Assignment Pack: Produce an Educational Video on a Sensitive Topic that Meets Ad Guidelines

Hook: Why this assignment matters now

Students and teachers struggle to produce accurate, compassionate educational videos about difficult subjects while also meeting platform ad rules and safety standards. In 2026, with YouTube's policy shift to allow full monetization of nongraphic videos on issues such as abortion, self-harm, suicide, and domestic or sexual abuse, the stakes are higher: creators can earn revenue, but only if content is responsibly framed, sourced, and presented. This assignment pack turns that challenge into a clear classroom project with step-by-step guidance, scripting templates, trigger-warning best practices, and a monetization checklist tailored to YouTube's revised rules.

Overview: What changed in 2026 and why it matters for coursework

In January 2026 YouTube updated its ad policies to allow full monetization for non-graphic, contextual coverage of sensitive issues (announced widely across media outlets in late 2025 and early 2026). This opened new opportunities for educational creators but also raised expectations around responsible reporting, trauma-informed language, and verifiable sourcing. Simultaneously, advances in AI-driven moderation and advertiser targeting mean platforms now evaluate intent and context more precisely. For teachers, that means student projects must demonstrate both editorial rigor and platform compliance.

Learning outcomes for this assignment

• Produce a 4–8 minute educational video on a sensitive topic that meets YouTube's 2026 ad guidelines.
• Apply trauma-informed scripting and trigger-warning best practices.
• Use reliable sources and cite them clearly for E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
• Prepare a monetization-ready upload package: metadata, captions, resource links, and consent documentation.

Assignment brief: Deliverables and timeline

Students work in small teams (2–4 people). Each team submits:

1. One final video (MP4, 1080p) — 4 to 8 minutes
2. Complete transcript and time-coded chapter headings
3. Script and storyboard (annotated)
4. Sources list (APA or MLA) with links to primary sources
5. Signed consent forms for interviewees, or anonymization plan
6. Monetization checklist completed with instructor signature

Suggested schedule: 3 weeks (Week 1: research & script; Week 2: production; Week 3: edit & upload package).

Step-by-step workflow

1. Research & source verification (2–3 days)

Start with reputable sources: peer-reviewed studies, government reports, professional organizations, and subject-matter experts. In 2026, platforms favor content with clear links to authoritative sources. Record all sources in a shared document and evaluate for bias, date, and relevance.

2. Storyboard and structure (1–2 days)

Outline a clear arc: context, facts/data, human perspective (if appropriate), actionable guidance, and resources. Keep visuals simple: avoid graphic imagery or re-enactments that could be considered sensational or triggering. Mark every scene that references sensitive detail and decide whether to anonymize, paraphrase, or omit.

3. Draft a trauma-informed script (2–3 days)

Use neutral, factual language. Avoid explicit sensory descriptions. Insert trigger warnings at the top and before any segment with potentially distressing content. See the scripting templates below for exact wording.

4. Production best practices (1–3 days)

• Interview safety: obtain written informed consent; offer questions in advance; allow off-camera responses; provide resource sheet for participants (hotlines, counseling).
• On-camera non-identifying options: silhouettes, voice modulation, blurred faces, pseudonyms, or re-enactments using actors with clear disclaimers.
• Audio & caption quality: record clean audio and prepare captions for accessibility (auto-captions are not enough—edit them).

5. Editing & visual choices (2–4 days)

During editing, remove graphic elements and limiting-sensational music. Add visual signposting: title cards, content notes, and chapter markers. Use lower-thirds to cite facts in real time. Include a resource card at the end of the video with organizations and helplines.

6. Metadata, thumbnails, and description (1 day)

Title and description should be descriptive and non-sensational. Include time-stamped chapters and the full source list in the description. Add a clear content warning at the top of the description and link to resources. Thumbnails must avoid graphic imagery and sensational text (e.g., replace lurid language with educational framing).

7. Pre-upload compliance check

Before uploading, complete the monetization checklist (below). Have an instructor or subject-matter expert sign off.

