The Blame Game

Lesson Summary: Understanding the Blame Game and Crisis Communication

This unit explores the dynamics of the "Blame Game," focusing on how individuals and organizations use discursive strategies to assign or deflect responsibility during debates about misconduct. Learners will analyze how accusers and the accused craft narratives, shift blame, and employ rhetorical tactics to influence public perception.

Additionally, the unit covers key principles of crisis communication, emphasizing best practices for addressing audiences during emergencies. Students will examine how transparency, accountability, and strategic messaging shape public trust and organizational reputation.

To contextualize these concepts, learners will watch *Occupational Ambiguity: Tales of a Ghost Assistant Principal*, a case story highlighting a real-world example of the Blame Game within the largest school district in the country. These videos will provide insight into how a Ghost Employee and district executives navigated accusations and counterclaims, offering a foundation for discussion and analysis.

A task card accompanies each learning activity, providing clear directions, objectives, and guiding questions to help learners engage meaningfully with the task. Each task card typically includes the following:

  • Activity Instructions: A step-by-step guide on how to complete the task.

  • Learning Objectives: A brief statement of the goals students should achieve.

  • Key Questions: Thought-provoking prompts to encourage critical thinking and discussion.

  • Required Materials: A list of needed readings, tools, or resources.

  • Reflection/Extension: A follow-up task or discussion point to deepen understanding.

Using task cards gives learners a clear framework for participation, promoting independent learning, engagement, and structured collaboration.