Reading Passage: The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers
Social media has become a powerful tool in the lives of teenagers today. Platforms
such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat allow young people to stay connected
with friends, share personal moments, and express themselves creatively. These
platforms provide entertainment, a sense of community, and even opportunities for
learning.
However, there are growing concerns about the negative effects of excessive social
media use. Many teenagers spend hours scrolling through content, which can
reduce the time they spend on physical activity, studying, or sleeping. Additionally,
social media can lead to unrealistic comparisons, where teens may feel pressure to
look or live a certain way based on what they see online. This can affect their self-
esteem and mental health.
Cyberbullying is another major issue. Some teens experience harassment,
exclusion, or threats online, which can lead to anxiety or depression. While social
media companies have taken steps to improve safety, these problems still exist and
require ongoing attention.
Despite the challenges, social media is not entirely harmful. When used in a
balanced and thoughtful way, it can promote connection, creativity, and even
activism. The key is for both teens and parents to be aware of how social media is
used and to build healthy habits around it.
✅ Comprehension Questions (Trắc nghiệm – B2 Level):
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. Social media should be banned for teenagers.
B. Social media has both benefits and risks for teens.
C. Teenagers no longer value real-life relationships.
D. All social media platforms are dangerous.
2. Which of the following is a positive effect of social media mentioned in the
passage?
A. Lower grades in school
B. More time on phones
C. Opportunities for learning and connection
D. Easier access to online games
3. What does the passage say about excessive social media use?
A. It encourages creativity.
B. It helps improve mental health.
C. It can reduce time spent on healthy activities.
D. It leads to better academic performance.
4. What does the word “comparisons” in paragraph 2 most likely mean?
A. Making friends
B. Judging yourself by looking at others
C. Posting pictures
D. Copying someone’s ideas
5. Which problem is directly related to mental health in the text?
A. Studying too hard
B. Watching too much TV
C. Feeling pressure from social media posts
D. Learning too quickly
6. What does “it” refer to in the sentence:
“...it can promote connection, creativity, and even activism.”?
A. Creativity
B. Mental health
C. Social media
D. Anxiety
7. What is cyberbullying?
A. Sending funny memes
B. Studying through the internet
C. Online harassment and threats
D. Playing games online with strangers
8. What have social media companies done to address safety concerns?
A. Closed all chat functions
B. Improved security and monitoring tools
C. Removed all comment sections
D. Limited screen time for all users
9. What is the author’s attitude towards social media?
A. Completely negative
B. Neutral and uninterested
C. Balanced – recognizing both pros and cons
D. Overly optimistic
10. According to the passage, what is necessary to use social media well?
A. Avoid all online interactions
B. Let teens use it without limits
C. Be aware and create healthy habits
D. Use it only for school purposes
Point : 8/10