What is the role of the media in a democracy?
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Key learning points
- In this lesson, we will examine what a democracy is, and the vital role that the media plays within our democracy. We will explore the political affiliations of newspapers, consider how the media 'sets the agenda' and learn about how the media has a duty to educate and inform.
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5 Questions
Q1.
Why did the 'News of the World' close down?
A paper shortage meant that they could no longer print physical copies of the newspaper
It was forced to close by the government after posting stories about the Prime Minister
They weren't selling enough copies of the newspaper
Q2.
Which expectation of media behaviour was found to be most important to Americans in the research mentioned during the lesson?
To be neutral
To entertain
To provide diverse views
Q3.
Why did Reuters stop using Adnan Hajj's photographs?
He demanded he get more money for his photographs
He stole other photographers' work and claimed that they were his photographs
He was found to be paying people to be in his photographs
Q4.
What did the report from the Leveson Inquiry recommend?
That nothing should be done about what happened
That the 'News of the World' stop publishing immediately
That those involved in phone hacking go to jail
Q5.
What does it mean if something is 'in the public interest'?
That people want to find out what happened
That something happened in a public place
That something is interesting for people to find out about
5 Questions
Q1.
True or False? In a democracy, you can criticise the government without the fear of punishment.
False
Q2.
Which of these was not mentioned in this lesson as being a role of the media in a democracy?
To hold to account
To inform and educate
To set the agenda
Q3.
Which of these was not described as a key characteristic of a democracy?
A free media
Freedom to stand in elections
Rights for minority groups
Q4.
Why is it important that the media informs and educates the public?
Because it is a way of getting more attention, to make more money
It makes high profile people look bad
It means there is less of a need for schools to educate
Q5.
What was the focus of the Daily Mail's campaign, discussed during this lesson?
Getting rid of the House of Lords
Greater freedom of speech for citizens
Stopping a tax on pasties