Audience analysis involves the process of gathering and interpreting information about the recipients of oral, written, or visual communication. Audience awareness involves the conceptions of the writer, speaker, or performer concerning the recipients of his or her communication. Regardless of whether the author is sharing an oral history, debating an issue, or writing an editorial, the writer or speaker must be aware of the needs, interests, and expectations of his or her audience. The ability to analyze an audience's information needs, potential for understanding and accepting new information, and assimilating that information are skills recognized by the National Council of Teachers of English for literacy curriculum standards from elementary through secondary schools. This article discusses the challenges involved in helping the learner understand how to identify his or her audience and select the best way to convey new knowledge to this audience. A suggested list for further reading is included. (Contains 1 figure.)