Should children keep up with the news Lesson Presentation

The lesson presentation begins with a starter activity that engages primary KS2 students in a show of hands to discuss current news stories they may have heard about, such as recent storms, the Winter Olympics, the end of COVID-19 restrictions, and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The challenge is for the children to provide a summary of one of these stories, stimulating their awareness and understanding of world events. The session then moves onto exploring the usefulness of keeping up with the news, particularly for children, and the emotional impact that news can have. Students are encouraged to consider how different news stories make them feel, ranging from joy to worry, and to articulate the reasons behind these emotions.

Throughout the week, the lesson journey includes activities where students assess the usefulness of news, with a focus on their personal reactions to various headlines. They engage in discussions, reflecting on their existing knowledge and their desire to learn more about specific stories. Children are also invited to express their opinions on whether it is beneficial for them to keep up with the news. The presentation provides a platform for children to voice their thoughts on the matter, with some believing it is important to be informed about the world around them, while others may find the news worrying or overwhelming. The lesson culminates in a group activity where students create their own news channel content, deciding on the type of news they would share, and concludes with a vote on the importance of staying updated with current events.