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Media Studies

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A Level
Exam Board: Eduqas
Subject Leader: Mr A Krysta

The media play a central role in contemporary culture, society and politics. They shape our perceptions of the world through the representations, ideas and points of view they offer. The media have real relevance and importance in our lives today, providing us with ways to communicate, with forms of cultural expression and the ability to participate in key aspects of society. The economic importance of the media is also unquestionable.
This course offers students the opportunity to develop a thorough and in-depth understanding of the media in modern society through an exploration of theories and analytical work. Students will study a wide range of rich and stimulating media products offering opportunities for detailed analysis of how the media communicate meanings in a variety of forms. The course also enables students to develop media production skills and apply their knowledge and understanding, as they become creators of meaning themselves.

How is the course organised and assessed?

This course is split into three units: Media Products, Industries and Audiences which makes up 35% of the total marks, Media Forms and Products in Depth which is also 35% of the course marks, and Cross-Media Production which makes up 30% of the total marks.

In Unit 1, Media Products, Industries and Audiences, students will develop knowledge and understanding of the theoretical framework, starting with media language and representation as an essential basis for analysing media products from a variety of forms. Students will then move on to study products from specific media industries and for specific audiences to develop their knowledge and understanding of the other key areas of the theoretical framework. This unit is assessed by a 2 hours and 15 minute external exam. 

In Unit 2, Media Forms and Products in Depth, students will complete an in-depth study of a range of set products from three media forms (television, magazine, blogs and websites), exploring all areas of the theoretical framework (media language, representation, media industries, and audiences). Students will also study the role of media industries in shaping media products and they will consider the way in which both mass and specialised audiences are targeted and addressed. This unit is assessed by a 2 and a half hour external exam.

In Unit 3, Cross-Media Production, students will demonstrate their ability to apply the media frameworks when creating media products. Students will choose from a set of briefs issued by the examination board and will produce a statement of intent and a set of cross media products designed to fulfil their chosen brief.

What's next?

This A Level is a great stepping-stone into many higher education courses with elements of critical analysis, as well as being ideal for any student looking for a position in the Media and Film industry, or any other careers such as marketing and PR, where knowledge of media is vital.

 

View the learning journey for Media Studies at NLS