Unit 1: Reading Media and Information Texts

DURATION: 2 hours

After completing this unit, teachers will be able to:

Identify codes and conventions used to convey meaning in a variety of media and information texts
Identify signs and symbols used for a variety of purposes in local and global communities

List some technical and symbolic codes and conventions that are used in the following media and information texts: soap operas, tourism brochures, documentary films, family sitcoms, and political advertisements. What messages and information are conveyed through these codes?
Identify the signs and symbols in your community that are used for a variety of purposes to convey information (e.g. for directions, locations of attractions, etc.). Describe the verbal and visual ‘languages’ used in these signs and symbols so they are commonly understood by people in your community. Consider the use of font, stylized images, design, etc.
Examine a variety of postcards from your country or community. Identify the key symbolic and technical codes that are used in each. What information about your country is communicated through the use of these codes? What information is omitted? Create a postcard for a place or organization of your choice. What key technical and symbolic codes would you use to convey important information and create the desired impression?
Using still or video images, create a collage of images to convey the importance of your school to a particular audience. Consider the use of appropriate icons, symbols, visual/ verbal language, music, colours, camera shots and angles, etc., to engage and speak to this audience. Audiences for this collage could be potential students who might enrol in the school, parents of these students, school trustees, a politician, and so on

ASSESSMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

Media & Information Literacy For Teachers