Teaching with videogames: truth, lies and the media
Who controls the story, and what’s really going on?
Videogames usually cast the player at the centre of a predetermined narrative, but these two games invite the player to direct the narrative, and create the story themselves. This lesson will help students understand what non-linear narrative is, and how it functions in videogames to create and change stories.
Year level: 10–11
Subject areas: Media
Suggested duration: 1 lesson
Technology required:
- the game Her Story (Mac or PC) OR Not for Broadcast (PC) OR both
- a projector for class playthrough
Download the full lesson plan
The lesson plan includes links to the Victorian Curriculum, indications of lesson timing, and ideas for differentiation and assessment.
In this lesson, students will
| 1. | Watch or play a non linear videogame, and discuss other non linear narratives in books, film, TV |
| 2. | Consider notions of truth and lies where conflicting accounts exist |
| 3. | Apply this logic to news media and media narratives |
By the end of this lesson, students should
| what non-linear narratives are |
| how they can function in a video game format |
| how they can affect a player's experience of a story |
| identify elements of non-linear narrative within a game |
| make choices that demonstrate agency within a narrative structure |
| analyse and apply critical thinking to a video game story |
| collaboration skills |
| reflection skills |
| critical and creative thinking skills |
| ICT capabilities |