Q1: Which news medium, TV, newspapers, or mobile devices, do you think is best for broadcasting the news?
[Point] I believe that although mobile devices are the most popular way to broadcast the news, TV news remains a great way to make sure that people can keep up to date. [Extension 1] Mobile devices have become an incredibly popular way to see the news. People can access the news that they want in their own time, and technology helps news sources to customize stories to their reader's interests. [Extension 2] On the other hand, television news is presented in a formal way, which allows experts to select the most important stories for the general public rather than just provide tailored ones to specific users.
More perspectives:
- Age—different age groups have different requirements and needs for news
- The format of news—it depends on the kind of news and the best way to present
- Different times of day—people will want news differently depending on the time etc.
Q2: What qualifications should a person have to work in a news corporation?
[Point] I believe that relevant experiences and skills in news reporting and editing are important, but in some cases, more specific fields of study are more useful in a certain area. [Extension 1] Most people who want to work in a news corporation will study a related subject like journalism or broadcasting, since it provides the training to investigate and report news effectively. [Extension 2] In certain cases, being a specialist in a field other than journalism can be useful. For example, if a news organization plans to publish a series of reports about the spread of disease, they may require someone with a strong background in medicine and the ability to write well.
More perspectives:
- Life experience—experience of a culture or situation is a massive advantage
- Modern media—today people need to understand social media and other new forms of media
- Connections—connections are often more important than experience in this industry
Q3: What are the most common forms of mass media in China?
[Point] Social media and television are probably the most common forms of mass media in China today. [Extension 1] In recent times with the rapid pace of technology, social media has become more and more common in China, with companies such as WeChat and Weibo becoming a massive part of the national conversation and taking so much of people's attention. [Extension 2] Television also remains a central part of the Chinese media with millions of people still enjoying sitting on the sofa and watching the television in the evening.
More perspectives:
- Newspapers—newspapers are still very popular in China and people still love to read
- Different apps—various news apps Toutiao, Tencent News
- Government media—posts new policies and changes around the country
Q4: What role do newspapers play in modern society?
[Point] Printed newspapers are read by fewer and fewer people today, but newspapers still play an important part in how people get their news. [Extension 1] Although there are so many news sources now with the Internet and different platforms, a lot of people still rely on newspapers online or in print as the way to access the news. [Extension 2] For many people, their favourite newspapers represent a trusted source of information with good writers and editors who they respect, making the news more reliable and enjoyable for them, so they still have a role for this part of society.
More perspectives:
- Less important—still create jobs, but gradually being replaced by other forms of media
- Opinions—shape public opinion on many subjects
- Entertainment—such content includes crosswords, humorous writings, gossips of celebrities etc.
Q5: What kinds of educational programs do you have on TV in your country?
[Point] In China, there are some channels that feature educational content from China or abroad. [Extension 1] Some TV programs focus on history, particularly the rich history of China. This serves to educate citizens about our history and culture and inspire a love for the country. [Extension 2] In addition to this, there are also scientific documentaries that help people to understand a wide variety of scientific topics. These short films go in-depth into a particular topic, such as astronomy, providing clear explanations from experts and helpful visuals for the viewers. Many people, young and old, enjoy these entertaining lessons.
More perspectives:
- Future-tech programs—related to holographic technology, virtual reality
- Self-transformation programs—rich kids sent to the countryside to experience rural life
- Lectures—speeches delivered by experts in different fields
Q6: How do TV programs influence young people nowadays?
[Point 1] Many young people dream of experiencing different cultures because of TV programs today. [Extension] Since there is more access to foreign programs, young people see these different ways of life and wish to experience them too. [Point 2] Another influence is the desire to become popular. [Extension] Lots of TV shows feature young celebrities who are earning much and enjoying other benefits. Thus, many young people would also like to be discovered for their talents or looks so they can also be on TV and experience the perks of the rich and famous.
More perspectives:
- No influence—young people prefer online drama and movies, TV is an out-of-date type of entertainment
- Good influence—positive role models and learning about history and different lives
- Bad influence—people becoming obsessed with beauty and fame
Q7: Do people read magazines for fun or for learning?
[Point] There are different types of magazines and they can be useful for both fun and learning. [Extension 1] The popular magazines that are loved by all kinds of people often cover celebrities, music, and all kinds of popular culture and are usually written in an exciting style, so people read them to relax and enjoy themselves. [Extension 2] There are also professional magazines, usually focusing on a special interest and featuring experts in their field that people will read to help them keep up to date with their career and changes in their industry.
More perspectives:
- For fun—featuring video games, private life of celebrities, travelling, cars, luxury items
- For learning—featuring specific subjects, social phenomenon, philosophical ideas, global issues etc.
Q8: Some people say the media sometimes misleads people about the news, what do you think?
[Point] I think that the media can be misleading or miss out on a lot of important news because they are trying to tell us about complicated issues very quickly. [Extension 1] Although the news media is a serious industry, they are also trying to entertain us and get our attention just like the less serious parts of the media. As a result, they will try to make stories very simple and relatable to the public. [Extension 2] In other words, they will have to leave out a lot of details and perspectives because people do not have the time or interest to learn about everything in the news in detail.
More perspectives:
- Profit—media is driven by advertising and money, not trustworthy
- Journalism—different journalists will find different information depending on who they speak to etc.
- Disagree—the media may make mistakes, but they don't mislead people on purpose
Practice Exercises (Part 3 Style)
Formulate your structural answers using the advanced terminology and collocations presented in the study guide. (Xây dựng câu trả lời dựa trên từ vựng và cấu trúc lý thuyết đã học).