Level: Grades 6 to 8

Overview

In this lesson, students learn how to create their own youth consumer or Internet site. The lesson begins with students being introduced to a variety of youth consumer magazines, television shows and Web sites. Students discuss the elements that make these effective consumer advocacy tools for youth. Then, in small groups, they create youth-oriented consumer magazines or Web sites 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 problems, raising public awareness, and bringing about change
• an appreciation of layout and design elements of magazines and Web sites

Preparation and Materials

Before Class:

• Arrange for class time in a computer lab, so that students can visit the recommended Web sites
• A commercial-free version of the CBC program Street Cents can be taped and used for classroom use through Cable in the Classroom
• Television and VCR
• Collect copies of Zillions and Adbusters magazines from school or local libraries

Procedure

Depending on the available resources, introduce your students to the following consumer magazines, Internet sites and television shows:

Zillions offers a consumer magazine and Web site for young people with a wealth of information on everything from sports and electronic equipment to entertainment and media aimed at kids. Consumer goods are tested and rated by kids in this youthful version of Consumer Reports.

Adbusters is an irreverent and satirical magazine and Web site 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.

Street Cents is an awarding-winning CBC consumer show for kids, with an excellent supporting Web site. For this year's television schedule, and highlights from last year's season, check out the Web site. It's an excellent source of inspiration for students creating their own consumer Web site.

• Have students list and discuss what makes these effective 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 further action (such as starting e-mail 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 groups to create their own magazine or youth consumer Internet site. Acting as investigative reporters, product testers and writers, students can publish their exposés, surveys and test results in a magazine format or online. This could 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.