AULAFYCurso abierto de inglés C1
HomeCourseSocial Media, Algorithms & AttentionUse of English
Social Media, Algorithms & AttentionL07
use_of_english

Use of English

Transformation, word formation and precision work in Cambridge C1 style.

50 minC1c1use_of_englishsocial-media-algorithms-attentionalgorithmssocial mediaword formationkey word transformations

Lesson objectives

  • Improve grammatical precision and collocational control.
  • Practise exam-style transformations and word formation systematically.
  • Connect structure and lexis back to the unit theme of social media, algorithms & attention.

Part 1 — Word formation

Instructions: Read the text below. Use the word in CAPITALS at the end of some of the lines to form a word that fits in the gap in the same line. For example, you might use the negative form of the word, perhaps a suffix, etc. There is an example at the beginning (0).

The digital landscape is constantly shifting, driven by the (0) unpredictability (PREDICT) of user behaviour.

  1. The constant stream of notifications can lead to a sense of ____ among frequent users. (FRUSTRATE)
  2. Algorithms are designed to maximize engagement, often through the ____ of controversial content. (PROMOTIONAL)
  3. Many experts argue that our ____ to focus has been severely diminished by short-form video. (CAPACITY)
  4. The ____ of social media platforms relies heavily on data collection. (PROFIT)
  5. It is ____ to consider how much time we spend scrolling through endless feeds. (REFLECT)
  6. Some users find the constant comparison to others deeply ____ to their mental health. (HARM)
  7. The ____ of misinformation is a significant challenge for modern digital literacy. (SPREAD)
  8. Developing a more ____ approach to technology is essential for digital well-being. (CRITIC)

Part 2 — Key word transformations

Instructions: Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between three and six words, including the word given.

1. It is highly likely that the algorithm will prioritise viral content. | PROBABILITY The algorithm will ____ viral content. 2. Although the app is free, it collects a vast amount of personal data. | MUCH As ___ the app is, it collects a vast amount of personal data. 3. I didn't realise how much time I was wasting until I checked my screen time report. | LITTLE __ how much time I was wasting until I checked my screen time report. 4. The news was so shocking that nobody could believe it. | SUCH It __ the news that nobody could believe it. 5. He was very surprised to find out that his account had been hacked. | HOW He __ his account had been hacked. 6. It is possible that the algorithm is biased towards certain demographics. | MIGHT The algorithm _____ biased towards certain demographics.

Answer key

  1. frustration
  2. promotion
  3. capacity
  4. profitability
  5. reflective
  6. harmful
  7. spread
  8. critical
  9. most probably prioritise
  10. much as
  11. Little did I realise
  12. was such shocking
  13. was surprised to find how
  14. might be