- Hall points out that there is no 'true' meaning, but that a representation can generate many meanings.
- Hall theorises that meaning is constituted by what is present, what is absent and what is different.
- Hall implicates the audience in creating meaning.
- Hall explains that power (hegemony) tries to 'fix' a preferred meaning through stereotyping.
Present:
The image is dominated by a woman who is burdened by a child in one arm and dragging a child with her other hand. There is a clear expression of distress and discomfort shown by the facial expression of the
woman carrying the child. This creates an emotional connection to the refugees.
Absent:
The faces of the coastguard/UK authorities cannot be seen. Also absent are the men that must also be crossing.
Different:
The reader may expect a more negative picture of immigrants, but the messaging of them being refugees is emphasised by focusing on women and children rather than the majority view of them being 'fighting aged' men. This is different to what the government and other news sources have described the refugees in small boat crossings as and challenges the narrative that the Conservative government have created.
Present:
The picture includes a police truck in the background and in the foreground it shows a group of men carrying the boat to the shoreline. They have selected an image with lots of men carrying a boat to the sea most of them have life jackets that could be uses to make the danger they are in appear lesser than it is and make it seem almost like a military operation to create the fear in the readers of the ‘invasion.’ The French authorities watching on is one of their main points as they take the position (Try - construct the messaging that) the French are to blame for the crossings.
Absent:
The French police may be present in their truck, but they are not shown as being active or interacting with the migrants. This paints a picture (Try - constructs a representation or reinforces a stereotype) of the French police as bad or not doing their job diligently. The rough sea is absent, which further takes away from the idea that the migrants are facing danger.
Different:
The representation within the image is largely stereotypical, though they may be surprised by how organised the migrants seem to be, or by how derelict the French authorities are in their duties.
6. What stereotypes are being constructed? 7. What is the 'preferred meaning' that 'Power' is trying to fix?
The Guardian image is constructing a representation of refugees as helpless and downtrodden. They would argue that this is a response to the institutional power of the Conservative government that is trying to fix or naturalise a stereotype of refugees as being like an invading force. The Daily Express image is precisely the opposite; it is attempting the naturalise the stereotype of a well organised, able bodied group of men, which reinforces the 'preferred meaning' constructed in support of the Conservative government, while simultaneously naturalising anti-French sentiment.
MARK SCHEME1. Answer the question [0,1,2]2. Correctly characterise the theory [0,1,2]3. Use specific and detailed examples [0,1,2]4. Apply the theory to the examples [0,1,2]5. Use Media Studies terminology [0,1,2]
Task 3: Write a paragraph applying Hall's theory on representation to Source B (The Daily Express Cover). POST IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Task 1
ReplyDeleteHall's theory conveys definitions of information created through certain signs, without or with certain contexts, can evoke different meanings. The theory suggests that through the special choice of certain images and words, not just showing the truth but helping to reinforce it
Short but gets the point across
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ReplyDeleteHall theorises that power structures, or hegemony, attempt to "fix" meaning by imposing stereotypes that reinforce dominant ideas. He claims that we can analyse this by exploring what is present and absent within a representation and how this is different to cultural norms. Furthermore, he implicates the audience in generating meaning, so we need to consider the ideological background of the target audience.
ReplyDeleteTASK ONE
ReplyDeleteHall's theory on representation relies on how meaning can be inferred from what is present, absent and different. However, these inferences have no true meaning, suggesting how representation can generate many meanings. Another point Hall explains is how hegemony attempts to fix on a preferred meaning of the representation through society's stereotypes.
i like this one because it is short and uses good terminology
DeleteTask 1:
ReplyDeleteStuart Hall’s theories on representation focuses on what is present, absent and present within media. Hall believes that the audience can create their own meaning by selecting from a bunch of different meanings. He argues that representation is not a neutral reflection of reality, but a process that shapes and influences how we understand the world. Hall also discusses how representations can reinforce dominant ideologies or challenge them, shaping societal perceptions of identity, race, gender, and class. Overall, his work underscores the idea that representation is a crucial site where power, culture, and meaning intersect.
Hall's work highlights the role of ideology in shaping representations and the ways in which these representations can reinforce or challenge dominant power structures. Hall also argues that the media selects what they publish and use stereotypes within that to reflect the wider views of society.
I like this because it is discusses lot of key elements very detailed
DeleteTASK ONE:
ReplyDeleteHall believes that there is no one meaning to a representation and that it is open to interpretation, he uses pluralistic ideology rather than hegemonic to show the power of traditional stereotypes. This is done by looking at what is present, absent and different. These three factors can be observed to find a deeper underlying message that is hidden behind the preferred, stereotypical meaning. Halls main message is that there is not a true representation of an event or person in one text, and by looking at what is present, absent and different you can understand the overlooked meaning clearer by ignoring the dominant ideology.
I like this because it uses a lot of terminology and summarises Halls beliefs well
Delete*Task 1*
ReplyDeleteHall says that there is no 'true' meaning, and that representation is based on what is present, absent, and different. This means that meanings can be discussed. Hall was concerned about the creation of stereotypes as media distorts reality. Most people believe that pictures are accurate representations of reality, however, they can reflect the beliefs of the person taking it. There could be a focus on on something in a picture, but remove something else if it doesn't fit their political beliefs as they can choose what they want to be seen in the image. This reinforces stereotypes, as if there were many photos taken about a certain group of people, (Race, gender etc) that all contain something specific, that could be perceived as normal for that group to do or be like. This creates a commonly held false narrative about a group, which may be damaging to them.
