Short
Media Analysis Assignment
Write a paper no longer than one page or less (maximum
250 words per page-double spaced) observing the following criteria. Choose a brief media sample worthy of
analysis because it can be used to demonstrate significant concepts related to
media literacy. Semiotic principles are
always at work when meanings are represented and interpreted, but that does not
necessarily make the media artifact worthy of analysis. Criteria for selection are based
on observations that evoke questions
about communication, power, social norms, conventions, stereotypes, or
categories of identity such as race, class, age, or gender. Provide evidence to support an analysis of
a brief media artifact by using semiotic principles and concepts to identify
how meanings are represented.
Your paper should be no longer than 250 words, so be
concise and get to the point. Your
paper can be shorter provided that you meet the other criteria of the
assignment. Using correct citation
style (either MLA or APA), include relevant sources of information and
media. Citations for the source of
the media artifact and facts supporting the analysis are required. You may put
citations on the same page as the essay or on a separate page if necessary.
Here is a sample of the organizational structure of a
paper:
A.
Introduction: What, Why, How É
1. Briefly
describe the topic/ media artifact.
2. Explain
why the particular media is significant to your reader/audience.
3. Tell
your audience how you will provide evidence or demonstrate an analysis of the
media artifact.
B. Body
of evidence: Describe the media artifact and explain what the audience should
notice.
1. Provide
a brief, denotative description of what the audience sees and hears.
2. For a Presentation; Show the
media to the audience; indicate the amount of time this will take; 30-90
seconds, 2 minutes maximum.
3. Isolate
the most significant signs/sign systems/codes etc. Explain how these
observable signs represent meanings, values, or beliefs that are assumed (by
the media producers or the audience), ideological silences, unintended by the
media producers, or raise issues for some people in society who may be affected
by those representations.
C. Conclusion: State how your analysis provides new
insight about the media subject:
1. Remind
the audience why the media is important (as stated in your introduction).
2. Finally,
explain how your analysis provides new insight, reveals assumptions, or
unintended meanings represented by the selected media.
For more descriptions of the process necessary to complete
this assignment, see the link to the Media Analysis Exercise: Broadcast
Criticism COM 4640/6640 Analysis Exercise
Or paste this link into your browser: http://www.wright.edu/~elliot.gaines/com464analysisexercise.html