Media Studies

Media Studies is offered as part of the academic collaboration between Campbell College, Strathearn School and Bloomfield Collegiate. Lessons are taught at Strathearn School and please note that the number of places on this course is limited

The AQA specification for A Level Media Studies is currently being revised, for first teaching in September 2017. The revised specification has still to be published. As with other English Exam Board subjects, A Level Media Studies becomes a two year course. Though AS units will be taken at the end of Year 13, these represent a stand-alone qualification and will not contribute to the overall A Level.

The specification outlined below is the current programme of study. Changes are inevitable, but the broad themes are likely to stay the same.

The following criteria are required if you wish to study this subject:

Students must have:

- achieved a grade B or higher in GCSE Media Studies or GCSE English Language (higher tier entry only)

or

- a grade C or higher in GCSE English Language (higher tier) and at least a grade B in either ICT or Art

In the event that too many students still qualify we will produce a rank order based on GCSE English Language (higher tier) scores and select boys with the highest scores first. It is essential that boys select an alternative to Media Studies on their choices form.

In the event that too many students still qualify we will produce a rank order based on GCSE English Language (higher tier) scores and select boys with the highest scores first. It is essential that boys select an alternative to Media Studies on their choices form.

Specification Overview

In Media Studies you will learn skills which will allow you to produce your own media texts, such as web sites and sections of magazines. You will be shown how to investigate media texts in order to understand how they have been created. You will also develop an understanding of the influential role played by the media in today’s society. The subject will provide you with an enjoyable experience of a wide variety of media texts across the broadcast, e-media and print platforms. You will also be shown how to think critically and work independently to develop your knowledge of the subject.

AS COURSE
A2 COURSE

AS COURSE

The AS Media Studies course consists of two units:

Unit 1: Investigating Media

In this unit you will learn the fundamentals of media forms and platforms and the concepts which lie beneath the surface, as well as the role of marketing and the promotion of these products.

Unit 2: Creating Media

This module will take you through the production process of a media text. You will research the codes and conventions of professional media products and you will have the opportunity to create a media product of your own.

A2 COURSE

The A2 Media Studies course also consists of two units:

Unit Three: Critical Perspectives

You will be encouraged to widen your understanding of the media by referring to wider contexts (social, political, historical and economic) which affect media production, distribution and exhibition. You will have the opportunity to take part in discussions which explore major contemporary media debates and issues.

Unit Four: Research and Production

This module requires you to research and produce one critical investigation and one linked production piece. You will be expected to integrate your theoretical knowledge of the media and relevant cross-cultural issues into your practical production piece.

How is the subject taught and assessed?

AS Level

An external examination (2 hours 30 mins) worth 70% of your marks for AS Level.
An internally assessed unit (including the production of a media product) which accounts for the other 30%.

A2 Level

Two two-hour written examinations, accounting for 70% of tyour makrs for A Level.
An internally assessed unit (including the production of a media product) which accounts for the other 30%.

WHO CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION FROM?
Mr W Keown, Vice Principal