πŸ”Ά Part 1 β€” Tutorial & Strategy

How to Master Matching Headings: A Complete, Exam-Ready Playbook

Goal: Choose the heading that best captures the main idea of each paragraph (A, B, C, …). Ignore attractive details and focus on overall message.

Step 1 β€” Preview the Heading List Before Reading

Begin by scanning the headings carefully. In a topic like social media, headings may hint at psychological impacts, community changes, misinformation, or privacy. Note which headings sound broad (e.g., β€œWider cultural transformation”) and which sound specific (e.g., β€œRise of online echo chambers”). Expect broad headings to match synthesis paragraphs and specific ones to match focused descriptions. Group similar headings together so you can distinguish near-misses later. Remember: IELTS often repeats keywords in several places, so avoid word-spotting; you must detect the paragraph’s function and purpose.

Step 2 β€” Skim for the Gist of Each Paragraph

Read each paragraph quickly to capture its main argument. Look at opening and closing sentences: they often reveal whether the paragraph stresses positive effects (e.g., building communities), negative ones (e.g., mental health decline), or contrasts. Avoid over-focusing on examples such as a single study or statisticβ€”these are evidence, not the main idea. Reduce each paragraph to a single 5–7 word note like β€œOnline networks spread misinformation” or β€œSocial media boosts activism.” These gist notes help you match headings later with confidence.

Step 3 β€” Analyse Heading Functions

Classify each heading: Is it describing a benefit, a harm, a cause, a solution, a contrast, or a trend? For instance, β€œMental health consequences of comparison” clearly signals a negative outcome, while β€œTools for political mobilisation” indicates social benefit. Recognising function protects you from traps where the heading shares vocabulary but not purpose. Always ensure the whole paragraph fits the headingβ€”not just one sentence.

Step 4 β€” Shortlist, Eliminate, and Confirm

For each paragraph, shortlist two candidate headings. Test each against the paragraph’s emphasis: β€œDoes this heading cover all major points, or just part?” Eliminate those that ignore the concluding sentence or pivot. Cross off used headings to reduce confusion later. If unsure, leave a question mark and revisit after reading all paragraphs. Context from later paragraphs often clarifies earlier choices, especially in topics with overlapping themes like privacy, identity, and wellbeing.

Step 5 β€” Avoid Common Traps

Trap 1: Word-match illusion β€” e.g., a paragraph about online activism may contain the word β€œcommunity,” but the heading β€œEffects on family life” would be wrong if activism is the core. Trap 2: Example magnet β€” case studies are vivid but only support broader claims. Trap 3: Background decoy β€” historical context (e.g., β€œearly 2000s chatrooms”) may appear, but the key idea is in the conclusion. Trap 4: Synonym shuffle β€” headings may use paraphrases: β€œaddiction” vs. β€œcompulsive use.” Train yourself to recognise meaning, not identical words.

Step 6 β€” Time and Final Review

Allocate about 1–2 minutes per paragraph. After finishing, check unused headingsβ€”sometimes one leftover fits an uncertain paragraph. Re-read concluding sentences for doubtful matches. Ensure no two similar headings are applied side-by-side unless clearly supported. In the final minute, commit to your best guess: an attempted match scores better than leaving blanks.

Example Box 1 β€” Detail vs. Main Idea

Paragraph gist: β€œTeenagers spend long hours on platforms, but the author argues the central problem is anxiety from constant comparison.”

Correct heading: β€œMental health consequences of comparison.”

Why: The details (hours online) are secondary; the anxiety theme is the paragraph’s emphasis.

Example Box 2 β€” Positive vs. Negative

Paragraph gist: β€œMovements like #MeToo spread rapidly online, drawing global attention.”

Correct heading: β€œTools for political mobilisation.”

Why: The examples (hashtags) support the main idea: activism empowerment, not mental health effects.

Example Box 3 β€” Contrast Paragraph

Paragraph gist: β€œWhile platforms connect distant relatives, they also reduce face-to-face interaction.”

Correct heading: β€œConnections and their hidden costs.”

Why: The pivot β€˜while’ highlights contrast, so a heading reflecting trade-off fits best.

Universal β€œFill-in-the-Gap” Answer Template

  1. β€œFor Paragraph [__], I choose Heading [__] because the paragraph mainly [describes / contrasts / explains / evaluates].”
  2. β€œThe topic sentence introduces [key subject], framing the discussion around [main idea].”
  3. β€œSignal words like [however / while / therefore] show a [contrast / cause–effect] structure.”
  4. β€œExamples such as [case] illustrate the main claim, not replace it.”
  5. β€œThe concluding line emphasises [key outcome], which aligns with the heading’s focus on [phrase].”
  6. β€œThe scope of the heading [matches / is broader than] the paragraph’s boundaries.”
  7. β€œAlthough [detail] appears, it is secondary; the main point is [gist].”
  8. β€œThe paragraph’s word [term] corresponds to the heading’s paraphrase [phrase].”
  9. β€œTherefore, Heading [__] best summarises Paragraph [__] by capturing its [dominant idea].”
Quick Warm-Up

Micro-paragraph: β€œDespite offering connection during isolation, many users report higher loneliness after extended scrolling.”

