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Media and History: A Comparative Analysis

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David Cutler

Tier 1
For Schools

Lesson Plan

Media and History: A Comparative Analysis

Analyze media portrayals of history

In this lesson, students will explore how historical events are portrayed differently across various media formats, including documentaries, movies, and news reports. By creating a timeline that highlights these differing portrayals, students will develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of media literacy. This lesson is important as it helps students recognize biases and perspectives in media, fostering a more nuanced understanding of history.

Audience

11th Grade Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Analyze media portrayals of history

Materials

Discussion Questions, Worksheet: Media Analysis, and Timeline Creation Materials

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

  • Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of media in shaping our understanding of history.
  • Ask students to share examples of historical events they have seen in movies, documentaries, or news reports.

Step 2

Media Analysis Activity

20 mins

  • Distribute the 'Media Analysis' worksheet.
  • Have students work in pairs to analyze a specific historical event portrayed in a documentary, movie, and news report.
  • Encourage students to note differences in portrayal, focus, and perspective.

Step 3

Timeline Creation

20 mins

  • Provide materials for students to create a timeline showing the differing portrayals of the chosen historical event.
  • Students should include key points from each media type and any biases or perspectives identified.

Step 4

Class Discussion

10 mins

  • Facilitate a discussion using the prepared questions.
  • Encourage students to share their timelines and insights on how media can influence public perception of historical events.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Summarize the key takeaways from the lesson.
  • Highlight the importance of critical thinking when consuming media.
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Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to guide a class discussion on media portrayals of historical events.

How do documentaries, movies, and news reports differ in their portrayal of historical events?

Encourage students to think about the purpose and audience of each media type.







What are some potential biases that might affect how historical events are portrayed in media?

Discuss the influence of the creators' perspectives and the intended message.







Why is it important to critically analyze media portrayals of history?

Highlight the impact of media on public perception and historical understanding.







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Worksheet

Worksheet: Media Analysis

A worksheet to help students analyze different media portrayals of a historical event.

Identify the historical event you are analyzing.








Describe how this event is portrayed in a documentary.

Consider the focus, tone, and any specific details highlighted.







Describe how this event is portrayed in a movie.

Consider the narrative style, characters, and any dramatization.







Describe how this event is portrayed in a news report.

Consider the language used, visuals, and any emphasis on certain aspects.







What are the key differences in portrayal across these media types?








Identify any biases or perspectives that are evident in each portrayal.








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