Task 1 - Hall claims representations are polysemic. He theorises that meaning is contested by what is present, absent and different and explains that power (hegemony) tries to 'fix' a preferred meaning through stereotyping. To create deliberate anti-stereotypes is still to attempt to fix the meaning but meaning can be contested.
ReplyDeleteShort but sweet, I do like that the way that this contains so many of the right elements in so few words.
DeleteStuart Hall focuses on the idea that media texts present reality and identity. He explores the concept that that when forming types of media the creators embed messages with subtle deeper meanings and this then allows the audience to decode them. He explains that there’s ‘no true meaning’ instead we are shown representations, and they act as layers to form its own interpretation. The audience can read the interpreted meaning which is the most obvious to understand but there’s always more depth to the perception.
ReplyDeleteHe also discusses that power (hegemony) tries to reject the preferred meaning and instead stick to the typical stereotypes by making the conventional image appear as the normality and correct way of thinking.
this is awesome!!! loved this, very detailed !!!!
DeleteTask 1:
ReplyDeleteStuart Hall theorises that meaning is constructed by what is present, absent and what is different, and highlights that representation can generate many meanings, rather than one 'true' meaning. He also believes that a representation can implicate an audience in creating its meaning, and that power tries to 'fix' a preferred meaning through stereotyping.
This is also short but sweet, I like that the way that it contains so many of the right elements in so few words.
Deletei like this one because it gets straight to the point and it only includes the relevant stuff in a short way.
DeleteI prefer this one the most as it is short but precise so that you're able to write it in the time limit.
DeleteI like this as its consise, clear and makes sense.
DeleteHall believes that, due to the varying beliefs of the population, nothing has one ‘true meaning’ as we all interpret meaning differently. He believes that meanings are a constitution of what is seen, and that what is absent makes difference. This is followed by Hall’s belief of stereotypes which is linked to the different denotations that people infer to images, race, sex and more. He goes on to say that he believes stereotyping is a way of coping for our hegemonic society that psychologically requires an accepted norm.
ReplyDelete👍
DeleteStuart Hall's theory of representation emphasizes that narratives possess multiple interpretations, encouraging audiences to derive meaning from texts - represented by what is present and what is absent. He argues that there is no single "true" meaning; instead, power (hegemony) attempts to impose favored meanings through stereotypes. This highlights the active nature of representation and the audience's role in interpreting social or cultural texts.
ReplyDeletehetty
ReplyDeleteStuart Hall’s theories on representation explore how meaning is constructed and communicated through language, symbols, and media. One of the main parts of his work is the idea that representation is not just mirror of reality but, instead, a process of creating & negotiating meaning. Hall argues that cultural meanings are constructed through encoding by producers and decoding by audiences, which allows for multiple interpretations based on contexts. His theories look at how power dynamics, ideology, and cultural frameworks influence this process, and highlighting how identities and social realities are shaped by media. Hall’s approach shows the role of representation in maintaining cultural norms and going against dominant narratives and stereotypes.
The clarity and rapidity of the process were particularly appealing.
ReplyDeleteIn the image, it shows a refugee mother helping her children after being rescued. It is obvious that this event is sad as the misery on the mothers face in noticeable. The Guardian is a left newspaper, meaning its beliefs are pluralistic rather than hegemonic. It supports the refuge of migrants into our country. The police looking away from the camera may suggest that they aren't helping them even though they need it. Left wing supports women and children more than fighting age men. This is why the off lead talks about the women and girls that died during the crisis as more people can empathise with them, even though more mean died. A pull quote is also used to evoke empathy from the reader. The term 'Tragedy' in the title has the same effect; it is factual but also emotional.
ReplyDelete8/10 this is really good, to improve you could talk more about what is different to what the readers expect. But i really like how clear it is.
Delete8/10. Nice examples and analysis, spoken about the audience and the effect of the article. Used media language. Needs specific links to Hall's theory.
Delete8/10 Overall I enjoyed the writing, but I feel that there could have been a better breakdown of Hall's theory
Delete1. Answer the question [1] Be more explicit in reference to Hall.
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [1] And here as well, use the terminology of Hall.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Good range of choices of examples, but describe them more thoroughly.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1] Needs to be more thorough.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1] Good in places (pluralistic), but now get even more terminology in there.
5/10 - Pick any two and try to improve them for the next paragraph.
7/10 use more of Hall's terminology within the paragraph
Delete6/10, reference hall more clearly and give a more detailed explanation of his theory. use more terminology and media language. good examples, but more detail needed in them.
DeleteTASK TWO:
ReplyDeleteIn the Guardian Cover, we can see the left-wing approach to refugees. In the cover, we can see a person (who we can infer is a mother) carrying one child and dragging the other down the beach. As well as this, we can see the police in the back again, carrying a young child. From this image, the guardian newspaper is creating an emotional response from the reader. By applying Halls theory to this image, we can infer that the woman and children are chosen purposely in order to make us feel bad for the immigrants, breaking the stereotypes of them being large groups of fully-grown men. Furthermore, in the anchoring text, out of 31 deaths, only the women and children are mentioned. This is because of the hegemonic view of them being weak and makes the reader have an emotional response. Men are absent from this image, which The Guardian have chosen to disregard in order to overcome the traditional views on migrants and encourage the readers to feel bad for them because of their left-wing ideology. This image portrays a different view on immigrants than the government and media has made them to be, therefore a reader may have expected to see or read a more negative approach towards them. The progressive ideology is further implied with the bold, red writing which is a criticism towards the government talking no action to help the refugees.
9/10 this is good but I feel it could have been worded in a more succinct way by using more media terminology.
