By now you understand that how we deliver a message matters just as much as what message we choose to convey. You get that each of us, as story consumers and storytellers, has a role to play in advancing good communication in our society. Now, understanding that concept is one thing, but to actually live it? Well, that requires practice.

Part One

Think back to the stories you watched in this lesson. Remember the example of Tar Sands versus Oil Sands? The choice of phrase used by the storyteller will often determine who consumes the story and if it’s perceived as biased or not.

Now think about your project. Find two examples of the idea/issue you’re tackling in the media, from two very different sources. The stories don’t have to explicitly be about your idea/issue, they can be about a similar theme. (Remember, nothing is new under the sun.)

Having found your two stories, really review the content of both stories by asking the following questions:

  1. Is this story an example of good communication? Why or why not?
  2. Does the story strive to be thoughtful and respectful of different perspectives?
  3. Does the story use loaded words, phrases or images that might trigger different communities to react poorly to the message?
  4. Regardless of the media source/storyteller’s bias, is the story seeking to build bridges or create divides? Is it stating facts or spinning them to advance propaganda?
  5. Do you think this story helps educate the public or motivate people to work towards a solution? Why or why not?
  6. Do you think this story is entertaining or interesting enough that it will be shared and made upworthy?
  7. What elements of good communication are used in the story? Are you using/will you use those same elements in your project?
  8. What elements of bad communication are used in the story? Are you using them in your project? What changes do you need to make?
  9. How can you help advance good communication through your project?
  10. How can you help advance good communication in your daily life?

Resources that might help:

The devolving art of Canadian communication

7 propaganda techniques for students to understand

50 powerful examples of visual propaganda and the meanings behind them

Different examples of propaganda in social media

Part Two

Check out two conversations with experts from different fields in our Podcast Pool. Try to focus less on the content and really pay attention to their communication style.

Now reflect on what you’ve heard. The experts exemplified, for better or worse, a style of communication we use each day. So, ask yourself:

  1. Do you think the interviewee exemplifies good communication? Why or why not?
  2. Was the interviewee thoughtful and respectful of different perspectives?
  3. Did the interviewee use loaded words or phrases that might trigger different communities to react poorly to their message?
  4. Did the interviewee seek to build bridges or create divides?
  5. Do you think the interviewee was able to educate or motivate? Why or why not?
  6. Do you think the interviewee was engaging and entertaining? Why or why not?
  7. What elements of good communication did the interviewee use that you can use as well?
  8. What elements of bad communication did the interviewee use that you think you should avoid?

Part Three

Now it’s time to put together everything that you’ve learned. Write a sample press release that embodies good communication in order to raise awareness and create excitement about the idea you’re tackling through your final project. And if your sample press release can actually help your idea succeed? Why not fire it off to a few local media outlets and get some publicity?!