Middletown
Key Issues and Questions Raised
- Environmental and governmental corruption: How did students confront local threats to their community’s safety?
- Youth empowerment in civic life: What does “civic courage” look like when practiced by young people?
- Speaking truth to power: How did students use investigative journalism to hold leaders accountable?
- Impact of storytelling: How did their documentary catalyze change at the local level?
- Student activism and legacy: What lasting impact can youth-led action have on a community?
Curriculum Connections
Social Studies and Civics:
• Investigative journalism’s role in local democracy; youth-led civic activism
English / Language Arts:
• Analyzing documentary structure, narrative voice, and persuasive techniques
Media Literacy / Journalism:
• Evaluating sources, ethical reporting, storytelling choices
Environmental Science:
• Understanding water contamination, public health hazards, and community responses