Being media literate means:

Having the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in a variety of forms. It involves thinking critically about the messages we see and hear—whether in news articles, social media posts, advertisements, or videos—and understanding the purpose, perspective, and potential bias behind them.

Media literacy is important because:

It empowers people to make informed decisions, recognize misinformation, and engage responsibly in civic and digital life.
In a world where information spreads rapidly, being media literate helps individuals separate fact from opinion and become thoughtful, active participants in society.

Quick Tips

- Pause before you share—ask, 'What’s the evidence?' - Look for original reporting and named experts.
- Use reverse image search for suspicious photos.
- Read past the headline; check dates and context.

Questions to Ask

- Who made this and why?
- What’s missing or whose voice is left out?
- How does it make me feel—and why?
- Can I verify this with at least two trusted sources?

Five Ways to Practice Media Literatery

1. Question the source

- Always check who created the content, what their purpose is, and whether they are credible.

2. Look for bias and perspective

- Notice whose voices are included, whose are missing, and what assumptions the message might carry.

3. Verify information

- Cross-check facts with multiple reliable outlets before accepting or sharing them.

4. Analyze techniques

- Pay attention to language, images, music, or editing used to influence emotions and opinions.

5. Practice creating media

- Writing articles, making videos, or posting responsibly online builds awareness of how messages are constructed and received.

Quick Quiz: Can You Spot the Red Flags?

1. A viral post claims a major event happened 'yesterday,' but the linked article is from 2018. What’s your best move?

a. Share it quickly so others are aware.

b. Check the date and look for current, credible coverage.

c. Comment with your opinion; facts will follow.

2. A screenshot shows a shocking quote, but there’s no link to the source. What’s your best verification step?

a. Reverse image search the screenshot and look for original context.

b. Assume it’s true because many people are sharing it.

c. Only believe it if it matches your views.

3. An article uses dramatic language and all caps in the headline. What should you check first?

a. The comment section for more details.

b. The site’s 'About' page and author credentials.

c. Whether your friends agree.

answers: 1.b, 2.a, 3. b

Call To Action

Practice media literacy daily
Pause before sharing
Verify claims
Discuss what you find with others

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