BEGG 171
Media and Communication Skills
IGNOU BEGG 171 Free Solved Assignment 2024
BEGG 171 Free Solved Assignment July 2024 & Jan 2025
Section A
Q 1. Discuss the different kinds of communication.
Ans. Communication is the process of sharing information, ideas, thoughts, and feelings between individuals or groups.
It plays a vital role in our everyday life, whether in personal relationships, educational settings, or professional environments.
Communication can take various forms, each with its own significance, purpose, and impact.
Understanding the different kinds of communication helps us become better communicators and improves how we connect with others.
Broadly, communication can be categorized into verbal, non-verbal, written, and visual communication.
Each type serves different needs and functions depending on the situation and context.
Verbal communication is the most direct and commonly used form of communication. It involves the use of spoken words to convey messages.
This form of communication can happen face-to-face, over the phone, or through video calls.
It allows for immediate feedback, making it effective in clarifying doubts, sharing ideas, and building relationships.
For example, when teachers explain lessons to students or when colleagues discuss a project in a meeting, they are using verbal communication.
Tone, pitch, and pace play an important role in delivering the message effectively. The way something is said can often be more powerful than the words themselves.
Non-verbal communication, on the other hand, involves conveying messages without the use of words.
It includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact.
Even silence can be a powerful form of non-verbal communication. This kind of communication often reveals true emotions and intentions.
For instance, a smile can indicate friendliness, while crossed arms might suggest defensiveness or discomfort.
Non-verbal cues are often subconscious, yet they can have a strong influence on how a message is received and interpreted.
Being aware of non-verbal signals helps in understanding others better and also in presenting ourselves more effectively.
Written communication involves any message that is conveyed through the written word.
This includes letters, emails, text messages, reports, articles, and even social media posts.
Written communication is essential in professional and academic settings because it provides a permanent record of information.
It allows for well-thought-out expression and can be revisited for reference.
However, it lacks the immediate feedback and emotional tone of verbal communication, so clarity, grammar, and structure are very important.
Poorly written communication can lead to confusion or misinterpretation.
Visual communication uses images, symbols, charts, graphs, and other visual elements to convey information.
This form is particularly effective when trying to simplify complex data or appeal to a wide audience.
For example, traffic signs communicate rules and warnings quickly without the need for text.
In business and education, presentations often use visual aids like infographics to support spoken or written content.
Visual communication appeals to our sense of sight and is often more engaging and easier to remember.
In addition to these main types, there is also digital communication, which is a modern blend of written, verbal, and visual forms.
With the rise of technology, communication through platforms like social media, messaging apps, and emails has become increasingly common.
It allows people to stay connected regardless of time or distance, though it also comes with challenges such as misinterpretation due to lack of tone or body language.
Q 2 Discuss the merits of direct mail advertising.
Ans. Direct mail advertising is a traditional but still highly effective form of marketing that involves sending promotional materials such as letters, brochures, postcards, or catalogues directly to potential or existing customers through postal mail.
Even in the age of digital marketing, direct mail holds its ground due to several notable advantages.
Its personal touch, ability to target specific audiences, and physical presence make it a valuable tool for businesses aiming to build strong connections with their customers.
One of the major merits of direct mail advertising is its high level of personalization.
Unlike generic ads seen on television or social media, direct mail can be customized for each recipient.
Businesses can address the customer by name and tailor the message according to their interests, purchase history, or location.
This personal approach often makes the customer feel valued, increasing the chances of engagement and a positive response.
People are more likely to pay attention to a piece of mail that feels like it was sent specifically for them rather than a mass-produced message.
Another benefit is the ability to target a specific audience.
With direct mail, businesses can focus on a particular demographic or customer segment that is most likely to be interested in their product or service.
Whether it’s based on age, income level, geographic area, or buying behavior, this targeted strategy helps reduce wastage and ensures that the marketing budget is used more effectively.
For example, a real estate company can send brochures only to households in a certain area where property interest is high, rather than advertising blindly to the entire city.
Direct mail advertising also has a tangible presence that digital media lacks. Physical mail can be held, touched, and even saved for future reference.
A well-designed mail piece with quality paper, attractive visuals, and clear messaging can leave a strong impression on the recipient.
Unlike emails that can get lost in a crowded inbox or flagged as spam, direct mail arrives directly in a person’s hands, where it is more likely to be noticed and read.
