Writing: High-Level Synthesis & Critique C2 - Lesson 4: Deconstructing Discourse: How Language Shapes Belief

DISCOURSE ANALYSIS

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The Frame

How Language Shapes Reality

Words are not neutral. Every word choice evokes a specific "frame" or worldview.

"Tax Relief"

Frames taxes as an affliction/illness that needs "relief" (medicine).

"War on Drugs"

Frames a social issue as a military conflict, justifying violence.

"Investment in Education"

Frames spending as a business transaction expecting a future return.

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The Spin Room

Subjectivity in Action

Topic: A Protest

Select a frame below to spin the news.

HEROIC FRAME

"Courageous activists gathered to champion the cause of liberty."

Keywords: Courageous, Champion.

NEUTRAL FRAME

"A group of people gathered in the square to protest the new law."

Keywords: Group, Gathered.

HOSTILE FRAME

"An angry mob swarmed the square, threatening public order."

Keywords: Mob, Swarmed.

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Deconstruct

Spot the Bias

1. Headline: "Government admits mistakes were made."

2. Phrase: "Undocumented Worker" vs. "Illegal Alien"

3. Metaphor: "A tidal wave of migrants."

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Mission

Reframe the Narrative

Task: Take a controversial topic (e.g., AI Technology).

Write 2 sentences in your notebook:
1. Positive Frame: Use words like innovation, aid, efficiency.
2. Negative Frame: Use words like threat, surveillance, job-killer.

Notice how the same reality feels different.