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Lesson

Media as a Watchdog

Guiding question

How does the media hold the government accountable?

Duration
45 min
Published
Jul 5, 2024
Stack of newspapers featuring headlines about sustainability and global energy issues.
What significant role(s) does the media play in democracy?

Guiding Questions 

  • How does the media hold the government accountable? 
  • How does investigative journalism help fulfill the media’s role as a linkage institution?

Objectives 

  • Students will explain how the media’s coverage of government actions or inactions is important to a well-functioning democracy.  

Materials

Student Resources: 

Teacher Resources: 

Lesson Components

ActivityMedia Watchdog Reporting Graphic Organizer

An activity to help students explore how the media serves as a watch dog, holding the government accountable.

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Lesson plan

45 minClick a phase to open it

More Information

Facilitation Notes 

  • If this is the first time covering the principles and virtues, more time may need to be dedicated to the lesson.  

 

Standards

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Educator ResourcePrinciples and Virtues

How do We the People are better able to protect and advance freedom and opportunity for all?