Dilla University

College of Social Sciences and Humanities

Communicative English Skills I (FLEN 1011) reading assignment

Instructions:

Read the passage carefully and answer all questions. Choose the correct answer for

multiple-choice items, and write clearly for all questions. Pay attention to vocabulary,

comprehension, and critical thinking.

Reading Passage

Social Media

In the past two decades, social media has transformed from a niche digital experiment into a
global communication ecosystem that influences nearly every dimension of modern life.
Platforms such as Facebook, X, TikTok, and Instagram have reshaped the way individuals
interact, learn, express opinions, and perceive the world around them. While these
platforms have become indispensable tools for connection and information exchange, their
rapid expansion has also generated complex social, psychological, and ethical dilemmas.

One of the most celebrated benefits of social media is its ability to bridge geographical and
cultural distances. People can maintain relationships across continents, participate in global
conversations, and access educational resources that were once available only to privileged
groups. For many, social media has become a powerful space for professional networking,
digital entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. Movements for political reform, social
justice, and humanitarian aid have gained unprecedented momentum because individuals
can mobilize, share real-time updates, and amplify marginalized voices with minimal
barriers.

Despite these advantages, social media also presents significant challenges that cannot be
ignored. The constant exposure to curated content can distort users’ perceptions of reality,
creating unhealthy comparisons and feelings of inadequacy. Studies increasingly link
excessive social media use with anxiety, depression, and reduced attention span,
particularly among adolescents.

Furthermore, the speed at which information travels makes platforms vulnerable to

Another contentious issue is the exploitation of user data. Many platforms collect extensive
personal information—sometimes without clear consent—to design targeted
advertisements or shape user behavior. This raises questions about surveillance, digital
privacy, and the ethical boundaries of algorithmic decision-making. Additionally, online
harassment, cyberbullying, and hate speech have become widespread problems, often
leaving victims without adequate support or protection.

Ultimately, social media is neither inherently beneficial nor harmful; rather, its impact
depends on how individuals, communities, and governments choose to shape and regulate
it. A balanced approach—one that promotes digital literacy, protects privacy, and
encourages responsible engagement—may allow societies to maximize the opportunities of
social media while minimizing its dangers. As digital landscapes continue to evolve,
understanding the dual nature of social media is essential for navigating the complexities of
contemporary communication.

A. Vocabulary (Multiple Choice)

1. What does “ecosystem” most nearly mean in the passage?

a) A natural forest b) A complex interconnected system c) A single platform d) A computer

2. What is the meaning of “indispensable”?

a) Optional b) Absolutely necessary c) Temporary d) Expensive

3. A synonym for “dilemmas” is:

a) Problems or challenges b) Opportunities c) Rewards d) Instructions

4. What does “curated” most nearly mean?

a) Randomly displayed b) Carefully selected and organized c) Confusing d) Hidden

5. The word “content” in paragraph 3 refers to:

a) Happiness b) Information or material published online c) Food d) User names

B. Word Reference

1. In paragraph 1, “these platforms” refers to:

a) Facebook, X, TikTok, Instagram b) Libraries c) Newspapers d) Schools

2. In paragraph 3, “their” in 'their rapid expansion' refers to:

a) Individuals b) Social media platforms c) Governments d) Adolescents

3. In paragraph 4, “this raises questions” refers to:

a) The dual nature of social media b) Exploitation of user data c) Civic engagement d)
Political
reform

4. In paragraph 2, “them” in 'amplify marginalized voices' refers to:

a) Individuals on social media b) Governments c) Media companies d) Advertisements

C. True / False

1. ___ Social media allows people to connect across continents.

2. ___ Excessive social media use is linked to anxiety and depression.

3. ___ Social media is inherently harmful and should be banned.

4. ___ Online platforms can spread misinformation faster than verified facts.

5. ___ Data exploitation and privacy concerns are highlighted as challenges.

D. Multiple Choice (Comprehension)

1. What is one positive impact of social media?

a) It causes cyberbullying b) It bridges geographical and cultural distances c) It distorts

invades privacy

2. What negative effect is linked to curated content?

a) Improved self-esteem b) Unhealthy comparisons and feelings of inadequacy c) Faster

communication d) Educational growth

3. How does social media contribute to civic engagement?

a) By promoting only private messages b) By amplifying marginalized voices and mobilizing

c) By restricting global conversations d) By limiting education

4. Which issue relates to ethical concerns in social media?

a) User data exploitation and targeted ads b) Planting vegetation in cities c) Redesigning

infrastructure d) Heatwaves

5. According to the passage, social media's impact depends on:

a) Government bans b) How individuals, communities, and governments manage and

6. What can be inferred about social media's dual nature?

a) It is only positive b) It is only negative c) It has both positive and negative impacts d) It
has no

impact

7. Writer’s Purpose: Why does the author discuss online harassment and misinformation?

a) To show that social media is useless b) To illustrate negative consequences alongside

c) To promote a platform d) To discourage education

7. What is the central argument of the passage?

a) Social media is dangerous and should be banned b) Social media offers benefits and risks;

responsible use is essential c) Technology has replaced all communication d) Online

only for entertainment

8. If societies follow the author’s recommendations, what is likely to happen?

a) Maximize benefits and minimize dangers of social media b) Ban social media entirely c)

Encourage unrestricted use d) Stop using technology

9. Which solution is suggested to reduce negative impacts?

a) Promote digital literacy and responsible engagement b) Avoid all communication c)

education from platforms d) Ignore privacy concerns

Answer

A. Vovmcabulary

B Word Reference
C Multiple Choice Part

D True False Part