1. In at least one paragraph discuss how important  the media is in influencing public opinion?  Explain and give examples. 

2.  To what degree is the media biased?  Is some bias necessary or unavoidable?  Give specfic examples to back up your view. 

3. To what degree does the media help shape the public agenda?  Can the media be manipulated by politicians?  Has the media given adequate coverage to the Iraq war?

4. Find one news article on a policy issue in a recent newspaper or news magazine. Assess the article as both a source of information and as a source of influence on your perceptions of the news.  Does this give you the information you need to be an informed citizen?  Is there bias?  Demonstrate your answer with examples.  How could the headline have been written to give a pro or anti slant?