Media Literacy

5 minQuiz at the end

What is Media Literacy?

Media literacy is the ability to access, analyse, evaluate, and create media in various forms — including news, advertising, social media, and entertainment.

In an age of information overload, being media-literate is essential.

Evaluating News Sources

Ask these questions about any news story:

  1. Who wrote it? Are they qualified? Is there a byline?
  2. When was it published? Is the information current?
  3. What evidence supports the claims? Are sources cited?
  4. Why was this written? To inform, entertain, or persuade?
  5. Where was it published? Is this outlet known for accuracy?

Spotting Bias and Misinformation

  • Bias = favouring one viewpoint over another, often subtly
  • Misinformation = false information spread unintentionally
  • Disinformation = false information spread deliberately

Signs to watch for: extreme language, lack of named sources, only one point of view, no publication date.

Advertising Techniques

Advertisers use psychology to influence you:

  • Celebrity endorsement — if a famous person uses it, it must be good
  • Bandwagon — everyone is doing it, you should too
  • Fear appeal — what will go wrong if you don't buy this?
  • Scarcity — limited time offer! creates urgency

Social Media Awareness

Before sharing, ask: Is this true? Is this fair? Does it respect people's privacy?