This physical presence often leads to better recall and retention of the message.
Moreover, direct mail is considered more trustworthy by many consumers.
In a time when digital ads are often associated with scams or misinformation, printed materials tend to have a sense of legitimacy and reliability.
People are often more comfortable sharing their attention with a printed flyer or letter than clicking on an online ad, especially if it’s from a familiar brand.
This trust factor can play a significant role in building long-term customer relationships.
Another advantage of direct mail is its flexibility and creativity.
Businesses can experiment with different formats, colors, designs, and messages to make their mail pieces more appealing.
From fold-out brochures to postcards with discount coupons, the variety is endless.
Additionally, response tracking has become easier with tools like QR codes, personalized URLs, or unique discount codes, helping businesses measure the success of their campaigns.
Q 3. Explain the process involved before scripting news for broadcast.
Ans. Before news is scripted for broadcast, there is a careful and systematic process that takes place behind the scenes.
This process is essential because news broadcast is a powerful medium that reaches a wide audience, and it carries a responsibility to inform people accurately, fairly, and quickly.
Writing a news script is not just about putting words together—it is about understanding the importance of facts, verifying information, and structuring the story in a clear and impactful way.
The process involves several stages, beginning with story selection and ending with the final script being approved for broadcast.
The first step in the process is story selection. Newsrooms receive a constant flow of information from various sources like reporters, news agencies, social media, press releases, and sometimes even tip-offs from the public.
Editors, along with the newsroom team, sift through all these inputs to decide which stories are most relevant, timely, and important to the audience.
Stories that have public interest, urgency, or impact are usually prioritized.
This selection is crucial because the time slot for a news broadcast is limited, and only the most significant stories can be included.
Once a story is chosen, the next step is gathering accurate information. Reporters are assigned to cover the story in detail.
This may involve going to the location, conducting interviews, collecting visual material like videos and photographs, and gathering facts from reliable sources.
During this phase, the focus is on ensuring that all the facts are correct, balanced, and verified.
It’s important to present both sides of an issue if it involves differing opinions, and avoid spreading unverified or biased information.
After collecting the required information, the process moves to the organizing and outlining of the story.
The news writer or reporter begins shaping the raw information into a logical structure.
Broadcast news writing is different from print; it needs to be clear, brief, and easy to understand when spoken aloud.
The most important facts are placed at the beginning, following the “inverted pyramid” style.
This means that the who, what, where, when, why, and how are usually covered in the first few lines. Supporting details and background information follow in later parts of the script.
The next step is writing the script in a conversational tone suitable for a news anchor or reporter to read aloud on television or radio. Sentences are kept short and simple to ensure clarity.
Complicated jargon or long explanations are avoided, and words are carefully chosen for accuracy and neutrality.
Timing is also important—each script must fit within a specific time limit, usually measured in seconds or minutes, depending on the news slot.
After the script is written, it goes through editing and approval. Editors review the script for factual accuracy, grammar, language, and tone.
They also make sure the script adheres to journalistic ethics and the station’s editorial guidelines.
Sometimes, changes are made to simplify language, correct mistakes, or adjust the length.
Finally, once the script is approved, it is handed over to the anchor or reporter who will present it during the broadcast.
In some cases, especially for live reporting, the script might only serve as a guideline, and the presenter may improvise slightly depending on the situation.
Q 4. DIscuss the various uses of computer networks.
Ans. Computer networks have become an essential part of our daily lives, transforming the way we communicate, work, and access information.
From homes and schools to large multinational companies, networks play a key role in enabling connectivity and information sharing.
A computer network is simply a system where multiple computers or devices are connected together to share data and resources.
These networks, whether wired or wireless, have countless applications across various fields, making tasks more efficient, faster, and more organized.
Understanding the various uses of computer networks helps us appreciate how deeply they are woven into modern life.
One of the most important uses of computer networks is communication. Networks allow people to connect with others regardless of their physical location.
Emails, instant messaging, voice calls, and video conferencing are all made possible by computer networks.
Especially in a globalized world, businesses heavily rely on this connectivity to communicate with clients, partners, and employees spread across different regions.
Even in our personal lives, staying in touch with family and friends through social media, WhatsApp, or video calls is possible only because of networks.
Another major use is resource sharing. In organizations, it’s common for multiple users to share printers, scanners, storage devices, or even internet connections through a network.
This reduces cost and improves efficiency, as there is no need to buy separate devices for each individual.
