Examining Board – AQA
The Department: Media Studies is a flourishing subject area, which has grown year on year and helps students to achieve some exceptional results, due to our commitment to and love of the subject. Subject specialists, who bring both practical and academic media experience to their teaching, lead the course and the department is well resourced, with a dedicated suite of Apple Mac computers.
Subject Content
This course enables you to view a wide range of media critically and understand the wider social and commercial contexts in which they are produced.The three main platforms around which the studies are conducted are emedia, broadcasting and print.You will also produce your own piece, based on a choice from: broadcast fiction, film fiction, documentary, lifestyle, music, news and sport.A keen interest in film and broadcast fiction and an awareness of some of the techniques used by the media are essential to gain maximum enjoyment from the course.
Methods of Study
You will experience a wide range of study methods, developing your skills and knowledge through a combination of teacher lead and self-directed learning activities. These will include discussion (in whole group, small group and pairs) and the making of media products, both individually and in groups. You will also be expected to carry out individual research and will use media technology extensively throughout the course.
Methods of Assessment
AS Level
Unit 1: Investigating Media
Assessment (January and June Entries are available)
- Written Paper: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Weighting: 50% of total AS / 25% of total A Level marks
Unit 2: Creating Media
Assessment
- Coursework file, consisting of pre-production pack, two linked media products and evaluation
- Weighting: 50% of total AS / 25% of total A Level marks
A2 Level
Unit 3: Media: Critical Perspectives
Assessment (January and June Entries are available)
- Written Paper: 2 hours
- Weighting: 50% of A2 / 25% of total A Level marks
Unit 4: Media: Research and Production
Assessment
- Coursework, which consists of a written assignment (30%) and a linked production piece (20%)
- Weighting: 50% of A2 / 25% of total A Level marks.
Entry Requirements
Minimum College entry requirements