Buy Now! How does advertising influence consumption and its environmental consequences? Lesson 1 of 2
Key stage 3 • Active citizenship, making a positive difference • Lessons
How does advertising influence consumption and its environmental consequences?
This lesson is the first of two that discuss the issues raised in the Netflix documentary, Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy
The lesson is designed to prompt critical thinking about how advertising, especially through celebrity endorsements, influences consumer choices and drives impulsive buying. The key concepts explored include the power of advertising, the role of brand loyalty and the environmental consequences of over-consumption. Students are informed about the ‘information neighbourhoods’ model and the tactics used by companies to increase sales. The lesson encourages them to question how these strategies shape their purchasing habits; through activities and discussions, students will reflect on the balance of responsibility between companies and consumers, particularly in relation to waste and sustainability.
Students will work towards answering the following questions:
- How does advertising, particularly celebrity endorsements, influence consumer decisions?
- What are the environmental consequences of excessive consumption, especially in relation to the fashion industry?
- To what extent is donating unwanted goods an effective solution to excessive consumption?
- Is there a shared responsibility between consumers and companies for the environmental effects of over-consumption?
These resources are designed to engage and empower your students on the contemporary issues of consumerism and the environment. Don’t forget to view and download the second of the two Buy Now! resources here.
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