Assignment:
"The Issue in Focus" - Multimedia Research Infographic Activity
Overview: Students will investigate a current social issue by gathering multiple types of media - articles, data, images, video, and personal testimony - then synthesize their findings into a one-page Canva infographic that tells a complete, well-sourced story about the issue. Need Assignment Help?
Sample Topics (you can choose your own):
Food insecurity on college campuses
The mental health crisis among Gen Z
Misinformation and news literacy
Climate change and student activism
The gender pay gap
Voting amongst Gen Z
Literacy rates
The financial cut back on major field
The ongoing attack on Trans issues
Roles & Duties
Your submission requires you to complete several roles, which are listed below. Please make sure you review each role carefully, as they describe the steps for creating your infographic.
The Journalist
Finds 2 credible news articles or long-form pieces about the issue. Writes a 2-3 sentence summary of each and pulls one strong quote to feature on the infographic. Evaluates each source for bias and recency.
The Data Collector
Locates 2-3 statistics or data points from peer-reviewed studies, government databases, or reputable research organizations. Identifies the best visual way to represent the data - a chart, percentage callout, or timeline - and drafts that element for the infographic.
The Media Curator
Finds one short video clip or podcast segment (under 5 minutes) and one compelling image related to the issue. Writes a 1-2 sentence caption for the image and a brief description of what the video contributes to the group's understanding. Provides a QR code link to the video for the infographic.
The Editor & Designer
Leads the group's Canva session. Selects the layout, color palette, and fonts. Integrates all four members' contributions into a cohesive one-page infographic. Writes the infographic's headline, 2-3 sentence intro blurb, and sources list at the bottom.
Canva Infographic Must-Haves:
A bold headline that frames the issue
Two strong quotes from a news source
At least two visuals (can include statistics)
One image with a caption