How does the media hold those in power to account?

This six-lesson Year 10 scheme of work introduces learners to the role of the media in a democracy and how it can help hold those in power to account. Learners explore responsible journalism, media regulation, misinformation, censorship and the importance of a free press in democratic society.
Learners consider how the media can support democracy, how false or misleading information can affect public understanding, and why journalism may be regulated. They also explore arguments for and against censorship before bringing their learning together in a deliberative discussion about whether the media effectively holds those in power to account. The scheme supports learners to develop critical media literacy and an understanding of the relationship between a free press, public information and democratic accountability.
Currently, one lesson from this scheme is available on Democracy Classroom, with further lessons to be added over time.