The key answer of exercise 1
The key to exercise solutions in chapter Trending Topics 9 for the textbook Identity B1+ with authors Elizabeth Sharman from Oxford University Press
Question
What does the phrase 'fake news' mean? Can you think of any recent examples of fake news stories?
Answer
The phrase "fake news" refers to false or misleading information presented as legitimate news. It can involve outright fabrication, manipulation of facts, or misleading headlines designed to deceive or manipulate readers or viewers.
Some recent examples of fake news stories include:
- False claims about COVID-19 treatments or cures spread through social media, leading to misinformation and potentially harmful actions by individuals.
- Misleading or doctored images shared to create false narratives, such as altered photos of political events or natural disasters.
- Rumors and hoaxes spread during elections, aiming to influence voter opinions or undermine the credibility of candidates.
- False reports about celebrities or public figures, often circulated for clickbait purposes or to damage reputations.
- Conspiracy theories propagated online, such as the QAnon conspiracy or false claims about mass shootings being staged events.