Thinkalong.org is a free, evidence-based interactive tool for students to develop media literacy skills by applying the 5 Key Questions of Media Literacy to public media content. Importantly, the tool does not require registration for teachers or students, abides by student privacy laws, and is advised by a board of both youth and educators.
Each module consists of:
- a compelling and timely question;
- related current and age-appropriate public media content including audio, video, and text;
- extension resources for advanced or highly-interested students;
- student graphic organizers;
- a simple debate tool;
- a teacher's guide to the module;
- and a guide to the 5 Key Questions of Media Literacy.
This Teacher's Guide supports the Should Confederate monuments be removed from public spaces? module on thinkalong.org. Here is the full module and below is a summary.
The Civil War ended more than 150 years ago in 1865, but monuments to the Confederate generals and soldiers who fought to maintain slavery stand all around the United States. As we reckon with our history of racial injustice and inequality, many places are removing Confederate monuments from public places. Opponents say this erases history, but proponents say statues like these create a false narrative that distorts the truth about the Civil War.
To use this module with learners in any setting, we recommend using one of the structured discussion formats outlined at thinkalong.org/structuring-discussions. You can find options for a small or large group, so that all students or just a few participate, and examples of some discussion formats.
