NATIVEUK.COM LESSONS
July 20th • Viral Rumours
World Jump Day
In 2006, an internet rumour suggested that if 600 million people all jumped at the exact same time, we could change the Earth's orbit and stop global warming. Millions of people around the world actually participated. Today, we explore why we are so easily fooled by viral hoaxes, and the strange joy of participating in collective global action.
Speaking Discussion
- Even though it’s scientifically impossible, why did millions of people actually believe they could change the Earth's orbit by jumping?
- Why do we feel such a strong emotional connection when we do something simple (like jumping or singing) at the exact same time as millions of strangers?
- Have you ever fallen for a viral hoax or a fake news story on social media? How did you feel when you found out it was fake?
- Do you think internet flash mobs and challenges (like the Ice Bucket Challenge) are a good way to raise awareness, or just a waste of time?
- How has social media changed the way rumours and urban legends spread compared to the time before the internet?
- If you could start a global viral challenge today, what would you ask people to do?
Activity 1: The Viral Hoax Creator
The Task: You are a Guerilla Marketing Expert. You want to create a harmless, silly internet rumour to promote a new brand of sports shoes.
Explain your rumour. What is the fake science behind it? How will you get people to share it?
Activity 2: Rapid Fire Viral
Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.
- "People believe fake news because..."
- "Participating in a global online event makes me feel..."
- "The most viral video I have ever seen was..."