Page 73 - A Handbook Genre Studies in Mass Media

CHAPTER 3

5. Analyze a sample of genric programs produced over a period of
time (e.g., sitcoms between 1955 and 2005), identifying any shifts
in the formula over that period.
a. Describe the shifts in formula.
b. In what ways do these shifts reflect changes in the culture?
6. Hybrid programming: Examine a program in which formulaic
elements from one genre have been incorporated into another
genre.
a. Which genres are at work in the narrative?
b. Where does this infusion occur in the narrative?
c. What messages are conveyed by infusing this formulaic element
from another genre into the primary genre?
7. Compare the formulaic patterns in different genres.
a. How do these formulaic elements differ?
b. In what ways do these differences account for differences in the
worldview of the genres?
8. Conduct a genre analysis, focusing on premise.
a. Select a sample of programs from a genre and describe the
premise.
1. Is it logical or illogical? Explain.
2. What does the premise reveal about the worldview of the
genre?
b. Examine the introductions of media presentations.
1. Examine the titles of programming that make up a genre
(e.g., reality genre).
2. Are there patterns with regard to the titles?
3. What do the titles reveal with respect to areas of cultural
interest, preoccupations, and values?
4. Examine ads promoting programming within a particular
genre (e.g., previews for films, or promos for TV shows).
a. What aspects of the programs are emphasized?
b. Are any aspects overemphasized (given more attention than is
warranted in the programs)?
c. Are any particular characters emphasized?
9. Identify the premise of the following genres. Finish the statement:
“(The genre) presents a world in which . . .”
a. Science fiction
b. Broadcast news
c. Sports broadcast (e.g., basketball game)

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