Common Core State Standard L.CCS.1/2/3/4 Grades 6-12: Video of a current news event is presented for discussion to encourage student participation, but also inspire the use of evidence to support logical claims using the main ideas of the video. Students must analyze background information provided about a current event, draw out the main ideas and key details, and review different opinions on the issue. Then, students should present their own claims using facts and analysis for support.
10/10/2011
Crashing into Internet fame
A 45-year-old Phoenix man was thrust into Internet fame after his van was stuck from behind by an SUV. George Lindell was still dazed when he gave a series of very animated television interviews about the crash. He enthusiastically re-enacted the wreck. His wide-brimmed hat flew off his head as he jerked his neck back showing the "bam" of the accident. The video soon went viral with 2.3 million views on YouTube.
■Class discussion: What makes a video "go viral" on the Internet? Do only funny videos become popular? What types of Internet videos are your favorites? Find the most popular Internet videos and explain in writing why they are popular.