It also allows centralized management, where software, updates, and troubleshooting can be handled from one system instead of addressing each device separately.
Computer networks also enable data sharing and collaboration. In workplaces, teams can work on the same project by accessing shared files, documents, and software stored on a central server.
This makes teamwork faster and more coordinated. Tools like Google Docs or Microsoft Teams allow real-time editing and discussion, which has become especially useful with the rise of remote working and online education.
Another important use is in accessing the internet. The internet itself is a massive network made up of millions of smaller networks.
Through this, we can browse websites, watch videos, shop online, access cloud storage, and much more.
The ability to access information instantly from around the world has made computer networks an essential part of education, research, and entertainment.
Computer networks are also widely used in banking and financial systems. Online banking, ATMs, and digital payments all depend on secure and efficient computer networks.
These systems allow customers to access their accounts, transfer money, and perform transactions from anywhere, improving convenience and saving time.
In education, networks support virtual classrooms, online courses, and educational resources.
Students and teachers can interact, share study materials, and submit assignments online.
Schools and universities also use internal networks to manage administrative tasks, records, and communication between departments.
Security and surveillance systems often depend on networks as well. CCTV cameras, alarms, and other security systems can be monitored remotely over a network.
This is useful for both homes and businesses in ensuring safety and quick response in emergencies.
Section B
Q 1. Discuss the new trends in Print Media.
Ans. Print media, which once held an unshakable position as the primary source of news and information, has gone through significant changes in recent years.
Although digital platforms have grown rapidly, print media has not disappeared—instead, it is adapting and evolving to stay relevant in the modern age.
The core strength of print media—credibility, in-depth reporting, and tactile experience—still holds value.
However, changing reader habits, technological advancements, and economic challenges have given rise to several new trends in the print media industry.
These trends reflect the ongoing transformation in how printed news and content are created, distributed, and consumed.
One of the most noticeable trends is the shift toward niche and specialized publications.
Rather than trying to cater to a broad audience, many print outlets are now focusing on specific interests such as fashion, travel, business, or lifestyle.
These niche magazines or journals attract a loyal group of readers who are genuinely interested in a particular subject.
This targeted approach allows publishers to deliver more meaningful content and attract advertisers who want to reach a well-defined audience.
Another significant trend is the integration of print with digital platforms.
Many newspapers and magazines now complement their print editions with online versions, social media updates, mobile apps, and e-papers.
QR codes are increasingly being used in printed pages, allowing readers to scan them and instantly access additional multimedia content like videos, photo galleries, or interactive stories online.
This blending of print and digital not only enriches the reader’s experience but also brings traditional publications closer to the digital generation.
There is also a clear move toward environmentally conscious publishing. As awareness of environmental issues grows, print media houses are being pushed to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Many are switching to recycled paper, soy-based inks, and energy-efficient printing processes.
This change not only reduces their carbon footprint but also appeals to environmentally aware readers who prefer sustainable choices.
Personalization is another trend making its way into print media. With the help of data analytics, some print publications can now tailor content and advertisements to suit specific reader preferences.
For example, some companies send customized magazines based on the subscriber’s previous interests or location.
Though more common in digital media, personalization is gradually influencing the way print content is curated and delivered.
The design and visual presentation of print materials have also seen remarkable improvements.
Modern print publications place greater emphasis on high-quality photography, creative layouts, and appealing typography to stand out in a world dominated by screens.
Visual storytelling is becoming more popular, with a focus on aesthetic value and immersive reading experiences.
Lastly, there’s a growing appreciation for print as a luxury and collectible item.
With the overflow of fast, fleeting digital content, some readers are turning to print media as a way to disconnect and enjoy slow, focused reading.
High-end magazines, coffee-table books, and limited-edition prints are being marketed as premium products.
This trend shows that print media is not just surviving, but finding a new identity as something of lasting value.
Q 2. Discuss the role of ethics in advertising by giving suitable examples.
Ans. Ethics in advertising refers to the moral principles and standards that guide how advertising messages are created, presented, and delivered to the public.
In a world where advertisements are everywhere—on TV, in newspapers, online, and even on our mobile phones—it is crucial that advertisers follow ethical practices.
The main purpose of advertising is to inform and persuade customers, but when done unethically, it can mislead consumers, promote harmful behavior, or exploit emotions for profit.
