Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- accountable /uh-KOUN-tuh-buhl/
- systemic /si-STEM-ik/
- amendment /uh-MEND-muhnt/
- efficacy /EF-i-kuh-see/
- fundamental /fuhn-duh-MEN-tl/
[adjective] – required to take responsibility for actions or decisions and explain them when necessary
Companies must be accountable for the environmental impact of their operations.
[adjective] – relating to or affecting an entire system, rather than just parts of it
The company is addressing systemic problems in its supply chain.
[noun] – a change to a law, either one that has already been passed or one that is still being discussed
The constitution was updated with several amendments last year.
[noun] – the ability of something to produce the intended result
Many studies have questioned the efficacy of strict diets in maintaining long-term weight loss.
[adjective] – forming the base, from which everything else develops
The right to freedom of speech is a fundamental principle of democracy.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Australia’s House of Representatives passed a groundbreaking bill on November 27, 2024, aimed at banning children under 16 from creating social media accounts. The proposed law targets major platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, and Instagram, holding them accountable for ensuring compliance with age restrictions. Fines for systemic failures could reach 50 million Australian dollars (33 million USD). The bill, which was supported by the country’s major political parties, passed by a vote of 102 to 13. If the Senate approves the legislation, the platforms will have one year to develop mechanisms for enforcement before penalties take effect. Opposition lawmaker Dan Tehan noted that amendments in the Senate would enhance privacy protections, barring platforms from requiring government-issued identification for verification. Critics, however, voiced concerns that the legislation was rushed and could introduce privacy risks, undermine parental authority, and push children toward unsafe online spaces.
The bill’s introduction has sparked debate on its efficacy and broader implications. Critics argue that the restrictions may fail to address the fundamental risks of social media, with independent lawmakers labeling the measure insufficient. Platforms have suggested delaying the vote until mid-2025 to allow for a comprehensive review of age-verification technologies. Despite the criticisms, advocates believe the legislation is a pivotal step toward safeguarding young users. Wayne Holdsworth, an advocate for online safety, described the bill as essential for protecting children from online threats. Although the Senate has yet to vote, widespread support in Parliament suggests the legislation will likely pass, marking a significant development in global efforts to regulate social media and protect younger populations.
The bill’s introduction has sparked debate on its efficacy and broader implications. Critics argue that the restrictions may fail to address the fundamental risks of social media, with independent lawmakers labeling the measure insufficient. Platforms have suggested delaying the vote until mid-2025 to allow for a comprehensive review of age-verification technologies. Despite the criticisms, advocates believe the legislation is a pivotal step toward safeguarding young users. Wayne Holdsworth, an advocate for online safety, described the bill as essential for protecting children from online threats. Although the Senate has yet to vote, widespread support in Parliament suggests the legislation will likely pass, marking a significant development in global efforts to regulate social media and protect younger populations.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever felt that social media platforms are not safe for young people? If yes, what made you feel this way, and how do you think it can be improved? If not, why do you think social media feels safe for young users?
- Have you ever seen or heard about rules for using social media in your country? If so, what were the rules, and do you think they are useful? If not, what kind of rules do you think should exist for social media?
- Do you agree that social media companies should be fined if they fail to enforce age restrictions?
- What are some ways social media platforms could check a person’s age without risking privacy?
- How can parents and governments work together to make social media safer for young users?
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.
- penalty
- lawmaker
- identification
- social media
- online threat