Choose: A) β€œA paradox of digital connection” β€’ B) β€œRising online activism” β€’ C) β€œEducational benefits of media.”

Model justification: The paragraph contrasts connection with loneliness, so the correct heading is A, reflecting the paradox.

πŸ”· Part 2 β€” Reading Passage + Questions

[IELTS Academic] [Reading: Matching Headings] β€” Task

Instructions: Match the headings (i–xii) to the paragraphs (A–H). Write the correct Roman numeral next to each paragraph. There are more headings than paragraphs. Focus on the main idea of each paragraph.

⏳ Countdown Timer
20:00
List of Headings
  1. The paradox of digital connection
  2. How social media shapes political activism
  3. The rise of online echo chambers
  4. Mental health effects of constant comparison
  5. Changing the way we consume news
  6. Family life under the influence of screens
  7. Opportunities for education and learning
  8. Concerns over privacy and personal data
  9. Influencer culture and digital identity
  10. Cyberbullying and its consequences
  11. The global reach of local voices
  12. Shifts in friendship and community bonds

There are more headings than paragraphs. Use each heading once at most.

Reading Passage β€” The Social Effects of Social Media

Paragraph A β€” Social media platforms were originally celebrated for connecting people across long distances, yet researchers have documented a paradox: while they offer unprecedented opportunities for communication, many users report heightened loneliness. Studies suggest that scrolling through feeds creates a sense of being surrounded by others without genuine interaction. The feeling of β€œalways connected but often alone” captures the contradiction of the digital era. Social media, instead of fully reducing isolation, often amplifies it by replacing quality conversations with superficial exchanges.

Paragraph B β€” Perhaps the most widely acknowledged effect of social media is its role in shaping activism. Movements that might once have taken years to gather attention can now reach millions in days. Campaigns such as #MeToo or climate strikes show how online platforms mobilise support, coordinate protests, and spread messages globally. Social media lowers barriers for entry into activism, giving individuals with limited resources the power to influence discourse and policy. Yet, the ease of participation has also sparked debates about β€œclicktivism” and whether online gestures translate into lasting social change.

Paragraph C β€” A growing concern is the tendency for social media to create echo chambers, where users encounter only information that confirms their beliefs. Algorithms prioritise content similar to what people have already liked, inadvertently reinforcing biases and polarisation. As a result, individuals may become less tolerant of differing opinions, contributing to social division. This phenomenon not only affects political debates but also cultural and scientific discussions, narrowing the range of perspectives available to each user and diminishing the potential for constructive dialogue.

Paragraph D β€” Social media’s influence on mental health is complex. On the one hand, platforms can provide support communities for people facing challenges such as illness or discrimination. On the other hand, the same platforms encourage constant comparison. Users often showcase idealised versions of their lives, leading others to experience feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or depression. Psychological studies show a correlation between heavy use and reduced self-esteem, especially among teenagers. The pressure to curate a perfect digital self often overshadows authentic self-expression.

Paragraph E β€” Beyond social interactions, platforms have transformed how news is produced and consumed. Traditional media outlets now compete with millions of independent accounts. While this democratises information, it also accelerates the spread of misinformation. Algorithms prioritise speed and engagement over accuracy, making false stories travel faster than corrections. For many users, social media has become the primary news source, raising concerns about the reliability of information and the challenges of distinguishing between credible journalism and misleading narratives.

Paragraph F β€” Within households, the omnipresence of screens has reshaped family dynamics. Parents and children often sit in the same room, each absorbed in their devices. Meal times once reserved for conversation are increasingly interrupted by notifications. While families can share experiences online, such as posting holiday photos, critics warn that the constant digital presence fragments attention and reduces meaningful interaction. The balance between digital connectivity and family cohesion remains a contested issue in contemporary life.

Paragraph G β€” Another hallmark of the social media age is the rise of influencer culture. Ordinary individuals can achieve celebrity status by building large followings, shaping trends in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. While this creates new opportunities for entrepreneurship and self-branding, it also fosters pressures to maintain a curated identity. Followers, in turn, may measure their self-worth against influencers’ seemingly perfect lives. The phenomenon blurs the line between authentic expression and commercialised self-presentation, reinforcing the commodification of identity.

Paragraph H β€” Among the darker effects of social media is cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, which is limited to specific places and times, cyberbullying can reach victims anywhere, at any time. The anonymity of the internet emboldens aggressors, while the permanence of digital messages magnifies harm. Victims often report severe emotional consequences, including anxiety, isolation, and in extreme cases, self-harm. Despite awareness campaigns, platforms struggle to police harmful content, leaving significant challenges for educators, parents, and policymakers.

