ELA January Update

New year, new unit!!!

The new unit we started in ELA focuses on the concept of truth in the media. Specifically, the unit explores the essential question why does news matter for the health of our democracy? 

Students will be reading the novel Nothing But the Truth, by Avi. In this book, a student gets suspended for supposedly singing the National Anthem during class. The media gets ahold of the story, and the situation gets out of control. The novel brings up the idea of biased news, truth in the media, and first amendment rights.

I think the most exciting and meaningful part of this unit is the connections to the media in today's world. In addition to the novel, students will be reading and researching current events, in particular the current "fake news" phenomenon and the issue of media bias. During their research, students will answer the questions:

• Should "fake news" be challenged?
• Does "fake news" undermine our democratic way of life?
• Can we challenge "fake news" without encroaching on free speech?

At home, any discussion about fake news, truth in the news, and media bias would be great! If you see any fake stories shared on your social media, share them with your child. Check out the unit essential questions and goals below!