Mr D Sacre Why study Media Studies?
The mass media is one of the world-changing phenomena of the last one hundred years. We are constantly surrounded by media products which compete for our attention and the technology behind the media is changing and advancing all the time. It is easy to argue that the mass media not only reflects our values and attitudes, but also has an influence in shaping them. Placed in this context, it is easy to see that media studies is a fascinating subject, which provides students with the opportunity to assess, analyse and produce a range of different media products.
The course explores the ways in which media texts are constructed and consumed. We investigate the organisations that produce media texts, considering the ways in which the media tries to manipulate its audience. We also learn to use media production tools to create original media products. Media studies is part sociology, part psychology, with a smattering of art, economics, politics and business studies thrown in for good measure. It is a very popular choice for students who appreciate a subject that is academic in its foundation but also provides opportunities to apply learning in a practical context.
Among the many benefits, the course is designed to encourage students to:
• enhance their enjoyment and appreciation of the media and its role in their daily lives
• develop critical understanding of the media through engagement with media products and concepts and through the creative application of practical skills
• explore production processes, technologies and other relevant contexts
• become independent in research skills and their application in their practical work and in developing their own views and interpretations
A successful media student needs to have an interest in a wide range of media forms; the ability to conduct independent research and skills in both written and oral analysis. Media studies is a logical choice for those who are interested in pursuing a career in the media, but will also teach you transferable skills, many of which are listed above, that will help you in a wide range of career/education pathways.
Subject at AS
At AS students will investigate the media in order to reach an understanding and basic evaluation of how media texts are constructed and how audience responses are created. The contemporary media landscape and its changing contexts will be studied in terms of products, platforms and technologies. In Unit 2 students will produce two linked media projects taken from two of the three media types studied in Unit 1 with a single, accompanying evaluation and pre-production folder for both pieces.
Unit 1 - Investigating Media
Media texts, concepts and contexts Platforms including e-media, broadcasting and print Printed communications A cross media study of film fiction Assessment: 1½ hr exam in June. Worth 50% of total AS mark, 25% of total A-level mark.
Unit 2 - Creating Media
Independent research, preproduction and planning a practical production
Technical and creative skills Knowledge of relevant codes and conventions Relevance of platforms and target audiences
For further details, please see any member of the Media Department.
37 Entry requirements
Students should have achieved at least a Grade C in their GCSE Media Studies. If you have not studied media at GCSE you need a Grade C or above in English Language.
AS/A2 LEVEL IN MEDIA STUDIES One Year AS Course or
Full Two Year A-level Course
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