Media Studies

Subject Leader: Mr A Kelly
Email: kellya@lytchett.org.uk

What are the aims of the course?

The Media, in all its forms, (television, radio, cinema, web, print, etc) plays a huge role in shaping our attitudes, values and lifestyle. The aim of Media Studies is to help you to understand this role better through creative, practical assignments and critical investigations which give you the chance to develop new skills with digital media equipment and software and develop your analytical skills.

What is the content of the course?

You will learn to analyse different media forms within The Theoretical Framework:

• Audience: Who is the target audience for a media text? How do we all differ in the way we ‘consume’ media?
• Industry: What goes on behind the scenes? What are the main media jobs? Who makes the rules?
• Representation: How are different groups of people shown or ‘represented’ in our media? Are stereotypes used?
• Media Language: How do different media forms use different techniques to communicate to us?

Download the Media Year 10 Curriculum Overview

Download the Media Year 11 Curriculum Overview

How will the course be assessed?

The GCSE is a linear course which is examined at the end of the two years.  At the start of the course students will be issued set products for each component of study. They will then sit two written examinations at the end of the two years. In addition, they will individually construct a practical media production by making their own music video.

Component 1: Exploring the Media (Written Exam 40% 1hr 30mins)

External written examination testing students on their knowledge of media language, advertising and marketing, within the theoretical framework, with reference to a range of set texts and unseen media products.

Component 2: Understanding Media Forms and Products (Written Exam 30% 1hr 30mins)

External written examination testing students on their knowledge of TV sitcom and music, within the theoretical framework, with reference to a range of set texts and unseen media products.

Component 3 (Non Examined Assessment /coursework 30%)

An individual media production for an intended audience in response to a choice of briefs set by WJEC/EDUQAS, applying knowledge and understanding of media language and representation. This has typically been the production of a music video.

What will the course be like?

Media Studies is a creative, practical and analytical subject, based on some demanding academic ideas and theories about our society and culture. Although tackling some challenging topics and debates, students will be encouraged to respond to these creatively and practically throughout the course as well as how to construct written responses.

 What will I be able to do at the end of the course?

The course prepares you for a variety of further education courses, including; media studies at A-Level or BTEC; social sciences; and media marketing. In addition, you will develop the following life skills:

• Understand how the media influences the world around you
• Be able to research, plan, design and create your own pieces of media production
• Manage your time well to meet deadlines
• Be confident with media software and equipment
• Be able to respond critically and analytically to a range of mass media texts
• Be an effective team worker