Social Media, Its Influence and Control over People’s Lives
Ways with words
A. Find the words from the text that have the following meanings.
a. a personal or corporate website – blog
b. a job requiring expertise in a particular field – profession
c. a feeling of sadness – disappointment
d. put under custody – detained
e. found guilty – convicted
f. breaking or disregarding rules or systems – violating
g. advantages and disadvantages – pros and cons
h. a non-statutory monetary penalty – amercement
B. Use the following prepositional verbs in sentences.
She apologized to all of the patients she had kept waiting.
It is really hard for Jim to adapt to the new environment.
They devote an hour every day to worship.
Her mother never referred to him again.
The company has replied to the recent protests by posting an ad in the local newspaper.
I admire her dedication to the job.
Only genuine refugees can apply for asylum.
I came up here to pray for the most important things.
You feel a little like a scold for wanting it to buckle down and concentrate.
In parliament, all members voted for the new tax.
In the long run, men hit only what they aim at.
I arrive at nine o’clock.
With a glance at the demon lord, she stretched to grab it and rose.
He turned and looked at her.
She’s struggling to bring up a family alone.
We agree on the question.
She refused to comment on their decision.
She closed her eyes to concentrate hard on summoning the portal.
They rely on a well for all their water.
I was counting on the money from the insurance to buy a new house.
It’s a wonderful place to grow up.
He made a daring escape from his kidnappers.
We prayed she would recover from her illness.
He was forced to resign from the board in protest.
All children will tend to suffer from separation from their parents and siblings.
South America separated from Africa 200 million years ago.
She always worries about his weight.
My two elder sisters always argue with each other about politics.
She is boasting about how wonderful her car is.
I dreamed about Annie all last night.
Travel will acquaint us with new customs.
I know you agree with me.
It’s difficult to see a charge with in a sentence.
My parents trust me with their life.
People often confuse me and my twin brother.
I believe in working hard to achieve success.
The test will involve answering questions about a photograph.
He wants to succeed in everything he does.
The bakers specialize in catering for large parties.
Plants absorb carbon in the form of carbon dioxide.
Comprehension
Fill in the gaps with appropriate words/phrases from the text.
People are using social media for individual as well as marketing purposes.
Social media is not only a platform of sharing views, but also a platform of marketing strategy.
The hospital wanted Prita to pay Rp. 100 million for immaterial losses.
Some singers organized and clarified to help Prita.
The campaign to help Prita was able to collect Rp. 825 million.
Answer these questions.
How do you define social media?
Social media is a computer-based technology that facilitates the sharing of ideas, thoughts and information through the building of virtual networks and communities.
Social media has been an integral part of modern life. How?
Social media has been an integral part of modern life as it allows people to interact in ways we could never imagine and we can easily access to the person we want to talk from any part of the world to any different part of the world.
What is a blog? How can it be beneficial to us?
A blog is a regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversational style. It can be beneficial to us because we can improve our writing skills, connect with people, learn new things, and so on.
Was Prita’s intention bad when she sent a message to her friends?
No, Prita’s intention was not bad when she sent a message to her friends because she just wanted her friends to be more careful in accepting many kinds of services.
How did Prita’s message become a big problem?
Prita’s message became a big problem after her friend shared it to a website (The People’s Forum).
Why was she convicted by the court?
She was convicted by the court for violating the law about using ICT (Information and Communication Technology).
What was the purpose of the campaign, “Bantu Bebaskan Prita”?
The purpose of the campaign “Bantu Bebaskan Prita” was to collect money to help Prita so that she could pay the amercement.
How are people stronger than social media?
People are stronger than social media as they can easily think before they act and think before they speak.
Critical thinking
Does social media have a positive impact on society? Discuss.
Positive Impacts of Social Media
The advent of social media has ushered in a profound era of increased connectivity. This virtual landscape enables individuals to effortlessly forge connections with counterparts from every corner of the globe. This has engendered a more tightly interconnected and enlightened society, as people can now readily disseminate their ideas and experiences to a broader and more diverse audience. The result is an enhanced sense of shared humanity that transcends geographical boundaries.