DeleteMARK SCHEME
Delete10/10. Very well written, flows nicely. Great links to Hall's theory and the evoked feelings from the audience. Links to The Guardian's left-wing ideology. Good use of media language.
:)
10/10 I liked the relative brevity of the text. The text does a decent job of exposing the topic
Delete1. Answer the question [2] Definitely does this
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [2] Try to include present as well, but you did a really good job here.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [2] Given the brevity of the response, you did a good job of this, but even more if you can.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2] Definitely clear.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [2] There is some room for improvement here, but still does it well.
10/10 An excellent paragraph. Do it again with even more terminology.
10/10! written very well and doesn't come across as stutters, has good links to hall's theory and media language.
DeleteTask Number Two:
ReplyDeleteTo begin with, it is worth noting that The Guardian is a left-wing newspaper, which means it is progressive. Whereas England is considered a conservative country.
The Guardian specifically chose a photo that encodes police inaction at the sight of a woman trying to help children.
The editors definitely put into this photo the idea that England is an old-fashioned country, connotating patriarchal and conservative ideas. In this case, the women in the photo are holding babies while the men are doing some other work, and some of them may be idle.
It is also worth noting that in the text of the abstract there is a reference to a tragedy that occurred at sea. It is mentioned that 31 people died, 6 of them women. The male gender is not mentioned here. This is intended to evoke sympathy for the victims, as is the photograph, by showing women (the weaker sex) in a predicament. And thus evoke the association that immigrants are worth helping.
I believe that Hall's theory is at work here, as the creators of the newspaper deliberately put a photograph with a ‘patriarchal’ connotation on the front page to evoke stronger emotions towards immigrants.
8/10 to improve you could talk more about audience expectations but it is really good and i like how you included the information about the guardian being left-wing.
Delete7/10 - you need to apply Halls theory to the examples
Delete8/10. Good examples, links to Hall- expand more on the idea of his theory and the intended effect on the audience. Very fixated on the patriarchal side of it and not the migrants aspect (which is fine but not what I expected).
Delete1. Answer the question [1] Get to Hall more quickly, stereotypes etc.
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [1] Use the language of Hall more pointedly, Stereotype, Present, Absent, Different
3. Use specific and detailed examples [2] Good, wide range and used well.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2] Interesting and thoughtful analysis.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1] Generally good, but now ensure you get the language of Hall into it as well.
7/10 - A good attempt, now really pack the next paragraph with references to Hall.
7/10, needs more references to hall's theory and links to examples. potentially talk about the intended effect on audience
Deletetask 2:
ReplyDeleteIn the image, the mise en scene portrays a woman dragging along children with her, and behind her we can infer that there may be an authoritative figure facing away from her. This creates a representation of the UK government neglecting refugees that are facing these tragedies every day, yet not helping them. Therefore, it paints a picture that there is no care for these people. The readers of this paper are typically left wing, and support the idea of refugee woman and children, creating empathy. The headline also uses very strong adjectives such as "tragedy" and "deadliest" further developing the empathy to the readers.
7/10, i really like this one but to improve you could include morr about halls theory.
Delete6/10 apply Halls theory to example, be more detailed in your example- who is the person behind her?
Delete-janki
Delete7/10. I like the use of interpreted analysis about the image (the examples) and the media language. I think it could do with more references to Hall's theory and talk about the effects made on the audience.
Delete6/10 I believe the text did not reveal enough about Hall's theory and did not describe enough about the impact the cover has on the audience
Delete1. Answer the question [1] Name Hall and explicitly apply his theory.
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [1] Name Hall and explicitly apply his theory. Stereotype, Present, Absent, Different
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Good examples chosen, describe more carefully and choose a wider range.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1] Be more explicit on this.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1] As you include the theory, ensure you include words like Stereotype, hegemonic and pluralistic.
5/10 - Choose any two from the list and push yourself to include them in the next paragraph.
6/10
Deletecould do with naming Hall and applying his theory more accurately. Good examples but more careful description may benefit.use more media language
Task 2- Source A is from The Guardian newspaper is a left wing/liberal publication that favours progressive and internationalist socio-political messaging for its affluent readership. We see this in the subheading where it states, "five women and one girl were victims", the focus is on the women which died, which is likely to evoke more sympathy and anger towards the government from the Guardians feminist readership. The other 25 men who died are absent in being mentioned. Hall would argue this differs from the hegemonic readers expectations who would expect refugees represented as being 'fighting aged' capable men. Therefore The Guardian is attempting to construct a pluralistic representation of the migrants which positions the reader to see them as refugees, predominantly women and children, and of the UK government as neglectful in their responsibility to help them.
ReplyDelete9/10 i really like this one because it covers most thing, to improve you could include more about the reader’s expectations
Delete8/10. Efficient use of media language. Perhaps talk about what is absent from the image and go into further detail about the effect on the audience- Hall's theory. (Personally, I found it a little difficult to follow- not sure why. It may be the sentence length or the use of 'heavy' language. Probably just me though!!!).
Delete-Amelia
Deleteoops
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Delete9/10 The text uses excellent medea language, covers Hall's theory and talks about the emotions of the audience, but in my opinion lacks the mention of image.
Delete9/10 I think there is a really good use of media language and hall's theories, but you should further analyse the affect on the audience and what emotions it creates for them.
Delete1. Answer the question [2] Clear attempt to answer the question
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [2] Good us of the language of the theorist.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Use a wider range of different examples in your response..
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2] Definite attempt to apply the theory in a thoughtful way.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [2] Reads as a Media Studies essay should, very strong control of terminology.
