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KQED Above the Noise: Climate & Environment
In this collection, students respond to prompts based on KQED's Above the Noise series. Above the Noise is a YouTube series for teens that investigates thought-provoking subject matter to help young viewers draw informed conclusions, while inspiring media literacy and civic engagement. After viewing a short, compelling video, students are prompted to write Informative responses or Arguments about topics that matter to them.
The videos and writing prompts in the Climate & Environment Collection are thematically tied to issues involving climate change, the environment, and working to heal the planet. These assignments can help students engage with Science and Social Studies course content.
Students can also join the discussion on KQED Learn. Go to https://learn.kqed.org/ to learn more about giving your students access to the live discussion boards.
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KQED: Is It Time For You To Ditch Meat and Dairy?
KQED: Is It Time For You To Ditch Meat and Dairy?
In this assignment, students watch a 13-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the meat and dairy industries. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Would you give up any meat or dairy in your diet?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video along with viewing guide questions and both a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video in both English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Climate Change: How Doomed Are We?
KQED: Climate Change: How Doomed Are We?
In this assignment, students watch an eight-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about climate change. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Has climate change reached the point of no return?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Should Zoos Exist?
KQED: Should Zoos Exist?
In this assignment, students watch a five-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the ethics of keeping animals in zoos. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Should Zoos Exist?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Should We Fight Wildfires With...More Fire?
KQED: Should We Fight Wildfires With...More Fire?
In this assignment, students watch an eight-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the use of controlled fires to combat wildfires. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Should we set more 'good' fires to help fight 'bad' ones?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Are Endangered Species Worth Saving?
KQED: Are Endangered Species Worth Saving?
In this assignment, students watch a six-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about endangered species. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Should we care if a species goes extinct?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Would Banning Plastic Bottles Help or Hurt the Planet?
KQED: Would Banning Plastic Bottles Help or Hurt the Planet?
In this assignment, students watch a seven-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the effects of plastic bottles on the environment. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Do the costs of banning plastic bottles outweigh the benefits?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: What Should We Do to Address Microfiber Pollution?
KQED: What Should We Do to Address Microfiber Pollution?
In this assignment, students watch a six-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about microfiber pollution. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "What should we do to address these tiny strands of synthetic fibers that can enter our water systems, our air, and even our food?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED Above the Noise: Civics & Ethics
In this collection, students respond to prompts based on KQED's Above the Noise series. Above the Noise is a YouTube series for teens that investigates thought-provoking subject matter to help young viewers to draw informed conclusions, while inspiring media literacy and civic engagement. After viewing a short, compelling video, students are prompted to write Informative responses or Arguments about topics that matter to them.
The videos and writing prompts in the Civics & Ethics Collection are thematically tied to issues involving ethical questions, legal issues, community concerns, and questions facing modern society. These assignments can help students engage with Social Studies course content, especially in the areas of Civics and Government.
Students can also join the discussion on KQED Learn. Go to https://learn.kqed.org/ to learn more about giving your students access to the live discussion boards.
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KQED: What Does Anti-Racist Mean?
KQED: What Does Anti-Racist Mean?
In this assignment, students watch an 11-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about being anti-racist. Then students write two or more paragraphs responding to the question "What are you doing in your schools or communities to combat racism?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video along with viewing guide questions and both a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Use Voice/Style/Tone, Follow the Prompt, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Elaborate (Info), Establish Point of View, Organize for Flow and LogicSTANDARDS:W.9.2.e, W.9.4, W.9.2.b, W.9.2.a, W.9.5, W.9.2.dFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Use Voice/Style/Tone
- Follow the Prompt
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Elaborate (Info)
- Establish Point of View
- Organize for Flow and Logic
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.2.e
- W.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- W.9.2.a
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
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KQED: Is College Worth the Time and Money?
KQED: Is College Worth the Time and Money?
In this assignment, students watch a nine-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the pros and cons of going to college versus trade schools. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Is college worth the time and money?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video along with viewing guide questions and both a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Is the Internet Making You Mean?
KQED: Is the Internet Making You Mean?
In this assignment, students watch a six-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about how communicating online affects our behavior. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Is the Internet making us mean?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: What Will Happen If We Raise the Minimum Wage?
KQED: What Will Happen If We Raise the Minimum Wage?
In this assignment, students watch a nine-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the minimum wage. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Should the minimum wage be raised or should it stay the same? " In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Is There a Right Way to Protest?
KQED: Is There a Right Way to Protest?
In this assignment, students watch an eight-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about protesting. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Is There a Right Way to Protest?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (11):Use Multiple Sources, Use Voice/Style/Tone, Use Content Vocabulary, Write a Strong Introduction & Conclusion, Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Use Transitions, Cite Text Evidence, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Elaborate (Info)STANDARDS:W.9.2.e, W.9.2.b, W.9.2.a, W.9.5, W.9.2.d, W.9.2.cFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Use Multiple Sources
- Use Voice/Style/Tone
- Use Content Vocabulary
- Write a Strong Introduction & Conclusion
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Use Transitions
- Cite Text Evidence
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Elaborate (Info)
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.2.e
- W.9.2.b
- W.9.2.a
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
- W.9.2.c
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KQED: If You Had the Money, Would You Invest in the Stock Market? Why or Why Not?
KQED: If You Had the Money, Would You Invest in the Stock Market? Why or Why Not?
In this assignment, students watch a 13-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about how the stock market is supposed to work. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "If you had the money, would you invest in the stock market?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: What Would It Take to Change Your Mind About Something You Really Believed?