In tandem with heightened connectivity, social media has catalyzed the democratization of information dissemination. By affording people easier access to a multitude of information sources, it has effectively disrupted the stranglehold of traditional media outlets. Consequently, individuals now wield greater control over the information they consume, fostering a more empowered and discerning public. This shift has empowered society to question, investigate, and engage with a wider array of perspectives and narratives.
Moreover, the digital realm has emerged as a potent catalyst for amplified activism. Social media platforms serve as dynamic megaphones that amplify voices advocating for societal change. This has yielded transformative outcomes, as seen in milestones such as the legalization of same-sex marriage and the resounding impact of movements like Black Lives Matter. By virtue of its ability to rapidly mobilize and unite like-minded individuals, social media has solidified its status as a force for positive social change.
Additionally, social media has kindled a renaissance of creativity, providing an innovative platform for artistic expression. A burgeoning plethora of art forms, music genres, and literary works have flourished in this digital terrain. Individuals now have a canvas through which to showcase their ingenuity, cultivating a vibrant cultural tapestry enriched by diversity and originality.
Negative Impacts of Social Media
Regrettably, the meteoric rise of social media has also ushered in a set of negative repercussions. Foremost among these is the rampant spread of misinformation. The rapid dissemination capabilities of social media platforms can inadvertently facilitate the proliferation of false information and malicious propaganda. This poses a significant challenge to the integrity of informed decision-making within society.
A darker facet of social media is its propensity to nurture cyberbullying and harassment. The anonymity afforded by digital interactions can embolden individuals to engage in hurtful behaviors that have profound psychological consequences for victims. The distress caused by online abuse can precipitate mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, and, tragically, even suicide.
Another alarming consequence is the rise of social media addiction. The alluring features of these platforms, combined with their ability to create a dopamine-driven feedback loop, can lead to excessive and detrimental usage patterns. Individuals may find themselves sacrificing time that could be spent on meaningful activities, straining relationships, hampering professional performance, and undermining overall well-being.
Furthermore, an ironic byproduct of social media’s connectivity is the potential for fostering loneliness and isolation. The virtual connections established through social media can provide a superficial sense of companionship that belies genuine human interaction. This has the unintended consequence of inhibiting individuals’ ability to forge deep and meaningful relationships in the physical world.
Balancing the Impacts
In summation, the phenomenon of social media manifests both constructive and detrimental effects upon society. Recognizing and appreciating this duality is paramount, as it enables us to harness the positive attributes while mitigating the negative aspects. The intrinsic potential of social media to augment global connectivity, knowledge dissemination, and activism remains an undeniable force for good. However, the responsible and judicious use of these platforms is essential to navigate their potential pitfalls. Embracing an informed approach ensures that the benefits continue to outweigh the drawbacks, allowing society to reap the rewards of this technological paradigm shift.
How do you compare virtual communication and face-to-face communication?
Communication happens in two ways: face-to-face and online. When we talk to someone in person, it makes life better. On the other hand, online communication brings new ways to connect with people.
Face-to-face communication means talking to someone in real life. It’s like when you’re with a friend or family member. You can see and feel their presence. But when we communicate online, we can’t see the person we’re talking to.
Talking face-to-face is an old-fashioned way to communicate. It’s good because you can see the person you’re talking to. This makes sharing information and ideas better. Even though the technology is advanced today, many people still like face-to-face talking because it’s clear. People use this type of communication when they want to talk casually with friends, family, or coworkers.
Virtual communication is when we talk to someone using a computer and the internet. Technology has made it easy for us to talk to others and do business online. We can send emails and messages whenever we want, even if the other person is not online. This helps us connect with people from anywhere without any limits.
Writing
What is cyberbullying? What are its effects? How can it be stopped?
Cyberbullying: Definition and Dynamics
Cyberbullying has emerged as a distressing phenomenon within the realm of digital communication. It encompasses the deliberate and repetitive use of various online platforms to intimidate, harass, demean, or threaten individuals. Unlike traditional forms of bullying that occur face-to-face, cyberbullying exploits the power of technology, utilizing channels such as social media, emails, text messages, and online forums to perpetrate harm. The perpetrators, often referred to as cyber bullies, target their victims with hurtful content, spread malicious rumours, engage in impersonation, send threatening messages, or even exclude them from virtual social circles. This form of bullying can transpire on a broad scale due to the wide reach of the digital landscape.
