Media Studies – Advanced Subsidiary GCE and Advanced GCE


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Course Synopsis:

Media Studies has enjoyed a massive rise in popularity in the UK and it continues to be a broad-ranging and fast-moving field: increased globalization and the convergence of technologies mean that it has become ever more important to be able to assess and evaluate the myriad of media messages that we receive every day.

As a Media student you will be expected to take an active interest in both the production and reception of media texts across a range of media including television, film and internet channels. Emphasis is put on students developing a degree of critical autonomy, meaning simply an ability to analyse and apply academic theory independently to both new and existing texts.

The practical component of the course offers students the creative freedom to produce their own media artifact. This is a valuable part of the course and is always greatly enjoyed; modern digital technologies afford students the opportunity to skillfully author credible products.
 

Year 12 AS Course AQA

Year 13 A2 Course AQA

Unit 1: Investigating Media

Unit 3: Critical Perspectives

Topic list

 In this unit you will be introduced to a rand of media texts, concepts and contexts. You will also explore a variety of platforms including e-media, broadcasting and print. An important part of the unit is a comparative element where you will compare across media from broadcast fiction, film fiction, documentary, lifestyle music, news and sport.

Topic list

In this unit you will study pre-set topic areas starting with representations in the media and the impact of new/digital media. You will also consider cross media issues and debates. Finally you will be introduced to media theorists and the impact they have had on Media Production.

Assessment: Written Paper (1hr 30 mins)

Assessment: Written Paper (1hr 30 mins)

Unit 2: Creating Media (Coursework)

Unit 4: Media Research and Production (Coursework)

Topic List

This unit involves independent research, and the preproduction and planning of a practical production. It is designed to teach you technical skills and the application of your knowledge of the codes and conventions explored in Unit 1. You will work will a range of media including production in broadcast, e-media and conventional print media

Topic list

In this unit you will research a media text or theme and conduct a critical investigation. You will then create a linked production piece.

 

Assessment

This coursework element includes:

·         an externally set brief

·         two linked production pieces (Taken from two of the three media platforms studied in Unit 1)                     

·         Evaluation on both production pieces

Assessment

 This coursework element includes:

·         Critical Investigation (range of media forms)

·         Linked production piece (realised media artefact)

Entry Requirements: A ‘B’ grade in English is necessary to cope effectively with the written components of the course.