TPO45 Compehensive writing

The reading discusses that the coin discovered in North America these days can be fake evidence about Norse people who have been to North America. However, the listening contradicts the opinion of the reading and gives its own view. The reasons are as follows.

First, the reading claims that the coin was found in a place that is of great distance from other documented Norse settlements. The distance is beyond 1000 kilometers so it is really hard to believe the silver coin has any connection with the Norse people. On the contrary, the professor claims that many natives can travel a long distance. Many things found in North American remains are from faraway places. There’re possible explanations that when native Americans travel really far, they had an interest in obtaining faraway things. When they are going to Canada, they may then bring the silver coins back to Maine.

Second, the reading proposes that no coin has been found in any other Norse people’s settlements. The presence of today’s single coin can be confusing. By contrast, the listening points out the mistake of the evidence of the reading. No coin doesn’t necessarily mean there is no possibility. Norse people probably had no permanent living place in North America. When they went back to Europe, they will pack up all their valuable coins. Also, when they left Europe, they brought the coins to North America.

Third, the reading points out that coins may not be used as nowadays money. Because native North Americans didn’t recognize them as dollars. This time, the professor admits the writer’s deduction while offering another explanation. The native people in North America may see coins as beautiful decorations for their attractiveness. The coins can be a part of natives’ necklaces or jewelry. In this way, Norse people can still use silver coins to trade.