www.mediasmarts.ca

© 2012 MediaSmarts

1

Overview

In this lesson, students learn how to create their own youth

consumer magazine or Internet site. The lesson begins with

students being introduced to a variety of youth consumer

magazines and websites. Students discuss the elements that

make these effective consumer advocacy tools for youth. T

hen, in small groups, they create youth-oriented consumer

magazines or websites of their own.

Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate:

•

an awareness of their rights as consumer

•

an understanding of the importance of being informed, active consumers

•

an awareness of advocacy as a means of addressing pr

oblems, raising public awareness, and bringing about

change

•

an appreciation of layout and design el

ements of magazines and websites

Preparation and Materials

Before Class:

•

Arrange for class time in a computer lab, so

that students can visit the recommended websites

•

Collect copies of

Zillions

and

Adbusters

magazines from school or local libraries

Procedure

Depending on the available resources, introduce your student

s to the following consumer magazines, Internet sites and

television shows:

Zillions

offers a consumer magazine and website for young peopl

e with a wealth of information on everything from

sports and electronic equipment to entertainment and medi

a aimed at kids. Consumer goods are tested and rated by

kids in this youthful version of Consumer Reports.

Create a Youth Consumer Magazine

Level:

Grades 6 to 8

About the Author:

MediaSmarts

LESSON PLAN

www.mediasmarts.ca

© 2012 MediaSmarts

2

Create a Youth Consumer Magazine

●

Lesson Plan

●

Grades 6 – 8

Adbusters

is an irreverent and satirical magazine and website that

encourages the active participation of citizens in

combating the excesses of consumer culture. Older

students will enjoy the humorous parodies of well-known ad

campaigns.

Have students list and discuss what makes these effectiv

e consumer advocacy resources for young people. Elements

to be considered might include:

•

use of parody

•

tone

•

pictures/illustrations

•

writing style

•

products selected

•

use of polls and surveys

•

resources or information for young people to take furt

her action (such as starting email or letter-writing

campaigns)

•

product testing

•

product selection (of items that would appeal to kids)

•

quizzes

•

"speak out" sections for kids

Activity

Using these examples as models, have the students form gr

oups to create their own magazine or youth consumer

Internet site. Acting as investigative r

eporters, product testers a

nd writers, students can publ

ish their exposés, surveys

and test results in a magazine format or online. This coul

d be a one-time activity or an ongoing project, with students

choosing a new topic each month to investigate and test,

such as sports equipment, food, video games, fashion or

music.

Evaluation

Completed youth consumer magazine or Internet site.