Academic Writing

Consider a ‘social problem’ (in Australian context) and undertake a content analysis of news media coverage of the problem. A minimum of eight (8) news media articles on the social problem are to be used in the analysis, which must address construction of the 'problem', language used and other key aspects. In conducting the content analysis at least one of the main theories - funtionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism. CONTENT At the very beginning of you content analysis it is crucial to clearly define what is social problem, for whom it is a social problem and consequently frame the selected social problem. Throughout your analysis you might come across implicit as well as explicit terms, thus you need to be specific from the start. When looking at selected media articles, you will need to examine the use of language. For example the use of positive or negative words that relate directly or indirectly to your selected social problem. Accordingly, this will help you construct your main argument(s) which you need to point out at the very start of your essay. The media articles will also allow you to look at the relationship between your main concepts. Content analysis provides us with insight into complex models of human thought and language use. When applying theory, you need to first explain the theory. Here you need to use academic sources to define key theoretical concepts and demonstrate the understanding of theory. It does not matter which theoretical perspective you choose to apply. What does matter is how well you argue your case. Do not simply describe selected theoretical position. You need to make arguments (maybe come up with three or four main points) that support your discussion and back these up with appropriate research evidence. You need to keep in mind that when using empirical evidence to support your claims you need (i) a brief study description (e.g. number of participants, measures used), (ii) the key study findings (relevant to your argument) and (iii) the link back to essay argument. Throughout your essay you need to use at least 8 authoritative sources in addition to 8 media articles.(News media articles are articles published in print media or posted online via official news media sources such as for example The Australian ([login to view URL]). ) This means you have to research widely and you can begin your search with the set readings provided. These were selected because they are directly relevant to the course content so do not neglect them. Introduction A good introduction is crucial. To navigate through an unfamiliar essay, the reader needs a map or instructions that highlight the points of interest and guide them safely to the end. Your introduction is a brief summary of your essay. It must do the following: - Set out the problem to be addressed; - Highlight the main arguments to be made; - Provide and explicit plan of the essay (the order in which you will present information); - Provide a direct answer to the question. Discussion You must give a serious thought to the order in which you present your information. There needs to be logic to it – you cannot just present information in a random order. A discussion needs to be well structured and the structure should be obvious to the reader. Keep telling your reader what you are up to. Make sure you set out a clear plan in your introduction and then follow that structure in your discussion. Use ‘signpost’ to emphasis that you are following the plan (e.g. The second argument is…). Do not write too short or too long paragraphs. Each paragraph should have a topic sentence and should only discuss one idea. Conclusion You conclusion is a brief summary of the essay. Do not introduce new information, and certainly do not leave your answer to the question untill here. 1500 words.