The introduction to the topic of fake news begins with a practical exercise. Children are presented with three stories and asked to identify which are false. The instructive twist: all three are fabricated. This approach is designed to prevent any single false narrative from being remembered as fact, thereby reducing the risk of confusion between misinformation and real news.
Following the exercise, a discussion explores the tangible consequences of fake news. Students consider how it can distort public debate on important issues and the severe personal impact it can have on individuals who are falsely targeted.
A range of practical strategies is then introduced to help even a novice identify fake news. Often, a simple independent online search for a story is enough. Other key indicators include checking for a clear source and a verifiable author. The absence of this fundamental information is a strong warning sign. Children are also encouraged to consult a teacher, parent, or another trusted adult whenever they encounter information – particularly online – that seems questionable or unusual to them.
