Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Can social media be harmful? If so, in what ways?
- What are some of the positive impacts that social media can have on people or society?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- enforcement /en-FAWRS-muhnt/
- verification /ver-uh-fi-KEY-shuhn/
- thorough /THUR-oh/
- criticism /KRIT-uh-siz-uhm/
- pending /PEN-ding/
[noun] – the process of making people obey a law or rule, or making a particular situation happen or be accepted
The police are responsible for the enforcement of traffic laws.
[noun] – the process of confirming something is true, accurate, or legitimate
The bank requires verification of identity before processing large transactions.
[adjective] – complete with attention to every detail
The team conducted a thorough inspection of the building.
[noun] – the expression of disapproval or pointing out mistakes
The movie received heavy criticism for its lack of originality.
[adjective] – awaiting a decision or action; not yet settled
There are several pending tasks that need to be completed by the end of the day.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
On November 27, 2024, Australia’s House of Representatives passed a historic bill aimed at banning children under 16 from creating social media accounts. This law targets major platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and Snapchat, making them responsible for enforcing age restrictions. If they fail to comply, they could face fines up to 50 million Australian dollars (about 33 million USD). The bill passed with strong support, 102 votes in favor and 13 against, from the country’s main political parties. If the Senate approves the bill, social media platforms will have one year to set up enforcement measures before penalties begin.
Opposition lawmaker Dan Tehan pointed out that Senate amendments would strengthen privacy protections, preventing platforms from requiring government-issued IDs for age verification. However, some critics argue the bill was rushed and could introduce privacy issues, undermine parental control, and push children into dangerous online spaces. The bill has sparked debates on its effectiveness. Some believe it doesn’t address the core risks of social media, with independent lawmakers calling it insufficient. Platforms have suggested delaying the vote to allow for a more thorough review of age-verification technologies. Despite criticism, many support the bill as a crucial step in protecting young users. Advocate Wayne Holdsworth called it vital for safeguarding children from online dangers. While the Senate’s vote is pending, there’s strong support for the bill’s approval.
Opposition lawmaker Dan Tehan pointed out that Senate amendments would strengthen privacy protections, preventing platforms from requiring government-issued IDs for age verification. However, some critics argue the bill was rushed and could introduce privacy issues, undermine parental control, and push children into dangerous online spaces. The bill has sparked debates on its effectiveness. Some believe it doesn’t address the core risks of social media, with independent lawmakers calling it insufficient. Platforms have suggested delaying the vote to allow for a more thorough review of age-verification technologies. Despite criticism, many support the bill as a crucial step in protecting young users. Advocate Wayne Holdsworth called it vital for safeguarding children from online dangers. While the Senate’s vote is pending, there’s strong support for the bill’s approval.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What is the main purpose of the bill passed by Australia’s House of Representatives?
- What could happen if social media platforms don’t follow the new law?
- How many votes were in favor of the bill in the House of Representatives?
- What is expected to happen if the Senate approves the bill?
- Why do some people support the bill, according to advocate Wayne Holdsworth?
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 heard of someone your age having problems because of social media? If yes, can you share what happened? If not, why do you think some people face issues with social media?
- Do you agree that children under 16 should not be allowed to use social media?
- What could happen if social media platforms don’t enforce age restrictions?
- What are some other ways that the government could help protect children online without banning them from using social media?