About This Lesson
Thinkalong.org is a free, evidence-based interactive tool for students to develop media literacy skills by applying the 5 Key Questions of Media Literacy to public media content. Importantly, the tool does not require registration for teachers or students, abides by student privacy laws, and is advised by a board of both youth and educators.
Each module consists of:
- a compelling and timely question;
- related current and age-appropriate public media content including audio, video, and text;
- extension resources for advanced or highly-interested students;
- student graphic organizers;
- a simple debate tool;
- a teacher's guide to the module;
- and a guide to the 5 Key Questions of Media Literacy.
This Teacher's Guide supports the Should the U.S. Senate eliminate the filibuster? module on thinkalong.org. Here is the full module and below is a summary.
The filibuster is a tool that Senators can use to hold up a vote or a debate on a potential law that comes to the floor. In the past, legislators had to stand and talk in order to filibuster, but Senate rule changes have made it easier to stall. In recent years, most big bills have been filibustered. Proponents of the filibuster say it ensures that the minority opinion has a say in bills, but opponents argue that it makes passing legislation overly difficult. Should the Senate eliminate the filibuster?
To use this module with learners in any setting, we recommend using one of the structured discussion formats outlined at thinkalong.org/structuring-discussions. You can find options for a small or large group, so that all students or just a few participate, and examples of some discussion formats.
