1
How has the way people consume news changed over the past few decades?
People have shifted dramatically from scheduled television broadcasts and morning newspapers towards instantaneous digital updates on their mobile phones. Most individuals now consume bite-sized headlines through social feeds or notifications throughout the day, seeking immediate information rather than waiting for an evening bulletin. Although this allows the public to stay informed about unfolding events in real time, it often comes at the expense of nuance, as short digital snippets rarely offer in-depth analytical context.
2
Why do you think some news channels sensationalise stories rather than reporting them neutrally?
Commercial imperatives are the primary driver behind this trend, as private channels rely heavily on viewer ratings to attract lucrative advertising contracts. Provocative headlines and dramatic narratives naturally trigger stronger emotional responses, which keeps viewers glued to their screens for longer. For example, ordinary political debates are frequently framed as catastrophic crises to generate excitement. While this tactic boosts short-term audience figures, it ultimately damages public trust in journalistic integrity.
3
What role should public-service broadcasters play in a democratic society?
Public broadcasters ought to act as impartial sources of reliable information, completely independent of commercial or political pressure. Their main duty is to provide citizens with accurate, balanced coverage so that voters can make well-informed decisions during elections. An example of this is offering equal airtime to competing political parties during major campaigns. That said, sustaining strict impartiality is increasingly difficult when funding models are contested by different political factions.
4
To what extent will citizen journalism replace traditional television news in the future?
While eyewitness footage captured on mobile phones has become indispensable for breaking stories, I doubt citizen reporting will entirely supplant professional broadcasting. Traditional news organisations possess the resources to conduct rigorous editorial checks, verify sources, and provide legal oversight, which amateur contributors simply cannot replicate. Citizen journalism will certainly serve as a valuable supplementary tool, but mainstream outlets will remain essential for verified, accountable analysis.
5
What are the advantages and drawbacks of round-the-clock, 24-hour news cycles?
The main benefit is that audiences receive immediate, comprehensive updates whenever major emergencies or natural disasters take place. However, the downside is that networks must fill endless broadcasting hours, which often leads to baseless speculation and repetitive commentary rather than substantive reporting. During slow news periods, minor stories are frequently blown out of proportion to sustain viewer interest, potentially causing unnecessary anxiety among the general public.
Use the shape, not the sentences: a view, a reason, an example, a limit. Examiners mark memorised answers down.