COM 224: MID-TERM EXAM
QUESTION ONE: (10 Points)
On Monday, I talked about “the politics of representation.” First, explain why many communication and media studies scholars focus on media representation(s). What’s at stake? Why does it matter? Next, expand upon any example I used in class to illustrate the issue(s) of representation. You do no need to agree to disagree with anything I said; I’m looking for you to engage one of the examples by providing your own evidence and argument for or against the particular issue. (One single-spaced or two double-spaced pages should do it here.)
QUESTION TWO: (10 Points)
On Wednesday, I talked about the debate(s) around sex and gender. First, summarize my main points from the day. Then, expand upon a couple of the examples I used in class. As in the first question, you do no need to agree to disagree with anything I said; I’m looking for you to engage one of the examples by providing your own evidence and argument for or against the particular issue. (One single-spaced or two double-spaced pages should do it here.)
QUESTION THREE: (30 Points)
Critically engage Karen Sternheimer’s central arguments and the topic of “media effects” while making a few (more than a couple) connections between each day’s lectures and other class readings. Whether you personally agree or disagree with any of the course readings or class lectures, what are some of the larger social issues at stake? (Two single-spaced or four double-spaced pages should do it here.)
Let me be clear: Demonstrate an understanding of each day’s key points and issues. Be analytical. Engage the readings and lectures with more than an “agree” or “disagree.” If you personally agree with a position, explain how you would clearly counter someone who disagrees. SHOW – with your own example – how they are wrong or misguided. If you disagree with a position, then clearly take apart the argument. SHOW why it is wrong or misguided.
Don’t simply repeat what’s written in the articles or was said in class. Show you understand the content. Avoid mere description. Provide good evidence for claims. Use and cite class readings and lectures.
The essay will be graded by your ability to demonstrate a smart understanding of the week’s key points while comparing those key points and arguments in the course thus far. Organization and clarity/quality of writing are also important. Ramblings, musings, and stream-of consciousness observations belong to another genre of writing.
