'Up in Flames: Mr Reeves and the Riots'

Tonight on BBC1 at 22:45, there is a documentary being aired about the 2011 UK Riots. It looks like it will be worth watching.

Even without having seen it, I am positive that by analysing the text it will add to your understanding of media representations and postmodernism.

If you can't catch it tonight, check BBC iPlayer, it is more than likely to be made available online.

More info here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b018cst8

A2: 2011 UK Riots: A Hyperreal Event?

Christmas Homework: Part 1:

Based on your understanding of Baudrillard's theory of Hyperreality, complete the following essay. You must refer to the David Buckingham article: "There's a riot going on" featured in Media Magazine - December 2011. However, you may also wish to refer to the 9/11 and Saddam Statue examples as well as 'The Matrix' and 'Blade Runner' to support your arguments.

"The 2011 UK Riots can only be understood as a hyperreal event." To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The word count is 800. Please read over your targets from your previous assessment before completing this one.

Christmas Homework: Part 2:

Complete the following research (you might want to do this before you write the essay):

• What is the 'effects model'?
• What is the agenda setting model'?
• What is the 'uses and gratifications' theory?
• What is 'selective exposure'?
• What is 'selective perception'?

Bonus Material: Here are David Buckingham' slides that accompanied a presentation he gave at the Media Magazine conference. They make a useful accompaniment to the article.