Media: Communication and Production
| Qualification | AS and A2 Level |
| Examining Board | AQA 5571/6571 |
| Teacher in charge | Ms K Stevens |
The AQA Media Studies course is offered to those students who have an active interest in the process of human communication in general and the workings of the media in particular. It is of especial interest to those students who are curious about the practical processes involved in the creation of visual images and in the production of the printed word in the context of the Media as a whole. The course will require a degree of practical and technical aptitude and a willingness to work closely in small groups. Students embarking on the course would need to have achieved at least Grade C in English Language and preferably, English Literature.
The Advanced Level examination is in two parts:
AS Level
- Unit 1: Reading the Media – external exam – 30% of marks
- Unit 2: Textual Topics in Contemporary Media – external exam – 30% of marks
- Unit 3: Coursework – practical production – 40% of marks
A2 Level
- Unit 4: Texts and Contexts in the Media – external exam – 15% of total A Level marks
- Unit 5: Coursework – Independent Study – 20% of total A Level marks
- Unit 6: Comparative Critical Analysis – external exam – 15% of total A Level marks
The emphasis in this course is upon the development of independent critical thinking skills, which makes it particularly appropriate and relevant to candidates wanting to study the media at a higher academic level. In addition, the conceptual framework for the course forms the basis for most degree courses in Media studies and other related courses. The course aims to provide a range of Media competencies relevant to candidates as future citizens and consumers of Media. In addition, knowledge of the media is increasingly valued and is becoming an important aspect of work in most institutions in an information society. This qualification should therefore be of value to candidates entering employment across a wide range of industries and professions.