Week #6 Reading and Discussion

1.What instructional moves (i.e. group formation, topic selection, scaffolding the process, assessment) did the teacher use that you might replicate in your own teaching practices that involve critical media literacy?

I would use the "write down a question" about the class as part of the introduction to the course. This fills in the time for when the instructor needs to introduce themselves to the class and allows for the students to have some say in this introduction to the course and the instructor.
2. What do you think about the student created PSA? Did it seem creative? Do you think it could serve as a legitimate assessment of writing ability? Do you think the topic would be appropriate for school? What if the students chose a pro-choice stance? 
I believe that the group learned some good group work skills in doing the PSA. I think that the instructor should not have let the students take such a politically dividing subject for the PSA. While it sparked their creatively and writing ability, the chance of offending someone that is a hardliner on either side of the abortion argument are too great. The you have parents wanting conferences and the time and effort spend teaching the kids has to be retaught to the parents.
3. Do you share the researcher's concerns that the student created PSA reproduced dominant or mainstream media representations of girls and social class? Why or Why not? 
I don't share his concern because everyone has their decision to be part of the norm representations of girls and social class. While I respect and try to understand the decisions that other people make, I am often at odds with their logic.
4. What concerns do you have about engaging students in critical media literacy? 

Counter-labeling is my primary concern. It is one thing to disagree with the media. However, in embracing the counter to poor stereotype decisions, it is not right to push this opposing view. Using the media show only another view to correct bad decisions in the media is just as wrong as the media pushing out the original. I prefer a neutral production that can show both sides of the coin and I figure which one I would support.

5.  What topics might you use for a PSA that would  that would help you meet your curriculum goals and content standards?

I would like the do a PSA on how the media produces some of the fantasy stuff it does. I believe that too much of the public are not able to suspend their disbelieve and realize that they are watching something that is pretend or fiction at the time of watching it. Personally, I have seen the making of too many movies and read too many books to get really scared or upset over fiction.
6. How would you implement the construction of a PSA in your own classroom to include aspects of critical media literacy?

I would follow the example that is presented in the book and add elements that I have learned in my experiences. I would provide an example of properly dividing up labor. If this isn't done, there isn't a good road map of how to do the work. The chance of the team having a member flake out on their tasks are reduced and personal accountability remain for the teacher to assess.