Audience Theory - An essay plan

We have looked at 4 main theories about how audiences interpret a text.

These are;

1. Hypodermic needle or bullet theory
2. Two step flow
3. Uses and gratifications
4. Reception

In the exam you need to relate all four of these theories to one of your own texts. At Bluecoat we focus on creating a film trailer so that should be the text you use.

A good essay plan would be an introduction that briefly mentions the 4 theories above and that has a quick synopsis of your film idea. Then you should have 4 paragraphs. Each paragraph should outline one of the theories and then link it to your film. Remember you will gain extra marks for giving reasons as to how the particular theory can be applied to your work. Give clear examples and express opinions using technical vocabulary where possible.