Media Studies AS/A Level

Curriculum Area: Performing Arts, Media and Film

Media Studies AS/A Level

This subject offers students the opportunity to understand the way the modern world is shown to us through an exploration of Media. Through a variety of approaches candidates are able to develop their enjoyment and critical understanding of a range of media texts and those who produce them. The core areas of study involve demonstrating knowledge and understanding of media concepts, contexts and critical debates; and then being able to apply that knowledge when analysing media products. Finally, with this understanding, students can go on to construct their own media products using appropriate technical and creative skills; and afterwards be able to evaluate their own practical work, to show how they created desired meanings and responses

Advanced Subsidiary (AS)

At AS, candidates will investigate the media in order to reach an understanding and basic evaluation of how meanings and responses are created. The contemporary media landscape and its changing contexts will be studied in terms of developing technologies. In Unit 2 candidates will produce two linked media artefacts: either working in film, print or web design taken from two of the three media platforms studied in Unit 1 with a single, accompanying evaluation and pre-production folder for both pieces.

Unit 1: Investigating the media Section a) Unseen analysis. Section b) Case study research. Media texts, concepts and contexts. Platforms including e-media, broadcasting and print. Cross media studies from broadcast fiction, film fiction, documentary, lifestyle music, news and sport. Assessed by a two hour exam Unit 2: Creating Media Independent research, preproduction and planning a practical production, involving 2 related broadcast, e-web design or print media products. Technical and creative skills. Knowledge of relevant codes and conventions. Relevance of platforms and target audiences. Evaluation. Assessed by coursework

Advanced Level (A2)

Students can progress to the full Advanced Level (A2) in the second year of study through a further two modules. These units will develop and extend the skills acquired in the first year. The following units are examples of the types of study undertaken:

Unit 3: Media critical perspectives Section a) An unseen comparative analysis. Section b) Cross media study. Pre-set topic areas on representations in the media and the impact of new/digital media. Cross media issues and debates. Media theories. Assessed by a two- hour exam Unit 4: Media: research and production A practical production and related independent dissertation. Research into a media text or theme. Critical investigation unit. A linked production piece Assessed by coursework

Methods of Teaching and Learning

The approach to this subject at all levels is active and practical. There is opportunity for individual and group work and students are encouraged to take responsibility and initiative in their own learning. Tutorials and workshops may be offered to support the development of practical and written skills, for both weaker candidates and to stretch and challenge the most able.

Methods of Assessment

The course will be examined in both the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Advanced Level (A2) through modular examinations in January and June. Each unit equates to 50% of the marks at AS level and 25% of the total A Level marks.

• Unit 1: Investigating the media. Section A: Four compulsory short answer questions based on one unseen piece of stimulus material (from moving image, digital/web-based (e-media) or print) -1 hour including 15 minutes reading/viewing time - 60%. Section B: One essay question from a choice of two (based on a cross-media case study) – 45 minutes - 40%.
• Unit 2: Creating media - coursework. Externally set brief - Two linked production pieces (Taken from two of the three media platforms studied in Unit 1) - 80% production. Evaluation (written) on both productions (1500 words), 20%.
• Unit 3: Media critical perspectives – two-hour written exam. Section A: Three compulsory questions on unseen stimulus materials (one-hour) including 15 minutes reading/viewing time) 40%. Section B: One essay from a choice of two pre-set topics (one-hour) 60%.
• Unit 4: Media: Research and Production - Coursework, practical and independent dissertation/research. Critical Investigation (range of media forms): 40% 200 word essay. Linked production piece 40% either film, print or web design.

Resources and Extension Opportunities

Practical production equipment including stills cameras, video cameras and digital editing facilities are available. Students also have access to a computer suite and dedicated editing suite with Premiere Pro editing software. Students are encouraged to make full use of the well-stocked Library. We also have a massive collection of DVDs and videos to borrow.

There are links to a range of Media and Film organisations in the area, and regularly enter students for Film competitions; students have had their work featured on DVD compilations, and recent projects have been featured at Local and National Film Festivals. We have a strong yearly link with ITV workshops, where students can gain valuable industry experience.

Progression

The full Advanced Level in Media Studies provides a sound basis for students wishing to follow a career in the Media and other related areas. Students can also proceed to Higher Education. The skills they acquire through studying the media can also prove invaluable in jobs which involve communication. Media students, contrary to press reports, do very well at finding good employment past degree level.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade C or above or the equivalent including GCSE English. Students with an experience of practical skills, especially in film making, editing and using computer software like Photoshop would be an advantage but not essential.

Charges

As a practical subject there are extra costs incurred for the purchase of equipment but it is envisaged that the maximum expenditure in any one year will be £25, to cover trips or events. We strongly recommend all students get a memory stick to save large files. There is a compulsory insurance requirement for borrowing practical film-making equipment outside of college.