2.7 Chapter Assignment

Assignment Formatting, Style, & Length Requirements

• Assignment formatting requirements: Arial 12-point font; 1-inch/2.54cm margins; single spaced; APA in-text citation style, reference section and cover page.
• Use proper paragraph style within the answer to each question.
• Clearly indicate which question is being answered using corresponding question numbers (do not write out the entire question). Follow-up questions must be answered as part of the numbered question. Avoid using automated numbering as it alters the left margin of the document, resulting in a margin larger than 1-inch/ 2.54cm.
• Assignment length: approximately 1000 words in length (give or take 100 words) (reference section and cover page not included in word count).
• Divide your time/space evenly across the two main questions.
• Proofread your submission to make sure it is clear, well written and intelligible.

Assignment Instructions

• Complete this chapter’s materials (chapter content, including all embedded links to readings and videos, and the required chapter materials).
• Read the media story Is salvia the next marijuana?
• Answer ALL the questions below.
• Answers to Question 2 must identify and discuss claims-maker(s), and claims-making activities (claims made, by whom, to whom, and possible explanations for those activities).
• In ALL your answers be sure to demonstrate knowledge of and engagement with the chapter materials. This is achieved through supporting points/arguments/positions via reference to the course material using in-text citations. Providing in-text citations to support your points/arguments/positions is essential and required. Be sure to use a diverse range of materials as opposed to relying heavily on a few sources. When relevant cite material from previous chapters. Any reference to or use of constructionist theory, including the use of theoretical concepts (e.g., claims, claims-makers, audience, typification, folk devil, etc.), must be properly sourced, as the theory and concepts are not common knowledge.
• Only use materials outside of those assigned when specifically instructed to do so. In this case, the Gresco (March 11, 2008) reading.

Assignment Questions

1. How can constructionist theory be used to help understand  the slant of the coverage in the story by Jessica Gresco (March 11, 2008). Is Salvia the Next Marijuana? CTV News. https://www.ctvnews.ca/is-salvia-the-next-marijuana-1.281748
2. Who is/are the claims-maker(s)in the story?
   • What claims are they making? How is the “problem” being typified? What claims-making activities are they engaged in?
   • Who is the target audience? Why this audience?
   • What cultural themes is/are the claims-maker(s) drawing on to win over audience members? Why the use of these claims?
   • What explanation can you think of for this claims-making activity by this/these particular claims-maker(s) at the time the news story was written?