Lesson Plan

• Describe the main sociological theories of the media and their core views of media control.
• Explain how ownership, advertising, regulation, technology and audience factors shape media content.
• Analyse real‑world examples using a strengths‑limitations‑example framework.
• Evaluate the relevance of each theory to contemporary media contexts.

• Projector and screen
• PowerPoint slides summarising each theory
• Handout with theory table (proponents, strengths, limitations)
• Case‑study worksheets (e.g., UK broadcasting ownership, advertising in reality TV)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Internet access for short video clips

Begin with the question, “Who decides the angle of the news story you just saw online?” Prompt students to recall previous lessons on media functions. Explain that today they will compare major media theories and link them to the forces that shape content, with clear success criteria displayed.

1. Do‑now (5'): Quick quiz on media functions to activate prior knowledge.
2. Mini‑lecture (15'): Slide‑based overview of six key media theories and their core assumptions.
3. Group activity (20'): Analyse a case study (e.g., ownership of UK broadcasters) and map relevant influences using the theory framework.
4. Whole‑class debrief (10'): Groups present findings; teacher highlights strengths and limitations of each theory.
5. Application practice (15'): Students answer a past exam question employing the “strengths‑limitations‑example” structure.
6. Exit ticket (5'): Write one way a recent technological change could reshape media control.

Summarise how each theory explains media ownership and content influences, and check understanding through the exit tickets. Assign homework: write a short paragraph comparing two theories using a current media example (e.g., TikTok’s algorithmic curation).