Question 1: What is the main purpose of the UK’s Ofcom regulation when it comes to television and radio broadcasts?

Answer: The main purpose of Ofcom regulation is to ensure that television and radio broadcasts are suitable for viewers and listeners, protecting audiences from harmful or inappropriate content and maintaining standards of decency.

Question 2: Name two types of media content that are regulated by the UK government.

Answer: Television shows and online streaming content.

Question 3: Describe what a 'classification system' means in media regulation, particularly for films and video games.

Answer: A classification system is a set of age ratings assigned to films and video games to indicate the appropriate age group for viewers or players, helping parents and guardians decide what is suitable for children and teenagers.

Question 4: Explain why it is important for media content to be regulated, especially for children and teenagers.

Answer: Regulation is important to protect young audiences from harmful, inappropriate, or disturbing content, and to ensure they are not exposed to things they are too young to understand or process.

Question 5: Imagine you are a media regulator. Write a brief rule you would implement to control online content.

Answer: All online videos must have clear age restrictions and content warnings to prevent underage viewers from accessing inappropriate material.

Question 6: Describe the role of the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) in media regulation.

Answer: The BBFC reviews and rates films and videos, assigning age ratings to ensure audiences are aware of suitable content and to restrict access to certain age groups.

Question 7: Draw a simple flowchart showing the steps involved in regulating a new television program before it is broadcast.

Answer: A correct sketch would include steps such as: 1. Program proposal submission, 2. Content review by regulator, 3. Application of content standards, 4. Age classification decision, 5. Approval for broadcast.

Question 8: Identify one example of a media regulation that applies to online social media platforms.

Answer: Social media platforms must remove harmful or illegal content when reported and follow rules to prevent the spread of misinformation.

Question 9: Suggest one way media companies might self-regulate their content without government rules.

Answer: Media companies can create their own guidelines for acceptable content, review their material before publishing, and use parental controls to restrict access.

Question 10: Why do you think it is challenging for regulators to control all types of media content online?

Answer: Because online content is created by many different people and companies worldwide, it moves quickly, and some content can be hidden or shared illegally, making regulation difficult.