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.
02/09/2026
Super Bowl commercials feature AI, weight-loss drugs, celebrities
The tone of this year’s Super Bowl advertising was heavy on humor and light on controversy. Alongside food ads, there were commercials for “wellness” and weight-loss drugs. Artificial Intelligence appeared as both a product and creator of ads. Of course, there were plenty of celebrities appearing in some of the most expensive commercials on television. It cost about $8 million for a 30-second commercial during the game.
■Class discussion: Did you see any of the commercials during the Super Bowl? Did you find them entertaining or just the same old stuff? How much does advertising influence what you buy? Could an $8 million, 30-second commercial have much impact on you? Can you always tell when someone is trying to sell you something? How many posts on social media are really advertising? Are online influencers getting paid to convince you to buy a product?
