Paper 1 on Socialization in Media

Paper Prompt #1: SOC 1001

This is the prompt for your first SOC1001 paper, worth 35 points. Choose ONE of the

following prompts for your 3 to 5 page paper.

If you have a very specific idea for a paper and want to do that instead, please

contact me. However, here this is the topic I would encourage you to choose for your

first paper.

PROMPT: SOCIALIZATION IN CHILDREN’S BOOKS AND FILM

This is a type of document analysis study; of course, it won’t be as rigorous as a full

research study on children’s media.

Children’s books and films are a popular way of socializing children. They are a

highly influential method of socializing children by containing manifest content

about social norms and expectations. They also typically contain latent content that

the author did not intend. Choose one of your favorite children’s books or films.

Review the content of your chosen story and answer the following questions:

 Briefly, what is the plot of the story and who are the main characters?

 What is it explicitly trying to teach children about social life?

 What norms and expectations does the story represent?

 What is the content of the story and its characters regarding race, gender, or

sexuality? Do you think these messages intentional or unintentional?

A rubric is provided on the next page.

Rubric for Paper #1:

Paper Topic One: Critical Media Reading

Points Possible Description of Criteria Points Awarded

7 Accurate definition of manifest (intended) content and description of manifest content of media.

7 Accurate definition of latent (unintended) content and description of latent content of media.

7

Description of how norms and values are present in the latent and manifest content. Were you surprised by either the manifest or latent content of the media?

7

Includes demographic description of characters in media and their role in story. Clearly stated and well-reasoned opinion on author's intentions regarding whether these characteristics were intentionally chosen by the author.

4 Paper is free of grammatical or formatting errors and meets specified length requirements

3 Paper uses formal citations for textbook and any outside materials. Paper uses formal references section.