Question

A)
Passage A: History of Social Media
The history of social media began in the late 1990s with the rise of early social networking sites. Websites like SixDegrees.com
allowed users to create profiles, connect with friends, and send messages online. These early platforms laid the foundation for
later, more advanced social media networks by showing the potential for connecting people across distances.
In the early 2000s, platforms such as Friendster and MySpace became extremely popular. These sites introduced more
interactive features like photos, blogs, and custom profiles. Users could express their personalities and form communities
around shared interests. This era marked a shift in social media from simple online connections to more personal, identitybased networking.
By the mid-2000s, Facebook entered the scene and quickly gained millions of users worldwide. The platform’s focus on real-life
social connections, combined with tools to share photos and updates, set the stage for the modern era of social media. Today
there are many different social media platforms for people to connect with each other, whether you prefer videos, photos, or the
written word, there is something for everyone.
Passage B: Social Media Community
Social media has also played a significant role in communication and the spread of information. Early sites like MySpace and
Facebook allowed users to share updates, news, and messages with friends instantly. Over time, platforms such as Twitter and
Instagram focused on broadcasting content to a wider audience, making it easier to share news, opinions, and trends in real
time.
The growth of mobile technology further accelerated social media’s impact. Smartphones and apps allowed users to post
photos, videos, and updates from anywhere, creating new ways for people to interact. Social media has become not just a tool
for connecting with friends, but also for following celebrities, organizations, and global events.
17. Which TWO ideas are emphasized by the author of Passage A but NOT by the author of
Passage B? (Select 2)
(2 points)
A. Social media platforms allowed users to share news and opinions quickly.
B. Early social networking sites helped people connect across distances.
C. Facebook focused on real-life social connections and sharing updates.
D. Social media became a tool for personal expression and online identity.
E. Smartphones and apps allowed posting from anywhere.
F. Social media helps people follow celebrities and organizations.

Answer 1

B and D.

- B: Passage A explicitly says early sites "allowed...connect with friends" and "connecting people across distances"; Passage B does not emphasize connecting across distances.
- D: Passage A highlights "personal, identity-based networking" and users expressing personalities; Passage B does not emphasize personal expression/online identity.