Topical Talk

News reporting: which news can you trust?

Discuss who really shapes editorial decisions.

Collage of pages from the “News reporting: which news can you trust?” teaching resource showing the cover and lesson plan

Published 28 November 2025

About this lesson

In late 2025, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) apologised to US President Donald Trump for a documentary episode that spliced parts of a 2021 speech together.

What external pressures shape the news we read? And is it possible for media outlets to be truly unbiased?

Use this lesson to help students:

  • Consider the factors that influence editorial decision-making
  • Explore real-world examples of how funding and ownership have affected news coverage
  • Discuss the best way for media outlets to operate

Skills and knowledge

  • Speaking

    Step 6: Choosing language
    I choose appropriate language for the situation
    Did you use the language on either end of the scale to sort the news stories?

    Step 8: Using facts
    I use facts and examples to support my communication
    Did you use facts and examples from the lesson to discuss the best way for media outlets to operate?

    Step 15: Presenting
    I present to an audience when required
    Did you present your decision with your editorial team to the class?

  • Knowledge

    I know that media organisations are funded in different ways and this can affect their editorial independence

    What is an example of how a media organisation can be funded?

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