Active learning ideas
Narrative Structures in Media explores the mechanics of storytelling, moving students from 'what happens' to 'how it is constructed.' This topic introduces foundational theories such as Todorov's five-stage narrative arc and Propp's character functions. For Year 12 students, the challenge lies in applying these traditional models to contemporary, non-linear, or fragmented media texts like video games or experimental television.
Activity 01
Provide groups with character profiles from a modern franchise like the MCU. Students must assign Proppian roles (Hero, Villain, Donor) and debate which characters subvert these traditional functions.
How do narrative structures shape audience expectations?
Activity 02
Students work in pairs to map a popular film onto Todorov's narrative arc using a digital whiteboard. They then 'break' the narrative by removing one stage to see how it affects audience satisfaction.
To what extent do modern texts subvert traditional narratives?
Activity 03
Divide the class to argue for the effectiveness of traditional linear storytelling versus modern non-linear structures in video games. They must use specific examples to support their claims.
How does genre influence storytelling?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Todorov's theory only applies to films.
Todorov's model can be applied to news stories, music videos, and even advertising. Using station rotations with different media forms helps students see the universal nature of the equilibrium/disruption pattern.
Propp's roles are literal people.
Propp's roles are functions within a story; one character can perform multiple roles, or a role can be an object. Peer teaching sessions where students explain complex characters help clarify these nuances.
Methods used in this brief
Semiotics and Visual Codes
Students explore how meaning is created through visual, audio, and technical codes. They will apply Roland Barthes' semiotic theory to print and audio-visual texts.
8 methodologies
The Construction of Gender and Ethnicity
A critical examination of how media products represent social groups, focusing on gender and ethnicity. Students will engage with Stuart Hall's theories of representation.
8 methodologies