Summary
At a time when misinformation is rampant, the NewsHour's Student Reporting Labs is producing a series of conversations called "Moments of Truth" that explore why people believe false information and what causes them to change their minds. This is a story about a mother who hesitated to give her child a common childhood vaccine that fights against measles, mumps and rubella. For a transcript of this story, click here .Five Facts
- Who is profiled in this story, and what are their backgrounds?
- What are some of the conspiracy theories that Mary Smith believed?
- Why did Mary Smith come to believe the conspiracy theories?
- How did Marley talk to Mary about vaccine hesitancy?
- When did Mary Smith come to doubt the conspiracy theories she had believed in?
Focus Questions
What do you think was the most effective thing that helped Mary Smith get beyond conspiracies about vaccines? Media literacy: Why do you think this mother was profiled along with her child?For More
What students can do: Do you have anyone in your life that believes in conspiracy theories? What do you think is the best way to talk with them about believing in such theories after watching this story? To watch more conversations about moving past conspiracy theories, check out Student Reporting Labs' series Moments of Truth , a digital series exploring misinformation and showcasing intergenerational conversations about facts, information, and truth.
- Do you know how to avoid falling for misinformation online? Check out this Classroom lesson or just the accompanying video below for ideas:
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