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NSWEnglish StudiesQuick questions
Digital Worlds: English and the web
Quick questions on Reading and composing online texts in HSC English Studies
4short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
how do you tell a reliable source from an unreliable one?Show answer
Reading critically online is one of the most useful skills the course can give you.
What is its purpose, to inform, to sell, or to persuade?Show answer
Is there evidence, or only assertion? Does the date matter, and is it current? Do other trustworthy sources agree?
What is judging reliability?Show answer
The web has no editor checking everything, so judging reliability is on the reader. Useful questions: who made this, and can you find out? What is its purpose, to inform, to sell, or to persuade? Is there evidence, or only assertion?
What is composing for the web?Show answer
To compose an effective web text, start from audience and purpose, then write for scanning. Lead with the key point, use a clear heading, break text into short chunks, and make any link or image earn its place. Match the register to the platform: a community update reads differently from a casual post. Remember that online texts are often public and lasting, so tone and accuracy matter more, not less, than on paper.
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