Propaganda Lesson Plan: Grade 7 Campaign Posters Persuasion
This free classroom activity introduces students to propaganda by helping them recognize persuasive techniques and then apply them. Students examine historical-style messages, evaluate how they influence voters, and create their own campaign poster and speech.
Subject Area: Social Studies
Overview
Students explore how leaders and groups try to influence public opinion. They learn the difference between information and persuasion, identify common propaganda strategies, and analyze how images, slogans, and emotional appeals shape decisions. The lesson culminates in a simulated election where students present campaign messages.
Subject Connections
Social Studies provides the primary focus as students examine civic participation and political communication. English Language Arts skills are used when students analyze wording, write speeches, and present ideas clearly. Media literacy develops as students learn to question persuasive messages and evaluate credibility.
Learning Goals
- Define propaganda and persuasion
- Identify common propaganda techniques
- Explain how visuals and wording influence opinion
- Create a persuasive political message
- Present ideas clearly to an audience
Materials
- Poster paper
- Markers or colored pencils
- Sticky notes
- Sample advertisements or campaign-style images
- Notebook paper
- Projector or screen (optional)
Preparation
- Gather several examples of persuasive messages (ads, posters, or public service announcements)
- Prepare a short list of propaganda techniques: bandwagon, emotional appeal, name-calling, testimonial, and symbols
- Create a list of fictional candidates or historical-style issues for student campaigns
Teaching Procedure
Each session fits a standard class period of 45–50 minutes. The project and presentations span four class sessions.
Session 1 – Recognizing Persuasion
- Students view several advertisements and explain which ones attempt to influence opinions.
- Activity: Students label features of a persuasive image using sticky notes and share one observation.
- The teacher introduces propaganda techniques and students record definitions.
- Partners identify techniques in additional examples.
Session 2 – How Messages Influence People
- Students discuss why persuasive messages can be convincing.
- Activity: Groups create a quick example poster demonstrating an assigned propaganda technique.
- Students rewrite a neutral statement into a persuasive slogan.
- Students select a campaign issue or candidate.
Session 3 – Creating Campaign Messages
- Students outline their campaign message.
- Activity: Students design a poster using at least two propaganda techniques and explain their choices.
- Students write a one-minute speech supporting their position.
- Partners give feedback and suggestions.
Session 4 – Election and Reflection
- Students present speeches with posters.
- Activity: Students vote in a class election and discuss which techniques influenced their decisions.
- The class discusses persuasion in society and media.
- Students write a reflection on recognizing propaganda in real life.
Assessment
Evaluate posters, speeches, and participation. Students demonstrate mastery when they correctly identify propaganda techniques and intentionally use at least two techniques in their campaign message with a clear explanation.
Differentiation
- Provide a template slogan starter for writing support
- Allow oral recording instead of written speech
- Offer pre-selected images for students who struggle with drawing
- Challenge advanced students to compare persuasive messages from different sources
Grade Adaptation
This lesson is designed primarily for Grade 7 students, who are ready to analyze influence and intent while still benefiting from structured activities. Grade 6 students may focus more on identifying techniques with teacher guidance, while Grade 8 students can add deeper analysis of bias, audience targeting, and media credibility.
Extension Ideas
- Analyze modern advertising for propaganda techniques
- Compare political messaging across time periods
- Study how social media spreads persuasive messages
- Create a media literacy checklist students can use at home
