Media Studies

Media is a subject that students are using every day and that is a hugely motivating element in the classroom. At BSAK we aim to build on student’s experiences as media consumers.

The course helps to develop student’s research, analytical skills and problem solving as well as their creativity. Students will also extend their practical skills in their chosen medium, building their capacity for independent research, and gaining a deeper appreciation and understanding of the role media plays in day-to-day life.

The CIE A-Level Media Studies course is rare in the current qualification landscape in that it uses a non-linear assessment structure. This means students will be assessed at the end of years 12 and 13, receiving an AS Level at the end of the course’s first year – excellent for students who may not stay for Year 13. Coursework accounts for 50% of the assessment in each year – ideal for those students who perhaps struggle with exam pressures.

COURSE CONTENT

A Level (Year 13) Component 3: Advanced Portfolio Coursework

Students work individually to produce one of the following from the set brief provided by CIE. Music promotion package • Film promotion package • Documentary package • Short film package

Students will build on the skills developed at AS to complete a professional portfolio of work using a range of media technologies to produce an integrated marketing campaign using one of the set briefs from above.

Each student will produce an individual blog to record their research, planning, independent learning and production skills. Students will also develop their critical thinking skills by reflecting production decisions, problem solving and time management throughout their practical production process.

Component 4: Critical Perspectives (Examination)

The examination is two hours long. Students are required to answer three questions. The unit is marked out of a total of 60, with each question in Section A marked out of 15 marks and the question in Section B marked out of 30 marks. There are two sections to this paper.

ASSESSMENTS

● 50% coursework and 50% exam ● 25% of A Level grade assessed by teachers ● Moderated externally by Cambridge International

MEDIA STUDIES

Section A: Media Debates

Students will be expected to answer two questions from a choice of three. There will be one question for each topic: (At BSAK we teach Postmodern Media and Power and The Media).

● Postmodern media ● Power and the media ● Media Regulation

Section B: Media Ecology

Section B is synoptic, requiring students to synthesise their knowledge and understanding of the key concepts of language, representation, industry, and audience, studied throughout the course. Students are expected to adapt and apply this knowledge and understanding to contemporary examples from at least two media forms to explore evolving media environments. Students should answer the question referring to at least two media forms.

SKILLS DEVELOPED

● Setting up a blog ● Editing Techniques – transitions, slow motion rough/final cuts ● Filmmaking - camera angles and movement, single camera shoot ● Constructing narratives ● Research and planning ● Working on a client brief ● Graphics and typography ● Web Design ● Study independently ● Independent & secondary research ● Time management

SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST

Whilst the Media Department has excellent facilities, equipment, materials, and provision, it is highly recommended that all Media Students have a quality camera to take photos as well as make short films.

SPECIFICATION LINK

MELS

ACADEMIC YEAR 2021/2022 YEAR 13