Truth or Trash? A Fake News Investigation

Introduction

You’ve just been hired as junior journalists for the 'Digital Integrity News Agency'. Your mission? To investigate the rising spread of fake news and learn how to spot and stop it. In this WebQuest, you’ll become media detectives who examine headlines, images, videos, and social media posts for accuracy and truth.

Task

Create an interactive guide or short skit (video) that teaches your classmates how to identify fake news and be responsible online citizens.



You will:

- Analyze real vs. fake news articles

- Learn fact-checking techniques

- Explore the psychology of why people believe false information

- Share practical tips for safe, smart media use

 

Process

Step 1: Investigate

- Read articles about fake news, misinformation, and media manipulation

- Watch short videos on how to verify sources and images



Step 2: Analyze Examples

- Examine actual headlines and determine whether they are real or fake

- Justify your answer using fact-checking tools



Step 3: Create Your Product

Choose one:

- An interactive digital guide (via Canva, Google Slides, or Genially)

- A 3-minute video skit or role-play demonstrating a “fake news scenario” and how to avoid it



Step 4: Present

- Share your guide or perform your skit with the class. Reflect as a group.

Evaluation

Use the rubric below to assess student performance:

Criteria

Excellent (4)

Good (3)

Fair (2)

Poor (1)

Critical Thinking

 

 

 

 

Use of Media Resources

 

 

 

 

Accuracy of Information

 

 

 

 

Creativity and Engagement

 

 

 

 

Team Collaboration

 

 

 

 

Total Score: /20

Conclusion

You've just leveled up as a Digital Defender! You now know how to recognize fake news and responsibly use social media. As an agent of truth, how will you use this power? What will you do differently online starting today?

Credits
Teacher Page