Why is media freedom necessary in a democracy?
I can explain what free press is and the role it plays in democracy.
Why is media freedom necessary in a democracy?
I can explain what free press is and the role it plays in democracy.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The media plays a key role in any democracy.
- The media can be controlled to protect others, allow integrity and fairness.
- The media can be controlled through censorship, regulation and laws.
- Media freedom allows scrutiny of government and holds them to account.
Keywords
Democracy - a system of government in which citizens vote in regular, fair elections for representatives who then make laws and decisions on their behalf
Press freedom - the ability of the press to give information and express opinions
Censorship - the control of information or ideas within a society
Common misconception
The media should always be neutral.
Media freedom does not require journalists to be entirely neutral. It allows for a range of perspectives, such as investigative journalism and opinion pieces, as long as they are reported accurately.
To help you plan your year 10 citizenship lesson on: Why is media freedom necessary in a democracy?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 citizenship lesson on: Why is media freedom necessary in a democracy?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 4 citizenship lessons from the What are the strengths and weaknesses of the UK democratic system? unit, dive into the full secondary citizenship curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
the specific geographical area that is represented by each MP
when the citizens of a country vote to elect a new government
the voting process to select a person for a public position