Answer Sheet
Your Selections

    

  


  
  


            

          


          
          

            🟣 Part 3 β€” Answer Key
            


  

  
[IELTS Academic] [Reading: Matching Headings] β€” Sample Answer


  
  

    
Model Answer Key (A–H)

    
Paragraph A β†’ I β€” The paradox of digital connection

    
Paragraph B β†’ II β€” How social media shapes political activism

    
Paragraph C β†’ III β€” The rise of online echo chambers

    
Paragraph D β†’ IV β€” Mental health effects of constant comparison

    
Paragraph E β†’ V β€” Changing the way we consume news

    
Paragraph F β†’ VI β€” Family life under the influence of screens

    
Paragraph G β†’ IX β€” Influencer culture and digital identity

    
Paragraph H β†’ X β€” Cyberbullying and its consequences

  


  
  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph A

    
Choice: Heading I.

    
The topic line introduces a contradiction: unprecedented connection with rising loneliness. Signal words like β€œyet” and β€œwhile” cue contrast as the paragraph’s structure. Examples (endless feeds, superficial exchanges) supportβ€”not replaceβ€”the main claim. The concluding idea (β€œalways connected but often alone”) restates the paradox, aligning precisely with the heading. Near-miss headings about community bonds or friendship shifts are too broad; the paragraph’s emphasis is the contradiction itself. Scope and function therefore match Heading I.

  


  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph B

    
Choice: Heading II.

    
The paragraph highlights mobilisation: movements scale quickly via platforms. Case labels (#MeToo, climate strikes) are evidence for the function β€œpolitical activism.” A brief caveat about β€œclicktivism” refines the claim but does not change the main focus. Headings on global reach or news consumption are adjacent but secondary here. Function = how activism is shaped β†’ Heading II is the precise fit.

  


  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph C

    
Choice: Heading III.

    
Core idea: algorithmic personalisation fosters echo chambers and polarisation. Wording such as β€œprioritise content similar to what people have already liked” signals mechanism. Effects span politics, culture, and scienceβ€”evidence of breadth but one main function: entrenchment of like-minded views. Other headings (news, privacy) miss this emphasis. Hence Heading III matches the paragraph’s function and scope.

  


  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph D

    
Choice: Heading IV.

    
The paragraph weighs support communities versus harms of comparison, but the emphasis settles on anxiety, low self-esteem, and curated perfection. Signal phrases (β€œon the other hand”) mark a contrast, yet the conclusion centres on comparison-driven distress, especially for teens. This aligns with β€œmental health effects of constant comparison.” Near-miss options (influencers) overlap, but the paragraph discusses general users, not the influencer economy specifically.

  


  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph E

    
Choice: Heading V.

    
Function: transformation of news production/consumption and the rise of misinformation. Mechanism: algorithms reward speed/engagement over accuracy. The heading that mentions β€œconsume news” captures both cause and effect. Headings about echo chambers are related but already used for C; here the angle is news ecology itself. Therefore Heading V is the best summary.

  


  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph F

    
Choice: Heading VI.

    
Focus: household routines and attention fragmentationβ€”screens at meals, parallel scrolling, reduced conversation. The paragraph’s scope is family life (parents/children, shared spaces). Headings about friendship or community bonds are too broad; activism/news/influencers are off-topic. Emphasis and boundaries align with β€œfamily life under the influence of screens.”

  


  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph G

    
Choice: Heading IX.

    
Main idea: influencer culture and self-branding pressures; followers compare themselves to polished identities. Terms like β€œcurated identity” and β€œcommodification of identity” signal digital identity as the organising concept. Alternatives (mental health, privacy) touch similar vocabulary but miss the commercialised identity angle. Thus Heading IX is a precise functional match.

  


  

    
Justification β€” Paragraph H

    
Choice: Heading X.

    
Defining traits: anonymity, permanence of messages, any-time reach β†’ specific harms of cyberbullying. The paragraph lists consequences (anxiety, isolation, self-harm) and governance difficulty, all consistent with the heading. Other headings (privacy, community) are background themes at best; the dominant idea is cyberbullying. Hence Heading X fits fully.

  


  
  

    
Why This Answer Is Strong β€” Step-by-Step Rationale

    
    
      
  1. Function-first matching: Each choice was made by identifying the paragraph’s rhetorical function (contrast, mechanism, evaluation) before vocabulary overlap.
    2. 
      
  2. Topic vs. detail control: Vivid examples (hashtags, dinner notifications) were treated as evidence serving a larger claim, not as the claim itself.
    3. 
      
  3. Opening/closing emphasis: Topic and concluding sentences were prioritised, ensuring the heading reflects the paragraph’s final emphasis (e.g., A’s paradox; D’s comparison harm).
    4. 
      
  4. Scope alignment: Headings chosen neither over-generalise nor under-state the paragraph (e.g., F stays within β€œfamily,” not all β€œcommunity”).
    5. 
      
  5. Trap rejection: Near-miss headings were eliminated when they matched only a sub-idea (e.g., news vs. echo chambers in E vs. C).
    6. 
      
