Screen Agers Viewing

Lesson 14 of 15: Viewing Guide for Screen Agers (Part 2)

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Grade

12th Grade

Duration

55 minutes

Class Size

25 students

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Common Core Standards Addressed

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.1
  Cite strong and thorough evidence to support analysis of the documentary’s claims about digital usage and its impact.

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.3
  Analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of the solutions and arguments presented in the documentary.

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.1
  Write informative/explanatory texts to examine ideas and convey what was learned based on the viewing guide.

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1
  Initiate and participate effectively in discussions about the documentary, articulating analysis of proposed solutions.

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Learning Objectives (I Can Statements)

• I can critically watch and analyze the second half of the documentary Screen Agers.
• I can complete a structured viewing guide by citing and explaining proposed solutions in the film.
• I can evaluate the feasibility and potential impact of the solutions presented.
• I can extend my thinking by proposing additional, well-reasoned solutions to challenges of digital childhoods.

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Success Criteria

• Viewing guide is completed with detailed and accurate responses.
• Evidence of critical thinking in analysis of proposed solutions is evident in the guide.
• Participation in brief class discussion demonstrates comprehension of documentary content.
• Extension activity proposes thoughtful, realistic alternative solutions beyond the documentary.

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Materials Needed

• Projector and screen or smartboard
• Documentary video: Screen Agers (second half)
• Viewing guide handouts (structured with key questions/prompts)
• Pens/pencils
• Optional: laptops or tablets for extension activity

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Lesson Breakdown

Time	Activity	Description	Differentiation/Notes
0 – 5 min	Engage / Set Purpose	Quick recap of Part 1 of Screen Agers. Teacher reviews “I can” statements and success criteria. Students briefly brainstorm expectations of what solutions might be proposed.	Use visual anchor chart of “I can” statements.
5 – 35 min	Watch Documentary (Second Half)	Play the second half of Screen Agers. Students actively fill out the viewing guide, focusing on solutions presented and their rationale.	Provide a structured guide with sentence starters (e.g., “One solution is... This is important because...”).
35 – 45 min	Pair & Share / Discussion	Students pair up to compare notes on the solutions proposed in the viewing guide. Then, whole-class discussion on effectiveness and feasibility of these solutions.	Support ELL and special needs students by providing key vocabulary handout and discussion prompts.
45 – 53 min	Extension Activity – Propose Solutions	Students brainstorm and write at least one additional solution to digital childhood challenges not covered in the documentary. Encourage creativity but base it on research or logic.	Advanced students can write a short justification paragraph; provide sentence frames if needed for scaffolding.
53 – 55 min	Exit Ticket & Reflection	Quick written response to prompt: “Which solution do you think would have the greatest impact on digital childhoods and why?” Collect exit tickets for formative assessment.	Option for oral exit ticket for students with writing challenges.

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Differentiation Strategies

• For diverse learners and ELLs:

  • Use structured viewing guides with clear, visual cues and sentence frames.
  • Provide key vocabulary list before viewing (e.g., “digital addiction,” “screen time limits,” “mindfulness”).
  • Pair stronger readers/speakers with peers to scaffold understanding during discussion.

• For students with IEPs or 504s:

  • Allow extra time if needed to complete viewing guide.
  • Use technology for note-taking when helpful.
  • Offer oral response options during discussion and exit ticket.

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Extensions for Advanced Learners

• Write a detailed proposal (~1 page) presenting an innovative solution to digital childhood challenges, citing at least one credible source or personal expertise to support the idea.
• Lead a mini debate on pros and cons of a controversial solution from the documentary.
• Create a digital infographic or social media campaign concept advocating responsible screen time based on documentary insights.

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Teacher Reflection Notes (Post-Lesson)

• Assess depth and accuracy of completed viewing guides to gauge comprehension.
• Note level of student participation and quality of extension proposals to plan differentiated supports.
• Reflect on effectiveness of sentence starters and scaffolds for ELL and special education students.
• Consider ideas for final lesson wrap-up based on student insights from this viewing.

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This lesson ensures students critically engage with media on a timely topic, practicing key analytical and communication skills aligned with Common Core standards while allowing space for personalized and extended learning.