Listening test

 
Model answer 
New types of technology mean that you can easily connect with people throughout the 
world. Many believe that this is harmful and prevents us from forming meaningful 
friendships with others, while some people argue that using social media improves our 
ability to build new relationships. In my opinion, the negative impact is greater than the 
benefits, as I will explain. 
Firstly, let us consider what makes a meaningful relationship. Being able to talk and meet 
with people is key and this can be done in person in the traditional way, or, increasingly, 
online. However, seeing people in the real world is very different from meeting them 
online. You can learn more about them and see them at both their best and their worst; 
therefore, your relationship is based on more than short text communication. 
Many argue that modern social media allows us to connect with a variety of people from 
different places and backgrounds, which can be true. Nevertheless, these websites often 
lead young people into dangerous situations, for example, they may be bullied because of 
how they look. Also, their personal information becomes available to all if they are not 
careful and they never really know who they are connecting with. 
While it is true that social media sites can be very useful and help us to connect and keep in 
touch with others, we need to be careful and not forget that we can only make real friends 
in the real world. I personally believe that these are the relationships that last a lifetime. 
(256 words)