"Theorizing U.S. National Identity through Multicultural Texts,"
	Analyzing Mass Media And How it Shapes Identity and Values - Veronica Fiedler, Willard Intermediate
	The unit on mass media and identity was written with a sixth grade Language Arts and Social Studies integrated studies class in mind. However, this unit can be adapted to fit any level from sixth through twelfth grades. This mass media unit mostly concentrates on analyzing various types of mass media and the messages that we as viewers unconsciously absorb. The unit will then move to the student as an individual as he or she examines the aspects that shape his or her values and identity. Students will start this unit with a class and school wide survey. Secondly, students will study various pervasive methods used by advertisers and will use this knowledge to examine television advertisements and printed advertisements found in popular magazines. As they watch, with the use of viewing logs, students will record specific information about how these methods are put forth in commercials. Students will also use a viewing log to analyze violence in television programs. The unit will end with a reflective project where students will interpret how their identities and personal values and perceptions are influenced by the mass media they are exposed to daily. Moving beyond the dissemblance of mass media messages and "truths," students will learn to read newspapers critically in attempt to find a more comprehensive view of global information.