6 Time to Read!

The news media today is often accused of being too negative. Critics argue that the focus on
bad news stories can create a distorted and pessimistic view of the world. This is particularly
true in the case of television news, which tends to give priority to violent crime, natural
disasters and political scandals. However, there are other reasons why the news might appear
negative. One of these is that it is simply more interesting. People find stories about conflict
and disaster more exciting than stories about peace and prosperity. As a result, editors are
more likely to choose negative stories, because they know they will attract more viewers or
readers.
Another reason for the emphasis on bad news is that journalists have a professional duty to
report it. In many cases this means exposing corruption or wrongdoing, and holding those
responsible to account. For example, it was investigative journalism that uncovered the
Watergate scandal in the 1970s, leading to the resignation of US President Richard Nixon.
Similarly, it was investigative reporting that exposed the phone-hacking scandal in the UK,
resulting in the closure of the News of the World newspaper. Clearly, without the work of
journalists, many crimes and abuses of power would go unreported and unpunished.
However, this does not mean that the news is always negative. There are many positive and
inspiring stories that receive wide coverage. For example, stories of courage and resilience in
the face of adversity, such as the Chilean miners' rescue in 2010, or the recent heroism of
Malian security forces during the terrorist attack on the Radisson hotel in Bamako. There are
also stories of human achievement and scientific discovery, such as the recent breakthrough
in cancer research, or the success of the Rosetta space mission. The news media also plays an
important role in raising awareness of social issues and promoting positive change. For
example, campaigns against poverty, inequality and environmental destruction have all been
driven by media coverage.
In conclusion, while it is true that the news media often focuses on negative stories, this does
not mean that the news is always negative. Journalists have a professional duty to report bad
news, but they also play an important role in highlighting positive stories and promoting social
change.
7 Let's Discuss These Interesting Questions!
1 How do you think the media influences public perception of current events through news
coverage?
2 In what ways has the rise of social media platforms impacted traditional news reporting?

3 Do you believe that news outlets have a responsibility to present unbiased and objective
information to the public?
4 How important is it for individuals to consume news from multiple sources to get a well-
rounded view of current events?
5 What role does sensationalism play in shaping news stories and attracting viewership?

6 How has the digital age changed the way news is delivered and consumed by audiences?

7 Can fake news and misinformation be effectively combatted in today's media landscape?

8 What ethical considerations should journalists and news organisations take into account
when reporting on sensitive topics?
9 How do you think the 24-hour news cycle affects the quality and accuracy of news
reporting?
10 Are there any specific news stories or events that you feel were misrepresented or
underreported by the media?
8 Choose the Topic that You Like and Share Your Thoughts on it!
Personal essay topics:
1 How the news media impacts my perception of the world and my mental well-being.

2 My experience with consuming news from different sources and how it has shaped my
opinions.
3 The role of investigative journalism in holding powerful individuals and institutions
accountable.
4 How positive news stories have inspired me to make a difference in my community.

5 Reflecting on the balance between negative and positive news in the media and its effect
on society.

General essay topics:

1 The news media is often criticised for focusing too much on negative stories. To what
extent do you agree or disagree that this creates a distorted view of the world?
2 Some argue that the news media has a duty to report bad news to hold wrongdoers
accountable. Others believe that the constant negativity can be harmful to society.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
3 Is the emphasis on negative news in the media driven by audience preferences for
sensationalism, or is it a result of journalists fulfilling their duty to expose wrongdoing?
4 Positive news stories are often overshadowed by negative headlines. Do you think it is
important for the media to give more coverage to uplifting and inspiring stories?
5 How does the news media influence public perception of social issues and contribute to
positive change in society?
Correct Answers
2 Correct Answers:
1 Not Given - There is no information in the text to support the statement that diseases
have only recently become a part of human history.
2 False - This statement contradicts the factual information provided in the text -
Cholera can be treated easily with clean water and antibiotics.
3 True
4 Not Given - The text does not explicitly state that Ebola causes fever.
5 False - Exaggerates the symptoms mentioned in the text, misrepresenting the factual
data.
6 True
7 Not Given - There is no information in the text to support the statement that Ebola
outbreaks can be stopped by vaccination.
8 False - This statement implies an incorrect inference from the information given in
the text.
9 True
10 Not Given - There is no information in the text to support the statement that
Alzheimer's disease is the only urgent disease to find a cure for.

3 Correct Answers:
1 b 2 b 3 a 4 c 5 b 6 c 7 c