The course is concerned with cultivating an understanding of the mass media (television, the press, advertising, video games and online) and their role in society. It looks at how the media represents people and issues based on a close and extensive study of a range of media products. We also consider how audiences are targeted and why audiences engage with particular media texts. The course also endeavours to develop your communication and critical skills across a variety of media.
A minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 4 or above, including English or Media. Previous experience in Media Studies is not required.
| Assessment | Topic | % |
|---|---|---|
| Exam | Focuses on media language, representation, media industries (including advertising, marketing, film, newspapers, radio and video games), audiences and media historical contexts. | 35% |
| Exam | Involves an in-depth study of set texts including television programmes, magazines (mainstream and alternative) and online media | 35% |
| Non-exam assignment | Comprises of two individual cross-media productions in response to a choice of briefs set by the exam board. | 30% |
It is expected of all media students that they undertake a substantial amount of work outside normal College hours. This includes:
A variety of work is undertaken on this course, both practical and written. Lessons will include working as a whole class, in small groups and individually.
The non-exam assessment allows the opportunity to produce audio-visual or print-based work using digital cameras and editing software.
You will develop a range of communication skills: written, verbal and IT-based. Research skills will also be enhanced. You will also become proficient at word processing and using a variety of IT software. Your interpersonal skills will also be developed, as you will be working within small groups in discussions, production work and giving presentations.
We have a new media workshop, TV studio and recording booth with a range of high-quality digital cameras and editing equipment. We are housed in well-equipped classrooms and the working environment is friendly and one that encourages both intellectual inquisitiveness and creativity.
The staff are enthusiastic about their subject and the college, and actively support student learning and progression.
There are typically around 300 students in Media and Film Studies across the two-year groups. The pass rate is very high and the majority of film and media students achieve good grades. Teaching incorporates a variety of approaches designed to suit different abilities and learning styles. We try hard to help any student with his/her own learning needs and to stretch those with high academic ability. Visits, trips and speakers are built into the course. We work hard and enjoy what we do - we hope that you will too.
For those interested in pursuing their studies, many students move on to degrees in Media Studies or TV/Film Production. There are courses that are largely practical in nature and are designed for those who want to work in the industry. Other courses are wholly theoretical and are designed for people with an academic interest in the media. It is more common for courses to contain a balance of practical and theory.
“An understanding of media’s effects constitutes a civil defense against media fallout” ~ Marshall MacLuhan