MACS 110 | Introduction to Mass Communication Theory translate
Mid-term Exam - due October 20th -back to MACS 110 Home-
Play the role of a propagandist.
Include both an image(s) and language to create a one-page public service announcement, or some other political message, which makes an argument (claim to truth).
Consider, for instance, a teachers' strike. You could construct a text for or against it. In the case of the latter, one might use techniques such as appeal to fear, or appeal to guilt, e.g. an image of a pre-teen student looking lost and abandoned hanging around the streets killing time coupled with language such as "If I were a child molester or a drug dealer, I'd also be supporting the teachers' strike." This, of course, would be using an appeal to fear - one of many Fallacies available. In terms of a broader issue, you could construct a message supporting or opposing the so-called "War on Terror" or another topic related to geo-politics.
This is an exercise requiring both analytical and creative skills, i.e. applied academics, where you decide both the subject matter and perspective. Feel free to select whatever subject matter is of interest. You do not have to personally believe in your message. The objective is to attempt to persuade others of its merit.
Copy and paste a photo(s) or other image into a MS Word document. You may use other software if you wish, including creating a web-based text. The visual component of the message should dominate, and the language component should be kept to a minimum, although the font size should make it easy to read. Include at least one fallacy in your text, e.g. appeal to pity, name-calling, glittering generalizations, or virtue words.
In addition, write a 3-5 page description (typed - double-spaced) of who your target audience is and how your message is constructed to specifically appeal to that audience. What is it about your message that is designed to make it 'popular' ? Did you attempt to tie the message into the 'culture of everyday life' ? If so, how ? In what way does your message contain 'symbolic power' - or representational value ? Does your message connect to a dominant mythology in society ? If so, how ? Do you have one or more communication theories in mind that your message might dovetail with ?
Please bring a printed colour copy to class. Also, email a copy to me as an attachment before class. The subject line should read - MACS 110 Mid-term exam. Let me know if you have any questions.