Media refers to the various means of communication that can reach a mass audience. It plays an important role in sharing news and ideas as well as shaping public opinion. There are many different forms of media. The word originally referred to print media, such as newspapers and magazines, but television and the internet have also become important forms of mass communication in the past century.
The internet and social media The internet is one of the most popular forms of media. People rely on the internet to fi nd information, stay in touch and shop for their favourite products.
Social media enables people to connect with others through apps or websites. These can be accessed on phones and other mobile devices, so it is easy to stay connected.
Features of social media include the following: personal account profi le page friends, followers or subscribers hashtags, likes and comments photographs and videos.
Discuss
1. Imagine life before the internet. Share ideas about what life would have been like. What would you miss the most?
2. (a) Can you name these social networks or websites?
(b) What do you know about them? 3. How many social media accounts do you have?
