I'm currently in the process of completely my final project from my online Speech class. I can't email my teacher, because that's not an option.. So I need a little help. Here's the description of the project:


For this project, you will create a presentation in which you describe a positive value expressed by the mass media and a negative value expressed by the mass media. The presentation may be done as a PowerPoint slideshow or as a website. If you opt to do a PowerPoint presentation, between ten and fifteen slides is an appropriate length.
For each value, you should:

•Provide a definition, such as “attractive appearance,” explaining its denotation and connotation in the mass media.
•Provide at least three examples. You may use television or movie clips, information you find on popular websites, advertisements, or other forms of media that were discussed in the course.
•Outline the effects of this value that you see in your daily life. How does the media's emphasis on this value produce these effects?


I've chosen to use the "Get Active" campaigns as the positive value. But what definition could I use to describe a connotation and denotation? I've chosen self-esteem as a negative value, could I use the definition of self esteem to describe it connotation and denotation? Or should I use a different definition?

I'm so confused, any kind of help would be greatly appreciated.. Thanks.

* Denotation refers to the literal meaning of a word, the "dictionary definition." For example, if you look up the word snake in a dictionary, you will discover that one of its denotative meanings is "any of numerous scaly, legless, sometimes venomous reptiles having a long, tapering, cylindrical body and found in most tropical and temperate regions."
* Connotation, on the other hand, refers to the associations that are connected to a certain word or the emotional suggestions related to that word. The connotative meanings of a word exist together with the denotative meanings. The connotations for the word "snake" could include evil or danger.

Why did you choose self esteem as a negative value?

Thanks, that kind of clears up my question.. And because of the way television, magazines, etc. show that you have to be perfect to be beautiful, when half the time people are photo shopped? I'm working on it, I put some of the Dove Self Esteem Campaign video's in the slide show, to show the photo shop process and all the make up some of "perfect" girls wear.. The way the media portrays beauty is bringing so many young teens and even adults, down.

First define self esteem. There are positives and negatives, as you have described. It sounds like you are on the right track.

Okay, thanks! I'm so nervous, because I am definitely considered an "over achiever", I just really didn't understand this project for some reason. Thanks again for your help!

I understand the overachieving part. Been there, done that.

Don't forget the Photoshopping of women's figures, hair, even face substitutes over perfect bodies.

Best wishes and report back when it's over!