With the current election cycle underway, our 8th grade social studies class is taking an exciting and relevant approach to learning through media literacy! Understanding and evaluating media is increasingly crucial, (especially during elections!), when news sources, social media platforms, and campaign ads all deliver messages aimed at influencing our beliefs and actions. Our goal is to give students the skills to navigate this complex landscape with increasing confidence and critical thinking, as they learn to ask important questions about media, such as:

• Who created this message, and why?

• What techniques are being used to make this message appealing?

• What perspectives are represented—or left out?

• How can I verify if this information is accurate?

To do so, we have spent class time exploring various types of news sources, from traditional outlets like newspapers and television to social media platforms. They've learned to differentiate between factual news, opinion pieces, and “fake news,” as well as how to fact-check and verify information. We've discussed how different sources might present information differently depending on their political leanings or target audience. By comparing coverage from multiple sources, students have begun to see how bias and perspective shape the news. Furthermore, because so many 8th grade students spend time on social media, and X (formerly Twitter), students are learning about how social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram influences public opinion. We have covered topics like algorithm-driven content, echo chambers, and misinformation, just to name a few, to help students recognize how social media can shape perceptions.

Media literacy is not just a skill for social studies—it’s a life skill! By giving students the tools to critically engage with the media, we help them become informed and responsible citizens. Whether they’re watching the news, scrolling through social media, or discussing current events with friends, they’ll be able to approach information thoughtfully and with a critical eye. And we especially hope that these discussions have inspired some meaningful conversations at home as well!