Each week CMIL brings an afterschool media literacy program to the Lenfest “PAL” (Police Athletic League) recreation center in North Philadelphia. The “Philly Media Club”– as the students call it– introduces middle school students to basic concepts of media literacy through a wide range of highly engaging and interactive activities.
Each week instructors Matt McNish and Ben Stone focus on a specific theme and activity. The activities engage, while the instructors weave the curriculum and learning throughout the activity providing ample opportunity for the students to discuss and dissect contemporary media. Many of the activities make use of computers and Internet access, while others utilize “flip” cameras and other creative activities that tap into students critical thinking skills in a fun way.
All activities connect to the lived experiences of the students and the media they love to watch, play, download, and create. Topics include: Looking behind commercials, Exploring music videos, Animation, Product placement in video games, Representation in popular TV shows, The reality in reality TV, etc.
The program utilizes customized media literacy curriculum developed by the CMIL. The project is lead by David Cooper Moore.
You can view some of our students’ work online here!