Passage

Title: The Role of Social Media in Modern Activism

In recent years, social media has transformed the way people engage with social and political issues. Platforms
like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook have become hubs for activism, allowing individuals to share
information, organize events, and amplify voices that may otherwise go unheard. From movements like
#MeToo to global climate strikes, social media has proven to be a powerful tool for grassroots change.
However, this newfound accessibility has also raised concerns. Critics argue that social media activism, often
referred to as "slacktivism," enables individuals to appear socially engaged without taking meaningful action.
For example, sharing a hashtag or liking a post might create the illusion of participation, while the real work of
activism—protests, lobbying, or volunteering—requires more substantial effort.
Moreover, the algorithms driving social media can create echo chambers, where users are only exposed to
viewpoints that align with their own. This can hinder constructive dialogue and deepen societal divisions.
Despite these challenges, the potential of social media to mobilize and educate remains undeniable.
The effectiveness of social media activism ultimately depends on how it is used. While it cannot replace
traditional forms of advocacy, it can complement them, providing tools for outreach and education. By striking
a balance between online and offline efforts, modern activists can leverage the strengths of both worlds to create
meaningful and lasting change.

Questions
Section A: Comprehension (5 marks)
1. Identify two ways social media has been used for activism as described in the passage.
2. What does the term "slacktivism" mean in the context of the passage?
3. According to the passage, what are the risks of social media algorithms?
Section B: Analysis (5 marks)
4. Discuss how the author balances the positive and negative aspects of social media activism.
Provide examples from the text.
5. How does the author suggest modern activists can effectively use social media?
Section C: Critical Thinking (5 marks)
6. Do you think social media activism is a substitute for traditional activism? Why or why not?
Support your answer with arguments.
Model Answers
Section A: Comprehension
1. Two ways social media has been used for activism:
o Sharing information and organizing events (e.g., global climate strikes).

o Amplifying marginalized voices (e.g., movements like #MeToo).

2. Definition of "slacktivism":
It refers to a form of activism where individuals engage in minimal actions, such as sharing hashtags or
liking posts, which create the illusion of meaningful participation without substantial effort.
3. Risks of social media algorithms:
Algorithms can create echo chambers, limiting exposure to diverse viewpoints and deepening societal
divisions.
Section B: Analysis
4. Balancing positive and negative aspects:
The author highlights the power of social media to mobilize and amplify voices, as seen in movements
like #MeToo. At the same time, they address criticisms, such as "slacktivism" and echo chambers,
demonstrating a balanced view.
5. Effective use of social media by activists:
Activists should combine online and offline efforts. While social media can educate and reach broader
audiences, traditional methods like protests and lobbying are crucial for tangible change.
Section C: Critical Thinking
6. Is social media activism a substitute for traditional activism?
No, it is not a substitute. Social media activism is a complementary tool that enhances outreach and
awareness. Traditional activism, such as protests and policy advocacy, remains essential for enacting
tangible change. Without real-world action, the impact of online campaigns may be limited.
Passage 1
Title: The Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its influence on society becomes increasingly profound. From
healthcare and education to entertainment and transportation, AI systems are revolutionizing industries. Yet,
these advancements are not without ethical dilemmas. One prominent concern is the potential for bias in AI
algorithms. Since AI learns from existing data, it may replicate and even amplify societal prejudices, leading to
discrimination in areas such as hiring or law enforcement.
Another pressing issue is the question of accountability. When an autonomous vehicle causes an accident or an
AI system makes a flawed medical diagnosis, determining responsibility can be challenging. Does the blame lie
with the developers, the users, or the technology itself? The lack of clear legal frameworks further complicates
this matter.
Despite these concerns, proponents argue that the benefits of AI far outweigh the risks. They highlight its
potential to address critical challenges, such as climate change through predictive modeling or improving
healthcare through personalized medicine. Nevertheless, achieving these benefits requires a careful balancing
act between innovation and ethical governance.
Ultimately, the question is not whether AI should be used but how it should be regulated. Transparent practices,
ethical oversight, and global cooperation are essential to ensuring that AI serves humanity rather than exploits it.

Questions
Section A: Comprehension (5 marks)
1. What are two ethical concerns related to AI mentioned in the passage?
2. How does the author suggest society address the risks associated with AI?
3. What is one benefit of AI, according to proponents?
Section B: Analysis (5 marks)
4. Analyze how the author structures the argument to present both risks and benefits of AI.
5. What is the significance of the phrase “a careful balancing act” in the context of AI development?
Section C: Critical Thinking (5 marks)
6. To what extent do you agree with the author’s assertion that “the benefits of AI far outweigh the
risks”? Justify your answer with examples or reasoning.
Model Answers
Section A
1. Two ethical concerns:
o Bias in AI algorithms leading to discrimination.

o Lack of accountability in cases of AI-related errors.

2. Addressing AI risks:
Through transparent practices, ethical oversight, and global cooperation.
3. Benefit of AI:
AI can address climate change through predictive modeling or improve healthcare through personalized
medicine.
Section B
4. Structuring the argument:
The author juxtaposes risks (e.g., bias, accountability issues) with benefits (e.g., addressing climate
change), creating a balanced view that underscores the importance of ethical governance.
5. “A careful balancing act” significance:
It emphasizes the need to weigh innovation against potential ethical and societal risks, ensuring progress
does not come at the expense of fairness or safety.
Section C
6. Extent of agreement:
While the benefits of AI are compelling, such as revolutionizing medicine, the risks like systemic bias
and ethical misuse must not be underestimated. A cautious, regulated approach is necessary to maximize
benefits while minimizing harm.
Passage 2
Title: Cultural Homogenization in the Age of Globalization
Globalization has brought the world closer, enabling unprecedented levels of cultural exchange. Yet, while this
interconnectedness fosters mutual understanding, it also raises fears of cultural homogenization. The
widespread influence of dominant cultures, often driven by Western media, threatens the preservation of local
traditions and identities.
Consider the global proliferation of fast-food chains, which often overshadow traditional cuisines. Similarly,
Hollywood movies dominate global entertainment, leaving less room for regional cinema. This cultural
dominance risks eroding diversity, as smaller cultures struggle to maintain their unique practices and languages.
However, globalization is not a one-way process. Many cultures adapt and reinterpret global influences,
creating hybrid forms of expression. For instance, Japanese anime has gained immense popularity worldwide
while retaining distinct cultural elements. Likewise, indigenous art forms have found new audiences through
social media platforms.
The challenge lies in achieving a balance where cultural exchange enriches rather than erases. By prioritizing
cultural preservation alongside global integration, societies can celebrate both commonalities and differences.

