Aliens: a negative example for learning

The website Aliens on the official White House website is a government information page that presents the current U.S. administration’s position on immigration and undocumented migrants. 

The site uses direct and highly persuasive language, combining statistics, policy statements, images, and political messages to support a particular viewpoint on border security and immigration enforcement. Because of its strong political framing, it offers an interesting opportunity for educational work in the ESL classroom, particularly when combined with human rights education and critical thinking.

From a language-learning perspective, the website provides authentic English material that students can analyse. Learners can identify persuasive vocabulary, emotional language, rhetorical strategies, and the way information is organised to influence readers. Activities might include examining headlines, identifying facts and opinions, or discussing the difference between informative and persuasive texts.

The resource is also valuable for developing media literacy and critical thinking skills. Students can explore questions such as: Who is the intended audience?, What message is the website trying to communicate?, What information is included and what information might be missing?, and How do images and language influence the reader’s perception of migrants? These discussions help learners understand that even official sources can present information from a particular perspective.

From a human rights perspective, the website can be used as a negative example to introduce debates about migration, asylum, discrimination, and the rights of refugees and migrants. Students can compare the language used on the website with principles found in documents such as the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and discuss how different societies balance security concerns with the protection of human dignity and fundamental rights.

Possible ESL classroom activities include analysing key vocabulary related to migration, comparing the website with reports from international organisations, writing alternative headlines from different perspectives, holding debates on migration policies, or evaluating the reliability and purpose of different sources. In this way, students not only improve their English language skills but also learn to read critically, recognise bias, and reflect on complex social issues from an informed and respectful perspective.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/aliens/