This is the indispensable Media Studies textbook for AS/A level and Higher Media Studies syllabuses; it is also suitable to support BTEC, AVCE and GSVQ courses with a media focus and as a primer for undergraduate media studies.An accessible overview of the key concepts leads into coverage of all major media forms, and genres within particular media. Included are:* Sections for all media, covering institutions, representation, audiences, genre, language and products* Extensive opportunities for students to apply media theory in their own work* Uniquely full treatment of new media and the internet* Stills, cartoons and other illustrations* Extensive coverage of film, television, radio, newspapers and magazines* Varied and substantial activity sections. Suitable for students and their teachers, Media and Meaning can be used as an aid to class study and for independent student learning.Accessible, and with a strong emphasis on context and concepts, this book is a lively introduction to contemporary media which can be read for pleasure as well as part of formal study by a very wide range of readers.