CMN 440 Homework 1 due in class T 9/12/06
Analysis of Graphics Content
INTRO Due to the continued explosion of computer/Internet technologies, graphics are playing a rapidly increasing role in all forms of communication. What graphic types, and how often visualizations are used probably varies by media and audience. In this analysis we examine a range of documents and conduct a simple survey. The basic question we want to answer is: How are visuals used (type and frequency) by different print media?
Your individual data from this assignment will be pooled for a subsequent class analysis (Homework # 5) of visual frequency and density using Spreadsheet Tables and Graphs.
STEPS
1. Prepare a standard 1 page analysis form to be used for each source. Make 5 copies. The form includes:
A. Your name, date
B. FULL bibliographic citation (just like in a term paper)
C. Estimated number of full pages of Content (Text +Visuals- Ads). Include raw data page estimates- eyeball to nearest 0.25 page
D. Count and Tabulate graphics used by basic type (Horton p. 45):Graph; List; Table; Diagram; Line Drawing; Photograph; Map; and Hybrid
2. Select and analyze five hardcopy sources:
A. Science Textbook (Handout)
B. NY Times front section
C. Popular News Magazine
D. Student research/project poster (different floor/building for each student)
E. Scientific American issue (use your birth month)
3. Make a copy (cut out or Xerox), and fully label 1 example of each graphic type (1-D above)
4. In Excel prepare a Summary Table with your name, date, and Table Title. Print using a Landscape layout with the following columns:
|
SOURCE |
TOTAL CONTENT PAGES |
GRAPH |
LIST |
TABLE |
DIAGRAM |
DRAWING |
PHOTO |
MAP |
HYBRID |
TOTAL VISUALS |
5. SUBMIT in class your analysis in a stapled package:
A. Transmittal Memo
B. Completed Contents check List
C. Analysis Forms
D. Summary Table. Also e-mail attach
a copy of your spreadsheet to Prof.