Question 56
GCE_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1
•
2017
•
ENGLISH_LANGUAGE
•
objective
Write a short debate paragraph (maximum 150 words) on the statement: "Social media does more harm than good for teenagers." You must take a clear position, present at least two supporting points, and address one counter‑argument.
Answer Options
Correct Answer
A.
Social media does more harm than good for teenagers because it significantly undermines mental health and jeopardises personal privacy. Firstly, constant exposure to curated images fuels anxiety and low self‑esteem, as research shows a direct link between heavy social‑media use and depressive symptoms. Secondly, teenagers often share personal information without understanding the long‑term consequences, making them vulnerable to cyber‑bullying and identity theft. While some argue that social media enhances social connectivity, the superficial nature of online interactions rarely replaces genuine face‑to‑face relationships and can even increase feelings of isolation. Consequently, the detrimental effects outweigh any perceived benefits, and stricter guidance is essential to protect young users.
B.
Social media is largely harmless to teenagers and mainly serves as harmless entertainment. Firstly, scrolling through videos and memes offers a fun way to relax after school, with no proven link to serious mental‑health issues. Secondly, the fleeting nature of posts means personal information is rarely retained long enough to cause privacy breaches. While opponents point to cases of cyber‑bullying, these incidents are isolated and can be mitigated by simple parental monitoring. In sum, the light‑hearted enjoyment and minimal risk make social media a benign pastime for teens, requiring only basic supervision.
C.
Social media does more good than harm for teenagers because it expands their horizons and fosters valuable skills. Firstly, platforms provide instant access to educational content and global news, enabling teens to stay informed and develop digital literacy. Secondly, online communities offer support for marginalized groups, allowing young people to find acceptance and share experiences. While critics claim that social media harms mental health, many studies show that moderate use can boost self‑esteem through positive feedback and creative expression. Therefore, the advantages of connectivity, learning, and empowerment outweigh the potential drawbacks, and responsible usage guidelines should focus on maximizing these benefits.
D.
Social media benefits teenagers more than it harms by encouraging civic engagement and creativity. Firstly, it gives youths a voice in social movements, allowing them to organize protests and spread awareness quickly. Secondly, content‑creation tools let teens explore art, music, and writing, building portfolios for future careers. Although some argue that privacy is at risk, most platforms now offer robust privacy settings that protect personal data when used correctly. Consequently, the empowerment and skill‑building opportunities provided by social media surpass the alleged negatives, and educators should integrate it into curricula rather than restrict it.
Correct Answer
A
Correct Option:
Social media does more harm than good for teenagers because it significantly undermines mental health and jeopardises personal privacy. Firstly, constant exposure to curated images fuels anxiety and low self‑esteem, as research shows a direct link between heavy social‑media use and depressive symptoms. Secondly, teenagers often share personal information without understanding the long‑term consequences, making them vulnerable to cyber‑bullying and identity theft. While some argue that social media enhances social connectivity, the superficial nature of online interactions rarely replaces genuine face‑to‑face relationships and can even increase feelings of isolation. Consequently, the detrimental effects outweigh any perceived benefits, and stricter guidance is essential to protect young users.
About This Question
This is
Gce Model Questions Vol1
2017
English Language
Question 56.
It is one of the
objective
questions from the
2017
Gce Model Questions Vol1
English Language
examination.
Difficulty level:
Hard
.