Codes and Conventions - Secondary Media

As beginning the ancillary tasks is approaching, I have completed research into the codes and conventions of my secondary media - a DVD cover for the series and the front cover for the magazine series. I have chosen specific children's TV drama series to give me an insight into the common features of DVD covers and magazine covers for the series. Particularly looking at Saved by the Bell and Everybody Hates Chris, as they were strong influences of my final piece.

Codes and Conventions:
- the main characters are typically centered in the piece
- a logo or a unique font is always evident so the audience visually recognise the series
- a small amount of writing, most attention is on the visual imagery
- quite basic techniques are used, which makes it easy for the young audience to associate with
- bright colours
- an obvious relation between the covers and the series itself should be evident

Textual Analysis:




I have completed some initial textual analysis of Everybody Hates Chris to give me a starting point for my ancillary tasks. I have now have an effective idea of the codes and conventions and will now begin to create some initial ideas for possible pieces. I will analyse more series, such as Saved by the Bell, Grange Hill and Sabrina The Teenage Witch so I have a significant understanding of how I can create an effective DVD/magazine cover.