MY CRAZY MEDIA LIFE
PROGRAMME 2: TELLING THE WORLD I'M HIV
ACTIVITIES
Guidance
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Teachers may want to refer to information on the DfES's Teachernet website about handling controversial issues. www.teachernet.gov.uk/wholeschool/behaviour/
tacklingbullying/racistbullying/preventing/controversialissues/
Before viewing
What do the students know about HIV/AIDS? Have a discussion in small groups without referring to any information. Incorporate the following points: what the letters stand for; how you can catch it; whether you can you be born with it; if there is a cure.
How would you react if you heard there was someone in your school or college with HIV?
Activities based on the clips
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The video clips may contain a few seconds of extra material at the beginning and end. We have therefore included opening and closing descriptions to help identify the intended scene.
Carly talks about her decision to go public
Clip 1: 04:50 – 06:40
- In (Carly): 'A few people heard it, rumours got around.'
- Out (Carly): 'I am gonna stick up for myself with HIV.'
What do you think of Carly's decision to go public? What is your reaction to the names people call her? Why do you really think people are bullying her? Do you agree that fighting is sometimes the only way to get back at those who hurt you?
Carly talks about her relationship with the media
Clip 2: 08:20 – 09:47
- In (Narrator): 'Carly is now public property…'
- Out: 'I ain't bothered and other people should have the right to feel the same way.'
Would you ever feel brave enough to sell your story to the media? What are the advantages and disadvantages of Carly doing this? She talks about bribery, temptation and trust. Do you agree with her points?
Carly looks back on her decision
Clip 3: 10:16 – 11:41
- In (Narrator): 'But as news of her HIV circulates, it's proving even harder for Carly to live a normal life.'
- Out (Carly): 'I'm acting like a 50-year-old and I'm really 16.'
Has there ever been a time in your life when you have felt out of step with others or not accepted? Carly says at times she feels frustrated, confused and angry. If you could write a letter to Carly, what would you put in it?
Carly has decided to continue her campaign
Clip 4: 23:20 – 23:50 (end of programme)
- In (Narrator): 'Carly has decided to continue speaking out…'
- Out (Carly): 'Yeah, I was scared, but I did it.'
Do you think that Carly is an inspiration to those who are too scared to talk about their personal suffering? How do those she meets (friends or groups she talks to) react to her? Would you be brave enough to tell others how you feel?
Further activities
Look at the facts and figures about HIV in the Background information section. Were you surprised about any of the information? Have you changed your opinion since watching the programme?
