Unit 6: Hoaxes and Fakes

Why is lateral reading more effective at determining misinformation than reading vertically (scrolling down a page)?

• Staying on the page and reading closely doesn’t always help you discover whether or not it’s credible.

• A website might look authoritative and official, but that doesn’t tell you that it’s reliable.

• You need to find corroboration to verify the claims of a source.

• They are all true.

Answer explanation

Lateral reading is more effective because it allows you to verify credibility by checking multiple sources. Staying on one page may not reveal biases, and a seemingly authoritative site doesn't guarantee reliability. Corroboration is key.

The creator and intention of the “Pig Rescues Baby Goat” viral video is an example of:

• Credibility

• Disinformation

• Corroboration

• Lateral Reading

Answer explanation

The video "Pig Rescues Baby Goat" is an example of disinformation as it may mislead viewers about animal behavior or the context of the rescue, potentially spreading false narratives rather than factual information.

Kyle often gets his news from YouTube. In one video he watched, someone reported that the government is changing the legal voting age to 16. Why is it important for Kyle to verify the credibility of the video before believing it or sharing it?

• To make sure his friends find the video interesting, too.

• To get more likes if it is a verified video.

• To prepare in case someone disagrees with the video in his post.

• To make sure others don't believe or share disinformation.

Answer explanation

It's important for Kyle to verify the video's credibility to ensure that he doesn't spread false information. Sharing disinformation can mislead others and contribute to confusion about important topics like voting age.

Xavier is helping his younger sister do a report for health class. She found an article about the negative effects of eating fish. The website looks reliable, and his sister wants to quote some information from the article. What advice should Xavier give his sister?

• Make sure to include the website's URL in the report.

• ​​​​​​Ask a friend if they think the information on the website is real.

• Share the website on social media so others can see what you are working on.

• Research the information from the website to make sure it is credible.

Answer explanation

Xavier should advise his sister to research the information to ensure its credibility. Even if the website looks reliable, verifying facts is essential for accurate reporting.

The term media literacy means the ability to critically analyze stories presented in the mass media and to determine their accuracy or credibility (tv, video, cinema, advertisements, internet).

• TRUE

• FALSE

Answer explanation

The statement accurately defines media literacy as the ability to critically analyze mass media stories and assess their accuracy and credibility. Therefore, the correct answer is TRUE.

Which of the following does not help people gain media literacy?

• Using the media effectively

• Believing everything in media

• Using the media rationally

• Being careful about fake news

Answer explanation

Believing everything in media undermines critical thinking and analysis, which are essential for media literacy. The other options promote effective and rational media use, as well as caution against misinformation.

What examples below are the types of mass media? Choose all that apply.

• Internet

• Radio

• TV

• E-mail

Answer explanation

The Internet, Radio, and TV are all types of mass media that disseminate information to a large audience. E-mail, while a communication tool, is not considered mass media as it typically involves direct, personal communication.

Which ISN"T a type of disinformation?

• False context

• Misleading content

• Fabricated content

• True content

Answer explanation

True content is accurate information and does not qualify as disinformation. The other options—false context, misleading content, and fabricated content—are all types of disinformation.

What is the impact of disinformation and misinformation in the digital age?

• It makes for laughable mistakes but has no serious consequences

• It leads to bad decisions with serious consequences

• It is easier to spread but has little influence on decision-making

• It has no impact on how people perceive information from central institutions

Answer explanation

Disinformation and misinformation can lead to poor decision-making, resulting in serious consequences. This highlights the importance of accurate information in the digital age, making the correct choice crucial.

How much time do you think the average person spends on social media each day?

• Under one hour

• About one and a half hours

• About two and a half hours

• Over three hours

Answer explanation

Research indicates that the average person spends about two and a half hours on social media daily, reflecting the growing trend of digital engagement in our lives.