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Media Studies A-level
The media plays a central role in contemporary culture, society and politics, shaping your perceptions of the world through representations, ideas and points of view. You'll develop a deeper understanding of these issues through analysis, debate and the application of media theory. What is the impact of fake news? How are your ideas about gender and ethnicity influenced by the media? How has digital technology changed the way you interact with and consume media? Through your coursework, you'll also develop practical production skills and create your own media project.
What will I study in Media Studies A-level?
The core curriculum focuses on understanding 4 key areas:
- Language (the study of media products as language and understanding how they create meaning)
- Representation (how social groups, gender, age, ethnicity, places and events are re-constructed in the media)
- Industry (how the consolidation of power in the industry effects media products and content)
- Audiences (how passive is the audience? why do people react in different ways to the same media content?)
These areas of the course provide students with an insight to how populations can be influenced by the media and how to navigate information and media technologies with a high degree of awareness. We study these areas through analysing a variety of different media products, from newspapers and magazines to music videos and TV shows. You will begin to think more deeply about all forms of language and what biases exist in the media content we consume. Through this exploration, there is a focus on identity and ideology.
You will not only learn how to ‘deconstruct’ the images around you but also how to create them. You will be taught the skills required to produce media products during the creation of your coursework, which is 30% of your final grade.
Entry Requirements
At least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, all from the core subjects including English and Maths. There is a strong emphasis on writing in Media Studies.
How will I learn?
You will gain a variety of analytical, critical and evaluatitve skills, which will develop your writing, language skills and media studies vocabularly. In class learning will cover lectures, group discussion and small group tasks.
Media Studies coursework (30% of final grade) will develop media production skills, such as camera, sound, editing, desk top publishing and photography. Students will have access to media production software and facilities, also to workshops from the media technician.
How will I be assessed?
Students will be assessed throughout the course with formative assessment in class and set homework tasks at the end of each media text that is studied. In year two students sit a 2-hour mock paper exam.
The final grade is made up of 35% Component 1 - a 2hour 15minute exam. 35% Component 2 - a 2hour 30minute exam and 30% Component 3, coursework.
Are there any costs involved?
It is beneficial if students have a laptop / tablet to make notes on in class. The media department will allow you access to software packages and filming/recording equipment required to complete your coursework.
You should also expect some costs for books and stationery.
Device Requirements
COURSE_DEVICE
If you already own a device that meets the technical requirements of your course, you are welcome to bring it with you to college.
If not, more information on a convenient rental and help-to-buy scheme designed specifically for Cirencester College students is linked below.
FAQs
Do I need to have studied GCSE Media Studies at school?
No, it's great if you have but you'll learn the fundamental skills and knowledge of Media Studies in year one. Enthusiasm and a keen interest in the media is essential!
Are there good subjects to study alongside Media Studies?
Yes, subjects that work well with Media Studies are, Film Studies, English, Sociology, Psychology, Politics and Digital Media.
What makes a good media student?
A good media student consumes a variety of media products, TV, Film, Radio, Podcasts, News, it's more than social media! A media student asks questions and is aware of the world around them. It's great to have an interest in cutlure, past and present and how media represents culture and society.
Awarding Body
WJEC EDUQAS
Available As
A Level
[56 UCAS pts. available]
[56 UCAS pts. available]
Add to Application
What can I do after I have taken this course?
Available As
A Level
[56 UCAS pts. available]
[56 UCAS pts. available]
Add to Application
DO NOT DELETE OR EDIT THIS ROW OR ITS CONTENTS
What the students say
”Media studies at Cirencester College is an exciting and engaging course that equips students with everything they need to go into the swiftly developing media industry. Through studying a range of media products such as films, music videos, magazines and television dramas, the course offers opportunities to gain an excellent understanding of the modern world of media, as well as opportunities to apply your learning in creative projects.
Nathaniel Ray
