1. Bellringer Jan 27:
IN your NOTES, decide where you are after reading and analyzing SeaWorld’s rebuttal. Do you agree with the film? Do you agree with SeaWorld? Do you agree with parts of the film and/or parts of the rebuttal?
Briefly explain why.

2. After the film.
View this July 18, ABC news report on the film and SeaWorld’s response.
1. What information from the film is repeated in this news report?
2. What is unusual about SeaWorld’s response to the film according to the report?
3. What does Cowperthwaite state she wants from SeaWorld? Does her film support this idea?

3. Discussion in small groups
In your small groups, address the lesson question.
How do we determine the truth when storytellers manipulate the way the story is told?
1st determine what are the “FACTS” that the film presents.
Example – Dawn Brancheau died on Feb. 24, 2010.
2nd determine what are the opinions the film relies on as part of its argument.
Example – Samantha Berg believes the whales should be set free or placed in an ocean “tank”
3rd determine how Cowperthwaite manipulated our viewing of her story (Blackfish is her story)

4. Discussion in small groups
What rhetorical device swayed you the most? Why?
What rhetorical device was the “weak link”? Why?
How does SeaWorld’s rebuttal influence your opinion (you can’t dismiss them outright because you hate billion dollar corporations in general – that would be a hasty generalization on your part)

5. Media Literacy
Read the handout Blackfish and Media Literacy
Discuss with your partner.

6. On your own. Write: brainstorm your response to the writing prompt.
Find all the details you want to use and make sure that they are accurate.