Answers to the Questions:
Question 1:
What is one of the main purposes of the passage?
Answer: To inform readers about the effects of social media on communication.
Question 2:
How does the author’s viewpoint influence the tone of the passage?
Answer: The author's neutral viewpoint creates an objective tone that presents both sides of the social media debate.
Question 3:
How does the use of rhetorical devices such as parallelism in the phrase "hashtag movements like #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter" affect the argument presented in the passage?
Answer: It strengthens the argument by emphasizing the widespread influence of social media on important social issues.
Question 4:
How does the author’s use of examples such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter contribute to the effectiveness of the argument about the role of social media in social movements?
Answer: The author uses examples like #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter to illustrate specific instances where social media has played a pivotal role in amplifying marginalized voices and raising awareness on critical issues. This effectively demonstrates that social media serves as a powerful tool for positive change, highlighting its potential to mobilize support and create significant societal impact. By referencing these recognizable movements, the author reinforces the argument that social media can democratize communication and facilitate important discussions on social justice.
Question 5:
Evaluate how the author balances the discussion of social media’s benefits and drawbacks in the passage.
Answer: The author effectively balances the discussion of social media’s benefits and drawbacks by presenting both sides of the argument. Initially, the author highlights the positive aspects, such as the democratization of communication and the role of social media in significant social movements, illustrating its potential for positive change. Examples like #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter serve to underscore the arguments in favor of social media as a tool for amplifying marginalized voices.
However, the author does not shy away from presenting the criticisms of social media, pointing out issues such as the prioritization of sensational content, the spread of misinformation, and the potential negative impact on mental health due to curated images of perfection. This dual presentation allows readers to understand that while social media can foster connection and social movements, it also possesses inherent risks and challenges.
The author's purpose of providing a balanced viewpoint shapes the presentation of arguments, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of social media's impact on society. The overall tone remains objective, encouraging readers to critically evaluate the complex nature of social media and its effects, leading to a nuanced perspective on how it can be both beneficial and detrimental. This balance ultimately helps the reader grasp the multifaceted implications of social media in contemporary communication.