**7.2.1 Possible factors impacting lack of attention to relationships**

Any reading of the essay topic would reveal that the intention was that the two technologies would be compared on the basis of their impact on people's lifestyle. However it is likely that two factors may have influenced the focus on one at the virtual exclusion of the other.

One factor may have been the structure of the topic. One notes that 'mobile phone' is in a beginning dominant position and thus, is positioned to impose that dominance on the mind of the undiscerning reader. In contrast, 'the landline equivalent' does not enjoy a similar dominant status: even though there is an intention to establish a comparison and contrast between the two technologies, the two are not in close direct proximity to each other to make that intention clear. The expression 'landline equivalent' is far removed from its counterpart, occupying a weaker position towards the end of the sentence.

Reinforcing this contrast in status as defined by the structure of the sentence is the high profile and widespread usage that the mobile phone enjoys as an emerging technology in contemporary times. It is likely that this socio-cultural factor may also have influenced students to focus more attention on the newer device. Whatever the reason, it would appear that factors influencing students' perceptions about what has emphasis and what does not, in an essay topic warrants some examination.