9/10 A very good score, but now focus on using a wider range of different examples.
In The Guardian newspaper front cover there’s a left-wing perspective, this means that they are characterised through freedom, rights and equality. We can see a women carrying a child in her arms as well as another being pulled closely behind her, there is also a group of police officers behind them all. Since its left wing it focuses on being in support for the immigrants who are struggling and being in favour for the mother and her situation.
ReplyDeleteWhen we follow Halls theory, we can see that the imagery is supporting the mother and her child rather than men.
In the anchoring text women and girls are the focus leading to more empathy and a sympathetic view as conventionally they are seen as a weaker and the less powerful gender.
Furthermore, they are also overlooking the typical stereotypes around migrants as they are supporting the left-wing concept and being in favour for supporting them. Since the viewpoint doesn’t follow the conventional image readers may not of expected to see the text encouraging justification and defence.
9/10 i really like this one it covers everything in a really precise way.
Delete9/10 good
Delete- janki
Delete9/10 Links to what the image represents, uses good examples, links to Hall's theory. Maybe some more media language needed but overall good use of language. Perhaps briefly state the theory ?? (only because we haven't included an introduction or a summary of the theory in this section).
Delete9/10 The text as a whole fulfils its purpose well, but I think it is worth adding 1-2 sentences on Hall theory.
Delete8/10 covers everything easily, but would be good if you had clear idea on hall's theory
Delete1. Answer the question [2] Clear attempt to answer the question
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [1] Take the time to re-read the theory so that you are crystal clear on how to describe it. Use the words present, absent, different, pluralistic, hegemonic.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Try to include a wider range of examples, especially focus on headline.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1] Definite attempt to apply the theory. Be even more careful with the clarity of your analysis here.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1] If you work on point 2 carefully, this one will happen naturally.
6/10 A good score, but now spend some time re-reading the opening bullet points and including as much of the terminology as possible. Take the time to also include a wider range of examples.
From looking at just the image within the Guardians newspaper, you would see a woman struggling to carry a child, and dragging another behind her, like it is said within the headline and anchor text, this is a mother and her children who are refugees, however, when only looking at the image, you wouldn't be able to really tell that this woman or her children are refugees. You can also see boarder force and a police officer, however you cannot see their facing, and they are turning their backs on the woman, this implies that refugees are not receiving enough help as a whole.
ReplyDeleteHowever, In the image from the Daily Express, they seem to be focused more on the government, and show a stronger focus towards the male refugees than the female refugees that require more help.
5/10 need to talk about paper ideology, apply theory to question, more media terminology
Delete6/10 The detail about the photograph and the interpreted analysis is good. However, there isn't reference to Hall's theory so it doesn't answer the question sufficiently.
Delete5/10 The description of the image is not badly done, but lacks mention of the text and Hall's theory.
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Delete1. Answer the question [1] Remember that the question is about applying theory.
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [0] Take the time to re-read the theory so that you are crystal clear on how to describe it and then include a range of terminology - Stereotypes, present, absent, different.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Try to include a wider range of examples - include the headline, anchoring text etc.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [0] This need attention. Ensure that you are including Hall. Name the theorist and include the language of the theory.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1] This will take care of itself if you do more of the rest.
3/10 Review the theory more carefully and make sure to apply it carefully to your answer to Source B.
Task 2
ReplyDeleteHall's theory of representation says that the use of images to stand in for something else help to convey opinions in media. The guardian (left wing) front cover shows a woman carrying a child, with a group of border force officers behind her. The anchoring text says that she is a mother, and this evokes emotion in the reader as they would feel empathy for her. As the paper is left wing, they would feel support for the immigrants and so the use of the image is to draw attention to the issue and not to say that it is a problem. The newspaper has decided to leave out information about the men killed in the sunk dinghy, and only mention the '5 women and 1 girl', which would evoke more empathetic reactions with readers.
8/10 i really like this one, to improve i would add more about what the audience would expect.
Delete7/10 I like the detail within the answer but I think it could have been linked back to Hall's theory a little more.
Delete1. Answer the question [1] Take the time to re-read Hall (or the bullet points at the top of the page) so that you are crystal clear on the theory.
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [1] As with point one, include key words like Stereotype, Present, Absent, Different etc.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Try to include a wider range of examples especially including reference to headlines.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1] Again, try to include more direct use of Hall.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1] If you include more direct reference to the theory this will come naturally.
5/10 A fair attempt, but now pick two areas to focus on improving as you write the next paragraph.
8/10 - link to hall more clearly in example
ReplyDeleteThe left-wing news article from “The Guardian” portrays the refugees in the story as feeble and helpless, evoking a sense of sympathy from the audience. Within the image, we are presented with what appears to be a mother and several other adults hauling their children from a boat upon the shore. This, along with the formal register of the title, allows us to interpret that these people have just been through a “refugee crisis”, diminishing the stereotype that migrants are bad people, encouraging the readers to feel sympathy for the people in the image. The progressivist newspaper highlights the fact people have died during this tragic event at sea, evoking the audience to take a different view upon the migrants, opposing the media and the governments ideas. Stuart Hall encourages the idea of representation through media, where it’s either distorted or reflected, therefore he would argue that this article distorts the stereotypical representation of migrants, placing the notion that they are struggling and ordinary people.
ReplyDelete1. Answer the question [2] Clear attempt to answer the question
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [1] Take the time to re-read the theory so that you are crystal clear on how to describe it.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Be careful when describing the text. For example, don't call the Headline the title.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2] Definite attempt to apply the theory. Be even more careful.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1] Writing a little too much like an English student at the moment, try to inject even more Media Studies terminology.
