Grade 8: Becoming Media Literate
In Betsy Metcalfe’s wellness class, eighth graders have been focused on media literacy and advertising to recognize the messages that advertisers are constantly putting in front of them.
Recently, students looked at alcohol ads to analyze the target audience, message, and strategies for persuasion used by companies. “The goal is to understand the truth behind advertising,” shared Ms. Metcalfe. “Often ads present an idealistic picture of how their product will improve your life.” In the case of alcohol, students began to see that ads featuring popular music, celebrities, and cute animals are designed to appeal to younger audiences. Eighth graders then created their own ads that depict potential negative consequences of underage drinking.
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Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
