Media Studies (Single GCSE)

What are the Key Features?
Over the two years of the GCSE course, you will study and work in at least four different media, looking at:
Media language: How are media “texts” produced? Film techniques, layout and style of print media, the conventions of different TV genres.
Representation: How are individuals and sections of society portrayed? When is there bias or unfairness?
Audience: How are audiences created and targeted? How do audiences participate in and shape media products?
Institutions: How do media businesses work? How is what we see censored and regulated?

How is the course taught?
The subject mixes analysis of the concepts that underpin media production with the development of practical skills. A typical unit of work will involve analysing existing media texts and then applying your new knowledge to produce original work. Students will, for example, explore the codes and conventions of a film genre before developing their own ideas for a film and evaluating their work.

How is it assessed?
Coursework - 3 Assignments (25%): Each assignment is 700-800 words long and must include a production element. A typical assignment would be to analyse the cover of a magazine from a particular genre and produce and evaluate your own.
Coursework - Practical Production (25%): In Year 11 candidates undertake a practical production, from initial ideas to the finished product, and include a supporting account of 700-800 words. Typical productions would include producing a film trailer, TV advertisement or a section of a magazine. Students are expected to work to a high technical standard.
Controlled test (50%): Lasting three hours and split over two sessions, students will complete four tasks on a specified topic. The tasks combine written and practical work. Students receive the paper two weeks in advance to give them time to research and prepare. They should aim to demonstrate their understanding of the Key concepts in relation to the topic.

Why study this course?
Students gaining grade C or above in Media Studies and receiving their teacher’s recommendation will have the opportunity to study AS Level Media Studies. Careers of particular relevance include public relations, advertising and marketing, graphic design and, of course, journalism and other careers in the media within the sixth form.