Reading Images
Objective: The objective for this assignment is to put into practice the skills we have covered for critically reading images and writing about popular culture. You will begin by selecting a static advertisement (NOTE: this may be a printed ad or a picture you find online that you will turn in with your paper). You will then analyze the way the image is put together, what choices advertisers have made to sell to their audience, and why. In a written essay, you will address the following:
1. Overview
a. What product is being sold?
b. Who is the audience?
i. Where might you find this ad? (What kind of magazine, website, etc.)
2. How is this product being sold?
a. How is the image constructed?
i. What meanings do these construction choices make it make?
b. What emotional appeal is being used? Why?
3. Analyze
a. If advertisements both reflect and perpetuate our societal values, what specific values are seen in this advertisement? (Standards of beauty, success, etc.)
Your paper should include a thesis statement that directly addresses what you think the influence of your advertisement is. Your deconstruction of the image and emotional appeal will work as evidence for your claim. However, you are more than welcome to cite essays from class or any other additional research.