This unit focuses on the ways in which propaganda messages are formed in various genres of literature. While most students recognize that media is a tool used for disseminating information, they tend to not regard genres of literature or art as influenced by biases. The selection of print and non-print texts draw students toward a better understanding of the methods that writers and artists use to address social and political concerns in our lives. Media today allows for greater participation and debate, but it can be overwhelming for students who do not have the critical skills yet to mediate all the information and opinions.
The texts in this lesson provide examples of differing perspectives, as well as the variety of modes of messaging available today. Students have the opportunity to reflect on authors’ intentions and motives; to read and listen to artists’ recordings of songs with varying tones; and to interpret visual messaging and tone in photography and art.
The 21st Century Skills framework is a complex system that incorporates content knowledge, specific skills, expertise, and literacies to create a cohesive system of student outcomes and support systems. The Teen Thoughts on Democracy program utilizes the Partnership for 21st Century Skills framework to further the skills cultivated through this progressive game-based curriculum such as critical thinking and problem solving, communication, collaboration, and creativity and innovation.
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