English as a Second Language – Reading | e-Consult
Reading (1 questions)
The writer presents a nuanced view of social media's impact on teenagers, acknowledging both its potential benefits and drawbacks. Initially, the writer highlights the negative aspects, using strong language like "barrage of curated perfection" and describing a "culture of comparison" that leads to "inadequacy and anxiety." This establishes a critical stance. The use of phrases like "particularly vulnerable" and "cannot be ignored" reinforces the seriousness of the potential harm. The writer then acknowledges a contrasting viewpoint, stating "some argue that social media can also be a powerful tool for activism and self-expression." This demonstrates an attempt at objectivity. The structure of the paragraph, moving from negative to positive perspectives, suggests a balanced consideration of the issue. The inclusion of "experts are increasingly concerned" adds authority to the negative claims. The writer’s use of contrasting ideas and the inclusion of expert opinion demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the complexities surrounding social media’s influence.