KQED: What Would It Take to Change Your Mind About Something You Really Believed?
In this assignment, students watch a five-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about confirmation bias. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "How can we train our brains away from cognitive bias?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Should the U.S. Have Universal Healthcare?
KQED: Should the U.S. Have Universal Healthcare?
In this assignment, students watch a 10-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about medical insurance in the United States. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Should the U.S. have universal healthcare?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED Above the Noise: School & Life
In this collection, students respond to prompts based on KQED's Above the Noise series. Above the Noise is a YouTube series for teens that investigates thought-provoking subject matter to help young viewers to draw informed conclusions, while inspiring media literacy and civic engagement. After viewing a short, compelling video, students are prompted to write Informative responses or Arguments about topics that matter to them.
The videos and writing prompts in the School & Life Collection are thematically tied to issues that students face in their everyday lives. These include ethical questions involving school and community, issues involving equality and rights, and prompts about personal choices that ask students to go on a journey of self-exploration. These assignments can help students engage with Science and Social Studies content.
Students can also join the discussion on KQED Learn. Go to https://learn.kqed.org/ to learn more about giving your students access to the live discussion boards.
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KQED: Are School Dress Codes Sexist and Racist?
KQED: Are School Dress Codes Sexist and Racist?
In this assignment, students watch a seven-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about school dress codes. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "How do you think schools should decide on dress code policies?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Your School Is Watching You Online...Should They?
KQED: Your School Is Watching You Online...Should They?
In this assignment, students watch a nine-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the use of surveillance to keep students safe online. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Should schools monitor students' behavior on school-issued devices?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Can You Have Too Much Screen Time?
KQED: Can You Have Too Much Screen Time?
In this assignment, students watch a five-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the different ways teens use their devices. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Is it reasonable for adults to worry about you getting too much screen time?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: What Is a Fair Amount of Homework for High School Students?
KQED: What Is a Fair Amount of Homework for High School Students?
In this assignment, students watch a seven-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the amount of homework teens receive in high school. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "What do you think is a fair amount of homework?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: What's the Best Way to Measure if a Student Is Ready for College?
KQED: What's the Best Way to Measure if a Student Is Ready for College?
In this assignment, students watch a five-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about using SAT/ACT scores as a measure of college readiness. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Does a high score on the SAT point to college success?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED: Could You Become Addicted to Playing Video Games?
KQED: Could You Become Addicted to Playing Video Games?
In this assignment, students watch a six-minute video from KQED's Above the Noise about the research surrounding video game addiction. Then students write two or more paragraphs answering the question "Could you become addicted to playing video games?" In addition to the writing prompt, students can access the video, viewing guide questions, a Glossary of key terms, and a Transcript of the video, in English and Spanish, in the reading area on the left side of the screen.
Extend the lesson on KQED Learn, a free platform to build media literacy skills. Students start with discussion prompts like Above the Noise videos, then practice arguing from evidence in a discussion forum accessible only to students. Teachers will find lesson plans, student viewing guides, and curricular supports. Learn how to get started here.
SKILLS (6):Choose Words Carefully, Introduce Background & Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Organize for Flow and Logic, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9-12.1.aFORMAT:Short ResponseSkills in this Assignment
- Choose Words Carefully
- Introduce Background & Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Organize for Flow and Logic
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9-12.1.a
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KQED Above the Noise: Climate & Environment
In this collection, students respond to prompts based on KQED's Above the Noise series. Above the Noise is a YouTube series for teens that investigates thought-provoking subject matter to help young viewers draw informed conclusions, while inspiring media literacy and civic engagement. After viewing a short, compelling video, students are prompted to write Informative responses or Arguments about topics that matter to them.
The videos and writing prompts in the Climate & Environment Collection are thematically tied to issues involving climate change, the environment, and working to heal the planet. These assignments can help students engage with Science and Social Studies course content.
Students can also join the discussion on KQED Learn. Go to https://learn.kqed.org/ to learn more about giving your students access to the live discussion boards.
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KQED Above the Noise: Civics & Ethics
In this collection, students respond to prompts based on KQED's Above the Noise series. Above the Noise is a YouTube series for teens that investigates thought-provoking subject matter to help young viewers to draw informed conclusions, while inspiring media literacy and civic engagement. After viewing a short, compelling video, students are prompted to write Informative responses or Arguments about topics that matter to them.
The videos and writing prompts in the Civics & Ethics Collection are thematically tied to issues involving ethical questions, legal issues, community concerns, and questions facing modern society. These assignments can help students engage with Social Studies course content, especially in the areas of Civics and Government.
Students can also join the discussion on KQED Learn. Go to https://learn.kqed.org/ to learn more about giving your students access to the live discussion boards.
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KQED Above the Noise: School & Life
In this collection, students respond to prompts based on KQED's Above the Noise series. Above the Noise is a YouTube series for teens that investigates thought-provoking subject matter to help young viewers to draw informed conclusions, while inspiring media literacy and civic engagement. After viewing a short, compelling video, students are prompted to write Informative responses or Arguments about topics that matter to them.
The videos and writing prompts in the School & Life Collection are thematically tied to issues that students face in their everyday lives. These include ethical questions involving school and community, issues involving equality and rights, and prompts about personal choices that ask students to go on a journey of self-exploration. These assignments can help students engage with Science and Social Studies content.
Students can also join the discussion on KQED Learn. Go to https://learn.kqed.org/ to learn more about giving your students access to the live discussion boards.