TPo33 Integrated Task

The reading and the lecture are both about the theories that state the usage of carved stone balls found in Scotland. Whereas the author of the reading states some theories that indicate the purpose and meaning of those balls, the lecturer suggests that these theories are not convincing. The lecturer casts doubt on the main points made in the reading by providing three reasons.
First of all, according to the reading, the balls were used as weapons for hunting or in the wars. However, the lecturer disputes this point. She says that the balls couldn't be used as weapons because if they had been used as weapons, they would have had cracks and broken parts on their surface. While there were no damages on the surfaces, this theory can't be true.
Secondly, the reading states that while the carved stone balls are similar in size, they might be used in weight and measuring systems. Nevertheless, the lecturer refutes this argument. She argues that although they are uniform in size, they are different in mass. To explain more, different balls like a sand ball or green ball have different density and this is an effective factor in their weight. To be more specific, the balls may have the same size but various weights.
Finally, the reading claims that since the balls have elaborate designs, they could be the symbol of social levels. On the other hand, the lecturer believes that this theory can't be compelling because of two reasons. First, she mentions all the balls haven't an intricate pattern and many of them are really simple in design. Moreover, she explains that at that time high ranking people were buried with their valuable things, but scientists didn't find any buried stone balls. (20min.)