Which of the following best defines framing in media analysis?

• A. Framing emphasizes certain aspects of a story to shape interpretation.
• B. Verification of facts is the sole purpose of newsrooms.
• C. Circulation numbers determine truth value.
• D. Newsworthiness is irrelevant to selection.

Answer: (A)

Framing in media analysis is about how a story is presented to the audience—what gets foregrounded, what language is used, what visuals appear, and what gets left out. These presentation choices steer how people interpret the event or issue, shaping meaning even when the basic facts are similar. For example, a protest can be framed around conflict and disorder or around civic participation and policy demands; the audience’s takeaway changes based on which aspects are emphasized and how they’re described.

That’s why the best answer is the one that says framing emphasizes certain aspects of a story to shape interpretation. The other statements mix in functions or ideas that aren’t about framing itself—verification is a separate newsroom responsibility, circulation numbers don’t determine truth, and newsworthiness influences what gets covered rather than being irrelevant to selection.