Fallacy Detectors for the Classroom

This is a guide for teachers on how to utilize Fallacy Detectors in their classroom.

There are two main approaches:

  1. If each student has access to their own device (computer/tablet), you get an account for each one of them to work through the videos, writing prompts, and quizzes at their own pace. Group discounts for schools and homeschool co-op groups are available – contact me for more information at stephanie@critikid.com.
  2. If students do not have access to their own devices, but you have a projector or some other way to show videos to the class, you can buy just one course and play the videos for the entire class together. This is the most cost-effective option but does not allow for each student to pause and go back as needed.

After watching each video – either individually or as a group – there are many activities you can do with your students to deepen their understanding. If you add these activities, you can do one video per class and use Fallacy Detectors Part 1 over 10 classes.

Activity ideas:

  • Class Discussion – Do you have any questions about the video? Can you think of any times you’ve seen someone committing this fallacy in your own life (including on social media)? Have you ever committed this fallacy? How might you respond if someone commits this fallacy in the future?
  • Writing – Write a short story in which one of the characters commits the fallacy from the video and learns from their mistake. (If you choose approach 1 above, there is an option to do this right on the webpage.)
  • Skits, Comics, and Videos – In a small group, perform a skit in which of the characters commits the fallacy from the video and learns from their mistake. A similar prompt can be used but for writing comics, making videos, etc.
  • Make an Advertisement – Fallacies are often used in advertising. Make an advertising that commits a fallacy.
  • Debate – After all ten videos are watched, have the students debate a topic being very careful not to use fallacies! If a fallacy is used, the opponents or other students in the class should respectfully point it out.