Write for an Academic Discussion

A professor has posted a question about a topic and students have responded with their thoughts and ideas. Make a contribution to the discussion.
You will have 10 minutes to write.

Your professor is teaching a class on social studies.

In your response, you should do the following.

• • Express and support your opinion.
• • Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor’s question:

Today we are discussing the impact of social media on society. Many believe that platforms that connect people globally have strengthened human relationships, allowing us to maintain contact with friends and family regardless of distance. However, others argue that these online interactions are often superficial and have weakened our ability to form deep, face-to-face connections. Which perspective do you find more convincing, and why?

Student response 1:

I believe social media has mostly strengthened our connections. For example, I have family living in another country, and these platforms are the main way we communicate and share our lives. Because we can see photos and send messages instantly, it feels like we are not so far apart.

Student response 2:

I feel the opposite is true. While social media seems to connect us, it often leads to less meaningful interaction. People post highlights of their lives, not the reality, which can make others feel inadequate. As a result, we may have more online friends but fewer deep, supportive relationships.