Students know what they think is right. This game makes them defend it in front of the class, under time pressure, while the teacher throws a twist at them. Twenty scenario cards, a reputation-based scoring system, and the SPJ Code of Ethics as the standard — it runs in one period and students talk about it for weeks.
See it on Teachers Pay Teachers — $5.59
What's Included: 20 Story Scenario Cards — realistic editorial dilemmas with optional "twist" challenges that force quick re-evaluation Teacher Guide (2 pages) — complete instructions, scoring rubric, and twist list with ethics tie-ins Student Guide (1 page) — simplified gameplay overview and SPJ Code summary for reference during play Editable Scoring Sheet Template — tracks team reputation points, ethical reasoning, and outcomes SPJ Code of Ethics Quick Reference — mini version for classroom distribution How It Works: Each team starts with 100 reputation points Teacher presents a breaking story scenario; teams have 3 minutes to decide and cite one SPJ principle A dice roll reveals whether a Twist applies — teams must re-evaluate fast Optional Complication and Public Reaction cards add unpredictability Teacher scores each team using the rubric; highest reputation at the end wins "Most Trusted Publication" How to Use It:
Runs in a single 45–60 minute class period or splits across two shorter sessions. Strong fit for a journalism or media literacy ethics unit, yearbook or newspaper staff training, substitute days with a clear ethics focus, or debate and advisory activities. Works especially well after students have read the SPJ Code — the game becomes the application layer.
This game is part of the Journalism Ethics & Press Freedom Unit Bundle, which adds the Ethics Case Studies slideshow, the RSF Press Freedom Webquest, and two Pentagon Papers lessons — a full ethics unit at significant savings. Everything is included in the Complete High School Journalism Curriculum Bundle. If this resource saved you prep time, please leave a rating under My Purchases Provide Feedback.
Every review earns you TpT Credits toward future purchases — roughly $1 in credits for every $10 reviewed. Follow Starmaker English & Journalism Tools to be notified when new resources launch or go on sale. Keywords:
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Designed for grades 9-12.
Starmaker English and Journalism Tools 
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