Read the following passage about endangered languages and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer t...

Read the following passage about endangered languages and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the following questions.

(I) In recent years, social media platforms have become a central part of daily life, offering users countless ways to connect, share, and communicate. (II) While these platforms offer many advantages, experts have noted rising concerns about their effects on mental health, particularly among young people (Smith & Anderson, 2018). (III) Studies reveal that excessive social media use can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, despite its intention to promote connection and social interaction (Twenge & Campbell, 2019). (IV)

A primary reason for these mental health concerns is the tendency for social media users to compare themselves to others. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook often portray idealized lifestyles, leading users to feel inadequate about their own lives. Additionally, the constant notifications and messages contribute to a "fear of missing out," or FOMO, which keeps individuals in a cycle of checking their phones, often reducing the quality of sleep and overall well-being.

There is also a growing body of research suggesting a link between social media use and decreased attention spans. When users frequently switch between apps and notifications, their ability to focus for extended periods may diminish (Rosen, 2019). This shift in attention can interfere with productivity, especially in academic and professional settings, where sustained focus is essential.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Some mental health professionals suggest limiting screen time and setting boundaries, such as "device-free" hours before bedtime. Others recommend engaging in offline activities, like reading or exercising, to minimize reliance on  social  media  while  fostering  healthier  habits. According  to  psychologists,  such  strategies can enhance mental resilience and allow for more meaningful, balanced relationships.

(Adapted from Mastering skills for TOEFL iBT)

Question 20. Which of the following best summarizes the passage?

A. The use of social media helps improve relationships and communication but reduces the attention spans of its users.

B. Social media is harmful to all users, causing loneliness and detachment, and must be restricted in all settings.

C. Social media, despite its benefits, presents mental health risks like anxiety and distraction, particularly among young users, and managing screen time can mitigate these effects.

D. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook serve as effective tools for social bonding, minimizing the effects of anxiety and low self-esteem.

Question 21. Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. Social media-related anxiety is often temporary and not very impactful.

B. Social media platforms generally have a positive influence on young users.

C. FOMO and lack of attention are uncommon issues among young users.

D. Balanced social media usage, along with offline activities, can reduce stress.

Question 22. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

A. With consistent screen time, individuals can build healthier online habits.

B. Dependence on social media requires a combination of therapeutic techniques.

C. A balanced approach is required to mitigate the harmful impacts of social media.

D. Mental health professionals are solely responsible for regulating social media use.

Question 23. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

A. Offline activities can help improve mental health by limiting social media use.

B. Screen time restrictions are not necessary for mental health.

C. Social media's primary effect is fostering productivity and interaction.

D. Notifications have a minor impact on users' attention spans.

Question 24. The word "their" in paragraph 3 refers to ____________.

A. users                B. notifications                C. professionals                D. researchers

Question 25. Where in paragraph I does the following sentence best fit?

Young people are particularly affected due to their high engagement with these platforms.

A. (III)                        B. (IV)                                C. (I)                                D. (II)

Question 26. Which of the following best summarizes paragraph 3?

A. Distractions from social media only affect students' performance negatively.

B. Social media contributes to concentration issues that affect users' academic achievements.

C. Frequent notifications on social media can decrease users' attention spans and productivity.

D. Notifications and app-switching harm the focus needed in professional environments.

Question 27. According to paragraph 2, which of the following is NOT an effect of social media on mental health?

A. fear of missing out                                        B. sleep disruption

C. improved self-esteem                                D. increased anxiety

Question 28. The word "enhance" in paragraph 4 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ____________.

A. diminish                B. reinforce                        C. intensify                        D. appreciate

Question 29. The phrase "fear of missing out" in paragraph 2 could be best replaced by ____________.

A. longing to interact                                        B. aim of satisfaction

C. desire to know                                        D. worry of exclusion