It's all about the spin! In an introduction to propaganda techniques and soundbite politics, scholars first learn about common propaganda techniques before seeing them in action in the context of the 2016 election cycle. Activities follow that have class members writing ads, headlines, and tweets that make use of these techniques.

Concepts

propaganda, propaganda techniques, elections, political campaigns

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Ample avenues for exploration on social media, but be sure to encourage appropriate, focused browsing
• The activities focus on the 2016 election, but look to upcoming special elections or the 2018 mid-term elections for more current campaign advertising 

Classroom Considerations

• The activities may prompt some political arguments about the merits of the respective candidates; try to keep things focused on their messaging/propaganda techniques

Pros

• Included activities are creative and hands-on
• Is a timely resource given the growing prevalence of these techniques

Cons

• None