  6. Synonym awareness: Conceptual paraphrases were mapped (e.g., β€œcurated identity” ↔ β€œdigital identity”).
    7. 
      
  7. Non-duplication discipline: Overlapping themes (mental health vs. influencers) were separated by checking which heading captured the paragraph’s governing idea.
    8. 
      
  8. Signal words used: β€œYet,” β€œwhile,” β€œon the other hand,” and mechanism terms (algorithms, personalisation) guided contrast/cause-effect identification.
    9. 
      
  9. Distribution check: Headings represent a sensible variety across the passage (paradox, activism, echo chambers, mental health, news, family, identity, safety).
    10. 
      
  10. Evidence role clear: Specific cases (#MeToo) validated Heading II without hijacking the main function.
    11. 
      
  11. Boundary policing: Privacy/education/global-reach headings were intentionally left unused because no paragraph’s main idea centred on them.
    12. 
      
  12. Consistency with task brief: The answers use Roman-numeral headings exactly as listed, one per paragraph, with surplus headings left over.
    13. 
      
  13. Resilience to synonym traps: For C, β€œecho chambers” encompasses polarisation and intoleranceβ€”broader than mere β€œnews filters,” preventing mis-match with E.
    14. 
      
  14. Audience cues considered: Teen references in D support mental-health emphasis but do not shift to β€œeducation” or β€œfamily” headings.
    15. 
      
  15. Mechanism vs. symptom: E focuses on how news is produced/consumed (mechanism), not only the symptom of polarised feeds (C).
    16. 
      
  16. Contrast paragraphs handled: A and D include both sides; headings reflect the side the author finally underscores (paradox; comparison harms).
    17. 
      
  17. Contextual coherence: Choices form a logical arc of social effects: personal (A, D), civic (B, C, E), domestic (F), identity economy (G), safety (H).
    18. 
      
  18. IELTS best practices: Every paragraph received one definitive heading; uncertain overlaps were resolved by final-sentence emphasis checks.
    19. 
      
  19. Time-efficiency: The method supports rapid elimination in exam conditionsβ€”useful for maintaining pace across the section.
    20. 
    

  

            

          


          
          

            🟒 Part 4 β€” Vocabulary
            


  

  
[IELTS Academic] [Reading: Matching Headings] β€” Vocabulary Builder

  
Twenty key words from The Social Effects of Social Media. Each entry shows BrE/AmE IPA, part(s) of speech, patterns, a concise definition, an example with a gloss, synonyms, and common learner mistakes.


  
  

    
Paradox /ˈpΓ¦r.Ι™.dΙ’ks/ (BrE), /ˈpΓ¦r.Ι™.dɑːks/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: a paradox of X and Y

    
Definition: A situation with two seemingly opposite truths that coexist.

    
Example: β€œBeing always connected yet feeling lonely is a social media paradox.” (Means: connection and loneliness happen together.)

    
Synonyms: contradiction, inconsistency.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Writing β€œparadoxe”; ❌ using it for a simple problem rather than a true contradiction.

  


  
  

    
Activism /ˈæk.tΙͺ.vΙͺ.zΙ™m/ (BrE), /ˈæk.tΙ™ΛŒvΙͺ.zΙ™m/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: activism for/against cause

    
Definition: Actions to support political or social change.

    
Example: β€œHashtags helped turn online activism into street protests.” (Meaning: posts enabled real-world action.)

    
Synonyms: advocacy, campaigning.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Confusing with β€œactivity”; ❌ assuming it is only offline.

  


  
  

    
Mobilise / Mobilize /ˈmΙ™ΚŠ.bΙͺ.laΙͺz/ (BrE), /ˈmoʊ.bΙͺ.laΙͺz/ (AmE)

    
Verb β€” pattern: mobilise people/resources to do sth

    
Definition: To organise and move people to take action.

    
Example: β€œThe campaign mobilised thousands within a day.” (Meaning: it gathered people to act.)

    
Synonyms: rally, galvanise.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using only for the military; ❌ spelling β€œmobilise”/β€œmobilize” inconsistently within one text.

  


  
  

    
Echo chamber /ˈekΙ™ΚŠ ˌtΚƒeΙͺm.bΙ™/ (BrE), /ˈekoʊ ˌtΚƒeΙͺm.bɚ/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: an echo chamber of views

    
Definition: An environment where similar opinions are repeated and opposing views are rarely seen.

    
Example: β€œFeeds can become an echo chamber that confirms our beliefs.” (Meaning: we mostly see ideas we agree with.)

    
Synonyms: filter bubble.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Treating it as a physical room; ❌ hyphenating randomly (β€œecho-chamber”) in formal writing.

  


  
  

    
Algorithm /ˈæl.Ι‘Ι™.rΙͺΓ°.Ι™m/ (BrE), /ˈæl.Ι‘Ι™ΛŒrΙͺΓ°.Ι™m/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: an algorithm for ranking/recommending

    
Definition: A set of instructions used by platforms to decide what content to show.

