Introduction
Media Studies is an exciting and relevant course that lets you explore the fast-changing world around you. Every time you scroll through TikTok, watch YouTube, stream a series on Netflix, listen to a podcast, read online news, or interact on platforms like Instagram or Snapchat, you are consuming media. What you may not realise is that every post, video, advert and article has been carefully created for a purpose. Media Studies helps you understand how and why these products are made and gives you the skills to create your own.
How is the course assessed?
| Component | Details | Exam / Weighting |
| Component 1:
Exploring the Media |
Section A: Exploring Media Language & Representation Assesses these aspects in relation to 2 forms of print media – magazines, film posters/marketing, newspapers, print adverts
Section B: Exploring Media Industries & Audiences Assess two forms – film, newspapers, radio, video games
One question on Language and Representation and one on Institutions and Audiences. |
1 hr 30 mins
40% Year 11 |
| Component 2:
Understanding Media Forms and Products |
Section A: Television – Based on an extract from one of the set television programme episodes to be viewed in the examination (reference to relevant contexts may be required). One question on media industries, audiences or media contexts (language or representation) + One question on media industries, audiences or media contexts.
Section B: Music – (music videos & online media) – One question on media industries, audiences or media contexts. (reference to relevant contexts may be required) |
1 hr 30 mins
30% Year 11 |
| Component 3:
Creating Media Products (NEA) |
Individual media production for an intended audience in response to a choice of briefs set by Eduqas, applying knowledge and understanding of media language and representation. Research, planning and pitching ideas for the ‘Magazine’ section of the brief in Year 10. Completion and submission by the end of Spring Term in Year 11. | Coursework
(NEA) 30% |
Course Content
Throughout the course you will explore the four key concepts of Media Studies:
Language, Representation, Industries and Audiences
The key concepts of Media Studies are the foundational academic basis of the course of study. Each key concept is underpinned with specific key terms and academic theories that students will learn and apply to their analytical writing.
Context helps students to understand the impact of media throughout the ages, and how the impact of media is paramount in today’s society. Current modules include Newspapers (The Sun), Film (James Bond), Music Video (TLC, Taylor Swift) – to name a few.
Essential Requirements
Students must be keen to learn about the world around them and how the world of media has a direct impact on how they think and form decisions. It is also ideal if students have a wealth of cultural capital, such as an interest in films, TV, magazines and Music.
Future Pathways
Media Studies can be split into multiple different sectors which house a wealth of different job roles e.g. Journalism, Film Making, Graphic Design, Editing. Many students who take Media Studies at GCSE/ A-Level go on to study the subject in higher education.