This book is a superb all-in-one guide to success GCSE English Language and English Literature - GCSE English 2003

Writing About The Format of a Media Text
Section Nine — Media and Non-Fiction Questions

The media isn't just about making life hell for the rich and famous — nor is it just about text. Newspapers, adverts, films, etc. use a lot of tricks to make a point — e.g. layout, pictures, music.

Show You Can Understand Media Concepts

1) The examiner wants you to judge it as a media text, not just as any random exam text. You need to comment on the format — what it's trying to do and how well it works.

2) The text in the exam might be a magazine, radio or TV. adverts, film scripts, scenes from films or other printed material like articles, press releases or fliers.

3) So, you have to think about other things besides the words — things like presentation, layout, graphics, structure, and actually comment on the choice of the medium itself.

Think About What the Graphics are Trying to Do

It Looks Great if You Can Use Technical Terms Appropriately

CAPTION: a short line to explain a picture.

COLUMN: newspapers and magazines are normally laid out in columns.

LEAD: the main story on the front page.

HEADLINE: the phrase at the top of an article which tells you roughly what the story's about.

FEATURE: longish story with more detail.

EDITORIAL: opinion column stating newspaper's opinion.

HUMAN INTEREST STORY: focuses on a personal story — often sentimental.

Learn all the technical terms and sound like a pro

Well, after that page you should be able to sit down and read your favourite magazine, and scientifically spot all the "media tricks" they use to manipulate you.