Critical Media Literacy

Question #1: PurposeAll media messages are constructed. Who created this message?

What purpose do these images serve?

Question #2: Creative Attention GrabbersMedia messages are constructed using creative

language with its own rules. What creative techniques are used to attract my attention?

Question #3: AudienceDifferent people experience the same media message differently.

Who is this message meant for?How might different people understand this message differently?

Question #4: Values, Lifestyles, and Points of ViewMedia have embedded values and points of view. What values, lifestyles, and

points of view are represented in, or left out of, this message?

Question #5: Profit and/or PowerMost media messages are organized to gain profit and/or power.

Why is this message being sent? Who has the power to create and spread these messages?

Creating NEW Representations and Meanings

• What type of influence do media have on the way race, gender, class, policing, and other issues of identity are perceived in broader society?

• What images and representations can be used to create new meanings for society?