Questions
Section A: Comprehension (5 marks)
1. What is cultural homogenization, as described in the passage?
2. Give two examples from the text of how globalization impacts local cultures.
3. What does the author mean by “hybrid forms of expression”?
Section B: Analysis (5 marks)
4. How does the author present a nuanced view of globalization? Use examples from the text.
5. What is the purpose of mentioning Japanese anime and indigenous art forms?
Section C: Critical Thinking (5 marks)
6. In your opinion, is globalization a threat to cultural diversity? Support your argument with
examples.
Model Answers
Section A
1. Cultural homogenization:
It refers to the process where dominant cultures overshadow and diminish the diversity of local
traditions and identities.
2. Two examples of globalization’s impact:
o The global proliferation of fast-food chains overshadowing traditional cuisines.

o Hollywood movies dominating global entertainment, leaving less space for regional cinema.

3. Hybrid forms of expression:

Cultural adaptations that blend global influences with local traditions, like Japanese anime gaining
global popularity while retaining cultural uniqueness.
Section B
4. Nuanced view of globalization:
The author acknowledges both the risks of cultural erosion and the potential for cultural exchange to
create new forms, such as hybrid art and media.
5. Purpose of examples:
To illustrate how globalization can lead to both cultural dominance (e.g., Hollywood) and creative
integration (e.g., Japanese anime).
Section C
6. Is globalization a threat to cultural diversity?
Globalization can threaten diversity when dominant cultures overshadow local ones. However, it can
also provide a platform for underrepresented cultures to reach wider audiences. For instance, K-pop and
Bollywood have achieved global recognition, enriching cultural exchange rather than diminishing it.
Passage
Title: The Paradox of Choice in Modern Consumer Culture
In contemporary society, consumers are presented with an overwhelming array of choices, from the brands of
toothpaste on supermarket shelves to the countless streaming services competing for their attention. While this
abundance is often viewed as a marker of freedom and prosperity, psychologist Barry Schwartz argues in his
book The Paradox of Choice that excessive choice can lead to decision fatigue, dissatisfaction, and even
anxiety.
One of the key reasons for this paradox is the psychological burden of making the "right" choice. With so many
options, individuals often feel pressured to maximize their decisions, fearing they might miss out on better
alternatives. This phenomenon, known as "maximization," contrasts with "satisficing," where individuals
choose an option that meets their needs without obsessing over perfection.
Moreover, the modern emphasis on individualism compounds the issue. In societies that prioritize personal
responsibility, consumers often internalize their dissatisfaction with choices as personal failure rather than
attributing it to external factors like marketing manipulation or limited information. Paradoxically, the more
choices people have, the less free they may feel, trapped by the weight of expectations and regret.
Nonetheless, it is important to recognize that choice itself is not inherently harmful. The problem arises when
the number of options exceeds our ability to evaluate them meaningfully. Simplifying decision-making
processes—whether through trusted recommendations or reducing available options—can alleviate the
psychological toll of excessive choice.

Questions
Section A: Comprehension (5 marks)
1. What is the main argument presented by Barry Schwartz in The Paradox of Choice?
2. Define "maximization" and "satisficing" as described in the passage.
3. How does modern individualism exacerbate the challenges of excessive choice?
Section B: Analysis (5 marks)
4. Examine how the author balances the negative and positive aspects of choice. Provide examples
from the text.
5. Why does the author use the term "paradox" to describe modern consumer culture?
Section C: Critical Thinking (5 marks)
6. Do you agree that having too many choices can lead to dissatisfaction? Why or why not? Use
examples from the text or your personal experience to support your answer.
Model Answers
Section A: Comprehension
1. Main argument:
Excessive choice, while seemingly liberating, can lead to decision fatigue, dissatisfaction, and anxiety,
diminishing the benefits of freedom.
2. Definitions:
o Maximization: The effort to make the perfect decision, often leading to anxiety about missing
out on better alternatives.
o Satisficing: Selecting an option that meets basic needs without obsessing over finding the best
possible choice.
3. Modern individualism:
Societies emphasizing personal responsibility make consumers blame themselves for dissatisfaction,
rather than external factors like misleading marketing or incomplete information.
Section B: Analysis
4. Balancing negative and positive aspects:
The author acknowledges the benefits of choice as a marker of freedom and prosperity but highlights its
downsides, such as decision fatigue and anxiety, emphasizing the need for balance.
5. Significance of "paradox":
The term illustrates the contradiction between the expectation that more choices enhance freedom and
the reality that they often lead to stress and dissatisfaction.
Section C: Critical Thinking
6. Agree or disagree:
o Agree: Too many options can be overwhelming, as seen in situations like choosing a streaming
service or shopping for everyday items. This often leads to regret or indecision.
o Disagree: Some argue that abundant choices allow for greater personalization and control,
enhancing satisfaction when informed decisions are made.