Media Literacy

Analyse media texts including advertisements and articles

What is Media Literacy?

Media literacy is the ability to analyse and evaluate media texts, including advertisements, newspaper articles, social media posts, and TV programmes. Media texts are created to inform, persuade, or entertain. Understanding the purpose and techniques used helps you think critically.

Example

Analysing an Advertisement

An advert for a cool drink shows happy young people at a party. Target audience: teenagers Purpose: to persuade you to buy the drink Techniques used: • Bright colours to attract attention • Happy people to link the product with fun • Slogan: 'Live the moment!' — catchy and memorable Does the drink really make you happy? Think critically!

Note

Key Questions

When analysing any media text, ask: • Who created this and why? • Who is the target audience? • What techniques are used to attract attention? • Is the message fair and truthful? • What is left out?

Key Vocabulary

MediaWays of communicating information: TV, radio, newspapers, internet

Target audienceThe group of people the message is meant for

TechniqueA method used to create an effect

SloganA short, catchy phrase used in advertising

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