Introduction

Before beginning this lesson, brief the third-grade students on the importance of understanding and analyzing the news found in different media outlets. Explain that it is important to review news in a balanced manner to get a full and accurate account of current events. Explain that media outlets may present news coverage with different perspectives, or biases, so it is important to weigh the facts and opinions of each source.

Lesson Outline

1. Introduce 3 current events in class.
2. Ask students to research those 3 events from different media outlets.
3. Discuss the different media perspectives.
4. Create a matrix to display the different accounts.
5. Analyze the different media perspectives.
6. Discuss the role of bias in media coverage.

Questioning

1. What 3 current events did we discuss in class?
2. What can you tell me about each event?
3. What media outlets have you used to research these events?
4. What differences have you noticed in the presentation of the news?
5. How does bias influence the news coverage?

Assessment

• Participation/Engagement • Ability to answer questions • Complete matrix on current events

Differentiation

• Offer students the ability to work with a partner on researching and analyzing the news. • Offer additional support for students that are struggling to identify and understand the media perspectives.

Plenary

Have the students reflect on what they have learned in the lesson. Ask students to explain the importance of analyzing news coverage from different media outlets.

Resources

Video: • TED-Ed: Why is it important to question the news? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVORBwoar-0)

Worksheets: • BBC News – Cognitive Bias (https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zyd6pv4) • BBC News – Media Bias (https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zbdydxs)