Question 1: Define the term 'media conglomerate' and explain how it differs from an independent media company.

Answer: A media conglomerate is a large corporation that owns numerous media outlets across different platforms, such as television, radio, and publishing. It differs from an independent media company, which typically owns and operates a smaller number of media outlets and has less influence over the industry.

Question 2: List three potential advantages of media ownership concentration for consumers.

Answer: Advantages include: 1) Access to a wide variety of content from a single provider, 2) Potential for high investment in quality production, 3) Consistent branding and programming across platforms.

Question 3: List three potential disadvantages of media ownership concentration for consumers.

Answer: Disadvantages include: 1) Reduced diversity of viewpoints and opinions, 2) Possibility of monopolistic control leading to less competition, 3) Risk of biased or censored content aligned with owner interests.

Question 4: Explain how ownership can influence the content produced by a media company.

Answer: Ownership can influence content by setting editorial policies that align with the owner's interests or political views, controlling the types of stories covered, and influencing advertising and sponsorship decisions, which can shape the overall message and diversity of content.

Question 5: Identify and describe two methods that media companies use to maintain control over their content.

Answer: Methods include: 1) Editorial oversight, where owners or executives approve content before release, and 2) Content branding strategies, which ensure content aligns with the company's brand image and target audience.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram illustrating the relationship between a parent company and two of its subsidiary media outlets.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a large circle labeled 'Parent Company' with two smaller circles branching from it, labeled 'Subsidiary 1' and 'Subsidiary 2', connected by lines indicating ownership.

Question 7: Sketch a diagram to demonstrate how a media conglomerate might own different types of media outlets (e.g., TV, radio, newspaper).

Answer: A correct sketch would depict a central circle labeled 'Conglomerate', with lines extending to smaller circles labeled 'TV Channel', 'Radio Station', and 'Newspaper', illustrating diverse media ownership.

Question 8: Describe how media ownership concentration can impact local news coverage.

Answer: Ownership concentration can lead to less local news coverage if local outlets are owned by large conglomerates with a national focus, potentially reducing the amount of community-specific reporting and prioritizing profit over local interests.

Question 9: Discuss one regulatory measure in the UK that aims to prevent excessive media ownership concentration.

Answer: The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) enforces regulations that limit the amount of media market share an individual or company can hold, aiming to promote diversity and prevent monopolies in media ownership.