Social Networking

How to use this topic

This speaking unit focuses on "Social Networking". The goal is to move beyond short answers and build paragraphs you could use in conversation, interviews, or presentations.

Strong answers usually mix description (what happened), explanation (why it matters), and evaluation (what you think now). Try to use at least three new words from the list below.

Be ready to compare benefits and risks without relying only on slogans.

In class, aim for clear structure: state one main idea, give one concrete example, then invite your partner to respond with a question.

Vocabulary

Headwords stay in English; the short explanations follow your language.

• algorithm a set of rules a computer uses to sort or show content
• privacy control over who sees your personal information
• misinformation false information spread without intending to lie
• disinformation false information spread on purpose to mislead
• notification an alert on your phone or computer
• screen time hours spent using phones, TVs, or computers
• digital footprint the record of your activity left online
• cyberbullying using digital tools to harass or threaten someone
• relevant closely connected to the subject you are discussing
• experience something that you have lived through
• opinion what you think about a topic, not necessarily a fact
• background earlier events or context that help explain a situation
• compare look at two things to see how they are similar or different
• contrast focus on differences between two things
• summarize give the main ideas in a short form
• bias a tendency to prefer one side or view unfairly
• clarify make something easier to understand by explaining it
• elaborate add more detail to what you are saying
• point of view a personal opinion or way of seeing a topic
• assumption something you accept as true without proof
• nuance a small, subtle difference in meaning or feeling
• hedging using careful language so you do not sound too absolute

Useful phrases

These lines are in English so you can use them directly in class.

• If I had to introduce “Social Networking” in one sentence, I would say…
• The aspect of Social Networking that affects me most directly is…
• Compared with five years ago, Social Networking seems to have become…
• I would explain Social Networking to a younger learner by saying…
• A common misconception about Social Networking is…
• What I still want to learn about Social Networking is…
• Could you elaborate on what you mean by that?
• I see your point; however, I would add that…
• I am not entirely sure, but my impression is that…

Example sentences

Model sentences in English; try adapting them with your own details.

1. When our teacher announced the topic “Social Networking,” I immediately thought of a story from my own life.
2. I would define “Social Networking” in everyday language as something people notice, talk about, and sometimes disagree on.
3. In my community, Social Networking comes up in conversations more often than strangers might expect.
4. If someone asked me for advice about Social Networking, I would first ask what situation they are facing.
5. One article I read connected Social Networking to wider social changes, not only personal choices.
6. I try to listen carefully when classmates discuss Social Networking because opinions vary a lot.
7. My family and I do not always share the same view on Social Networking, but we usually stay respectful.
8. On social media, Social Networking is often simplified, so I prefer longer discussions in class.
9. I would summarize my stance on Social Networking as cautious optimism, though details matter.
10. Studying Social Networking in English helps me express ideas I already have in my first language.
11. The topic Social Networking makes me reconsider how much attention I give to screens.
12. I try to verify claims I see online before I discuss Social Networking with friends.

Discussion questions

Questions are in English to match oral practice.

• What is the first example you think of when you hear “Social Networking”?
• How is Social Networking viewed differently by different generations in your country?
• Has your personal attitude toward Social Networking changed over time? Why?
• What habits or policies could improve outcomes related to Social Networking?
• Who is most affected by Social Networking, and in what concrete ways?
• What is a respectful way to disagree with someone about Social Networking?
• Which news source or book has shaped your ideas about Social Networking?
• What is one myth or stereotype people should stop repeating about Social Networking?
• If you could interview an expert on Social Networking, what three questions would you ask?
• How does Social Networking appear in films, songs, or advertisements you know?
• What role should schools play in teaching students about Social Networking?
• Describe a time when Social Networking created a dilemma for you or someone you know.
• What would you like foreigners to understand about Social Networking in your culture?
• Looking ahead ten years, how might Social Networking evolve, in your opinion?

Writing prompts

Prompts are in English for written practice.

• Write a 150-word paragraph explaining why “Social Networking” matters to you personally.
• Write a dialogue between two friends who disagree politely about Social Networking.
• Write a short reflective journal entry: “What I learned after discussing Social Networking in class.”