Identifying Fake News Guide

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📚 Part 1: Key Words & Multiple Choice — Answers

Learning Intention: I am learning to identify fake news and understand why it exists online.

Success Criteria: I can explain fake news, misinformation, disinformation and satire; sort examples; give reasons people create or share fake news.

Dyslexia-friendly option: Read aloud, highlight key words, or use paired reading for support.

1. Matching — correct pairs:

Misinformation

Disinformation

Satire

Fake News

Wrong information shared by mistake

False stories shared on purpose to deceive

Funny, exaggerated stories made for comedy

Untrue stories presented as real news

2. Aroha and carrots — which is it?

Misinformation — she believed it but it is not accurate (Correct)

Disinformation — she is trying to trick people

Satire — it is a joke about vegetables

Brief explanation: Aroha genuinely believes the false claim, so it is shared without intent to deceive.

3. Company posts fake story about a rival — which is it?

Misinformation — they made a mistake

Satire — it is meant to be funny

Disinformation — they are lying on purpose (Correct)

4. Which are signs a story might be fake? (Tick ALL that apply)

The headline uses lots of CAPITAL LETTERS and exclamation marks!!! (Correct)

The story comes from a well-known, trusted news website

There are no author names or sources listed (Correct)

The story makes you feel very shocked or angry straight away (Correct)

Other news websites are reporting the same story

Notes: Trusted sites and multiple reputable reports usually suggest a story is real; strong emotional headlines, missing sources or sensational punctuation are warning signs.

📰 Part 2: Sort the News — Answers & Reasons

5. "New Zealand Scientists Discover That Kiwi Birds Can Now Fly After Eating Special Berries"

Category: Fake. Reason: Implausible claim about a well-known flightless species; no credible source named.

6. "Prime Minister Announces New School Holiday in Honour of Minecraft's 15th Birthday"

Category: Fake (or Unsure). Reason: Unlikely government action; check official government or school websites to confirm.

7. "The Spinoff Parody: Wellington Mayor Declares All Meetings Must Be Held on Trampolines"

Category: Satire. Reason: Labelled as a parody and uses exaggerated, humorous content.

8. "Auckland Experiences Hottest January in 30 Years, NIWA Reports"

Category: Real. Reason: Cites a credible source (NIWA); plausible climate record—verify on NIWA or other trusted outlets.

✏️ Part 3: Short Answer, Extension & Checklist — Suggested Answers

9. Why do people create and share fake news? Give at least two reasons.

Answers: (1) To get attention, clicks or money (advertising revenue). (2) To influence opinions or gain power (political or personal advantage). Other reasons: as a joke, to cause confusion, or to harm someone.

10. What is one thing YOU can do before sharing something online?

Answer: Check the source — look for author, date and other reputable outlets reporting the same story. If unsure, don't share.

11. Extension — Explain the impact of fake news on individuals and communities. Give an example.

Answer: Fake news can cause fear, anger or confusion, change what people believe or do (e.g. avoiding health advice), and damage trust in institutions. Example: False health claims can lead people to try dangerous "cures" or refuse vaccinations, causing real harm to communities.

⭐ Bonus Challenge: Short checklist (3–5 steps) for Year 5 students

Checklist: 1) Read the whole story. 2) Check who wrote it and the website. 3) Look for other trusted sites saying the same thing. 4) Check the date and pictures. 5) If unsure, ask a teacher or family member before sharing.

Differentiation tips: Read questions aloud, allow verbal answers or drawing responses, pair learners for support. Advanced learners: research a real example and present the findings.