Course Level: |
AS & A2 Level |
| Length of Course: |
AS One-year, which can be extended to the full A Level by completing the second year.
A2 Two years |
Examination Board:
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AQA
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Description of Course: |
It is important that from the very start you are aware of what is required of you as a Media Studies student at this level. There is a heavy workload incorporating a certain amount of practical work but an increasingly academic element that requires a mature and responsible attitude on your part. You should not only have an interest in all aspects of the subject but be prepared to work in very close focus and with an analytical eye when reading, discussing and writing about various Media texts. You may find it useful, although by no means essential, if you were to couple the subject with others such as English, Government & Politics, History, Arts based options, Sociology or Psychology.
You will gain a solid understanding of the purposes, principles, concepts, techniques and systems of media products in print, audio-visual and new/emerging media platforms. You will study the contemporary media landscape to look at the changing ways and contexts in which media texts are produced and consumed. At both AS and A2, you will learn the underpinning concepts and theories and the fundamental production skills.
AS Units
Unit 1 and Unit 2 provide an integrated and complementary introduction to the study of the media and the contemporary media landscape. The content of both units is underpinned by a set of key media concepts and media platforms eg: Media Concepts media forms, media representations, media institutions, media audiences. Media Platforms broadcasting, digital/web-based media (e-media), print. Unit 1 requires candidates to carry out a cross-media study for an unseen examination. The study will then also be used to inform your work on Unit 1. For Unit 2 candidates will produce two media productions in two of the three different media platforms, with an evaluation of the productions, including a consideration of the use of the third media platform. Both units require candidates to look at cross-cultural issues where appropriate.
A2 Units
At A2 you will build on your AS work to look more fully at the contexts of media production and consumption why as well as how texts are created as they are. As well as building on the concepts studied at AS, candidates will look at Media Debates and Media Theories. For Unit 3 you will be required to study two pre-set media topics on at least one of the three media studies platforms. For Unit 4 you will produce a media product linked to research for an individual critical investigation. In both A2 units candidates will look at cross-cultural factors and the effects of globalisation on the media where appropriate. |
Possible Career Pathways: |
| This course could lead you to work in the media, marketing, public relations, teaching and a range of people-orientated/communications careers. |
Further Advice: |
| If you are considering Media Studies at AS/A2 Level it is essential that you consult either Mr Goffin or Mr Challis at Benjamin Britten High School or Mr Beckingham or Mrs Overy at Kirkley High School |
Course Work Placement: |
| N/A |
Course Entry Guidelines: |
| N/A |
Course Additional Information: |
N/A
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