Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- momentum /moh-MEN-tuhm/
- implementation /im-pluh-muhn-TEY-shuhn/
- eradicate /ih-RAD-i-keyt /
- crackdown /KRAK-doun/
- adolescent /ad-l-ES-uhnt/
[noun] – the quality that keeps an event developing or making progress after it has started
The marathon runner gained momentum as she approached the finish line.
[noun] – the act of starting to use a plan or system
The company announced the implementation of a new policy to improve workplace diversity.
[verb] – to get rid of something completely or destroy something bad
Efforts are underway to eradicate the invasive species threatening the local ecosystem.
[noun] – a situation in which someone starts to deal with bad or illegal behavior in a more severe way
The government initiated a crackdown on illegal parking in the city center.
[noun] – a young person who is developing into an adult
The school organized a seminar to address the unique challenges faced by adolescents in today’s society.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
As Britain looks towards the new year, there is a growing focus on enhancing measures to safeguard young teenagers from potential risks associated with social media usage. This initiative gains momentum in the wake of the recent implementation of the Online Safety Act in October. This set of laws has been designed not only to fortify protections for children but also to eradicate illicit content from major online platforms, including Meta’s Instagram and Alphabet’s YouTube. These regulations are comprehensive, demanding that platforms bolster controls against illegal content and institute robust age verification measures.
It is worth noting that leading social media channels such as Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat have already set a precedent by enforcing a minimum age requirement of 13 for users. However, reports from Bloomberg indicate that the British government is considering more stringent measures. There is ongoing exploration into the possibility of a comprehensive crackdown on social media access for individuals under the age of 16, with potential considerations for outright bans within this age demographic. In response to these considerations, Science Minister Andrew Griffith affirmed the government’s dedication to striking a delicate balance. The aim is not only to preserve essential freedoms but also to empower parents with greater control over their children’s online experiences. This nuanced approach reflects a commitment to creating a digital environment that is not only free but also safe for young individuals, acknowledging the evolving landscape of online interactions and the imperative to protect the well-being of adolescents.
It is worth noting that leading social media channels such as Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat have already set a precedent by enforcing a minimum age requirement of 13 for users. However, reports from Bloomberg indicate that the British government is considering more stringent measures. There is ongoing exploration into the possibility of a comprehensive crackdown on social media access for individuals under the age of 16, with potential considerations for outright bans within this age demographic. In response to these considerations, Science Minister Andrew Griffith affirmed the government’s dedication to striking a delicate balance. The aim is not only to preserve essential freedoms but also to empower parents with greater control over their children’s online experiences. This nuanced approach reflects a commitment to creating a digital environment that is not only free but also safe for young individuals, acknowledging the evolving landscape of online interactions and the imperative to protect the well-being of adolescents.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you or someone you know ever faced challenges or concerns related to social media use, especially in terms of the content accessed by teenagers? If yes, could you share your experience and how you navigated these challenges? If not, do you believe there should be more stringent regulations to protect young individuals online?
- In your opinion, do you think a comprehensive crackdown on social media access for individuals under the age of 16, as considered by the British government, is a necessary step to ensure the well-being of adolescents? If yes, what potential benefits do you foresee? If not, what alternative solutions do you think could address the concerns raised in the article?
- Do you believe that social media platforms should implement stricter controls, including potential bans, for users under the age of 16 to ensure a safer online environment for adolescents?
- Considering the potential impact of a comprehensive crackdown on social media access for individuals under 16, what unintended consequences or challenges might arise, and how could these be mitigated?
- Reflecting on the nuanced approach mentioned in the article, where the government aims to balance essential freedoms with parental control, how can societies strike a delicate balance between fostering online freedom and ensuring the protection of young individuals in the digital age?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- ongoing
- precedent
- comprehensive
- acknowledge
- dedication