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Level 3
A Level Media Studies
COURSE OVERVIEW
The media plays a central role in contemporary culture, society and politics, shaping our perceptions of the world. The A Level syllabus offers you the opportunity to develop an informed understanding of the key issues through critical exploration, analysis and debate. You will focus mainly on theoretical content, although instruction in practical, print production methods (using Photoshop) and website design (Wix) is also given, so you have the opportunity to put the theory you have learnt into practice.
You should have a high level of language skills and will develop these further by exploring academic areas, including critical analysis, evaluation and textual analysis. Essay writing forms an essential part of the course and the academic and specialised skills gained on the course are intended to be transferable through to further studies or employment. Study will consider a variety of Media forms including; advertising and marketing, Television, Magazines, Online, Music Videos and Newspapers offering you an insight into the power of the media in an ever developing technical world.
FURTHER INFORMATION
You will need 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 including English Language and maths.
You need to have an active mind to explore different interpretations and, most importantly, a high level of English and to enjoy writing. You will also be required to complete a GCSE to A Level Transition Project prior to enrolment.
Media Studies is a recommended subject if you are thinking of a Media related career, such as Social Media Management, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, Writing, Marketing, P.R. and Television, or as a Multimedia Specialist. However, you will also develop transferable skills that can help with jobs such as, recruitment, reception and curation as well as delivering presentations.
This course will also allow you to progress to higher education, including a variety of university courses.
This is a two-year A Level where you are examined on the whole syllabus at the end of the second year. Each project is assessed as a portfolio of work. There are three assessments at the end of Year Two:
- Investigating the Media: Written exam – 1 hr 45 mins = 35% of the A Level
- Investigating Media Forms and Products: Written exam – 2 hours = 35% of the A Level
- Media Production (Coursework).
To prepare you for external exams, you will carry out a programme of weekly tests, exam style assessments and Formal Progress Points where you will monitor your attendance, how hard you are working and your academic progress. You will progress through a Year 1 Gateway that will allow you to progress to Year 2.
You will be required to buy your own textbooks, stationery and any subject-related equipment.
College computers have Adobe software installed for you to use; however it would be advisable for you to have access to this package to practice your skills at home.
Financial support is available to those who are eligible, you can find out more in the College Life section of our website.