GCSE Media

Media studies GCSE is a fantastic course in which you have the unique opportunity to study the world around you. When you watch TV, stream Netflix, read a magazine or even look at Facebook you are consuming Media. The thing is you may not be aware that everything has been made for a reason.

In Media Studies, this is what you study, you will make your own product using the skills and knowledge you have learnt. You will study the four main concepts of Media Studies:

  • Language
  • Representation
  • Institutions
  • Audiences

How is the course split up?

Component 1: Exploring the Media (Exam: 1 hour 30 minutes, 40%)

Section A: Exploring Media Language and Representation

This section assesses media language and representation in relation to two of the following print media forms: magazines, marketing (film posters), newspapers, or print advertisements.

Section B: Exploring Media Industries and Audiences

This section assesses two of the following media forms: film, newspapers, radio, video games.

One question on Language and Representation and one on Institutions and Audiences.

Component 2: Understanding Media Forms and Products (Exam 1 hour 30 minutes, 30%)

This component assesses all areas of the theoretical framework and contexts of the media in relation to television and music.

Section A: Television

One question on either media language or representation, which will be 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.

Section B: Music (music videos and online media)

One question on either media language or representation (reference to relevant contexts may be required).

One question on media industries, audiences or media contexts.

Component 3: Creating Media Products (NEA 30%)

An individual media production for an intended audience in response to a choice of briefs set by WJEC, applying knowledge and understanding of media language and representation.