Teaching
Using news media to produce careers resources
Thursday 17th September 2020
Blogging for me has been a bit like the gas bill behind the clock - If I don't look at it I don't deal with it. So, after a long hiatus, I'm back with a blog. So please forgive me dear reader and accept what I hope with be a series of short blogs to support new, and not so new careers leaders.
Why use newspapers?
- Firstly, they're up to date and current, this is especially important with careers and the way the labour market changes so rapidly.
- Secondly, They're 'adult' reading and younger students will feel proud reading 'grown up' material.
- Thirdly They can make learning fun and can be a great form time discussion activity.
- Finally, With a little thought, they're easily adaptable for all grades and ability levels.
How do I find relevant newspaper articles? The time factor.
- You will of course see articles that could fit in your scheme of work but don't just shoehorn them in for the sake of it. Make sure that they really fit with your identified learning outcomes.
- My weekly newsletter has a section where I highlight recent articles that could be good source material.
- Other than that, you'll probably come across some in your day to day reading during your commute.
- Or if all else fails, I'm afraid it's time to Google the topic you want to cover but make sure that you include a time factor in your search, otherwise you'll get links going back several years. A good rule of thumb is the last 6 months or, only if necessary 12 months.
What do I do when I find an article that fits in with what you need to teach?
- Write your learning outcome.
- Write a short brief for teachers - give them salient points to steer the discussion - Don't try and cover every eventuality - they are teachers and will need to adapt to their own teaching style. They can ask for guidance if they need any.
- Include some form of simple assessment such as sharing of group findings or a list.
Put together the entire pack - be it a PowerPoint, Flipchart or a printed sheet and share in plenty of time. You could even record a little video via Zoom or Teams to explain the task in a minute or two but do keep it brief.
So what would the end result look like?
I've put together a PowerPoint suitable for KS3-5 looking at an article which highlights the growing popularity of a 'side hustle' instead of being employed you can find it here
I hope this helps.
