A Level Media Studies

This A Level Media Studies specification offers a broad, engaging and stimulating course of study which offers learners the opportunity to develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of the media and to develop analytical and practical production skills.

Learners study a wide range of media forms and products through the theoretical framework of media, which encompasses media language, representations, media industries and audiences. Media products are also studied in relation to relevant contexts, and learners will study, apply and evaluate a range of theories and theoretical approaches. Learners also develop practical production skills and apply their knowledge and understanding of the theoretical framework to a cross-media production in two forms.

Teachers on this course have substantial experience in examining and have published several Media textbooks. Plans for next year’s course include a two-day trip to London where we will visit a range of media-related organisations, such as Warner Broth

Assessment is based on two written examinations (totalling 70% of the qualification) and non-exam assessment (cross-media production, 30% of the qualification).

Component 1: Meanings and Representations in the Media

Written examination: 2 hours

30% of qualification

This component covers all of the following media forms: music videos, video games, advertising, film marketing, newspapers and radio news/current affairs programmes.

The exam consists of three sections:

Section A: Media Language and Meanings

One extended response question based on two media products, either from the same form or from two different forms.

Section B: Representations and Meanings

One extended response question based on two media products, either from the same form or from two different forms. There will be a choice of two questions.

One question in Section A or Section B will be based on evaluation of relevant theories.

Section C: Contextual Study - Representations

One extended response question based on two media products, either from the same form or from two different forms.

Component 2: Media Forms and Products in Depth

Written examination: 3 hours

40% of qualification

This component assesses knowledge and understanding of media language, representation, industry and audiences.

The exam consists of three sections:

Section A: Television in the Global Age

Study one option from a choice of three including two set products.

One two-part question based on both of the set products studied.

Section B: Magazines: Mainstream and Alternative Media

Study one option from a choice of three including two set products.

One two-part question based on both of the set products studied.

Section C: Media in the Online Age

Study one option from a choice of three including two set products.

One two-part question based on both of the set products studied.

Component 3: Cross-Media Production

Non exam assessment

30% of qualification

An individual cross-media production based on two forms in response to a choice of briefs set by WJEC, applying knowledge and understanding of the theoretical framework and digital convergence.

At least 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 including English Language grade 5 and Maths grade 2.

This qualification could lead to careers in the following sectors:

• Media

• Business

• Education

• Creative Arts

• Administration

• Social Work