Media Studies A Level

Media Studies is a modern qualification which develops both your analytical and production skills. Half the course is assessed via production work, on which you are encouraged to work with colleagues to produce videos. Students use a range of new technologies to complete their production coursework including websites and magazines. There is also an exam-based unit which looks at a range of media – from television, film, newspapers to the Internet.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of 38 points for your average GCSE score, Mathematics and English Language at grades A*-C plus at least three other GCSEs from our specified range of GCSE subjects and a satisfactory reference. No prior knowledge of Media Studies is required for entry on to this course. However, if you take GCSE Media Studies you must achieve at least a C grade.

International Entry Requirements
IELTS 5.5, High School Certificate Grade C or above (or equivalent)

Content and Assessment

Four units are included, two for the AS and two more for the full A Level. Unit 1 and Unit 2 provide an integrated and complementary introduction to the study of the media and the contemporary media landscape. The content of both units is underpinned by a set of key media concepts and media platforms. Unit 1 requires candidates to carry out a cross-media study for an unseen examination. The study will then also be used to inform their work on Unit 2. For Unit 2, candidates will produce two media productions in two of the three different media platforms, with an evaluation of the productions, including a consideration of the use of the third media platform. Both units require candidates to look at cross-cultural issues where appropriate.

In the second year A2 candidates will build on their AS work to look more fully at the contexts of media production and consumption – why as well as how texts are created as they are. For Unit 3 candidates will be required to study two pre-set media topics on at least one of the three media studies platforms. For Unit 4 candidates will produce a media product linked to their research for an individual critical investigation. In both A2 units candidates should look at cross-cultural factors and the effects of globalisation on the media where appropriate.

Coursework

Unit 2 in the first year is coursework and is 50% of the AS marks. Unit 4 in the second year is coursework and is 25% of the A2 marks, overall coursework is 50% of the final grade.

Course Duration

The A level qualification ia a full-time course achieved over a two year period. In the first year you study the AS modules and in the second year you will study the A2 modules.

Progression

A Level Media combines well with other creative subjects and enables you to progress into both university education and employment.

Additional Information

All video equipment will be provided by the College but you will need to purchase your own USB sticks and DVDs during the video production process.

Exam Board

The exam board is AQA. The Specification is GCE Media Studies. You can find more information at www.aqa.org.uk

Admissions

Pleae apply for our A level course (minimum three subjects) on-line through our website, www.kingston-college.ac.uk