I got this idea from The New York Times and it is a real gem. In just a few weeks, educators will be talking about elections again. Therefore, it may be time to consider using this unique learning product. Contributed by Ms. Razee, a teacher in Honolulu, this assessment involves teaching students media literacy as they learn about elections and politics. We may not be electing a U.S. President this year, but this idea can be used to teach about the political process at any level. Of course, commercials can also be used to “advertise” favorite books, to teach classmates about key concepts, or to illustrate learning, in general.
Use commercials to bring out the dramatic students in your classroom, to give English language learners authentic and novel opportunities to practice content-related language, and to provide tech-loving students with space to shine and learn new skills.
About Paula Kluth
