Audience: Audience theory tasks

Hypodermic needle model

1) How does this article link to the hypodermic needle model?

The article links to the ''hypodermic needle '' theory as it suggests that playing violent video games ''over a three-day period is enough to increase aggressive behavior''. This suggests that newspapers such as the ''Daily Mail'', ''inject'' inaccurate information so that readers become concerned over certain issues. This controversy sparks the attention of a passive audience, which makes them believe the information they are told is true. 

2) How does coverage of the Talk Talk hacking case link to the hypodermic needle model? Why might someone criticize this front page? 

The positioning of the title and headline suggest that teenagers who are ''addicted'' to ''violent video games'' are likely to become hackers. This links to the hypodermic needle model as readers are convinced that this in fact is true, which can lead to controversy over whether or not teenagers should play ''violent video games''. 

Two-step flow model

1) Summarise the two-step flow model. In your opinion, is the two-step flow theory still relevant today?

The two step flow model shows that media is first recognized by ''opinion leaders'', who then influence individuals (or a particular audience)  as they are encouraged to support that opinion. I think this is still relevant today as there are many famous figures that are likely to influence us especially when there are several sources of media available everywhere. We are somehow subjected to support an ''opinion leader's'' judgement as we feel that they relate to us, which then reassures us that our opinion is right.  

2) How does this Youtube blogger fit into the two-step flow model?

''TotalBiscuit'' fits into the two step flow model as his videos consist of him reacting to certain things e.g video games or food from all over the world. For example his video ''TotalBiscuit tastes Greece'' may make his viewers think that Greek food is not that good as he does not like it. This reaction then influences the opinions of the audience who may change their judgement because of him- his viewers may never want to try Greek food. Therefore he becomes the ''opinion leader'', while the audience are influenced by his opinion,

3) How this this Telegraph article on influential tweeters fit the two-step flow model?

The article shows a list of Britain's most influential tweeters, with the top position being given to Liam Payne from One direction (who has 12.3m followers), This suggests that celebrities are able to influence the opinions of the public due to their own beliefs. One Direction followers are subjected to support their opinion just because are popular and ''connect'' with them. Therefore this links to the two step flow model as they are the ''opinion leaders'' who are able to alter the views of an audience.
4) Read this BBC profile of Jamal Edwards. How does Jamal Edwards link to the two-step flow model?

The article links to the two step flow model as it shows us that Jamal Edwards is also another ''opinion leader'' as his achievements have made him very influential Since he is the founder of SBTV, a young audience will most likely be influenced by his decisions. Being a British celebrity, who was once an ''amateur film-maker'', he becomes a role model to the younger demographic, who believe that his opinions are important due to his success. This reassures a young audience that they can also be successful.

Uses and Gratifications theory

1) For each of the four categories, write about one media text that fits that particular audience use or pleasure. Make sure you explain WHY it fits the category and use images or clips to illustrate your points.

1) Identify- Beyonce

Beyonce is seen as a role model to a very large audience as her music, and beliefs in general, express certain ideas that people can identify with. She is known to promote ideas about the empowerment of women, body image, equality etc. This therefore fits into the two step flow model as her achievements influence a particular audience and can change their judgement on certain issues. 

2) Educate

Bear grylls born survivor is an educational and entertaining TV show that shows us suitable ways of surviving in the harshest climates. Grylls teaches us vital skills e.g starting a fire that is important if you are ever end up in a similar situation. The show gives us a sense of security and confidence through the knowledge of these survival tactics. It can also be entertaining as its interesting to find out about the world. 

3) Entertain- Modern Family 

Modern family is an example of a TV show that most people can relate to. The different scenarios  and situations that the families in the show end up in are both funny and relatable. Some scenes may even affect us emotionally. These types of TV shows allow us to be diverted from our own problems temporarily as well as being a souce of entertainment or a ''time filler''.

4) Social interaction

Countdown is a popular British game show that allows the audience to play along and find words before the contestants do. This gives people a sense of belonging as it appears as if they are participating. Also given that they get most of the answers correct it would boost their confidence and also be the basis of a conversation. Additionally it allows us to connect with our family and friends.