Media Studies (GCSE)

Exam Board: EDUQAS

Course Overview:

The EDUQAS specification is designed to introduce learners to the key concepts for studying media:  media language, representation, media industries and media audiences – in relation to examples from a wide range of media forms. This exploration extends learners’ engagement with the media to the less familiar, including products from different historical periods or those aimed at different audiences, providing rich and challenging opportunities for interpretation and analysis. Media Studies offers learners the opportunity to develop 

knowledge and understanding of key issues and the ability to debate important questions about the media.

Course/Assessment Content:

Component 1: Exploring the Media 

• Written Examination: 1 hour 30 minutes

• 40% of qualification – externally assessed

• Learners must study examples of media products from all of the following media forms: 

• Magazines, marketing, radio, advertising, film and newspapers. 

Component 2: Understanding Television and Film

• Written Exam: 1 hour 30 minutes

• 30% of qualification – externally assessed

• Involves the in-depth study of: Representations in TV Drama (contemporary and historic) and Constructions of identity in Music Video (contemporary and historic).  

Component 3 - Creating Media:

• 30% of qualification – externally assessed

• Print Production (individual coursework)

• Create a print-based magazine incorporating original photography  (Including a statement of aims)

Extra Curricular Opportunities:

The Academy is committed to investing in Media pathways through the support of the Stationers’ Company. 

A fully resourced Digital Media Centre creates numerous opportunities from working on academy-community based projects to creating products and perspectives that can be shared with the global world. 

Career Prospects and Transferable Skills:

• Learn skills of enquiry, critical thinking, decision-making and analysis 

• Acquire knowledge and understanding of a range of important media issues 

• Develop an appreciation and critical understanding of the media and their role both historically and 

currently in society, culture and politics

Further Information: Hollie Heasman (Head of Film and Media) - email: hollie.heasman@scwa.org.uk