Media Studies

Overview

A wide variety of teaching methods are used in Media Studies - group and class discussion, research, textual analysis and student presentations - as students learn to critically analyse media texts, and debate media-related issues. Students will also produce their own media texts.

Course Outline

AS Level

Unit 1: Foundation portfolio in Media
(Coursework unit - 50% of final marks)
You will produce two paired media artefacts from a series of briefs, for example a magazine cover and double page article for a music magazine. You will be assessed on the quality of your products plus planning and an evaluation.
Unit 2: Key Media Concepts (TV Drama)
(50% of final marks - a 2 hour exam)
Section 1: Analyse an extract from a TV Drama
Section 2: Institutions and Audiences: you will look at how Media texts are produced and consumed, in areas such as Film, Music, and Magazines.

A2 Level

Unit 3: Advanced Portfolio in Media
(Coursework unit - 50% of final marks)
You will produce two Media texts which will be from areas such as video and print media. You will be assessed on the quality of your products plus planning and an evaluation.
Unit 4: Critical Perspectives in Media
(50% of final marks - a 2 hour exam)
Section 1: Theoretical evaluation of production. Describe and evaluate how your practical media skills have developed throughout the course, and apply Media theories to one of your productions.
Section 2: A question on a contemporary Media issue, such as media and collective identity.

Assessment
Coursework (AS 50%; A2 50%)
Examination (AS 50%; A2 50%)
Examining Board - OCR.
The amount of coursework is an important consideration when deciding what subjects you might combine with Media Studies.

Special Entry Requirements
Grade C in GCSE English Language. It is not necessary to have studied GCSE Media Studies.

Prohibited Options
Students would not normally be allowed to take this A Level alongside any other Advanced Level Media Qualification.

Career and Progression Opportunities
The course is relevant to students considering a career in Media. It can lead directly to training, or to a place on a Media degree course. You will develop a range of skills on the course, which could lead to a number of different options in employment or Higher Education.

Other Information
None.

This information is correct for September 2010 entry.