The goal of this assignment is to demonstrate that you can understand and interpret media artifacts through the lens of theories that we have learned about in class.

Instructions:

Step 1: Choose a theory.

Step 2: Choose a media artifact.

Step 3: Write the paper.

1. In the first paragraph, please identify the media artifact that you chose. Please briefly describe the media artifact. In addition, please include a link to the media artifact.
2. In the second paragraph, please introduce and thoroughly describe the theory that you chose. Outline any and all assumptions and propositions related to the theory. Define any and all key terms related to the theory. Please use the textbook and lecture notes to complete this paragraph (i.e., no outside research is necessary).
3. In the third paragraph, please analyze the media artifact using the theory you chose as a lens. In other words, please answer the following questions in order:
   1. How well does the theory explain what is happening in the media artifact?
   2. How do the specific components (i.e., the assumptions, propositions, and key terms) of the theory describe what is happening in the media artifact?
   3. If you do not think the theory explains what is happening in the media artifact, are there any specific components (i.e., the assumptions, propositions, and key terms) of the theory that do NOT describe what is happening in the media artifact?
4. In the fourth and final paragraph, please articulate your biggest takeaway from this assignment. Then explain one way in which learning about media theories changes the way you see the world.

Topic

First, you may choose any one of the four theories listed below. Though the theory you select may not specifically be a media theory, you should explain how it is applied and conceptualized in media contexts. You may choose one of the following theories:

1.Cultivation theory (Unit 2: Media & Perception)

2.Excitation transfer theory (Unit 7: Persuasion & Emotion in Mass Media)

3.Mood management theory (Unit 8: Pleasure & Enjoyment)

4.Affective disposition theory (Unit 8: Pleasure & Enjoyment)

Second, you may choose one media artifact. Generally, it is easier to analyze a shorter clip or smaller piece of content but, ultimately, you should choose what is interesting to you. You can choose anything you would like (given that your choice of an artifact is not offensive and does not threaten our positive learning and working environment as described in Course Policy #6), but here are a few ideas to get you started:

●A scene or episode from a TV show, sporting event, or film

●A storyline or feature of a video game

●Media coverage of a specific event

●Content from YouTube

●A meme

Page Limit

This should be 2-3 double-spaced pages (i.e., at least two full pages).

**Please submit all assignments in .doc or .pdf format so that I can access them.**

This assignment is worth 50 points. The rubric for this assignment is available on eCampus.

Late Policy

Any late assignments will incur a 20% grade reduction per day. Three days after a due date, assignments will or will not be accepted at the discretion of the instructor.