This document provides an overview of discourse analysis as a discipline within linguistics. It defines discourse both narrowly as language above the sentence level, and widely as a social practice. Examples are given of different types of discourse, including spoken, written, and visual. Discourse is discussed as both a linguistic concept involving cohesion between language elements, and a social phenomenon influenced by issues like gender, race, and power dynamics. Key aspects of discourse analysis are outlined, such as identifying implicit power relations and alternative perspectives that could be presented.

23. How to Do a Discourse Analysis

24. A. Things to Look For What to notice when doing a discourse analysis

26. 3. Who are consulted for the article (who are the spokespeople). 4. Who is the ‘ideal subject’ or audience for the article. 5. What is left unspecified or unsaid.

27. 6. The use of passive voice, or processes expressed as ‘things’ (reification). 7. The use of colourful, descriptive language (adjectives) to indicate a strong discourse.

28. B. Ask these questions: When doing a discourse analysis

30. 4. What message does the author intend you to get from the article? 5. Why was this particular picture chosen to accompany the article (if applicable)? 6. What repetition exists (a) within the article and (b) between different articles on the same topic?

31. 7. What professional media practices assist with the presentation of dominant discourses (eg editorial constraints, journalistic standards etc)?