Effects of Cyberbullying
The effects of cyberbullying can be profound and multi-dimensional, impacting victims on emotional, psychological, and social levels. The emotional distress experienced by victims is often intense, characterized by feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and humiliation. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying takes place in an online arena, making it potentially inescapable and exacerbating emotional turmoil. The sense of isolation and loneliness is a common outcome, as the constant barrage of hurtful messages or the feeling of being excluded from online interactions can detach victims from their peer groups and communities.
Moreover, the repercussions of cyberbullying can extend to academic and professional spheres. The chronic stress caused by online harassment can hinder victims’ concentration, affecting their ability to perform well in school or excel in their professional endeavors. Additionally, victims may experience a decline in self-esteem and self-worth due to the repetitive exposure to negative online interactions. Over time, they might internalize the hurtful messages, leading to a distorted self-perception.
One of the gravest consequences of cyberbullying is its potential to contribute to mental health issues. The relentless nature of online harassment can lead to the development of anxiety disorders, depression, and, in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts. Tragically, there have been instances where cyberbullying has culminated in suicide, highlighting the critical need to address this issue proactively.
Preventing and Addressing Cyberbullying
Effectively addressing cyberbullying requires a multifaceted approach involving collaboration among individuals, families, schools, and society as a whole:
Education and Awareness: Schools and communities should prioritize educating individuals about the nature of cyberbullying, its profound consequences, and the importance of responsible online behavior. Raising awareness can foster empathy and discourage individuals from engaging in harmful actions.
Open Communication: Encouraging victims to communicate about their experiences with trusted adults or peers is crucial. Establishing open lines of dialogue helps victims feel supported and lessens the stigma associated with reporting cyberbullying incidents.
Digital Literacy: Promoting digital literacy is essential to equip individuals with the skills to navigate online spaces responsibly. Teaching them how to protect their personal information, manage privacy settings, and critically evaluate online content empowers them to make informed choices.
Parental Involvement: Parents play a pivotal role in guiding their children’s online activities. Initiating conversations about the potential risks of cyberbullying and providing guidance on appropriate online conduct can foster a sense of safety and trust.
Reporting Mechanisms: Social media platforms, schools, and online communities must establish effective reporting mechanisms for cyberbullying incidents. Swift and appropriate action in response to reports can deter potential perpetrators and safeguard victims.
Legal Consequences: In severe cases, legal measures might be necessary to address cyberbullying. While laws vary by jurisdiction, criminal charges or civil actions can be pursued to hold cyberbullies accountable.
Support for Victims: Victims of cyberbullying often require emotional support to cope with the aftermath. Encouraging them to seek help from mental health professionals, counselors, or support groups specializing in cyberbullying-related trauma can aid in their healing journey.
Building Empathy: Implementing programs that nurture empathy and kindness among peers can have a preventive impact. By fostering a culture of respect and support, communities can discourage cyberbullying and encourage positive online interactions.
In conclusion, combatting cyberbullying demands a concerted effort from all levels of society. By promoting responsible online behavior, facilitating open communication, and providing comprehensive support for victims, we can work towards mitigating the negative impact of cyberbullying. This collective endeavor aims to create a digital environment that prioritizes safety, empathy, and well-being for all individuals.
Grammar
Complete the following sentences using the correct prepositions of direction: to, toward, onto, or into.
Prem drove Milan to the airport.
The plane landed onto the runway.
The kids climbed onto the monkey bars.
Manish and Richa moved the table into the dining room.
Ganesh almost fell into the river.
Lalit and Sarita took the bus that was heading toward the university.
Complete the sentences with the correct preposition from the brackets.
While we were hiking through the forest, we saw a mountain lion. (across/through/along/under)
The leopards walked in a circle around the baby giraffe before they attacked.(into/towards/round/through)
Go out of the building and turn left. (into/up/off/out of)
She ran away from home when she was eighteen. (towards/away from/down/across)
Raindrops ran down the windscreen making it difficult to see the road.(into/up/down/over)
Hemanta put the plate onto the table and began to eat his dinner. (onto/into/up/off)
The frightened deer disappeared into the forest. (up/onto/into/toward)
We were driving towards the City Centre when we had an accident. (up/into/towards/along)
The smoke from the fire went up into the sky. (into/up/to/onto)