Media Studies

Course summary

Media studies A Level gives students the skills to study a range of media forms in terms of a theoretical framework which consists of media language, representation, media industries and audiences. The following forms are studied in depth: newspapers, magazines, television, online, social and participatory media, advertising and marketing, film, music video, radio and video games. Students will gain analytical and production skills across a range of platforms. Students will apply their understanding through the construction of individual media products using industry software. The skills acquired are transferable to many jobs, and hobbies, inside and beyond the media sector. Component 1: Media Products, Industries and Audiences Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes 35% of qualification Component 2: Media Forms and Products in Depth Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes 35% of qualification Component 3: Cross-Media Production Non exam assessment 30% of qualification Year 1: You will develop textual analysis skills as you learn about the codes and conventions, representations, audiences and institutions related to the media. You will also develop production skills, familiarising yourself with Final Cut Pro editing software and Photoshop. You will examine 'set products' such as Beyonce's Formation video, I Daniel Blake, Huck Magazine, The Times online. Year 2: You will continue to develop analytical skills and consider marketing strategies used within the industry. Equally, students will consider the changing role of audiences in the contemporary media landscape. Media language will be used to analyse 'set products' such as The Returned, Late night Woman's Hour, Assassins Creed, Humans and galdem magazine online. Students will also create their own two media products from a set number of briefs