Learn by Listening Level 2

[00:00.46]Personal Computers|[00:02.76] During the 1980s and 1990s,|[00:05.56] personal computers became very widespread.|[00:08.98] The use of the computer|[00:10.54] has changed people's lifestyles in several ways.|[00:13.90] Before 1980, hardly anyone owned a computer.|[00:18.00] Only governments and large companies had computers.|[00:21.61] But throughout the 1980s and 1990s,|[00:24.97] computers became much cheaper, faster, and smaller,|[00:28.83] and they held much more memory.|[00:31.32] More and more people were able to afford to buy a computer.|[00:34.74] By the year 2000, computers had become very common.|[00:39.28] For many people, the personal computer is used|[00:42.02] mainly for performing calculations and for word processing.|[00:46.37] For example, people can calculate their finances on the computer.|[00:50.85] They can also use the computer to type their written documents,|[00:54.52] such as essays or letters.|[00:56.82] Many people enjoy playing games on their computers.|[01:00.31] Some people like to play chess or checkers on their computer.|[01:04.41] Other people prefer games|[01:06.09] that require fast reflexes and fine co-ordination.|[01:09.51] Computer games were very simple|[01:11.75] during the early days of the 1980s.|[01:14.18] Today's computer games show detailed images and sounds.|[01:17.72] Another very popular use of computers involves communication.|[01:22.14] Many people keep in touch with their friends and relatives|[01:25.69] by using electronic mail, or e-mail.|[01:28.73] E-mail allows people to send letters instantly to people far away.|[01:33.52] It is even possible to attach pictures to one's e-mail messages.|[01:38.19] Many people also like to use their computer|[01:40.80] to gain information on the Internet.|[01:43.29] The Internet is a vast network of electronic pages|[01:46.96] where people can find information on many different topics.|[01:50.50] For example, people can read newspapers|[01:53.30] and magazines on the Internet.|[01:55.67] Personal computers have only existed for a short time.|[01:59.59] But for many people, those computers|[02:01.95] have quickly become a very useful part of everyday life!