It's Complicated/Outsmart Your Phone

Which statement best describes the author’s central argument in “It’s Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens”?

• Technology provides an outlet for teens to express their emotions and gain more dependence on their parents.

• Teens use technology, like texting and social media, to exclude others and bully them.

• Technology provides an outlet for teens to express their creativity and share their creative ventures.

• Teens use technology, like texting and social media, to build friendships and transition into adulthood.

Which two reasons tell why the author most likely discusses the opposing argument in paragraph 2 of “It’s Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens”?

• To state her central argument

• To build the foundation for her argument

• To prove that technology is addictive and harmful for teens

• To support the argument that social media is useful

• To refute the opposing argument

In paragraphs 3–5 of “It’s Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens,” the author refutes the opposing arguments stated in paragraph 2 and builds her counterargument by —

• describing how using technology gives teens the privacy they need to grow up

• sharing examples about how using technology allows teens to emulate adults

• developing the importance of social motivations for teens using technology

• questioning the evidence that teens are addicted to using technology

In paragraph 5 of “It’s Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens,” the author appeals to an intended audience of —

• teens, by alluding to pop culture

• parents, by citing psychological research

• teens, by addressing them directly

• parents, by asking rhetorical questions

Which sentence from “Outsmart Your Smartphone” best summarizes the author’s central argument?

• Adolescence has always been a hero’s journey of growing independence, exploration, and self-discovery.

• I can say without hesitation that though social media is a useful and enticing tool, it poses unique risks to adolescent well-being.

• You can use smartphones and social media to build healthy relationships and a sense of belonging.

• Texting and social networking sites make it easier to connect with kids right where you are, too.

In “Outsmart Your Smartphone,” the author most likely waits until the end of paragraph 1 to state her claim in order to —

• discuss her view on the purpose of adolescence

• introduce the many uses of smartphones and social media

• describe the debate about the impact of technology

• establish her expertise and relevant research

In “Outsmart Your Smartphone,” the author most likely cites a 2017 study at the end of paragraph 16 in order to —

• persuade readers that teens should not use smartphones or social media

• persuade readers that personal communication is healthier for teens

• prove that multitasking reduces the ability of teens to learn and think

• prove that smartphones cause social anxiety in teens

Explain the author’s counterargument in “Outsmart Your Smartphone” by discussing the opposing argument and how she refutes it. Cite evidence to support your response.

Which rhetorical device is used by both authors to emphasize their ideas?

• Direct address

• Questioning

• Nostalgia

• Logical fallacy

Based on how the authors present ideas in “It’s Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens” and “Outsmart Your Smartphone,” which is the intended audience for both selections?

• Parents and social media experts

• Teens and parents of teens

• Parents of teens and researchers

• Teens and teachers of teens