Question 1: Define media ownership and explain why it is important in the media industry.

Answer: Media ownership refers to the control of media companies and outlets by individuals or corporations. It is important because it influences the content produced, the diversity of opinions, and the control over information presented to audiences.

Question 2: Identify three different types of media owners (e.g., multinational corporations, independent companies, government).

Answer: Multinational corporations, independent media companies, government-owned media organizations.

Question 3: Describe how ownership by large corporations can affect the variety of media content available to audiences.

Answer: Large corporations may prioritize profit over diversity, leading to less variety in content, potential homogenization of media products, and less representation of alternative viewpoints.

Question 4: List two advantages and two disadvantages of media ownership concentration.

Answer: Advantages: Greater resources for innovation and distribution; easier to maintain quality standards. Disadvantages: Reduced diversity of opinions; increased risk of monopolistic control over media content.

Question 5: Explain what is meant by 'media conglomerate' and give an example of a media conglomerate operating in the UK.

Answer: A media conglomerate is a large corporation that owns multiple media companies across different sectors. An example in the UK is the BBC, which owns various radio, TV, and online platforms.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram showing the relationship between a parent company, its subsidiaries, and their media outlets. Label each part clearly.

Answer: A diagram should show a central box labeled 'Parent Company,' connected by lines to smaller boxes labeled 'Subsidiaries,' which in turn connect to individual media outlets (e.g., TV channels, radio stations, websites).

Question 7: Discuss how cross-ownership of media companies might impact the variety of perspectives in the media.

Answer: Cross-ownership can limit diversity by consolidating control over multiple media outlets, potentially leading to similar perspectives and less critical reporting.

Question 8: Identify a recent example of a media company in the UK that has been involved in a merger or acquisition, and briefly describe what happened.

Answer: For example, in 2018, the acquisition of Sky by Comcast was announced, where Comcast bought Sky, making it part of a larger media and telecommunications group.

Question 9: Sketch a diagram illustrating how media ownership influences the flow of information from the owner to the audience. Include key elements such as the owner, media outlet, and audience.

Answer: A correct sketch should show an owner at the top, connected to a media outlet (like a TV channel or newspaper), which then connects to the audience. Arrows indicate the flow of content and control.

Question 10: Explain why understanding media ownership is important for consumers to critically evaluate media messages.

Answer: Knowing who owns media outlets helps consumers recognize potential biases, agendas, or limitations in the information and content they receive.