The Purpose of the Media Studies Curriculum is to ensure that Media students are (and will continue to be) motivated, creative and innovative learners   

They can investigate, critically analyse and debate a variety of media forms and products, whether these are unseen texts, close study products from the AQA specification from 1950’s to present times, or a part of the wider landscape of media, relevant or irrelevant to their own lives as male teenagers, giving them opportunities to enhance their cultural capital. They tackle media products that challenge issues of diversity and stereotyping of race and gender which enhances their personal development.    

Media students delve into representations and audience, which expands their SMSC experience and they actively consider the values, attitudes and lifestyles of others. They also appreciate the role of regulators and the industry as providing pleasure, but also other concerns of the industry to educate and communicate messages to mainstream and niche audiences and how there are varied career options open to them. Pupils are directed to recommended reading and Super Curriculum opportunities in books. Many pupils go on to choose Media Studies of some description post-16.  

Media Students can apply subject knowledge, use close evidence from products and confidently write and verbally contribute to discussion with specific media vocabulary and theoretical concepts so that they can access and achieve in assessments and examination. The learning journey is extremely well sequenced to allow a progression of knowledge and skills, with time to revise and reflect on their progress at key points.  

Mrs. L. Murphy – Curriculum Lead - Media Studies  

More information about the topics listed can be found in the Student Resources area of Sharepoint

AQA GCSE Media Studies: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/media-studies/gcse/media-studies-8572/specification  

Examination Board: AQA

Syllabus Number: 8572  

Course content:  

GCSE Media Studies encompasses all aspects of media including the key concepts of language, representations, industries and audiences, giving pupils both an overall and in-depth understanding of how media impacts on the world around them. New topics in the recently amended specification offer a broad overview of the subject, as well as a more detailed study of relevant and contemporary content. 

Pupils should opt for Media Studies if they enjoy English and other creative subjects such as Art, alongside a proficiency in ICT. Pupils are expected to write at length, including longer responses and analytical answers, deploying media theory and vocabulary. They will also be required to carry out independent/group research and planning. Pupils will be expected to draw and design production pieces, such as storyboards and mock websites. Pupils will discuss and present their work on a regular basis, either individually or in groups. Assessment structure: This qualification is linear, meaning pupils will sit all their exams and submit their non-exam assessment at the end of the two years.  

Pupils are required to study media products from all the following media forms:  

• audio-visual forms (TV, film, radio, advertising and marketing, video games and music video)
• online forms (social and participatory media, video games, music video, newspapers, magazines, advertising and marketing)
• print forms (newspapers, magazines, advertising and marketing).  

70% of a pupil’s grade is assessed through two written examination papers taken at the end of Year 11. The written examination paper is assessed externally under formal examination conditions.

30% of a pupil’s grade is assessed through one non-exam assessment. The brief will be released by AQA and change for every year of study. This will be teacher assessed. Pupils will be required to complete work to strict deadlines and will produce a statement of intent and a media product for an intended audience. Examples include a music video/advertising campaign.  

This course provides a very useful grounding for anyone considering a career in any area of the media, such as television, journalism and advertising. Specialist courses such as Film Studies are available at sixth form colleges as well as Advanced Level Media Studies. 

More information about the topics listed can be found in the Student Resources area of Sharepoint

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