Ethical advertising builds trust, maintains public respect for brands, and contributes positively to society, while unethical advertising can lead to legal issues and loss of reputation.
One of the most basic ethical responsibilities in advertising is honesty. Advertisers must present their products truthfully, without exaggeration or false claims.
Misleading advertisements not only cheat the customer but also damage the brand in the long run.
For example, if a skincare product claims to provide “instant fairness” and fails to do so, customers may feel betrayed.
In 2015, a famous noodles brand in India faced backlash when tests revealed the presence of excess lead content, despite the brand’s advertisements claiming it was a healthy snack.
This case highlights how misleading ads can affect public health and erode consumer trust.
Truthfulness in product representation is another critical ethical aspect. Advertisements must show the product or service as it truly is.
For instance, showing a burger that looks twice the size of the actual product or using computer graphics to make a shampoo appear magical is unfair to the consumer.
Such visual manipulation creates false expectations. Ethical advertising avoids creating illusions and instead focuses on the genuine benefits and quality of the product.
Another important area is respect for cultural values and social responsibility.
Advertisements should not promote stereotypes, discrimination, or content that offends a particular community, gender, religion, or social group.
Unfortunately, many ads in the past have portrayed women in submissive roles or used sexist humor to gain attention.
Ethical advertisers must be sensitive to the diverse audience they address.
A good example of ethical advertising in this context is Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaign, which promoted body positivity and included women of different shapes, sizes, and backgrounds, challenging the usual narrow beauty standards in the industry.
Ethical advertising also involves protecting children from inappropriate content. Since children are impressionable, ads aimed at them should be carefully designed.
Promoting junk food, violent video games, or expensive toys as “must-haves” can pressure both children and their parents.
There have been instances where cartoon characters were used to market sugary cereals, leading to concerns about childhood obesity.
Responsible advertisers ensure that such content is age-appropriate and does not manipulate children’s emotions.
Environmental responsibility is another area gaining attention in ethical advertising. As more consumers become environmentally conscious, brands are expected to show their commitment toward sustainability.
However, some companies indulge in “greenwashing,” where they falsely claim to be eco-friendly just to attract customers.
For example, a brand might advertise its packaging as 100% recyclable, while in reality, it may not be recyclable in most regions.
Ethical advertising means being transparent and genuine about environmental claims, thereby supporting consumer choices that are better for the planet.
Moreover, fair competition is a core ethical value in advertising. Brands must not attack competitors unfairly or spread false information to harm their reputation.
Comparative advertising is allowed, but it must be honest and backed by facts. For instance, if one detergent brand claims to clean better than another, it must be supported by testing and evidence, not just marketing gimmicks.
Q 3. State the different styles of editorial writing with suitable examples.
Ans. Editorial writing is a powerful form of journalistic expression where the writer presents opinions, interpretations, and commentary on current issues or topics of public interest.
Unlike straight news reporting, editorials are more subjective in nature, though they should still be based on facts and logic.
An editorial reflects the stance or viewpoint of the newspaper or publication, and its purpose can range from persuading readers to simply informing or entertaining them.
Over time, editorial writing has developed into various styles, each serving a specific purpose and tone.
Understanding the different styles of editorial writing helps in appreciating how opinions are shaped and communicated in the media.
The first and most common style is the persuasive editorial. As the name suggests, this type aims to convince readers to adopt a particular point of view or take a specific action.
It uses logical reasoning, emotional appeal, and strong arguments to support its stance. For example, an editorial on climate change might urge the government to adopt stricter environmental policies.
It would present data on rising temperatures, evidence of natural disasters, and the consequences of inaction to support its case.
Persuasive editorials often appear when there’s a need for public awareness or when a debate is taking place in society.
Another widely used style is the explanatory or interpretative editorial.
This style focuses on breaking down complex issues and helping readers understand the background, causes, and implications of a topic.
It doesn’t necessarily take a strong stand but instead aims to educate the audience.
For instance, if a country introduces a new economic policy or reform, an editorial might explain how it works, why it was introduced, and how it might affect different sections of the population.
This style is especially useful when topics are technical or new to the general public, such as reforms in taxation, healthcare systems, or international relations.
The third style is the critical or evaluative editorial. This type of editorial points out flaws, weaknesses, or mistakes in a particular policy, decision, or situation.
It may offer constructive criticism, often backed by facts and expert opinions.
