Counter-Ad: Movement Scenes About Vaping

In groups, students create a wordless scene of frozen images that takes apart a myth about vaping, smoking, or alcohol in sports. It builds body expression and critical thinking about advertising.

How to play

1. Myth or fact on the move: the teacher reads lines like «vaping is just water vapor» or «one beer won't affect the game». Students run to the «myth» or «fact» side, and each one is cleared up in a few words (6 min).
2. Groups of five pick a myth card and plan three frozen images: the ad that sells it, the reality, and an alternative ending (8 min).
3. Rehearsal: link the images with slow-motion transitions and finish with their own slogan said together (10 min).
4. Showcase: each group performs, and the audience guesses the myth (12 min).
5. Feedback: each group gets two «stars» (best parts) and one «wish» (something to improve) from another group (4 min).

Rules

• Scenes are silent until the final slogan.
• No impersonating real people and no brands.
• Use is never acted out realistically: use symbolic gestures.
• The audience listens and applauds every group.

Variations

Adaptations

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: the myths in step one are shown in writing and transitions are cued with a visible clap.
• Limited mobility: their position becomes the center of each image and the group builds around them.
• Students nervous about performing: can direct and deliver the slogan, or appear in only one image.

Learning goals

• Create a body composition with a clear message.
• Tell myths from facts about vaping, smoking, and alcohol in sports.
• Think critically about how ads present these products.

Equipment for a class of 25

• myth cards: 8
• cones: 4

Teacher tip

Have clear, number-free facts ready: vape aerosol is not just water, nicotine is addictive, and alcohol hurts reflexes and sleep. If a student shares something personal, listen without putting them on the spot in front of the group.

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