Introduction In the digital age, social media has transformed the way people connect, communicate, and share information. Some argue that platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok bring people closer by bridging...
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This in-depth guide analyses the argument that social media brings people closer together against the view that it fosters isolation, providing you with the nuanced arguments and structural tools needed to write a top-grade discussion essay.
Why this matters on the exam
Discussion essays on contemporary social issues are a staple of the English written exam for VG1, VG2, and VG3. The topic of social media's impact is particularly common because it directly relates to the curriculum's core element "Communication" and the interdisciplinary topic "Public Health and Life Skills". An examiner will expect you to move beyond personal opinion and demonstrate a structured, analytical approach to a complex issue. For example, a past exam task might ask you to discuss whether individuals or governments are responsible for public health, where the mental health effects of social media would be a highly relevant point. Another could ask you to discuss the challenges young people face today, where social media is a critical factor. Mastering the structure and argumentation shown here will prepare you for a wide range of similar tasks that require you to discuss two sides of a case before concluding.
Core Concepts for Discussing Social Media
To analyse this topic with precision, you need to use specific terminology. Using these terms correctly will elevate your analysis and impress the examiner by demonstrating subject knowledge. …