Page 36 - Learn English

a. Who expresses concern that we are losing the ability to show compassion to others?
b. Who suggest reasons why skilled writers may feel the need to use emoticons these days?
c. Who agrees that emoticons enhance online communication by providing alternative stimuli?
d. Who points out the use of emoticons, abbreviations and acronyms suggests a greater knowledge of and ability to manipulate language?
e. Who largely disapproves of the use of emoticons?
4. Work in pairs. Discuss the questions.
a. Do you agree that emoticons are a new form of language? Why?
b. What do you think about the idea that our cultures and languages are becoming more and more similar because of online communication?
c. What do you imagine communication in the future will be like?
3. Answer the questions below based on the article. Choose from the experts: Dr Owen Churches, Dr Chris Fulwood, and Professor Scott Fahlman. There may be more than one answer.