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A2 Media Studies

What will you study?

Investigating Media Texts

This coursework unit is designed to allow candidates to:

  • demonstrate their research skills;
  • demonstrate their knowledge of media concepts and apply it to the analysis of media text(s);
  • organise relevant information clearly and coherently using media language and terminology as appropriate;
  • explore an area of contemporary media output in depth;
  • present a coherent exposition of their own ideas;
  • develop their key skills.

ME5 - Changing Media Industries

Students study two media industries in depth. The chosen topics are British Cinema and Magazines. Students will need to understand the key institutional and audience factors which influence and shape the production of media texts within those industries.

The main focus of the unit is contemporary British media and its output.

In order to gain a wider view of the industries studied, candidates will also need to consider:

  • Other national industries (such as Hollywood)
  • The increasingly global nature of media production and consumption
  • Media regulation and the impact of new technologies (e.g., digital media and the Internet).

ME6 - Text and context

This unit is a synoptic unit, which brings together all parts of the course and builds upon the knowledge, understanding and skills already gained. It tests candidates' understanding of the connections between different elements of the specification. Students will develop their analytical skills further and greater critical autonomy will be required than in other units. Students will be expected to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and skills from other parts of the course, for example, those related to audience debates, institutional determinants and technological advancements.

The set topic is Crime.

How are you assessed?

Written Exams

ME5 Changing Media Industries - 15% of AL Written Paper 1 hour 30 minutes

  • Two essay questions for each of the industries studied are provided. Students answer one question on each industry studied.

ME6 Text and context - 15% of AL Written Paper 2 hours 30 minutes

  • Two compulsory questions based on unseen media texts from the Crime genre. Question 1 will be based on audio/visual sources and question 2 will be based on a comparative study of the audio/visual material with, for example, a second audio/visual clip or print media.

Coursework

ME4 Investigating Media Texts - 20% of AL Coursework

  • An individual investigative or analytical essay on a media topic of student's choice.

Benefits

This course allows students to develop a critical and analytical approach to studying the media texts they encounter. It encourages their creativity as well as improving their ability to think independently. For those who wish to pursue a career in the media it provides an excellent opportunity to learn production skills such as filming and editing.

Careers

This course is equally ideal for those students wishing to enter into higher education or for those who want to pursue employment in the media. Career opportunities would include journalism, radio, television, film and theatre.