Essay Question
This exam directly draws upon a module objective from Module 1: “Analyze mass media as a plural concept, not a singular one, generalized as ‘the media.'” Below is the actual verbatim question you will be asked:
People commonly refer to “the media” as something homogeneous, singular. For example, “The media is all just a bunch of liberals trying to make the rest of us communists.” Why is using the phrase “the media” in this way problematic? Answer with specific, current, real examples.
You are receiving this question ahead of time, so you are expected to provide a lengthier response that draws upon specifics from the media industry. Remember, a good example is not hypothetical but real and specific, something that actually happened.
Remember that your essay response should be more involved than a few sentences. Consider using a five-paragraph essay structure and composing a response near 600 words, drawing upon specific examples from mass media. Also keep in mind that generalizing about something like CNN as liberal media and Fox News as conservative media doesn’t qualify as a specific examples – – both are generalizations in need of proper, specific proof to support a point.
