Bias, Symbolism, Propaganda Techniques Review Games for Civics & U.S. Government

This Bias, Symbolism, and Propaganda in U.S. Elections Review Games kit includes four review puzzles that cover key concepts and vocabulary related to media bias, symbolism, and propaganda techniques. The worksheets include a maze escape, crossword puzzle, vocabulary word search, and an emoji riddle for students to crack! Perfect for middle school Civics, American History, or American Government students, these puzzles can work as a unit review or test prep before the Civics EOC. They also make a great, easy sub plan! 

This resource is aligned to the following Florida State Standard for Middle School Civics:

• SS.7.CG.2.9 Bias, Symbolism and Propaganda

This resource includes:

✯ A Maze Escape. Students navigate the maze of review questions by drawing a straight line through each correct answer. Questions include vocabulary definitions and key concepts related to media bias, symbolism, and propaganda techniques.

Sample questions in the Maze Escape:

• “I’m just a regular guy like you!” says a millionaire politician using this propaganda technique. (Plain Folks)
• The Statue of Liberty, American Flag, and Bald Eagle are often used as symbols of which concept? (Patriotism)
• To present information in an unbalanced way that reflects only one perspective is to show this. (Bias)

✯ A Vocabulary Crossword with key words related to bias, symbolism, and propaganda techniques.

Sample Crossword clues include:

• A celebrity endorsement of a politician or product is this type of propaganda technique. (Testimonial)
• This symbol of American patriotism was often found on WWII propaganda posters, telling viewers that he wanted “YOU” to join the war effort and enlist in the military. (Uncle Sam)
• This type of “appeal” presents information in a negative way, intending to scare the audience into complying with its message. (Fear Appeal)

✯ A Vocabulary Word Search with a word bank full of vocabulary terms.

• Vocabulary from the Word Bank: Bias, Media, Symbolism, Propaganda, Transfer, Name-Calling, Plain Folks, Glittering Generality, Fear Appeal, Bandwagon, Testimonial, Card-Stacking 

✯ An Emoji Riddle activity. Students decipher emoji codes that represent six different forms of government. A super fun activity! (Happy Teacher Tip: Extend this game by challenging students to come up with their own emoji codes for other vocab words!)

✯ Answer keys for each activity!

This is great for a sub day, extra enrichment, homework, or as end-of-the-year review before exams!

This resource is presented as a non-editable PDF. It includes an answer key. A digital version is also available through TPT Easel. Easel Activities can be assigned directly to your Google Classroom, or you can generate a link to share with students via email or your LMS!

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