7/10 A good score, but now focus on using the theory more explicitly and more clearly, spend some time re-reading the opening bullet points.
#iforgottosubmitthis
ReplyDeleteThe Guardian cover reflects a left-wing approach to the representation of refugees, emphasizing an emotional narrative that contrasts with traditional stereotypes. The image features a woman, implied to be a mother, carrying a child and leading another along a beach, while police in the background carry a young child. By applying Hall’s theory, we see that the deliberate focus on women and children breaks the stereotype of refugees often being groups of younger men, evoking sympathy and challenging hegemonic expectations. The accompanying text reinforces this by highlighting the deaths of women and children, failing to mention that 25 out of the 31 migrants who died were men, in order to fit with a feminist and progressive narrative aimed at the paper's liberal audience. This approach positions the UK government as neglectful and increases criticism through bold, accusatory language and bold red lettering, encouraging readers to adopt a compassionate view of migrants while criticizing governmental inaction.
1. Answer the question [2] Clear attempt to answer the question
Delete2. Correctly characterise the theory [1] Take the time to re-read the theory and remind yourself of the key words - in a question like this we should see present, absent and different.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1] Be careful when describing the text. For example, the accompanying text should be called subheadlines or bullet points. Also, remember to mention the headline, which is always a key element of the piece.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2] Definite attempt to apply the theory in a thoughtful way.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [2] Take EVERY opportunity to write like a Media Studies student. You did it enough to get 2/2 on this, but push yourself to do it ALL THE TIME.
8/10 A very good score, but now focus on using the theory more explicitly, especially try to get ALL of the terminology into your answer.
On the cover of the Daily Express we can see an article about "smugglers" who cross into England by illegal machinations. The newspaper clearly takes a right-wing position and is anti-immigrant in England.
ReplyDeleteThe newspaper directly accuses the French police of inaction. The main article also mentions that Boris Johnson will "smash" the smugglers.
Hall's theory is that by defining images, text, etc. to create a certain point of view for the audience. In this case, the newspaper shows immigrants as "murderers", "smugglers". The audience, after reading the cover of this newspaper, will probably feel disgusted not only with the immigrants, as they come to England illegally, but also with the French authorities, as the newspaper mentions several times that the police officers do not confront the illegal actions of immigrants. And the part about Boris Johnson going to crack down on illegal immigrants should reinforce the idea that the British government, unlike the French, is fighting illegal immigrants.
It is worth taking into account that the text as well as the guardian says that out of 31 victims 6 women were killed, but in this case I will assume that this part of the text is meant to show that even women go to such a reckless step.
5/10 There is nothing wrong with your analysis here, but the you need to write more like a Media Studies student. This will come with time, but always look carefully at examples.
DeleteMARK SCHEME
1. Answer the question [1]
I can tell you are answering the question, because you are writing about the correct elements, but use the vocabulary from Hall so the examiner is not searching for your ideas.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [1]
Your have used the theory correctly for the most part, but it is not clear that you are pointedly applying it. Keep it clear and on track by using the vocabulary: present absent different stereotype etc. [1]
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
Careful, this is partly due to the way you write, but you need to more pointedly describe the image and point out specific reference to elements like headlines, sub-headlines, anchoring text, etc.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1]
You are definitely analysing the examples through the lens of the theory, but the lack of specific vocab stops it from being clear.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
Be careful, take EVERY opportunity to use theory correctly. Review examples very carefully to see how the terminology should be used.
Media representations of migrants often challenge traditional stereotypes, emphasizing emotional narratives. For example, an image features a group, majority of them are men, carrying a lifeboat while leading another along a beach, with police in the background sitting doing nothing. This focus on migrants and men, disrupts the stereotype of “migrants” as an invading species, evoking sympathy and challenging hegemonic expectations.
ReplyDeleteAccompanying text highlights the importance of the UK president “BORIS Johnson”, and how he has “vowed to smash smuggling gangs...” - omitting that these gangs are getting away with literal murder. This positions the UK government as an organization looking for justice, reinforcing the ideological meaning of law on order.
In a “Daily Express” article, migrants are portrayed as vulnerable, evoking sympathy. The image of a group of people hauling a boat to the sea suggests they have faced a crisis, countering negative stereotypes. However, the critical yet proclaimed title “getting away with murder” reinforces this tragic view, while emphasizing deaths during the disaster, highlighting that those reading should search for justice.
Stuart Hall’s theory suggests that such portrayals can distort or reflect reality. Here, the article distorts the stereotype, presenting migrants as ordinary people in distress, fostering compassion and critiquing institutional neglect.
5/10 - Overall, you have shown so many of the skills needed, but there is too much contradiction between observation and analysis.
Delete1. Answer the question [1]
Be careful, I know what you are writing about, but the way you have expressed yourself reads as if you are generalising about UK representations of migrants and using this paper as an example. Just write about the Source. Try to include the words present, absent and different.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [2]
Despite the lack of direct reference to present, absent and different, you included so much of the rest of the theory and did a really good job of analysing.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
You are definitely including a range of examples here, but I am not sure that you are analysing them correctly. It is not clear if you are saying that this is reinforcing or challenging hegemony,
4. Apply the theory to the examples [0]
See point 3. You are definitely applying the theory, but it is not perfectly clear if you are applying it entirely correctly. The vagueness and loss of clarity here is making it difficult to award a score.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
Generally strong on using terminology to sound like a media student, but even more focus on using words like 'representations' instead or 'portrayals.' It might feel robotic, but it makes it clear to the examiner that you know your theory.
