Question 1: Explain two ways in which social media can influence public opinion.

Answer: Social media can influence public opinion by enabling widespread sharing of information quickly and allowing users to form opinions based on the content they see. It also allows for the amplification of certain viewpoints, making some opinions more prominent than others.

Question 2: Describe a scenario where biased media reporting could affect people's perceptions of an event.

Answer: If a news outlet reports only one side of a protest without mentioning opposing views, viewers might perceive the event as solely negative or positive, leading to a skewed perception based on incomplete information.

Question 3: Identify two characteristics of reliable news sources and explain why they are important.

Answer: Reliable news sources verify their information before publishing and cite credible evidence or sources. These characteristics are important because they ensure the information is accurate and trustworthy, helping the public make informed decisions.

Question 4: Discuss the potential dangers of misinformation spread through social media.

Answer: Misinformation can mislead people, cause panic or confusion, and influence opinions based on false facts. It can also lead to harmful actions, reinforce stereotypes, or spread conspiracy theories.

Question 5: Draw a simple diagram illustrating the process of how a news story is created and shared on social media. Label each stage clearly.

Answer: A correct diagram would include stages such as: (1) a journalist or user creates content, (2) the content is published on a social media platform, (3) other users share or comment on it, and (4) it reaches a wide audience. Labels should clearly identify each step.

Question 6: Evaluate the impact of social media influencers on youth opinions about fashion and lifestyle.

Answer: Social media influencers can significantly shape youth opinions by showcasing trends and products, leading to increased popularity of certain styles. They can also influence attitudes towards materialism and self-image, sometimes promoting unrealistic standards.

Question 7: Identify one method the government could use to ensure that the media provides balanced and accurate information.

Answer: The government could enforce regulations requiring media outlets to fact-check their reports and provide balanced viewpoints, possibly through media watchdog agencies.

Question 8: Sketch a layout for a balanced news article page. Include titles, images (descriptive), and sections for different viewpoints.

Answer: A balanced layout would have a prominent headline, a main article with a clear beginning, middle, and end, side columns for opposing viewpoints or opinions, and placeholders for images that illustrate different perspectives, such as photos of the event and quotes from various sources.

Question 9: Explain how social media platforms can both positively and negatively affect community cohesion.

Answer: Social media can positively affect community cohesion by allowing members to communicate, share events, and support each other. Conversely, it can negatively impact cohesion if it spreads rumors, fosters conflict, or creates echo chambers that reinforce divisions.

Question 10: Reflect on a recent news story you have encountered. How did the way it was presented influence your understanding of the event?

Answer: (Students' responses will vary. A good answer might mention that the framing of the story, choice of language, or images used affected their perception, either making the event seem more serious, biased, or neutral.)