Media Observation

Worksheet Description

This worksheet introduces the concept of bathos within the context of television, providing a practical application for students to explore this literary device. Bathos is presented as the intentional anticlimax that occurs when a narrative shifts unexpectedly from a highfalutin or serious tone to the ridiculous or trivial, often yielding a comedic effect. Students are tasked with identifying instances of bathos in television shows, which is a brilliant way to enhance their analytical skills and their understanding of tone and mood in storytelling.

The instructions encourage students to tap into their existing knowledge of television comedies and silly movies to pinpoint bathos in action. This task not only aids in reinforcing the definition of bathos but also demonstrates its prevalence and effectiveness in popular media. By actively engaging with content they are already familiar with, students can better grasp how bathos works and why it’s a staple in comedic writing. This hands-on approach makes the abstract concept of bathos tangible and relatable, thereby solidifying students’ learning and appreciation of nuanced writing techniques.