    
Example: β€œThe algorithm prioritised engaging posts over accurate ones.” (Meaning: it ranked by reactions, not truth.)

    
Synonyms: formula, procedure (context-dependent).

    
Mistakes: ❌ Writing β€œalgorism”; ❌ assuming all algorithms are neutral.

  


  
  

    
Polarisation / Polarization /ˌpΙ™ΚŠ.lΙ™.raΙͺˈzeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /ˌpoʊ.lɚ.Ι™ΛˆzeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: political/cultural polarisation

    
Definition: The process by which opinions move to the extremes with little middle ground.

    
Example: β€œEcho chambers can intensify polarisation.” (Meaning: they push people to extremes.)

    
Synonyms: division, partisanship.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using only for magnets/science; ❌ spelling mix (β€œpolarization” within BrE text).

  


  
  

    
Bias /ˈbaΙͺ.Ι™s/ (BrE & AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: bias toward/against X

    
Definition: Unfair preference or prejudice.

    
Example: β€œRecommendation systems may show bias against minority views.” (Meaning: unfairly downrank them.)

    
Synonyms: prejudice, partiality.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using β€œbias” as a verb where β€œbias against” is needed; ❌ pluralising as β€œbiases” incorrectly in formal tone (though it exists).

  


  
  

    
Misinformation /ˌmΙͺs.Ιͺn.fΙ™ΛˆmeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /ˌmΙͺs.Ιͺn.fɚˈmeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: spread/dissemination of misinformation

    
Definition: False or inaccurate information spread without necessarily intending to deceive.

    
Example: β€œMisinformation often travels faster than corrections.” (Meaning: false news outpaces fact-checks.)

    
Synonyms: falsehoods, inaccurate claims.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Confusing with β€œdisinformation” (which implies intent to deceive).

  


  
  

    
Engagement /ΙͺnˈɑeΙͺdΚ’.mΙ™nt/ (BrE & AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: user engagement with content

    
Definition: The level of interaction (likes, comments, shares) with content.

    
Example: β€œThe platform optimised for engagement, not accuracy.” (Meaning: it valued reactions more than truth.)

    
Synonyms: interaction, participation.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using only for β€œmarriage engagement.”

  


  
  

    
Curate /kjΚŠΙ™ΛˆreΙͺt/ (BrE), /kjʊˈreΙͺt/ (AmE)

    
Verb β€” pattern: curate a feed/profile/collection

    
Definition: To select and organise content carefully.

    
Example: β€œUsers curate profiles to show ideal lives.” (Meaning: they choose only the best parts.)

    
Synonyms: arrange, select, assemble.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Pronouncing like β€œcure-eight”; ❌ using only for museums.

  


  
  

    
Self-esteem /ˌself Ιͺˈstiːm/ (BrE & AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: high/low self-esteem; impact on self-esteem

    
Definition: A person’s confidence in their own value.

    
Example: β€œConstant comparison can reduce self-esteem in teens.” (Meaning: they feel less confident.)

    
Synonyms: self-worth, confidence.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Writing β€œselfsteam”; ❌ hyphen usage inconsistent (β€œself esteem”).

  


  
  

    
Comparison /kΙ™mˈpΓ¦r.Ιͺ.sΙ™n/ (BrE), /kΙ™mˈpΓ¦r.Ι™.sΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: comparison with/to others

    
Definition: Examining how things or people are similar or different.

    
Example: β€œFeeds encourage comparison with idealised images.” (Meaning: users measure themselves against filtered posts.)

    
Synonyms: contrast, benchmarking.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using β€œcompare” as a noun; ❌ missing prepositions (β€œcomparison to/ with”).

  


  
  

    
Influencer /ˈΙͺn.flu.Ι™n.sΙ™/ (BrE), /ˈΙͺn.flu.Ι™n.sɚ/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: influencer in niche/industry

    
Definition: A person who can shape opinions or buying choices because of their large online following.

    
Example: β€œInfluencers monetise attention through brand deals.” (Meaning: they earn from promoting products.)

    
Synonyms: creator (context), tastemaker.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using as a verb (β€œto influencer”); ❌ spelling β€œinfluancer.”

  


  
  

    
Identity /aΙͺˈden.tΙͺ.ti/ (BrE), /aΙͺˈden.tΜ¬Ι™.ti/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: digital/social identity; identity formation

    
Definition: Who someone is, including the image they present online.

    
Example: β€œPlatforms shape how young people construct identity.” (Meaning: they build who they are/appear to be.)

    
Synonyms: self, persona.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Confusing identity with β€œidentical”; ❌ writing β€œidentitty.”

  


  
  

    
Commodification /kΙ™ΛŒmΙ’d.Ιͺ.fΙͺˈkeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /kΙ™ΛŒmɑː.dΙ™.fΙ™ΛˆkeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: commodification of identity/attention

    
Definition: Turning something (e.g., attention, image) into a product to be bought and sold.

