Floribama Shore is an American reality television series that premiered on MTV in 2017. It follows the lives of eight young adults who live together in a summer beach house, documenting their interpersonal relationships, adventures, and personal growth. The show is set in the Florida Panhandle along the beach that stretches to Alabama, hence the name “Floribama.”

Teaching students about Floribama Shore may seem like an unusual topic for education, but it can provide valuable cultural insights and discussions on various societal issues. Here’s how to approach this subject with students and make it both enlightening and engaging.

1. Cultural Geography:

Begin the lesson with an introduction to the unique cultural geography of the Florida Panhandle and Gulf Shores area. Discuss how the location has influenced local traditions, industries, and way of life. Encourage students to research these aspects themselves and present their findings in class.

2. Reality Television as a Genre:

Teach your students about the history and evolution of reality television as a genre, starting from its beginnings to its current forms. Encourage them to critically analyze how reality TV shows like Floribama Shore reflect (or distort) societal norms and values.

3. Portrayal of Relationships:

An essential aspect of Floribama Shore is its portrayal of interpersonal relationships among cast members. Discuss with your students how these relationships are represented on screen: Are they genuine or staged? How might these portrayals affect viewers’ perceptions of friendship and romantic relationships?

4. Challenges of Fame and Public Scrutiny:

Discuss with your students the potential consequences of fame and public scrutiny experienced by cast members of a popular reality show such as Floribama Shore. Encourage them to reflect on whether they think participating in such a show would be worth its benefits or drawbacks.

5. Impact on Local Communities:

Explore both the positive and negative effects that Floribama Shore may have on the local communities where it’s filmed. For example, it might increase tourism and boost the local economy, but at the same time, potentially incentivize reckless behavior or perpetuate negative stereotypes about the area.

6. Ethical Debates:

Guide your students through ethical debates about reality television, particularly those relating to privacy, exploitation, and viewer’s responsibility over their consumption habits.

7. Bringing It All Together:

Conclude the lesson by showing an episode of Floribama Shore and having students discuss how it relates to the topics you’ve covered throughout the unit.

By using Floribama Shore as a learning tool in your classroom, you can encourage thought-provoking discussions on various societal issues while keeping your students engaged with relatable and contemporary content.