How Media Is Constructed
Understand that all media is constructed with choices that affect how we perceive information.
Every piece of media — a news article, a photo, a video, a social media post — was created by someone who made choices: what to include, what to leave out, what angle to use, what words to choose. These choices shape how you perceive the information.
Key Concepts in Media Literacy
- All media is constructed: Someone made choices about what to include and exclude
- Media contains values and viewpoints: Creators' perspectives shape content
- Different audiences interpret media differently: Your background affects how you read it
- Media has commercial, social, or political purposes: Understanding purpose helps you read critically
Deconstructing a News Story
When you read a news story, ask: What is the headline designed to make me feel? What sources are quoted? Whose perspective is missing? What images were chosen and why? What is the overall framing of the story?
Read the same story from two different news sources. Notice what is the same and what is different. The differences reveal editorial choices and potential biases.
Ready to test your knowledge?
3 questions · Grade 3 level