Propaganda & Sports

Current Issues & Propaganda
Unit: Sports Propaganda

Unit Understanding:
The devices and elements of propaganda are used on a daily bases to influence and sway the public opinion on political and social issues as well as commercial interests.

Research involves discovery of new information and the use of credible sources and access to the views of legitimate authorities on the topic.

1. Essay Contest: "Why I Want to Vote in 2016?" (Due January 16th)

2. "Citizen Trump" MSNBC with Chris Mathews

3. Propaganda and Sports in America by Evan F. Moore

4. Background Reading: Extrinsic Awards and Motivation
    Class Discussion: Should We Reward Participation in Sports?

   James Harrison of the Pittsburg Steelers

             "Yes, All kids Should Get Trophies" by Lou Schuler Men's Health

             "How Participation Trophies Are making Our Kids Soft" by Evan Grossman Men's Journal

5. Devices of Propaganda in Sports

6. Position Paper: Team Mascots/Nicknames
Pro/Con: Should schools and sports organizations ban the use of controversial mascots and nicknames?
    
                                                                                     

Yes. Some mascots are racially insensitive and offensive.

• Goshen High School Joins Trend of Schools Across Country in Retiring Mascot Name
• As Landmark Legislation Banning R-Word Clears Key Committee in California, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan Calls Upon Washington NFL Team to Drop Offensive Mascot
• Colorado Panel Passes Bill Limiting Native American Mascots

No. These mascots are symbols meant to honor a culture or a tradition.

• Native Americans Have Become a Political Pawn
• Va. State Sen. Chap Petersen Defends ’Redskins Pride Caucus,’ Redskin Name
• Amid Rising Discord Over Indian Images, F.S.U. Has Harmony

7. Sports Team Design Project:

Scenario: The National Basketball League (NBA) has decided to expand its league with one additional team. You have been hired to promote the team by creating a team logo and slogan, choosing the color scheme and design for uniforms, and developing a fan base to support the team. You will share your proposal with the team’s board of directors (Social Studies Department) and they will select the winning proposal. Your proposal must include 4 of the 7 Devices of Propaganda and 2 of the 4 Elements of Propaganda. Each proposal must be presented in a visual format with notes explaining the use of the Devices and Elements. Your visual presentation will include an oral dialogue with the Board where you will share your proposal and answer questions.