Trigger-warning best practices (what to say, where, and why)

Trigger warnings are now best practice in educational media. They reduce harm and help platforms classify content contextually.

Where to place trigger warnings

• On the video file: first frame or a title card that displays for 5–8 seconds.
• In the spoken introduction: a concise verbal note within the first 10–20 seconds.
• In the video description: first paragraph, with links to resources and timestamps for safe navigation.
• As a pinned comment (optional): include helplines and a short content summary.

How to word trigger warnings — templates

Keep them short, specific, and compassionate. Below are flexible templates you can adapt.

On-screen title card (recommended)

Content note: This video discusses [topic — e.g., domestic abuse, suicide, abortion] in a non-graphic, educational way. Viewer discretion advised. Support resources linked in the description.

Spoken warning (scripted line)

"Before we begin: this video discusses [topic]. We do not describe graphic details, but some viewers may find the subject upsetting. Please use the timestamps in the description to skip sections, and see the resource links for support."

Description header

Content note: Contains discussion of [topic]. Non-graphic, educational context. If you need help, contact [local helpline + international numbers].

Accessibility and inclusivity

• Include captions and an accurate transcript so readers can scan before choosing to watch.
• Offer a short “safe summary” at the top of the description (one-sentence gist) for quick assessment.
• Provide content chapter timestamps to allow viewers to avoid sensitive sections.

Scripting templates for student teams

Template A — Introductory opener (30–45 seconds)

Use this when framing an educational explainer.

"Hi, we’re [Team Name], and today we’re exploring [topic]. Content note: This video discusses [topic] in a factual, non-graphic way and includes resources in the description. We’ll cover the causes, current data, and what support is available."

Template B — Interview intro and consent prompt

"Thank you for joining us. Before we start, please know you can skip any question, stay off-camera, or stop the interview at any time. We will not use identifying details without explicit consent."

Template C — Transition to data section (15–20 seconds)

"To understand the scope, here are the latest figures from [source]. We'll link the full study in the description for anyone wanting to read more."

Template D — Closing + resources (20–30 seconds)

"If this topic affects you or someone you know, please reach out to these organizations: [Resource 1], [Resource 2], or call [hotline]. Links are in the description. If you’re working on a related project, let us know — we’d like to share verified sources."

Sample 3-minute script excerpt (student-ready)

Below is a short example for a team producing a video about domestic abuse with a focus on legal rights and support services.

Intro (0:00–0:30)

"Content note: This video discusses domestic abuse in a non-graphic, educational way. Resources are linked in the description. Hi — we’re Team Compass. Today we’ll explain legal protections and local support services for people experiencing domestic abuse."

Context & facts (0:30–1:30)

"According to [National Statistics Office, 2024], X% of persons reported intimate partner abuse. Legal remedies vary by jurisdiction, but common options include protective orders, emergency housing, and legal aid. (Source links in description.)"

Human perspective (1:30–2:15)

"We interviewed an advocate from [Organization] about next steps after leaving an unsafe situation. For privacy, we’ve altered identifying details. Advocate: ‘Start with immediate safety planning — a trusted friend, a packed bag, and documented threats.’"

Resources & closing (2:15–3:00)

"If you or someone you know needs help, contact [local number/organization]. International resources are linked below. If you found this video helpful, please cite our sources in the description and subscribe for classroom projects on civic support services."

Monetization checklist — YouTube 2026-ready

This checklist is designed around YouTube’s early 2026 policy shift that permits full monetization for non-graphic, contextual coverage of sensitive topics. Use it before uploading.

