Overfishing, Facts, and Feelings: A SciLMi Lesson on Media Literacy and Life Skills
As a participant of the Erasmus+ Teacher Academy – Meta-Scientific Literacies in the (Mis-)Information Age, I designed and conducted a SciLMi lesson that united students across subjects and borders. The integrated session combined English, Geography, and Civic Education (Social Studies) and explored how language, emotions, and media framing influence our understanding of global issues, using the topic “Overfishing, Facts, and Feelings.”
The lesson reflected the main goals of the Meta-Scientific Literacies (SciLMi) approach:
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making meaningful use of media and science-related information;
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fostering students’ ability to question sources, interpret data, and connect learning with real-world challenges;
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promoting collaboration across subjects and critical reflection on socio-scientific issues;
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applying digital and learner-centred strategies for competence-based education.
Using BBC learning materials, AI tools such as Perplexity, and digital platforms like Tricider, Digpad, and AnswerGarden, students analyzed real news and video content to distinguish facts from opinions, recognize emotional and biased language, and reflect on how media shapes environmental awareness. Working in teams of Fishers, Consumers, Ecologists, and Fish, learners debated, designed leaflets, and presented creative solutions — developing essential critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and media literacy skills. This integrated SciLMi lesson became a true example of how education can stay alive, engaging, and empowering even in challenging circumstances. Despite living and studying close to the frontline, our students remain motivated, open-minded, and eager to grow — proving that knowledge, empathy, and creativity can overcome any barriers.
“We don’t just study English. We learn to think, to question, and to make informed decisions,” shared one of the participants.
