In these lessons, students:
Learn about media and the spread of information, including:
journalism, including different types of journalists, local and national sources, and the code of ethics.
Online personalities
Individual's role and responsability
Explore the concepts of misinformation
Develop strategies to identify and combat misinformation.
The "media" refers to the various ways information is communicated, including:
Television: Local, national, and cable news news
Radio: Audio programs
Internet: Websites, social media, videos, and podcasts.
Print: Newspapers, magazines, and books.
THE PLAYERS
Journalists: those who take part in the act of gathering, writing, and presenting news stories to inform
Professional journalists
Amateur journalists
Media Personalities: influencers, celebrities, online personalities
Everyone else!
MISINFORMATION
MISINFORMATION is false or incorrect information that is spread by people.
How and Why does Misinformation Spread?
Accidentally
For attention
Misinterpretation
Incomplete Info
VOCAB
Break: In journalism, a "break" means the first time important news is shared with the public. You may also hear about “breaking a story.”
Donor: Someone who gives money, supplies, or help to support a cause or organization, like a charity, a school, or a political campaign.
Opinion Article: A piece of writing where the author shares their personal views or feelings about a topic. Unlike regular news, it isn’t just facts—it's what the writer thinks about those facts.
Permit: Official permission to do something. These often need to be issued by government agencies.
Timely: In journalism, "Timely" means reporting or sharing news quickly, so the information is still fresh and relevant.
Unsubstantiated: Something that has not been proven or backed up by facts or can’t be confirmed with solid evidence.
Whistleblower: Someone who reports wrongdoing or illegal activities within a group or company. Whistleblowers sometimes share secret information to help uncover the truth.
How to Combat Misinformation: Use TRAC!
Use "TRAC for Misinformation" to investigate these posts and articles:
A post claiming that the Rainbow Bridge explosion was a terror attack.
A post claiming that Target is closing stores in red states and only staying open in blue states.
A social media claim that Hurricane Milton was geo-engineered by the government.
An article about how Disney is lowering the drinking age to 18 at their parks.
Websites to Help You Fight Misinformation!
POLITIFACT
FACTCHECK.ORG
RUMORGUARD
SNOPES