Think back to our definition of a good sport. This response is a perfect lead-in to a discussion on the marketing aspect of violence in sports and the idea that many people find it exciting, which is why it might be played up in televised sports. Individual athletes as role-models for kids can also be a problem. Someone like Dennis Rodman can act in an appalling manner, yet still be considered a successful athlete. He is, in fact, a hero to many kids who might try to imitate his behavior.
Students are to complete a project on their favorite athelete.
For the following week, students are to collect articles and photos relating to sports violence and articles and photos relating to positive sports stories and players. Look at the tone of the articles. See if the articles on sports violence are usually accompanied by a photograph. See if the positive articles are accompanied by photographs. Look for consequences to sports violence.