Write an essay (500-700 words) in which you conduct an analysis of the media coverage of one

important issue in two different countries/ideological entities. You will need to demonstrate

systematically the ways in which these specific instances of mass media help to shape our

understandings, beliefs, and viewpoints about that issue. How does the media influence how

we see the world? In order to support your viewpoints, you will need to discuss similarities and

differences in perspectives between the two countries or ideological entities and provide specific

examples that come from your sources. In what way is the media representation of the issue for

one side similar to the media representation for the other side. In what ways are they different?

Why do you think this is so?

SUGGESTIONS for your analysis – what to look for to quote your sources and support your

views:

• find one or two powerful lines of text in news stories

• look for adjectives and adverbs and other descriptors that express opinion and that also

work to shape readers’ viewpoints.

• what sorts of photos are used? You might want to include a copy as an appendix to your

essay.

• What sorts of juxtapositions or striking contrasts are used? (e.g., healthy foods vs.

unhealthy foods, wellness vs. illness, “acceptable/normal ways of doing things” vs.

“unacceptable/abnormal ways of doing things”).