This post goes through how to construct the perfect response to any question. The example we will ne using is a media language question, related to an unseen music video, in this case Bad Habits by Ed Sheeran. It's worth pointing out that students had absolutely no help here: this is 100% student responses, transcribed by the teacher!
Underline key terms - underline as few terms as possible. You'll be using these terms a lot in your answer!
Explore how media language demonstrates different meanings
Knee jerk reaction - don't think: this is your completely honest, first reaction to the question!
Yes! The video to Bad Habits reflects lots of different meanings!
Plan - keep it simple, and whatever you do, make sure that your plan goes on the question paper, where the examiner can see it!
Polysemy
Binary oppositions
MES
Codes
Costume
Makeup
Props
Shot types
Setting
Conventions
Introduction - use DAC for introductions. You can skip the introduction for shorter questions!
Definition - Media language is the terminology and techniques used by the producer to make a media product appeal to it's target audience
Argument - In this essay, I shall argue that the video to Bad Habits by Ed Sheeran demonstates a range of polysemic meanings to the audience
Context: A music video is a way of promoting an artist for the purpose of making money.
Paragraphs - use PEE for paragraphs. The (p)oint relates to the question, the (e)xample comes from the media product, and the (e)xplanation usually rolls in to the (e)xample...
P - One way in which media language is used to create polysemic interpretations is through the fascinating use of setting.
EE - For example, the video is set in a run down, stereotypically working class setting. This is anchored through the MES of the artificial low key lighting, which functions as a hermeneutic code, creating a powerful mystery for the audience. Additionally, the setting of the nail parlour is presented in a colourful and highly contrasting manner, symbolic of diversity and working class, inner city lifestyles. The use of pastel pinks and grey, washed colours in the nail salon is further anchored through the MES of the dying rose, constructing a melancholic and depressing atmosphere for the target audience. The themes of depression and sadness are highly relatable to the teenage target audience, and will allow the video to maximise it's own exposure on streaming sites like YouTube.
P - Another way in which media language is used to create meaning is through it's exciting and interesting and controversial use of costume.
EE - For example, while the setting is clearly drab and depressing, a binary opposition is formed between this and Sheeran's vibrant, glamourous, and even funky bright pink suit. This further reinforced through the challenge to gender stereotypes that is formed through Sheeran's bold and glittery pink makeup. This is contrasted with his heavy black eyeshadow, a style typical of the gothic subculture, creating a binary opposition between drag and goth subcultures constructs an inclusive ideology for the target audience, allowing the producer to appeal to multiple and diverse audiences.