    
Example: β€œInfluencer culture drives the commodification of identity.” (Meaning: identity becomes a marketable product.)

    
Synonyms: commercialisation, monetisation.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Spelling drift (β€œcommoditization” in BrE text) unless style requires it.

  


  
  

    
Cyberbullying /ˈsaΙͺ.bΙ™ΛŒbʊl.i.ΙͺΕ‹/ (BrE), /ˈsaΙͺ.bɚˌbʊl.i.ΙͺΕ‹/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: cyberbullying of target/group

    
Definition: Bullying that happens via digital devices and platforms.

    
Example: β€œCyberbullying can follow victims everywhere, anytime.” (Meaning: it is not limited by place/time.)

    
Synonyms: online harassment, digital abuse.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Writing β€œcyber-bully” for the act instead of β€œcyberbullying.”

  


  
  

    
Anonymity /ˌæn.Ι™ΛˆnΙͺm.Ιͺ.ti/ (BrE), /ˌæn.Ι™ΛˆnΙͺm.Ι™.ti/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: anonymity of users/posters

    
Definition: The state of not being identified by name.

    
Example: β€œAnonymity can embolden abusive behaviour online.” (Meaning: hidden identity increases risk of abuse.)

    
Synonyms: namelessness, obscurity.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Confusing with β€œautonomy”; ❌ misplacing stress in pronunciation.

  


  
  

    
Permanence /ˈpɜː.mΙ™.nΙ™ns/ (BrE), /ˈpɝː.mΙ™.nΙ™ns/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: the permanence of posts/records

    
Definition: The quality of lasting or remaining accessible.

    
Example: β€œThe permanence of messages can magnify harm.” (Meaning: posts endure and continue to hurt.)

    
Synonyms: durability, persistence.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Thinking deletions erase all copies; ❌ writing β€œpermanancy.”

  


  
  

    
Moderation /ˌmΙ’d.Ι™ΛˆreΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /ˌmɑː.dΙ™ΛˆreΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: content moderation of platform/space

    
Definition: The process of reviewing and managing posts to enforce rules.

    
Example: β€œEffective moderation reduces harmful content.” (Meaning: rule-enforcement lowers risks.)

    
Synonyms: oversight, governance (contextual).

    
Mistakes: ❌ Confusing with β€œmoderation” = not extreme (different sense); rely on context.

  


  
  

    
Discourse /ˈdΙͺs.kɔːs/ (BrE), /ˈdΙͺs.kɔːrs/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: public/online discourse about topic

    
Definition: Serious discussion or communication of ideas, especially in public.

    
Example: β€œPlatforms reshape public discourse on science and culture.” (Meaning: they change how society talks about them.)

    
Synonyms: debate, dialogue.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Pronouncing as β€œdis-course” with equal stress; ❌ using it for a short casual chat.

  




            

          


          
          

            🟠 Part 5 β€” Phrases & Expressions
            


  

  
[IELTS Academic] [Reading: Matching Headings] β€” Phrases & Expressions

  
Twenty high-utility expressions from The Social Effects of Social Media. Each item shows BrE/AmE IPA, part(s) of speech, patterns, a clear definition, an example + gloss, synonyms (where useful), and common learner mistakes.


  

    
    
  


  
  

    
go viral /Ι‘Ι™ΚŠ ˈvaΙͺ.rΙ™l/ (BrE), /Ι‘oʊ ˈvaΙͺ.rΙ™l/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: content/post + goes viral

    
Definition: To spread extremely quickly online.

    
Example: β€œThe clip went viral overnight.” (Meaning: millions saw it very fast.)

    
Synonyms: explode online, blow up (informal).

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œbe viral” for events; use go/went viral.

  


  
  

    
doomscrolling /ˈduːmˌskrΙ™ΚŠ.lΙͺΕ‹/ (BrE), /ˈduːmˌskroʊ.lΙͺΕ‹/ (AmE)

    
Noun/gerund β€” pattern: engage in/avoid doomscrolling

    
Definition: Compulsively scrolling through negative news.

    
Example: β€œLate-night doomscrolling made her anxious.” (Meaning: the habit increased her anxiety.)

    
Synonyms: doom-surfing (less common).

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œdoom scrolling” (prefer closed compound in formal style).

  


  
  

    
signal-boost (something) /ˈsΙͺΙ‘.nΙ™l buːst/ (BrE/AmE)

    
Verb β€” pattern: signal-boost a cause/message

    
Definition: To amplify a message by sharing it widely.

    
Example: β€œUsers signal-boosted the fundraiser.” (Meaning: they shared to reach more people.)

    
Synonyms: amplify, promote.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using only as noun; treat as a verb here.

  


  
  

    
call to action (CTA) /ˌkɔːl tuː ˈæk.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /ˌkɔːl tΙ™ ˈæk.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Noun phrase β€” pattern: a call to action to do sth

    
Definition: A prompt that urges people to take a specific step.

