 3 any difficulties people had when building the roads, telephone lines, etc. ***​

Answer 1

Discussing the development of main roads, railways, and telephone lines in your country can be a fascinating topic. It's an opportunity to explore the history and infrastructure of your nation. Here's a template for the discussion:

Main Roads and Railways:

Talk about the historical development of main roads and railways in your country.

Mention key figures or organizations involved in their construction.

Share significant milestones in their development, such as the first railway line or major highways.

Discuss any challenges or obstacles faced during the construction, like geographical barriers or financial constraints.

Telephone Lines and Communications:

Discuss the evolution of communication methods in your country, including the introduction of telephone lines.

Highlight when the first telephone lines were established and by whom.

Mention any technological advancements that improved communication, such as the transition from telegraph to telephone.

Share any historical events or impacts of improved communication on society and the economy.

Difficulties and Challenges:

Explore the difficulties people faced while building roads, telephone lines, or railways. These could include harsh weather conditions, limited resources, or labor disputes.

Share stories or anecdotes of perseverance and innovation during the construction process.

Discuss the societal impact of these infrastructure developments, like improved transportation or access to information.

This discussion can provide a deeper understanding of your country's history and the impact of these infrastructure projects on its development. It's also a great opportunity to learn from your discussion partner and possibly discover new aspects of your country's history.

Answer 2

1. In my country, the main roads and railways were built during the 19th and 20th centuries, during periods of industrialization and economic development. The construction of these transportation networks was carried out by government agencies, private companies, and sometimes through public-private partnerships. The main roads were initially built by manual labor, using tools such as shovels, picks, and wheelbarrows, and later with the use of machinery such as steamrollers and asphalt pavers. The railways were constructed using similar methods, with the addition of laying down tracks and building stations.

2. Communications, such as telephone lines, started to be established in my country during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Initially, telephone lines were set up in urban areas and gradually expanded to rural areas as technology and infrastructure improved. The development of telephone lines was driven by the need for improved long-distance communication, and it was initially carried out by telecommunications companies with government support.

3. The construction of main roads, railways, and telephone lines in my country faced various difficulties. In the case of roads and railways, challenges included difficult terrain, such as mountains and rivers, as well as the need to acquire land and resources for construction. Additionally, the construction of telephone lines faced technical challenges, such as laying down cables and ensuring reliable connections over long distances. In all cases, the development of these infrastructure projects required significant investment, coordination, and planning to overcome these difficulties.