Year 06 Transitions | September 2025
“Whoever control the media, controls the mind.”
-Jim Morrison
Media Studies creates curiosity about the world around you. Become part of the organisations which shape our views of the world. By studying A-Level Media, students will extend their practical skills, build their capacity for independent research, and gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the role media plays in day-to-day life. Students will question the validity of the information they receive each day and become aware of bias within the media.
Qualification: A-Level
Exam Board: AQA
English 5+ and 4+ in Media Studies or
English 6+ for students that haven't undertaken Media
Section A: Media Language and Media Representations; •advertising and marketing •music video.
Section B: Media Industries and Media Audiences, any two of the following forms; • radio •newspapers •film (industries only).
Written exam
2 hours
84 marks
35% of A-level
A range of questions relating to an unseen source and Close Study Products.
Two essay questions (20 marks), one of which is an extended response question
Questions will focus on the in-depth media forms of television, magazines and online, social and participatory media/video games.
Written exam
2 hours
84 marks
35% of A-level
One medium length unseen analysis question.
Three essay questions (25 marks), one of which is an extended response question and one of which is a synoptic question.
Application of knowledge and understanding of the theoretical framework. Ability to create media products
A choice of one of six annually changing briefs, set by AQA.
60 marks
30% of A-level
Assessed by teachers • Moderated by AQA
Students produce:
• a statement of intent
• a cross-media production made for an intended audience.
A level Media Studies students can go onto study Media, TV or Film at University
Occupations that are commonly associated with Media include:
Media Planner
Multimedia Specialist
Programme Researcher
Public Relations Officer
Runner
Social Media Manager.
Business
English
Sport
Psychology
Sociology