Key Concepts - media analysis

Today's task is as follows:

1) Find a print advert for a product or service online (use Google images)

2) Write an analysis of the advert on your blog using the four key media concepts: language, institution, audience and representation.

Make sure this goes on your blog and that we have your blog linked from the main GCSE Media Macguffin page.

If you don't finish in class, this is homework. Due: Thursday 11 September

Example:

Language

The title and packaging of the game, the console logo, background image and web address are all key conventions of a videogame advert. The effect created here is to immediately inform the audience of the genre of the advert - the strong Wii branding will be instantly recognisable to the target audience. The opportunity to 'Text to win' encourages the audience to take action and therefore creates a strong desire to own the game. The web address then gives the audience an opportunity to find out more.

Institution

The game was produced by Ubisoft and is available on multiple platforms. The original game was produced for Wii, a Nintendo brand. It was commercially successful (charting at number 1 in the game charts). Nintendo Wii has a reputation for creating effective marketing campaigns and Just Dance is one of their most successful titles.

Audience

This looks like it would be targeted at an audience of mixed gender (although perhaps slightly more female?) A reasonably wide age range might apply due to family appeal but the words 'Win the ultimate party' certainly suggests a younger audience. The darker colours (giving a nightclub feel) suggest this may be more a teenage audience rather than those younger than 10. 

Representation 

The stylistic cover design makes it difficult to see race or ethnicity but it is notable that the two models at the front are female while in the background are males. This is perhaps unusual for most videogames which appear to be targeted more at the male audience. However, the videogame market is now far more popular with female gamers and perhaps this advert reflects this more modern and progressive representation of women in videogames.