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The Language of Misinformation: Fact, Fiction and Persuasion

SecondaryYear 9 - 10EnglishInformative writingPersuasive writingEnvironmentalEnergySocialOnline safety

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These resources are part of the Combatting Misinformation Education Resources, created in collaboration with Boundless Earth.

This English unit for Years 9 & 10, The Language of Misinformation: Fact, Fiction and Persuasion, has been designed to

  • equip students to critically analyse language, distinguishing clearly between facts, opinions and persuasive techniques in media and political contexts
  • explore how inclusive and exclusive language shapes public perception, empowering students to recognise its role in influencing debates, particularly around clean energy
  • develop advanced media literacy skills, enabling students to fact-check statements, assess credibility and understand the motivations behind misinformation and disinformation
  • investigate the persuasive power of political and media narratives, guiding students to identify bias and evaluate how language affects public trust
  • practise effective debunking strategies, helping students research, create and share accurate, evidence-based responses to false claims.

Through critical analysis, practical fact-checking and informed discussion, students will build the skills to confidently navigate digital media, assess credibility and participate constructively in evidence-based discussions on clean energy.

Scroll down to explore each lesson or click the download button on the right-hand side of this unit to download the entire unit at once. ✨

Cool.org thanks our philanthropic funder, Boundless Earth for its generous contributions and collaboration in creating these resources.

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Students learn to identify fact and opinion-based writing while exploring the topic of clean energy. They will identify inclusive and exclusive language use in various persuasive texts. 

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  • Lesson
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    Fact vs Opinion in the Media
    SecondaryYear 9 - 10EnglishInformative writingPersuasive writing
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  • Lesson
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    Exploring Inclusive and Exclusive Language in Media
    SecondaryYear 9 - 10EnglishInformative writingPersuasive writing

    Find Out

    Students will practice fact-checking false statements using a fact-checkers checklist to explore politically opposing statements about clean energy.

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  • Lesson
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    Unpacking the Motivations Behind Misinformation
    SecondaryYear 9 - 10EnglishInformative writingPersuasive writing

    Take Action

    Students will investigate how political advertisements use persuasive devices and imagery to convey a particular message. They will assess how organisations work to dispel misinformation and disinformation online. 

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    Building Trust Through Media Content
    SecondaryYear 9 - 10EnglishInformative writingPersuasive writing

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