6th grade · English Language Arts · Unit 11 of 12
Media Techniques
How messages persuade and why we react
What your child practices
Children name persuasion techniques such as bandwagon, testimonials, fear and scarcity, notice camera angles, music and what is left out, and think about why people react to the same message differently.
Oregon State Standards learning standard: ELA.6.RI.6; ELA.6.SL.2 · an author's purpose and the techniques media messages use
Sample questions
A taste of this unit. In the app, questions change every time and get easier or harder to match your child.
Question 1
An ad shows a famous athlete wearing a brand of shoes. What technique is this?
- plain facts
- testimonial or celebrity endorsement
- cause and effect
- bandwagon
testimonial or celebrity endorsement
Hint: A known person says or shows they use it.
Question 2
A video uses slow, sad music while showing a lost puppy. What reaction does it aim for?
- sympathy
- laughter
- anger at puppies
- boredom
sympathy
Hint: Music guides emotions.
Question 3
How can the music in a movie trailer affect viewers?
- it has no effect
- it gives the run time
- it lists the cast
- it builds excitement or tension
it builds excitement or tension
Hint: Sound sets the mood.
Question 4
How is an infographic different from an ad?
- an ad has no pictures
- an infographic mainly informs; an ad mainly sells
- they are the same
- an infographic always sells
an infographic mainly informs; an ad mainly sells
Hint: Compare purposes.
Question 5
What does “what is left out” mean when analyzing media?
- the title
- the end credits
- information the maker chose not to show
- the advertiser's logo
information the maker chose not to show
Hint: Omissions are choices too.
Question 6
A message makes people feel they will be left out if they do not buy. Which technique is this?
- humor
- plain folks
- facts and figures
- bandwagon
bandwagon
Hint: No one wants to be left out.