Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- How do you usually use social media, and what do you enjoy about it?
- Do you think people should be held responsible for what they post online? Why or why not?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- proposal /pruh-POH-zuhl/
- regulation /reg-yuh-LEY-shuhn/
- misinformation /mis-in-fer-MEY-shuhn/
- platform /PLAT-fawrm/
- compliance /kuhm-PLAHY-uhns/
[noun] – a suggestion, sometimes a written one, for a plan or idea
The teacher shared a proposal for the class project.
[noun] – an official rule or the act of controlling something
The new regulation requires students to wear uniforms every day.
[noun] – false or incorrect information shared without the intent to mislead
The teacher explained how misinformation can confuse students during a test.
[noun] – a digital service or system used for communication or sharing information
Students use the platform to submit their homework online.
[noun] – the act of obeying an order, rule, or request
The school checked for compliance with the new safety rules.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez presented a detailed proposal to improve social media regulations within the European Union on January 24. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Sánchez emphasized the importance of enhancing online safety and protecting democratic values. The proposal features three key measures: a mandatory real-identity system for social media users, increased algorithm transparency, and executive accountability for platform violations. These steps aim to combat misinformation, cyber harassment, and the growing influence of powerful tech companies. Sánchez compared social media platforms to essential resources, stating that regulation is crucial to prevent misuse and societal harm.
The plan introduces a “European digital identity wallet” to link pseudonyms to verified identities, while still allowing anonymity for legal activities. However, digital rights groups have criticized the initiative, warning it may restrict freedom of expression. Another component involves stricter enforcement of the EU’s Digital Services Act, with oversight provided by the European Centre for Algorithm Transparency. This measure seeks to address algorithmic manipulation and ensure intellectual property compliance. The final measure holds executives accountable for regulatory violations, inspired by similar UK laws. Reactions to the proposal have been mixed, with some supporting its goals and others viewing it as overly restrictive. Sánchez emphasized the urgency of implementing these changes to mitigate risks posed by unregulated platforms.
The plan introduces a “European digital identity wallet” to link pseudonyms to verified identities, while still allowing anonymity for legal activities. However, digital rights groups have criticized the initiative, warning it may restrict freedom of expression. Another component involves stricter enforcement of the EU’s Digital Services Act, with oversight provided by the European Centre for Algorithm Transparency. This measure seeks to address algorithmic manipulation and ensure intellectual property compliance. The final measure holds executives accountable for regulatory violations, inspired by similar UK laws. Reactions to the proposal have been mixed, with some supporting its goals and others viewing it as overly restrictive. Sánchez emphasized the urgency of implementing these changes to mitigate risks posed by unregulated platforms.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- Who presented the proposal to improve social media regulations?
- When and where was the proposal presented?
- What is the main goal of the proposal?
- What are the three key measures included in the proposal?
- Why did Sánchez compare social media platforms to essential resources?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever heard of rules to make social media safer? If so, do you think they were helpful? If not, what rules would you suggest?
- Have you ever experienced someone sharing incorrect information online? If so, how did you handle it? If not, what would you do?
- Do you agree with holding social media companies responsible for false information?
- Why is it important to balance safety and freedom of expression on social media?
- What could be some disadvantages of stricter social media regulations?