    
Example: β€œThe post ended with a clear call to action: donate today.” (Meaning: it asked readers to donate.)

    
Synonyms: rallying cry, prompt.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œcall of action” (incorrect preposition).

  


  
  

    
filter bubble /ˈfΙͺl.tΙ™ ˌbʌb.Ι™l/ (BrE), /ˈfΙͺl.tɚ ˌbʌb.Ι™l/ (AmE)

    
Noun phrase β€” pattern: live in a filter bubble

    
Definition: A personalised info-space that hides opposing views.

    
Example: β€œHe realised he was inside a filter bubble.” (Meaning: he saw only similar opinions.)

    
Synonyms: echo chamber.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Random hyphenation (β€œfilter-bubble”).

  


  
  

    
clicktivism /ˈklΙͺk.tΙͺˌvΙͺz.Ι™m/ (BrE), /ˈklΙͺk.tΙ™ΛŒvΙͺz.Ι™m/ (AmE)

    
Noun β€” pattern: criticised as mere clicktivism

    
Definition: Online activism limited to low-effort actions (likes, shares).

    
Example: β€œCritics called it clicktivism rather than real change.” (Meaning: actions were superficial.)

    
Synonyms: slacktivism (informal).

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œclick activism” (prefer single word).

  


  
  

    
curate a feed /kjΚŠΙ™ΛˆreΙͺt Ι™ fiːd/ (BrE), /kjʊˈreΙͺt Ι™ fiːd/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: curate your feed/profile

    
Definition: Select what appears on your profile or timeline.

    
Example: β€œShe curated her feed to look professional.” (Meaning: chose posts to fit a brand.)

    
Synonyms: organise, tailor.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Using β€œcreate a feed” when selection is meant.

  


  
  

    
compare oneself to others /kΙ™mˈpeΙ™ wʌnˈself tΙ™ ˈʌð.Ι™z/ (BrE), /kΙ™mˈpΙ›r wʌnˈself tΙ™ ˈʌð.ɚz/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: compare oneself to/with people

    
Definition: Judge your value by other people’s posts.

    
Example: β€œHe kept comparing himself to others online.” (Meaning: their posts made him feel worse.)

    
Synonyms: measure oneself against.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Missing reflexive (β€œcompare himself”).

  


  
  

    
under the influence of screens /ˈʌn.dΙ™ Γ°i ˈΙͺn.flu.Ι™ns Ι™v skriːnz/ (BrE), /ˈʌn.dɚ Γ°i ˈΙͺn.flu.Ι™ns Ι™v skriːnz/ (AmE)

    
Prepositional phrase β€” pattern: family life under the influence of screens

    
Definition: Strongly affected by device use.

    
Example: β€œMeals were under the influence of screens.” (Meaning: phones disrupted conversation.)

    
Synonyms: dominated by screens.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œinfluence of the screens” (article usually dropped).

  


  
  

    
shape public opinion /ΚƒeΙͺp ˈpʌb.lΙͺk Ι™ΛˆpΙͺn.jΙ™n/ (BrE/AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: shape public opinion on issue

    
Definition: Influence how society thinks about a topic.

    
Example: β€œHashtags helped shape public opinion on policy.” (Meaning: they influenced attitudes.)

    
Synonyms: sway, mould.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œshape the public’s opinions” (awkward pluralisation).

  


  
  

    
spread misinformation /sprΙ›d ˌmΙͺs.Ιͺn.fΙ™ΛˆmeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /sprΙ›d ˌmΙͺs.Ιͺn.fɚˈmeΙͺ.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: spread / combat misinformation

    
Definition: Circulate false information without proven intent.

    
Example: β€œThe rumour spread misinformation rapidly.” (Meaning: false claims travelled fast.)

    
Synonyms: circulate false claims.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Confusing with disinformation (intentional).

  


  
  

    
fact-check a claim /ˈfΓ¦kt ˌtΚƒek Ι™ kleΙͺm/ (BrE/AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: fact-check + statement/claim

    
Definition: Verify whether a statement is true.

    
Example: β€œJournalists fact-checked the viral post.” (Meaning: they tested its truth.)

    
Synonyms: verify, corroborate.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œfact check” as two words inconsistently in formal writing.

  


  
  

    
online harassment /ΛŒΙ’nˈlaΙͺn hΙ™ΛˆrΓ¦s.mΙ™nt/ (BrE), /ΛŒΙ‘ΛnˈlaΙͺn hΙ™ΛˆrΓ¦smΙ™nt/ (AmE)

    
Noun phrase β€” pattern: be targeted by online harassment

    
Definition: Aggressive or abusive behaviour on digital platforms.

    
Example: β€œOnline harassment escalated after the post.” (Meaning: abuse increased.)

    
Synonyms: cyber-abuse, trolling (contextual).

    
Mistakes: ❌ Stressing the first syllable (*ˈhΓ¦r.*) in BrE; use hΙ™ΛˆrΓ¦s-.

