3.18.08: Why media?

Title: Why media?

Author: M. Hill

Subject: ELA

Grade: 6

Week: 3.17.08

Unit/Lesson Plan #: 4/2

Unit theme: Media and Persuasion in the Present

Textbook references: N/A

Learning objectives:

- To consider why and how media influences the way that we view the world

- To analyze issues using prior knowledge

- To collaboratively brainstorm

Key Questions, Concepts, or Themes:

  How does media influence our perceptions of social issues?

i. What is media? (include a definition of media)

ii. What are some positive ways in which media influences people?

iii. What are some negative ways in which media influences people?

iv. What type of information (stories) makes it “big” (to be shown to the public)? Why?

v. What type of information (stories) is “concealed” from the public? Why?

vi. What are different types of media?

Stage 1: As a full-class group, students will brainstorm ideas about what media is. Then, they will break into smaller groups to more deeply consider questions about media that they will later present to the class.

Stage 2: In table groups, students will brainstorm ideas to answer one of questions i - vi above. Each team will be responsible for their own question and will have a set period of time during which to respond to the question.

Stage 3: Table groups will present their findings to the class, and take questions and suggestions from the class (discussion)

Homework: Find a print article related to a social issue. Write a one-paragraph summary of the article.

Assessments: (attach/link copies)

_x_ Group assessment

_x_ Observation of process/student work

__ Self-assessment by student

__ Teacher generated assignment

__ Written project

__ Test/Quiz

__ Other: ____________________________________