Headline Creator
At a Glance
- Time: 2-3 minutes
- Prep: None
- Group: Individual or pairs
- Setting: Any
- Subjects: Universal
- Energy: Medium
Purpose
Synthesize complex learning into concise, engaging newspaper headlines that capture the essence and significance of lesson content.
How It Works
- Frame the challenge (30 sec) - "Write a newspaper headline for today's lesson"
- Create headlines (90 sec) - Students craft compelling, accurate headlines
- Share and vote (1 min) - Read headlines aloud; vote on most accurate/creative
What to Say
Opening: "You're a journalist. Today's lesson just happened—what's the headline? Make it grab attention AND be accurate. You have 90 seconds!"
During: "What's the most important thing we learned?... How would you make that catchy?... Don't bury the lead!"
Closing: "Winning headline: 'Cell Division Doubles Down: Mitosis Makes Identical Copies.' Notice how it's both accurate and memorable—that's synthesis."
Why It Works
Headlines require identifying core concepts, synthesizing information, and communicating concisely—all hallmarks of deep understanding. The journalistic framing adds engagement and real-world relevance.
Teacher Tip
Show examples of real headlines first (science news, history articles). This helps students understand the balance between accuracy and engagement.
Variations
Subjects: Any content into headline form • Format: Breaking news, opinion piece headline, feature story title • Ages: K-5: simple 5-word headlines; 6-12: full headlines with subheads; College: headlines + 1-sentence ledes
Online
Students type headlines in chat; use poll to vote on best; display winner on shared screen.
Troubleshooting
Too vague: "Add specificity—what exactly happened in this lesson?"
Extension
Add subheadings or write full first paragraph (lede) expanding on headline.
Related: Acronym Attack, 20 Words Challenge