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In this unit, pupils explore the roles and responsibilities of those in the media who provide information to the public, within the context of a democratic society. Pupils role-play news editors, compiling a radio news broadcast and making editorial decisions under real time pressures. They explore issues as they take part in editorial decision-making, and consider a variety of points of view. They consider how to balance competing rights, eg the right to free speech and the right to privacy. Pupils record their news bulletin, which should be based on current news items.
A debrief session is used to reflect on, and discuss the basis for, the editorial decisions made by the pupils during the exercise. Pupils have opportunities for group work, decision-making, arguing points of view and using the internet.
The activities in this unit could be adapted for different media contexts, eg pupils could make a film or TV programme, or produce a newspaper or news-based website. The unit may be run 'live' with the support of a local radio station, or may be based on information garnered from news sites on the web.
It may be useful to liaise with the English department in your school when planning this unit.
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