Media Literacy Basics

Begin your basic understanding of media and media literacy using the articles below. Basic definitions of media and media literacy are included, as well as an introduction of media literacy's core principles and general questions.

1 What is the media?
2 What is media literacy?
3 The Basics of Media Literacy
4 Censorship vs. media literacy
5 The purpose of the media
6 The Core Principles of Media Literacy Education
7 Core Concept #1 - All media messages are “constructed.”
8 Core Concept #2 - Each medium has different characteristics, strengths, and a unique “language” of construction.
9 Core Concept #3 - Media messages are produced for particular purposes.
10 Core Concept #4 - All media messages contain embedded values and points of view.
11 Core Concept #5 - People use their individual skills, beliefs and experiences to construct their own meanings from media messages.
12 Core Concept #6 - Media and media messages can influence beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviors, and the democratic process.
13 Basic Question #1 - Who Sent Me This Message?
14 Basic Question #2 - What Is This Message's Intention?
15 Basic Question #3 - Where Was This Message Placed For My Consumption?
16 Basic Question #4 - Why Was This Message Sent?
17 Basic Question #5 - How Do I View This Message And Might Others View It?

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Student Journal for Media Literacy Education

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