Question 1: Define the term 'media regulation' and explain its main purpose within the media industry.

Answer: Media regulation refers to rules and laws that oversee the content, distribution, and ownership of media to ensure standards are maintained. Its main purpose is to protect audiences, promote fairness, and prevent harmful or illegal content.

Question 2: Name two organisations in the UK responsible for media regulation and briefly describe their roles.

Answer: Ofcom is responsible for regulating TV, radio, and telecommunications, ensuring content meets standards and protecting consumers. The BBC Trust (or BBC Board) oversees the BBC's editorial guidelines and accountability.

Question 3: Identify and explain one example of content that might be restricted or censored due to regulation.

Answer: Violent or explicit material in television shows may be censored or restricted to prevent harm to viewers, especially children, and to comply with broadcasting standards.

Question 4: Describe the concept of 'self-regulation' in the media industry and give an example.

Answer: Self-regulation occurs when media companies set their own rules and standards for content. An example is the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), which enforces advertising codes without direct government control.

Question 5: Explain how regulation can impact the content produced by media companies.

Answer: Regulation can influence content by imposing restrictions on language, violence, or sexual content, which may limit creative freedom but ensures the content is suitable for audiences and complies with laws.

Question 6: Draw a simple flowchart showing the process of how a new media regulation is implemented, starting from a government proposal to enforcement.

Answer: A correct sketch would include: 1) Government proposes regulation, 2) Consultation and review process, 3) Legislation passed, 4) Regulatory body enforces rules, 5) Media companies comply or challenge regulations.

Question 7: Discuss one advantage and one disadvantage of strict media regulation.

Answer: Advantage: It protects audiences from harmful content. Disadvantage: It may restrict creative freedom and limit diversity of content.

Question 8: Identify a recent controversy related to media regulation in the UK and explain the issue involved.

Answer: A recent controversy involved social media platforms and the regulation of hate speech and misinformation, raising debates about free speech versus safety and responsibility.

Question 9: Sketch a diagram illustrating the relationship between media producers, regulators, and audiences. Label each part clearly.

Answer: A correct diagram shows three interconnected boxes: Media Producers (content creators), Regulators (overseers like Ofcom), and Audiences (viewers/consumers). Arrows indicate flow of content from producers to audiences, with regulators overseeing and enforcing rules.