Interpret and validate statistics presented to the general population via the media. Find an example of statistics in the media. This could be a newspaper article, magazine article, a segment from a news broadcast or a digital news article. Below are some guidelines/questions you may use to structure your paper. Total length should be 1-2 pages, single spaced, of content plus a bibliography in MLA or APA format.
Task:
Write a 1-2 page, single spaced paper analyzing a piece of media using the guidelines below. Your paper should also include a references page and follow proper formatting (your choice of MLA or APA).
Asses the statistics:
Where did the data come from? (Source)
Is the data valid? (Did the source follow proper protocol to get a good sample?)
Has the data been manipulated or misrepresented?
Is there another article that presents the same data differently?
Interpret that data:
Who is the target audience?
Is there any bias in how the data is presented?
If so, how can you tell?
Is the data relevant to the target audience?
Is it clear what the data is claiming?
Validate the date:
Discuss the article
Overall, does the data give an accurate representation of the general population?
Is the article written in a neutral tone?
If not, what could be changed so that the presentation of the data is unbiased?
Is there a better way to reach the target audience?
For example: an online article may not be the best way to reach those in the 60+ age group. Similarly, a news broadcast may not reach parents who are getting their kids ready for school or bed when the broadcast airs.
