Reading Practice: Who Was Thomas Edison?

 

Read the attached article about Thomas Edison. Then take a quiz.

 Reading Practice: Who Was Thomas Edison? 


Or 

Read a book about Thomas Edison, such as:

 

Inspirational Quotes by Thomas Edison:

  1. "Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration."
    • Explanation: This is perhaps one of Edison's most famous quotes. It emphasizes the importance of hard work and persistence over mere ideas or inspiration. Edison believed that the key to success was relentless effort and dedication, rather than just having a brilliant idea.
  2. "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work."
    • Explanation: This quote reflects Edison's positive attitude towards failure and experimentation. He viewed each unsuccessful attempt not as a failure but as a learning opportunity, a step closer to finding the solution.
  3. "Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time."
    • Explanation: Here, Edison highlights the importance of perseverance. He suggests that the key to success is persistence and the willingness to continue trying despite setbacks and failures.                                                                                        
  4. "The three great essentials to achieve anything worthwhile are: hard work, stick-to-itiveness, and common sense."
    • Explanation: This quote underscores three vital components for success: hard work, perseverance (or "stick-to-itiveness"), and practical wisdom. Edison believed that these qualities were essential to achieve significant goals.
  5. "Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."
    • Explanation: Edison points out that success might be just around the corner, and giving up too soon can result in missing out on achieving one's goals. He encourages continued effort and resilience.
  6. "There is no substitute for hard work."
    • Explanation: Simple yet powerful, this quote reinforces the idea that hard work is irreplaceable and fundamental to achieving success. Edison, known for his incredible work ethic, lived by this principle.
  7. "Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work."
    • Explanation: Through this metaphor, Edison suggests that many people fail to seize opportunities because they involve hard work. He implies that success often requires rolling up one's sleeves and getting one's hands dirty.
  8. "If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves."
    • Explanation: This quote inspires self-belief and the potential for greatness within everyone. Edison believed that people are capable of incredible achievements if they fully apply themselves.