Year 11 Standard English Context of Baltimore (Serial Podcast)

The information provided gives an overview of Baltimore in 1999, highlighting its history as an industrial city that experienced significant job losses due to de-industrialization. It emphasizes Baltimore’s reputation as a city of distinct neighborhoods with strong local identities, but also as a place plagued by high crime rates, particularly violent and drug-related crimes concentrated in impoverished areas. The notes encourage exploring common perceptions and stereotypes about Baltimore, using maps to understand its geography and socio-economic divisions. Additionally, they guide listeners to analyze how the Serial podcast uses audio techniques and narration to shape listeners’ views and build interest in the city’s complex story.