Task 3:
ReplyDeleteDaily express is a newspaper for a right-wing audience. This Is visible from the wording of the headline. It calls the migrants in the image 'Smugglers' and they they are 'getting away with murder. This is the same event that is in source A, but is viewed through a different belief system. This newspaper follows a Hegemonic society as it doesn't support the refuge of migrants. Similar to source A, it shows the police not helping the situation as they aren't seen doing anything. The image shows many people boarding a dinghy. Although the migrants are present in the image, it is different than source A as it doesn't just show the mother and her daughter. Instead, it shows the male migrants as well. People are more inclined to evoke sympathy for women and children rather than fighting age men, so by showing the male migrants the emotional impact isn't as large. In the standfirst, it still mentions the young girl and five women that unfortunately died from their boat capsizing like source A. This brings back some of the sympathy but in a different light, as it is suggested that we should stop migrants coming to the UK by boat as people are 'murdered'
4/10 The analysis here is not bad at all, but you've made the cardinal error of missing the theorist out of the answer. If you'd referenced Hall directly with two extra sentences, this would have been closer to 6/10.
Delete1. Answer the question [1]
You have used enough of the right ideas from Hall for me to know you are using his theory, but you need to actually reference his name.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [0]
As with answering the question, you have clearly used Hall's theory, but without directly referencing him, I can't give you any marks for correctly characterising his theory.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
Good range of examples here and I like the way you are acknowledging the difference to Source A, but you seem to be mixing up the idea of the migrants and the smugglers. You could argue that the paper is doing this on purpose, but take care to ensure you are clear on this.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1]
You are definitely attempting to apply the theory and doing it correctly, but this suffers from lack of direct reference to Hall.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
Some use of terminology makes you sound like a Media Studies student (standfirst, Hegemonic) but you need a lot more elements like this.
Within the Daily Express cover, the image presents mainly men carrying a dinghy down the beach whilst what looks like a police car remains stationary in the background. This representation is deliberate to encourage feelings of fear and threat from the audience as the stereotypical view of a group of men is that they’re a gang and pose a threat tot the public as the hegemonic view of men is that they’re the dominant sex. The absence of police here, as they’re just stationary in the car, heightens the feeling of threat for the audience as it is if the men are uncontrollable, suggesting they are dangerous people which supports the hegemonic view of the male sex; that they’re a danger to society due to their superiority as a sex. This representation of men may be deliberate as the Daily Express may want the audience to fear these people, presenting them as folk devils. The headline supports the feelings of threat for the audience as the words ‘smugglers’ and ‘murder’ have extremely negative connotations. This presents the hegemonic view amongst migrants that they’re a danger to society due to their representation here of ‘getting away with murder’, presenting them to the audience as criminals of the highest offence in the law system. This also supports the stereotype that migrants are people to be feared which may be a deliberate representation as the Daily Express is a right wing newspaper.
ReplyDelete5/10 - This has the potential to achieve a much better score. Just including Hall's name would have lifted it immediately by 1 or 2 marks. Watch out for that one.
Delete1. Answer the question [1]
You clearly have many of the right ideas from Hall for me to know you are using his theory, but you need to actually use his name to make it clear that you are using the theory.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [0]
As I've said, you have clearly used Hall's theory, but without directly referencing him. Unfortunately, I can't give you any marks unless you directly name the theory.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
A Good range of examples here and I like the way that you have woven the analysis into the example in places: For example: The headline supports the feelings of threat for the audience as the words ‘smugglers’ and ‘murder’ have extremely negative connotations. Try to include even more examples.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1]
You are definitely attempting to apply the theory and doing it correctly but the overall attempt at this suffers from lack of direct reference to Hall.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [2]
You are definitely making a sound attempt to write in the correct style for a Media Studies student.
TASK THREE:
ReplyDeleteIn the Daily Express cover, we can see the more right-wing approach to immigrants. If we apply Halls theory to the image on the front cover, we notice that there is a group of what looks like only men, carrying a boat. This image has been selected in order to reinforce the stereotype of refugees coming to ‘invade’ or cause trouble’ as the media has taught us to believe. Furthermore, all the men are wearing the same red life jackets which further makes the reader think of an army all in the same uniform. This idea is reinforced with the rest of the front cover because of the words used to describe the refugees, such as ‘smugglers’ and the word ‘murder’ implying that they are criminals. However, although this image portrays the refugees as an army, it is chosen to criticise the French government, and blame them for the crossings of refugees. This is because, although the French police car is present in the image, the police are not seen helping or being authoritarian towards the migrants. This tells us that they are not doing their job effectively. On the whole page, we can see more evidence of this with the French police being constantly referred to as ‘doing nothing’. Furthermore, the rough see is also absent which means we feel little empathy because we can’t see the danger that the men are actually facing. Overall, this image that has been chosen is used to create a stereotypical representation of the refugees, however, the audience may have expected to see the French authorities acting to help, therefore, the image both reinforces a negative stereotype of migrants while suggesting a new idea that the French police are bad at their job.
7/10 A really sound attempt. Thorough and well considered.
Delete1. Answer the question [1]
You are definitely answering the question, though try to include elements like hegemonic and different when applying Hall.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [1]
This needed just a little more care and detail when applying the full breadth of the theory to ensure that it fully characterised the theory.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [2]
Strong on examples. Try to be even more thorough, but you did a sound job of including a range of ideas.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1]
I'm being a little bit harsh here, because you did a very good job of applying theory to the analysis of each example, but be careful with how you unpack the examples. The migrants are not being described as smugglers, they are being connected to them. You so nearly said this, but it needed just a little more care.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [2]
You are definitely making a sound attempt to write in the correct style for a Media Studies student. Good range of vocab. Even better with words like hegemonic etc.
