6th November

K: The concept of representation and stereotype in the media.
U: How and why media texts encourage or challenge representations and stereotypes.
BAT: Discuss the influence of representation, both negative and positive.
CO: Use media terminology throughout your verbal and written communication.

For many of us, the media are the key source of our understanding of the world.

For example, what is it like to live in Australia?  If you have not been there, how do you know this?

Many people believe that the media are a powerful means of shaping our attitudes and beliefs – what does this mean??

REPRESENTATION is the process the media presents the "real" world to us. 

STEREOTYPES is the portrayal of people or places through using/adapting obvious/universally accepted characteristics.

Some people argue that the media follows stereotypes to make audiences feel safe as they know what to expect.
Some other people argue that the media controls the way you think.
Some other people argue that some representations are unfair and not true.

These people are called THEORISTS.