Misty

Misty Swan J Haynes Writing 105 November 16, 2008 Proposal for Unit 3 Essay Everyday people are exposed to all types media from ads on television to billboards seen while driving on the high way. The messages that media sends influence many things people, especially teenagers. The messages that media portray range form body image, cool clothes, and things too keep you skin looking perfect, and so much more. The controversial topic I would like to discuss is teen media literacy. This is the education of media, in which teens are taught to read media for its messages whether it be messages in ads, movies, and commercials. Such teen literacy programs teach teens to read for the meanings media. The controversy behind teen media literacy is what to do after teens are taught to read messages. One main solution that has come about is to have teens rebel against negative images portrayed in media. But is this a good idea. Not every thing presented to us is bad or negative. So what is an effective way to teach media literacy? The rejection of media images may cause only negative feelings for everything presented in the media. But at the same time what can teens do when they are media literate. To help me with this topic I plan to analyze many ads I see daily and how it affects the way I live. Next I plan to examine as many teen trends and see how media played a part. Also there are many sites on the web that will help me understand how each site expresses what teen literacy is and what can is being done to help teens read and interpret messages.

What is an established argument in teen media literacy? the teachings? parents involvement? whether or not it should be taught? Why is it important that teens are educated on this topic and what effects might it have on them and society? -Joe

Does the type of media affect the way in which it affects teens? For example, do TV commercials leave a different impact as compared to advertisements in magazines? If this is the case, why is this so? Why does the media seem to often get negative reactions from people? --Juliana