Task 3- Source B is from the Daily Express which is a conservative and centre right paper that fears and dislikes migrants. Present in the selected image are lots of men carrying a boat to the sea, and they are all wearing life jackets. This reaffirms the predominate stereotype that migrants are invading UK and are all the same which creates fear in the right-wing readers. Present in the image is a police truck, though the police themselves are absent. This constructs a representation that they are aware of the problem but doing nothing to rectify it, which naturalises the anti-French stereotypes held by the nationalist readership.
ReplyDelete6/10
DeleteThe quality is A grade/A star, but you need to write about twice as much, remember to push yourself to be thorough. You are definitely capable.
MARK SCHEME
1. Answer the question [1]
You are definitely focused on answering the question and everything about the content is sound, but there is not enough of it. Remember, you need to also include the headlines and language on the page.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [2]
Despite this being very short, it is absolutely clear that you understand the theory and can characterise and apply it. Just do it several more times.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
You used examples very well, but you need to also go on to analysing language, especially in headlines, but also anchoring text.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1]
The quality here is worth two, but the brevity of the response means that you don't demonstrate it enough, meaning I can really only give it 1/2.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
And the same again here. The way you are writing is spot on, but it is too brief to fully do justice to the answer.
Task 3
ReplyDeleteSource B portrays the migrants as threatening according to Stuart Hall’s theory of representation. They are depicted as aggressive with a moblike attitude. All migrants represented in this image are male, or not noticeably female. This gives the impression that they deserve less sympathy and are in fact the invading aggressors rather than the victim.
The image is also more critical of the French authorities than the UK government as it shows the migrants setting off, it depicts the French police doing nothing to prevent the departure as it claims in the text that the French police, ‘Do nothing as another dinghy sets off for the UK’. This clearly shows it is not the fault of the UK as they are not represented in the image.
4/10 In a question like this, you need a lot more focus on including ALL of the theory.
Delete1. Answer the question [1]
You are clearly answering the question, though you need to do more to include the range of Hall's theory.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [0]
You have named Hall, and that is almost enough to get you a mark here, but you need to include some of the language from his theory other than just his name.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
You have actually done a pretty good job of packing a range of examples into this very short paragraph. If you had written more you could have been a lot more thorough.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [1]
I can see that you have attempted to analyse each example and implicitly used Hall. If I was being ultra strict I could have given this zero, because you have not used enough Hall to make this really obviously analytical, but I suspect an examiner would give you the benefit of the doubt here.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
Take more opportunities to write like a Media Studies student. For example, portrays, should be constructs a representation.
TASK 3
ReplyDeleteIn applying Stuart Hall’s theory of representation to the a Daily Express newspaper headline about smugglers "getting away with murder," we can examine how the media constructs a specific narrative that shapes public understanding of crime, justice, and morality. Hall argues that media representations are not neutral; they are shaped by cultural codes, ideological forces, and power structures. In this case, the headline uses emotive language—“getting away with murder”—to frame smugglers as morally reprehensible figures who evade justice. The term "murder" evokes a strong emotional response and casts the smugglers not just as criminals, but as individuals who have committed heinous acts. This choice of words, coupled with the phrase "getting away with," taps into societal fears about lawlessness and the perceived failure of the justice system. Hall would argue that this representation constructs a narrative that aligns with dominant ideologies about crime and punishment, positioning smugglers as the "other" and reinforcing public anxieties around immigration, illicit trade, and legal impunity. However the image below presents migrants preparing to flee France, whilst the French police sit there and allow them to do so. The phrase "do nothing" implies neglect and inaction on the part of the French police, framing them as ineffective or complicit in a broader crisis. This therefore shows the level of care the system has for people in these situations. The Daily Express has deliberately layed the paper out as such, as this puts an image into the public minds that all migrants are smugglers. This allows us to explore how the newspaper constructs a particular narrative about immigration, national security, and responsibility.
9/10 - A really nicely constructed paragraph.
Delete1. Answer the question [2]
I'd like to have seen you explicitly use the words present, absent and different here, but you did a really good job of applying the theory across the whole of the essay. Definitely answering the question.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [1]
I'm taking the little bit of horrible from 'answer the question' and applying it to the little bit of horrible here. You are definitely fully understanding the theory and thoroughly understand it, but I'm taking the mark away for the lack of present absent and different.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [2]
Excellent range of examples. Try to be even more descriptive of images etc.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2]
Despite the lack of present, absent and different your analysis shows really strong application of theory here.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [2]
You are definitely making a sound attempt to write in the correct style for a Media Studies student.
proudfoot
DeleteThe Daily Express is considered a right-wing newspaper meaning it focuses on tradition, hierarchy and authority. In this example we see imagery of a group of migrants about to set overseas in a dingy to cross into the UK, representing them negatively as smugglers. The headline ‘smugglers getting away with murder’ is emotive designed to create a reaction of the viewers. It uses language to frame the issue of migrants crossings in terms of criminality. The phrase "getting away with murder" suggests not only the severity of the crime but also a sense of injustice. Theres a focus on women in the text to the bottom left stating ‘a young girl and five women were among those when killed’ creating empathy and sensitivity as females are traditionally classed as the weaker gender with no context revolving around the men.
ReplyDeleteHall’s theory highlights that readers will decide this message differently, depending on their social positions some may align with the newspaper’s framing, while others may critique its portrayal as biased.
6/10 Needs to be longer and more detailed.