  


  
  

    
digital footprint /ˈdΙͺdΚ’.Ιͺ.tΙ™l ˈfʊt.prΙͺnt/ (BrE/AmE)

    
Noun phrase β€” pattern: leave/erase a digital footprint

    
Definition: The trace of data you leave online.

    
Example: β€œJob recruiters checked her digital footprint.” (Meaning: they reviewed her online record.)

    
Synonyms: data trail.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Assuming deletions remove all traces.

  


  
  

    
build a following /bΙͺld Ι™ ˈfΙ’l.Ι™ΚŠ.ΙͺΕ‹/ (BrE), /bΙͺld Ι™ ˈfɑː.loʊ.ΙͺΕ‹/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: build/grow a following of N

    
Definition: Gain many regular viewers or fans.

    
Example: β€œShe built a following through tutorials.” (Meaning: attracted steady supporters.)

    
Synonyms: grow an audience.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œmake a following” (use build/grow).

  


  
  

    
monetise / monetize attention /ˈmΙ’n.Ιͺ.taΙͺz Ι™Λˆten.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /ˈmɑː.nΙ™.taΙͺz Ι™ΛˆtΙ›n.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: monetise attention through ads/sponsorships

    
Definition: Turn people’s focus into money.

    
Example: β€œCreators monetise attention via brand deals.” (Meaning: they earn from viewers’ interest.)

    
Synonyms: commercialise, cash in on.

    
Mistakes: ❌ Inconsistent BrE/AmE spelling within one document.

  


  
  

    
give local voices global reach /Ι‘Ιͺv ˈlΙ™ΚŠ.kΙ™l ˈvΙ”Ιͺ.sΙͺz ˈɑlΙ™ΚŠ.bΙ™l riːtΚƒ/ (BrE), /Ι‘Ιͺv ˈloʊ.kΙ™l ˈvΙ”Ιͺ.sΙͺz ˈɑloʊ.bΙ™l riːtΚƒ/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: give X global reach

    
Definition: Allow local messages to be heard worldwide.

    
Example: β€œPlatforms gave local voices global reach.” (Meaning: small groups gained a world audience.)

    
Synonyms: amplify globally.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œglobal reaches” (use uncountable noun).

  


  
  

    
always-on connectivity /ΛˆΙ”Λl.weΙͺz Ι’n ˌkΙ’n.ekˈtΙͺv.Ιͺ.ti/ (BrE), /ΛˆΙ”Λl.weΙͺz ɑːn kΙ™ΛŒnΙ›kˈtΙͺv.Ιͺ.tΜ¬i/ (AmE)

    
Noun phrase β€” pattern: live with always-on connectivity

    
Definition: Being connected to the internet all the time.

    
Example: β€œAlways-on connectivity blurs work and home.” (Meaning: no clear break from being online.)

    
Synonyms: constant connection.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œalways on-connectivity” (misplaced hyphen).

  


  
  

    
tighten privacy settings /ˈtaΙͺ.tΙ™n ˈpraΙͺ.vΙ™.si ˈset.ΙͺΕ‹z/ (BrE), /ˈtaΙͺ.tΙ™n ˈpraΙͺ.vΙ™.si ˈsΙ›.tΜ¬ΙͺΕ‹z/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: tighten / review privacy settings

    
Definition: Make your account less accessible.

    
Example: β€œShe tightened privacy settings after the spam.” (Meaning: restricted who could see her.)

    
Synonyms: lock down, restrict visibility.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œprivacies settings” (privacy is uncountable).

  


  
  

    
prioritise / prioritize meaningful interaction /praΙͺΛˆΙ’r.Ιͺ.taΙͺz ˈmiː.nΙͺΕ‹.fΙ™l ˌΙͺn.tΙ™ΛˆrΓ¦k.ΚƒΙ™n/ (BrE), /praΙͺΛˆΙ”Λr.Ι™.taΙͺz ˈmiː.nΙͺΕ‹.fΙ™l ˌΙͺn.t̬ɚˈrΓ¦k.ΚƒΙ™n/ (AmE)

    
Verb phrase β€” pattern: prioritise meaningful interaction over X

    
Definition: Give more value to deep conversation than to surface engagement.

    
Example: β€œApps should prioritise meaningful interaction over clicks.” (Meaning: focus on quality, not numbers.)

    
Synonyms: favour substantial engagement.

    
Mistakes: ❌ β€œpriority” as a verb; use prioritise/prioritize.

  




            

          


          
          

            πŸ”Ί Part 6 β€” Vocabulary & Expressions Quiz
            


  

  
[IELTS Academic] [Reading: Matching Headings] β€” Interactive Exercise

  
You’ll get 10 random MCQs from a 50-question pool based on the passage, the tutorial strategies, vocabulary, and expressions. Choose an option to see an immediate, detailed explanation (β‰ˆ10 sentences). Retake to get a fresh set.


  

    
    
    
    
  


  

    Total Questions: 0
    Answered: 0
    Correct: 0
    Accuracy: 0%