2)      Genres are a central structuring component of television but the traditional categories of genre have been refigured in specifically televisual ways. Using one or two television genres as your focus, discuss how the concept of genre works in television. In particular, you may wish to address one or more of the following issues: industrial functions; aesthetic profile; generic history; ideological dynamics; textual address; popular reception.

3)      Critical discussions of the televisual public sphere often prioritize the talk show. How would you assess the talk show in relation to the free and democratic debate of the public sphere? You should discuss this topic in relation to both the genre and a specific talk show.

4)      The sitcom is one of the most popular and enduring of all television genres, yet, it has been read and evaluated in patently divergent ways. Some critics see the sitcom as ideologically conservative, while others argue it contains a strong current of social critique and political commentary. How would you evaluate the ideological dynamics of the sitcom? You should discuss this topic in relation to both the genre and a specific sitcom.

• All assignments must be double-spaced with a margin of at least three centimeters on one side and carefully proofread.
• Assignments must be handed in to the General Office (Room 304) of the Department of Film, Television and Media Studies where they will be time- and date-stamped.
• Assignments must be submitted to deadline.
• Extensions must be applied for before the due date of the assessment.
• Requests for extensions must be made in writing and must be supported by appropriate documentation (e.g.: medical certificate).
• Late submissions will be penalized.