DeleteMARK SCHEME
1. Answer the question [1]
I can tell you are answering the question, but you haven't mentioned present, absent or different. Get that vocab into your answer when discussing Hall.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [1]
Your have used the theory correctly but you need to make it clearer to the examiner by using the full range of vocabulary.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
You've chosen a reasonably good range of elements, but be a lot more pointed in the way you introduce them. Describe the image carefully, and clearly indicate where the language comes from, headline, standfirst etc.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2]
Good application of theory to the example. Despite lack of detailed use of language from the theory in places, you have clearly understood how Hall works. Need to do more to include the whole breadth of the theory.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
Take EVERY opportunity to use terminology correctly. You are expressing some elements a little vaguely. Use phrases like 'constructs a stereotypical.'
task 3:
ReplyDeleteIn The Daily Express, we can see the right-wing beliefs on refugees. In the image, we can see a group of men around a boat at the shore, wearing life jackets. We can infer that they are trying to immigrate to the UK. This paints a picture of invasion of immigrants on the UK. By using Hall's theory on representation we can see that this supports the predominant, hegemonic view of the newspaper, that men are the most able people in society. The standfirst presents Boris Johnson as heroic as he vows to "smash these smuggling gangs" referring to the immigrants. In the backround of the image, we can see the french police "watching on" and doing nothing to stop the immigrants. The audience may imply that the french police are the problem for these immigrants. This representsthe stereotype that the french police are bad as they aren't doing their job properly.
6/10
DeleteMARK SCHEME
1. Answer the question [1]
I can tell you are answering the question, but you haven't mentioned present, absent or different. Get that vocab into your answer.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [1]
Your have used the theory correctly but lack of using present, absent and different indicates lack of detail needed for 2/2. .
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
Need to be much more thorough. Describe the image carefully, lots of detail and make more pointed reference to the use of language, anchoring text, etc.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2]
Strong on application of theory. You have clearly understood how Hall works but needed to do more to include the whole breadth of the theory.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
Be careful, take EVERY opportunity to use theory correctly. You are writing more like an English essay, encoding, constructing messaging etc.
The *Daily Express* cover exemplifies a right-wing, anti-immigrant stance, using both imagery and language to frame migrants and related authorities in a particular way. The headline “getting away with murder” uses emotive language to portray smugglers as morally reprehensible, reinforcing public fears about crime and legal failure. Stuart Hall’s theory of representation highlights how such media constructs are not neutral but shaped by ideological forces to influence audience perceptions. The accompanying image, showing male migrants carrying a boat while French police remain passive in the background, reinforces stereotypes of migrants as invaders while criticizing French authorities for inaction. By removing visible dangers like rough seas, the image minimizes empathy for the migrants and emphasizes their portrayal as organized and threatening, similar to that of an army in uniform. Simultaneously, the layout critiques the French police as ineffective, framing the British government as proactive by contrast. This narrative encourages readers to view migrants as criminals and casts immigration as a national security threat, illustrating how media shapes public understanding through selective representation.
ReplyDelete8/10
DeleteMARK SCHEME
1. Answer the question [2]
You are definitely focused on the question but try to get ALL the right vocab into it, present, absent and different.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [1]
As with answering the question, you did a really great job here, but now you need to get all of the vocab into it. I am giving you one here to indicate the lack of those three words (present, absent and different) but your understanding of the theory is evident.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
You could be more thorough in your use of examples. Your answer is really excellent, but there just isn't quite enough of it.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2]
Strong on application of theory. You have clearly understood how Hall works. But, remember present, absent, different.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [2]
Be careful, for the most part you have used terminology really well, but take EVERY opportunity. It will feel robotic at times but it will allow the examiner to tick your paper more often.
On the other hand, the right-wing newspaper “Daily Express” conveys a stereotype that the migrants as “evil”, calling them “smugglers” who “get away with murder”. The dialect of the headline appears to create the stereotype that “migrants are bad”, further supporting the right-wing ideology that portrays the notions such as authority, hierarchy, order, duty, tradition, reaction and nationalism. Hall suggests the idea of stereotypes against migrants, supporting the hegemonic view that the readers of the “Daily Express” tend to agree with.
ReplyDeleteThe image chosen for the front cover contains a sub headline, highlighting the idea that the French aren’t doing anything about the “migrant problem”, criticizing the French, conveying the perception that the French are “work-shy” and avoid the issue of migrants.
To further support this ideology and Hall’s idea of stereotypes and meaning, this image only presents men, conveying the right-wing hegemonic view of patriarchy and traditionalism and Hall’s notion that meaning can be subtly created and presented through the media.
6/10
DeleteI've been VERY strict with the marking here. You've done a nice job and I suspect that this would get you an A grade in an exam, but look carefully at marking below and consider how you could ensure you get 7, 8 or more. You are definitely capable.
MARK SCHEME
1. Answer the question [1]
You are definitely focused on the question, but be careful, they are not overtly suggesting the migrants are evil but rather the smuggling gangs that transport them.
2. Correctly characterise the theory [1]
Strong on the discussion of maintaining hegemony but now remember to include present, absent and different.
3. Use specific and detailed examples [1]
Describe the image carefully (concisely, but carefully) and use examples of diction pointedly.
4. Apply the theory to the examples [2]
Strong on application of theory. You have clearly understood how Hall works.
5. Use Media Studies terminology [1]
Be careful, for the most part you have used terminology really well, but take EVERY opportunity. For example, "conveying the perception that the French are “work-shy” and avoid the issue of migrants" could be "constructing the stereotype that the French etc."