For example, an editorial criticizing poor planning in urban development might highlight issues like traffic congestion, lack of public transport, or environmental degradation.
The tone here is firm but fair, and it usually suggests improvements or alternatives instead of just pointing out problems.
Another interesting style is the commemorative or tribute editorial. These are written to honor or remember a person, event, or achievement.
They often carry an emotional or reflective tone. A newspaper may publish a tribute editorial on the death of a national leader, remembering their contributions and legacy.
Similarly, on the anniversary of a significant event like India’s independence, a commemorative editorial may revisit the struggles and sacrifices of freedom fighters, reinforcing national pride.
Humorous or satirical editorials are also quite popular, especially in magazines or publications known for lighter, witty content.
This style uses humor, irony, or sarcasm to comment on serious issues, often exposing absurdities or contradictions in policies, behavior, or social trends.
For example, a satirical editorial might mock the chaotic behavior of politicians during elections or exaggerate the public’s obsession with celebrity gossip to make a point.
Though entertaining, these editorials carry a deeper message and often provoke thought through laughter.
Lastly, there is the predictive or futuristic editorial, which speculates about what might happen in the future based on current trends or developments.
This style tries to forecast possible outcomes and prepare readers for what lies ahead.
For instance, an editorial discussing the future of artificial intelligence in everyday life may explore both opportunities and risks involved, encouraging balanced and thoughtful progress.
Q 4. Discuss the various aspects involved while creating content for the Web.
Ans. Creating content for the web is both an art and a science. Unlike traditional media, web content must be engaging, easily accessible, and optimized for both users and search engines.
With millions of websites competing for attention, simply writing well is not enough.
One must understand the audience, format the content properly, and ensure that it is visually appealing and functionally effective.
There are several key aspects that must be carefully considered when creating content for the web to make it successful, relevant, and impactful.
The first and most important aspect is understanding the target audience. Before writing a single word, the content creator must know who they are speaking to.
Are they young students, working professionals, parents, or business owners? What are their interests, problems, or questions? Knowing the audience helps shape the tone, language, and style of content.
For example, a blog about parenting tips will be very different in tone and structure from a tech article aimed at software developers.
When content speaks directly to the needs and expectations of the reader, it becomes more meaningful and effective.
Another major aspect is clarity and simplicity in writing. Online readers usually skim content instead of reading it line by line. That’s why web content must be clear, concise, and easy to understand.
Long paragraphs, complicated sentences, and jargon can quickly drive readers away. Using short sentences, bullet points, and subheadings helps break up the content and make it easier to digest.
The goal should be to deliver information in the simplest, most direct way possible while maintaining accuracy and value.
Closely related to clarity is the importance of structuring content properly. A good web article should have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
It should start with an engaging introduction that hooks the reader and explains what the content is about.
The body should provide useful and organized information, and the conclusion should wrap things up or offer a call to action.
Headings and subheadings play a crucial role in organizing content and guiding the reader through it.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is another critical element of web content creation. No matter how well-written your article is, it won’t be discovered unless it’s optimized for search engines like Google.
This includes using the right keywords, writing compelling meta descriptions, and ensuring the content is properly formatted with HTML tags.
SEO helps your content rank higher in search results, making it more likely to be seen by a larger audience.
However, keyword stuffing or over-optimization should be avoided as it can harm readability and credibility.
Visual appeal also plays a huge role in web content. Adding images, infographics, videos, or charts can make content more engaging and help explain complex ideas visually.
Web users are drawn to visuals, and adding relevant media can significantly improve how long people stay on a page.
However, visuals should always be relevant to the content and optimized for fast loading to avoid slowing down the site.
Originality and authenticity are vital in an age where duplicate content is widespread. Readers appreciate unique perspectives, personal experiences, and fresh ideas.
Copy-pasting from other sources not only hurts your credibility but can also negatively impact your site’s ranking. Good web content offers something new—whether it’s insight, a story, or a solution to a problem.
Interactivity is another modern aspect of web content. This includes features like comment sections, quizzes, polls, or clickable elements that allow the reader to engage with the content more deeply.
Interactive content not only keeps users engaged but also helps gather feedback and build a community around your content.
Lastly, mobile responsiveness must not be ignored. A large portion of users access content via smartphones or tablets, so your content must look good and function properly on all screen sizes.
Text should be readable, images should scale well, and navigation should be smooth on smaller devices.
IGNOU BESE 142 Free Solved Assignment 2024