First -year, first -semester course, two lectures, screenings, weekly tutorials.

This course examines the importance of the mass media in modern society and questions the roles that the media play in public life. We look conceptually at how meanings are constructed, using semiotic concepts to interrogate the relationship between audiences, media texts, technology and society. Debates around media effects and media ethics are also explored in the course. In addition to discussing theoretical media debates, the course also introduces students to a diverse range of writing styles for multiple media platforms such as newspapers, television and the Internet.

DP requirements: All written work must be submitted by the stipulated dates. Students who miss more than two tutorials will lose their DPs.

Assessment: Two-and-a-quarter-hour examination 30%, writing exercises 35%, media analysis 35%.

NOTE: Credit will not be given for both FAM1001F and FAM1009F.

*Course content subject to change