Summary
Leading up to the midterms, many news outlets projected major gains for Republicans, driven in part by polls that showed the economy as voters' top concern. But Democrats defied predictions on Election Day. What did the media get right and wrong in their coverage, and what are some best practices moving forward? "Newsroom Confidential" author Margaret Sullivan joins Geoff Bennett to discuss. For a transcript, click here . You may also choose another story from the newscast by clicking on the image below. Then answer the following questions.
Five Facts
- Who are the individuals or groups of people mentioned in the story?
- What is the main idea of the piece?
- Where and When does the story take place?
- Why did the event(s) discussed occur?
- How do you think the NewsHour’s producers decided to produce a story about this topic?
Focus Questions
See, Think, Wonder : What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more? Media literacy : 1. Anchor Geoff Bennett said, "So if we do a media post mortem on the midterms, there was this focus on this red wave that did not materialize. Part of that, I think had to do with a misunderstanding of what polls can and can't do and what they should and should not do. " What do you think he meant by the second part of his statement (in bold)? 2. Bennett also stated, " Leading up to the midterms, many news outlets projected major gains for Republicans driven in part by polls that showed the economy as voter's top concern . But Democrats so far have defied predictions, as votes continue to be counted control of Congress still hangs in the balance, but at a closer than expected margin." What polls did the NewsHour participate in? Where should you look to find the answer? Do you think news media outlets should apologize to their viewers and readers for projecting the races incorrectly? 3. What additional questions do you have about the way the story was produced (made)?For More
What students can do : How does polling work, and why is it used? Take this Kahoot quiz : “Young person’s guide to voting” with a classmate, family member or neighbor.Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.
