Media
Autumn 24 Update
Our Media Studies department is buzzing with excitement as we celebrate the completion of Year 11's NEAs (Non-Examined Assessments). These ambitious projects, which allowed students to delve into their passion for media and create original pieces of work, have showcased their creativity and ability to apply their knowledge of media theory and production techniques.
Year 11 students have tackled a wide range of topics, from examining the impact of social media on body image to exploring the representation of gender in film and television. Their work has been both thought-provoking and visually engaging, demonstrating their understanding of the power of media to influence and shape our society.
Meanwhile, Year 10 students have been immersed in exploring their set products, a diverse selection of media texts that provide a foundation for their GCSE studies. They've engaged with films, adverts and websites, analysing how these media forms communicate messages, construct identities, and shape our perceptions of the world.
The exploration of set products has allowed Year 10 students to develop their critical analysis skills, identify media techniques, and understand the broader social and cultural contexts in which media texts are produced and consumed.
As the year progresses, both Year 11 and Year 10 students will continue to delve deeper into the world of media studies, exploring the impact of media on society, the role of media in shaping our identities, and the ethical considerations surrounding media production and consumption. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and development as they become informed and critical consumers of media.
Approach to Teaching
Media Studies offers the opportunity for pupils to develop skills deconstructing, analysing and evaluating media texts. These texts are organised under four main categories: Media Language, Representation, Industry and Audiences.
Media Language gives pupils an insight into how media texts are designed and produced to convey certain messages.
Representation allows pupils to discuss representations of age, gender and ethnicity within products relevant to contemporary society, along with how they affect media narratives.
Industry provides pupils with an insight into how media products are produced, marketed, regulated and distributed.
Audiences allows students to explore the reasons why we consume media products and how media products target certain groups. Year 10 covers the study of Component 1 (40%), whilst Year 11 covers the study of Component 2 (30%) and coursework production (30%). Pupils get the chance to construct their own media text (Music Video/Magazine) for their coursework production. This practical production encourages both independence and creativity making the subject accessible for all learners.
Key Stage 3 content (Year 7-9)
Pupils cover some aspects of Media Language, Representation, Industry and Audiences at KS3.
· Year 7: Studio Ghibli Study, Chicken Run or Sherlock Holmes
· Year 8: Gender in Film, Oliver Twist or Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
· Year 9: Jojo Rabbit and Boy in the Striped Pyjamas comparison
Key Stage 4 content / exam board / spec (Year 10-11)
Exam Board:
EDUQUAS
Exam 1: Component 1 (40%)
Section A: 8 printed set products (pairs + unseen)
Section B: 4 set products – in full
Exam 2: Component 2 (30%)
Section A: A choice from Sit-com or TV Crime Drama
Section B: 3 music videos and websites for chosen artists
NEA: Component 3 (30%)
An individual piece of coursework
