TOPIC: Understanding small groups and mass communication in a BBC movie ‘Scoop 2024’.
Purpose of the assignment:
The purpose of the assignment is to deepen students' comprehension of small group dynamics and mass communication through a detailed analysis of the BBC movie "Scoop 2024." By examining the characteristics of the investigative team within the movie, evaluating their actions, defining mass communication, and exploring the application of the Agenda-setting theory, students will gain valuable insights into how these concepts manifest in real-world media contexts. This assignment encourages students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical examples, enhancing their analytical skills and understanding of interpersonal communication in media and journalism settings
What do you have to do?
The BBC has recently released a movie titled "Scoop”. The movie exhibits details of small groups in a workspace as well as mass media. This assignment examines your understanding of the content on the topics of small groups and mass media.Watch the clips related to the assignment below: (the clips is also uploaded as a video in the folder)
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Play Media
After watching the clips, read the background information about the movie:
Formation of the Investigative Team: The core investigative team in the movie "Scoop (2024)" is led by an ambitious young journalist, played by Emma Watson. She is joined by a seasoned editor, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, who provides guidance and support as she delves into the story. Additionally, there are a few key allies within the newsroom who offer assistance and expertise, including a tech-savvy researcher and a tenacious photographer.
Relationships within the Team: Initially, there's a degree of skepticism and apprehension within the team as they embark on their investigation. However, as they uncover more evidence and piece together the puzzle, their bonds strengthen, and they form a cohesive unit driven by a shared desire for truth and justice. Despite occasional disagreements and setbacks, they support each other through the twists and turns of the investigation, developing a deep sense of mutual understanding along the way.
The Story They Were Investigating: The central story of "Scoop (2024)" revolves around a scandal involving Prince Andrew, a member of the British royal family. The investigative team uncovers evidence suggesting that Prince Andrew has been involved in a controversial relationship with a high-profile individual, leading to widespread speculation and public outcry. As they dig deeper, they unearth a network of secrets and lies, implicating powerful figures and exposing the lengths to which some will go to protect their reputations and privileges. The team faces numerous obstacles and dangers as they pursue the truth, including threats of legal action, intimidation tactics, and attempts to sabotage their investigation. Ultimately, their relentless pursuit of justice brings the scandal to light, sparking a national conversation about accountability, transparency, and the role of the media in holding the powerful accountable on social media and beyond.
You have to write an essay. Before you start do the following "research":
Identification of Small Group Characteristics - Watch the "Scoop 2024" movie and identify the characteristics of small groups within the investigative team.
Explanation with Examples - In your essay, explain each identified characteristic of small groups using examples or scenes from the movie that illustrate these traits.
Pros and Cons Evaluation - Evaluate one advantage and one disadvantage of the investigative team's actions in the movie. Provide reasons why the team should be praised for certain aspects (Pros) and reprimanded for others (Cons) in their investigative task.
Definition of Mass Communication - Define mass communication in the context of media and journalism.
Demonstration of Mass Communication in "Scoop 2024" - Determine if the movie demonstrates mass communication and support your answer with an example or scene from the movie.
Agenda-setting Theory Discussion - Explain what agenda-setting theory is and how it applies to mass communication. Discuss how agenda-setting is applied in "Scoop 2024" and analyze its effects on public dialogue and perception. Use examples from the movie to support your arguments.
In the movie "Scoop 2024," the characteristics of small groups within the investigative team are clearly depicted. One key characteristic is cohesiveness, as the team members gradually form a united front in their pursuit of the truth about Prince Andrew's scandal. Despite initial skepticism and disagreements, they work together towards a common goal, supporting each other through challenges and setbacks. For example, when faced with legal threats and intimidation tactics, the team stands by each other and remains determined to uncover the truth.
Another characteristic of the small group is communication effectiveness. The team members regularly share information, brainstorm ideas, and coordinate their efforts to progress in the investigation. This can be seen in scenes where they discuss leads, analyze evidence, and strategize on how to approach sensitive sources. Effective communication is crucial in ensuring that everyone is on the same page and can contribute their expertise to the investigation.
Additionally, trust and mutual understanding are significant characteristics within the investigative team. As they work together and face various obstacles, the team members build trust in each other's abilities and intentions. This trust allows for open communication, constructive feedback, and a supportive environment for collaboration. For instance, when one team member is hesitant about pursuing a risky lead, the others motivate and reassure them, showcasing the trust and support within the group.
One advantage of the investigative team's actions in the movie is their dedication to uncovering the truth and holding powerful individuals accountable. By persevering through challenges and remaining committed to their investigation, the team sheds light on a scandal that could have otherwise been buried or overlooked. This dedication showcases their integrity and commitment to journalistic principles.
On the other hand, a disadvantage of the team's actions could be their potential neglect of personal well-being and safety in the pursuit of the story. As they face threats and dangers during their investigation, the team members put themselves at risk without always considering the consequences. While their bravery is commendable, it is important to prioritize safety and self-care in high-stakes situations to avoid unnecessary harm.
In the context of mass communication, mass communication can be defined as the transmission of information to a large audience through various channels such as television, radio, print media, and online platforms. Mass communication plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, disseminating news and information, and influencing societal norms and values.
In "Scoop 2024," mass communication is evident in the way the investigative team's findings are reported and disseminated to the public. As they uncover the scandal involving Prince Andrew, their investigative report is published in newspapers, shared on social media, and discussed on television news programs. This widespread dissemination of information reaches a broad audience and sparks a national conversation about accountability, transparency, and the role of the media in exposing corruption and misconduct.
Agenda-setting theory is a communication theory that suggests that the media has the power to influence public opinion and shape the agenda of societal issues by emphasizing certain topics and neglecting others. In "Scoop 2024," agenda-setting theory is applied in the way the investigative team's findings are framed and highlighted in the news coverage. By focusing on Prince Andrew's scandal and its implications, the media sets the agenda for public discussion and prompts audiences to consider the ethical and moral implications of the story. This deliberate framing influences how the public perceives the scandal and encourages further dialogue and scrutiny of the powerful figures involved.