Social Media Reading Comprehension

Name:

Date:

📱 Reading Passage: How Social Media Affects Us

What is Social Media?

Social media includes websites and apps where people share photos, videos, and messages with friends and family. Popular platforms are Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Snapchat. Many young Australians use these to stay connected.

The Good Things About Social Media

Social media helps us keep in touch with friends who live far away. We can share happy moments like birthday parties or school achievements. It also helps us learn new things through videos and connect with people who like the same things, like sports or art.

The Not-So-Good Things

Sometimes social media can make us feel sad or worried. When we see other people's perfect photos, we might think our lives aren't good enough. Spending too much time on screens can stop us from playing outside or talking to family. Some people might say mean things online that they wouldn't say in person.

Using Social Media Safely

The best way to use social media is to take breaks and remember that not everything online is real. It's important to talk to trusted adults if something online makes us feel uncomfortable or upset.

📚 Part 1: Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to the passage, what is social media?

Only apps for taking photos

Websites and apps for sharing with others

Games you play on computers

2. Which of these is a GOOD thing about social media?

It helps us stay in touch with distant friends

It stops us from playing outside

It makes us feel worried

3. What should you do if something online makes you feel uncomfortable?

Keep it to yourself

Talk to a trusted adult

Spend more time online

4. Which social media platforms are mentioned in the passage? (Select all that apply)

Instagram

TikTok

YouTube

Snapchat

✏️ Part 2: Written Response

5. Fill in the blanks using words from the passage:

Social media can help us _____________ with people who have similar interests. However, spending too much time on _____________ can stop us from playing outside.

6. In your own words, explain one good thing and one not-so-good thing about social media:

7. The passage mentions taking "regular breaks" from social media. Why do you think this is important? Give two reasons:

8. Do you think the author has a positive or negative view of social media? Use evidence from the passage to support your answer:

WALT (We Are Learning To): Read and understand informational texts about technology and identify both positive and negative effects of social media on young people.

Success Criteria: I can identify the main ideas in the passage, answer questions using evidence from the text, and express my own thoughts about social media use.