Magazine terms refer to elements of magazine design and content. Superimposition occurs when one layer overlaps another. The masthead displays the publication name. The headline is the largest text after the masthead and aims to attract readers. Buzzwords in the cover link to the genre. Cover lines are smaller stories written as questions to engage readers. Anchorage text provides meaning and context for images or captions. Effective magazine techniques include attractive covers, free gifts, famous stars, consistent branding, addressing reader needs, and forming an active audience through direct engagement.

1. Magazine terms – what they mean
• Superimposition – when one layer overlaps another
• Masthead – name of the publication e.g. The Sun or Kerrang
• Headline – largest text on the publication bar the masthead (has to
be, it is what people are paying for
• Buzzwords – words on the cover that link to the genre of magazine
e.g. Rhianna in a music mag, or genre in a film mag
• Cover lines are the smaller stories that attract an audience and are
often written as questions to query the reader personally or instruct
the reader to think or take action on something.
• Anchorage text is any writing, like a caption, that gives meaning to
something. It weighs it down and makes the audience understand.

2. Masthead
Direct
gaze/direct
mode of address
(Think Beyonce-
empowerment,
strong
relationship with
audience-link to
‘you’
Headline
Anchorage (or
anchorage text)
Superimposition – suggests
brand name is famous enough
now
Short phrases on the cover that describe what
there is inside
buzzwords

4. Techniques to attract readers
• Attractive or bold front covers
• Free gifts – USP (puff)
• Famous stars - Dyer
• Familiar and consistent style to make the reader recognise
them (brand identity and in-house style)
• Offers reader solution/resolution to their questions
• Gratifies their audience’s needs e.g. identity (Uses &
Gratifications) Not alone – collective identity and
relationships. Entertainment and information too.
• Makes the reader feel involved by using direct address,
invites the reader to write in, email them, sign a petition –
forms an active audience
• Convergence – link to website (e-zine) to widen target
audience and abide by postmodern ways