Digital Media Literacy in the Age of Deepfakes: A Middle-School Curriculum Guide

Teaching Students to Navigate AI-Generated Misinformation (2024–2025 Edition)

Target Audience: Middle School Social Studies and Technology Teachers (Grades 6–8)

Keywords: media literacy lesson plans for middle school, how to spot deepfakes curriculum, teaching digital citizenship, critical thinking activities for students

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

1. Define misinformation, disinformation, and deepfakes.

2. Identify common signs of manipulated media.

3. Apply verification techniques to digital content.

4. Evaluate sources using critical thinking frameworks.

5. Demonstrate responsible digital citizenship practices.

6. Reflect on ethical implications of AI-generated media.