This document defines key terms related to media representation and analysis including dramatic programming, representation, mediation, stereotypes, ideology, semiotics, connotation, signifier, iconic signifier, binary opposites, mode of address, anchoring, and conventions. It provides descriptions of television content, the portrayal of people and ideas, how media alters information, oversimplified ideas, the reinforcement of power structures, additional meanings invoked by words, the physical forms of signs, signs that represent what they signify, contrasting concepts used for interest, how media addresses audiences, a process of understanding new ideas based on existing knowledge, and usual practices in particular areas or activities.

1. T.V Drama: Dramatic programming is television content that is scripted and
(normally) fictional.
Representation: The description or portrayal of someone or something in a
particular way or as being of a certain nature.
Mediation/Mediated: A process media goes through to alter information
Stereotype: A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a
particular type of person or thing: "sexual and racial stereotypes
Ideology: Codes that reinforce or are congruent with structures of power.
Ideology works largely by creating forms of "common sense," of the taken-for-
granted in everyday life.
Semiotics:
Connotation: An idea or feeling that word invokes such a person in addition to
its literal or primary meaning.
Signifier: A signs physical from (such as sound, printed word, or image) as
distinct from its literal meaning.
Iconic signifier: Signs where the signifier represents the signified. E.g – a
picture
Binary opposites: The way opposites are used to create interest in media texts,
such as good/bad, hero/villain, black/white etc.
Mode of address: The way in which media texts talk to the audience.
Anchoring:
Conventions:
A way in which something is usually done, esp. within a particular area or
activity.