Media Conflict Analysis
COM3621-B Media Conflict Analysis (75 points) Due November 13
This short paper assignment (3-5 pages) asks you to examine a media conflict through the concept of power and its related elements (e.g., forms of power, power resources, endorsement factors). You may choose one of the following options for this assignment:
1. Identify and analyze a conflict in which you participated via email, social media, or video chat (e.g., FaceTime, Skype, etc.). For this option, students include a discussion about how the mediated nature of the example impacted the conflict management process.
2. Identify and analyze a conflict among characters in a film or television episode of your choosing. Students must properly cite quotes and include the film/episode in the list of references.
The paper should follow the organizational format below: (1) Introduction (one paragraph): The introduction includes a statement of purpose for the essay, a definition of the concept(s) being applied, and briefly summarizes the conflict. (2) Analysis (two-three pages): The analysis section of the paper argues how the chosen concept helps to explain the conflict and should include:
● Specific examples drawn from the conflict at hand. ● Definition of one concept from the text that you believe explains what is occurring.
Paraphrasing and quotes from the textbook and/or lectures must be cited. ● An explanation of how the concept sheds light on the conflict (your thoughts that tie
everything together). (3) Conclusion (one page): A brief summary of what was accomplished in the paper and concluding thoughts, opinions, and takeaways. The analysis does not need to offer a solution or figure out a way to make a different outcome to the conflict. Nor is it a criticism of any one party’s behavior, or speculation about different outcomes. The analysis should focus on how the concept you have chosen explains the conflict that you are discussing and reflections on how the concept opens up new insights into the conflict. This is a formal paper, and college-level writing is expected. Points will be deducted for grammar, punctuation, and syntax errors. All papers must include the following format: your name, date, title, numbered pages, 1” margins, and a reasonable font size (i.e., 11-12 point in a style such as Times New Roman or Palatino). Cite all references engaged in your work other than your own (APA or MLA format may be used). Since you will be using a concept from the class, the analysis must include at least the textbook in your reference list and in-text citations (with page numbers/e-text sections). Please submit the assignment to the professor via Google Doc. Papers turned in late will be penalized one letter grade for each day late —this includes holidays and weekends. Please visit the Writing Center for additional support with writing, editing, and formatting. The Purdue Online Writing Lab is also a good source for help with references.
Analysis Rubric
Sophisticated Competent Needs Improvement
Subject Knowledge (30 pts.)
The analysis demonstrated knowledge of course content by integrating concepts and applied the concepts appropriately and accurately.
The analysis demonstrated knowledge of course content by integrating concepts and applied the concepts with minor errors.
The analysis did not integrate course concepts or integrated the concepts inaccurately.
Composition (20 pts.)
The analysis was well organized and clearly written. The logic was clearly articulated and easy to follow. Words were chosen that precisely expressed the intended meaning and supported reader comprehension. Sentences were grammatical and free from errors.
The analysis was organized and clearly written. In some areas, the flow of ideas was difficult to follow. Words were well chosen with minor errors. Sentences were mostly grammatical. A few spelling errors were present but did not hinder the reader’s comprehension.
The analysis lacked overall organization. The reader had to make considerable effort to understand the flow of ideas. Grammatical and spelling errors made it difficult for the reader to interpret the work.
Citations (15 pts.)
Sources were accurately and appropriately cited in the text (including page numbers/e-text sections). The analysis included a properly formatted reference page.
Sources were cited but not accurately or appropriately. Reference page was not formatted properly.
Sources were not cited and therefore could not be evaluated. No reference page was included.
Organizatio n (10 pts.)
The analysis followed the recommended format, including: an introduction with thesis and preview; an analysis section that uses specific examples and makes connections between the concept and examples; a conclusion with summary and final thoughts.
The analysis followed the recommended format (introduction, analysis, and conclusion) but was missing suggested elements (e.g., thesis).
The analysis did not follow the recommended format.