About This Lesson
Students examine a set of pro- and anti-immigration political posters created by both government agencies and advocacy groups. Working individually or in small groups, they decode each poster’s message by identifying purpose, audience, persuasive techniques, and use of patriotic and cultural symbols. The lesson asks students to compare how the same images and themes can lead to different interpretations depending on viewer perspective and identity. Through guided questions and discussion, students evaluate whether and how the posters function as propaganda and reflect on how media messages about immigration and patriotism shape public understanding and debate. The lesson includes discussion protocols and cautions to support respectful dialogue around a potentially polarizing topic
