TOEFL Speaking
social media
Practice questions
- 1.Do you think social media has more positive or negative effects on personal relationships? Why?
- 2.How has social media changed the way people communicate in professional settings?
- 3.What role should governments play in regulating social media content?
- 4.Discuss the impact of social media on mental health, particularly among teenagers.
- 5.In your opinion, can social media be used effectively for educational purposes? Provide examples.
Model answer
In my view, social media has both positive and negative effects on personal relationships, but the negatives often outweigh the positives. On the positive side, platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp allow people to maintain connections across long distances, which can strengthen bonds. However, I believe the drawbacks are more significant. Social media often replaces face-to-face interaction with superficial communication, leading to weaker emotional connections. People may present idealized versions of their lives, causing envy and misunderstanding. Additionally, excessive use can lead to addiction, reducing the quality time spent with loved ones. For example, many couples argue about phone use during meals. Overall, while social media offers convenience, it often undermines the depth of real relationships. Therefore, I think it has a net negative effect on personal relationships.
Target vocabulary
superficial
lacking depth or substance; not thorough
idealized
represented as perfect or better than reality
envy
a feeling of discontented longing for someone else's advantages
addiction
compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance or activity
undermine
to weaken or damage gradually
net negative
overall harmful after considering both positive and negative aspects