1. Non-graphic content: No explicit images, reenactments, or graphic descriptions. If in doubt, rephrase or redact.
2. Contextual framing: The content serves an educational, journalistic, or documentary purpose—avoid sensational headlines or thumbnails.
3. Source citations: Include verifiable sources in the description and as lower-thirds in the video.
4. Trigger warnings: Include on-screen title card, spoken warning, and description content note.
5. Resources provided: Link to helplines, support organizations, and further reading in the description.
6. No monetization bait: Avoid clickbait phrasing such as "shocking" or "graphic" in title/thumbnail.
7. Accurate metadata: Choose content categories and topics accurately in YouTube Studio and do not mislabel the video to game visibility.
8. Captions & transcript: Upload an edited transcript for accessibility (improves discoverability and trust).
9. Consent & privacy forms: Keep signed consent forms on file; protect student privacy and anonymize when necessary.
10. Instructor sign-off: Have a teacher or subject-matter expert review and sign the monetization checklist (see instructor playbooks like Three Simple Briefs to Kill AI Slop for classroom integrity).

What to expect after upload

Even with careful compliance, YouTube may review content manually. In 2026, AI triage flags content but human reviewers handle edge cases. If a video is demonetized, use the in-platform appeal; include your source list and the completed checklist to speed review.

Evaluation rubric (for teachers)

Score each area 1–5 (1 = needs work, 5 = excellent).

• Sensitivity & ethics: Trauma-informed language, consent, anonymization where needed.
• Accuracy & sourcing: Reliable citations, date-appropriate sources, correct interpretation.
• Platform compliance: Meets monetization checklist and YouTube non-graphic/context requirements.
• Production quality: Clear audio, captions, readable visuals, coherent editing.
• Educational value: Clear learning objective, takeaways, and resource links.

Ethics, legalities, and student safety

Prioritize safety and privacy. When interviewing minors or survivors, follow institutional IRB or school policies. Be aware of mandatory reporting laws in your jurisdiction if a participant discloses ongoing abuse. Provide participants with a contact who can answer questions after publication. Keep consent records for at least the platform's required period.

2026 trends and future-facing tips

Late 2025 and early 2026 saw three important trends affecting sensitive-topic educational videos:

1. Platform nuance: YouTube's policy changes reflect an emphasis on context over keyword-based filters. That favors well-sourced, educational work; regulators and platforms are publishing guidance similar to synthetic media rules.
2. AI moderation and metadata: Automated tools now analyze tone and citation signals. Including transcripts, source links, and stable metadata increases the chance of favorable classification.
3. Advertiser expectations: Advertisers prefer content with authoritative context and transparent sourcing. Educational creators who demonstrate expertise are more likely to earn ad revenue.

For student creators, these trends mean that thoroughness and transparency are not just academic—they directly affect monetization and reach.

Instructor checklist (one-page)

• Confirm topic approval and risk assessment.
• Verify consent & anonymization plans.
• Ensure script includes trigger warnings and resource links.
• Review draft for graphic descriptions and sensational language.
• Sign the monetization checklist before upload.

Quick reference: Words and visuals to avoid

Avoid sensational or explicit language in titles/thumbnails: "shocking," "graphic footage," "you won't believe," or gratuitous close-ups. Visuals of injuries, re-enactments of self-harm, or explicit imagery can negate monetization even if the script is educational.

Actionable takeaways (for students and teachers)

• Start with a clear learning objective and authoritative sources—platforms reward context and credibility.
• Use concise, specific trigger warnings in the video, description, and a pinned comment.
• Avoid graphic detail and sensational language; use neutral educational framing instead.
• Complete the monetization checklist and get instructor sign-off before upload to minimize appeals.
• Keep safety and consent records; provide resource links prominently.

Closing: next steps and call-to-action

This assignment pack converts ethical and platform obligations into concrete classroom tasks. Use the scripting templates, trigger-warning language, and the monetization checklist to guide student work from research to a monetization-ready upload. In 2026, careful contextualization and transparent sourcing not only protect viewers — they unlock revenue and reach for legitimate educational content.

Ready to try it in class? Download the printable assignment packet (script templates, consent forms, and the instructor rubric), pilot one student team, and use the monetization checklist during review. If you want the downloadable pack or a teacher-ready slide deck, share your email in the teacher forum or contact us to get the template files.

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