Media Studies
Key Stage 4 :: Key Stage 5 :: Contact
In an age when messages are communicated to mass audiences at the touch of a button, it is important to understand who the producers of these ideas are and how the technology that presents such information works.
At Eastbrook, we aim to develop our students’ understanding so that they can begin to investigate these questions for themselves. We do this by:
- applying theoretical ideas to real media practice
- encouraging the students’ own media production
Our definition of ‘media’ includes traditional forms such as film, television, newspapers, magazines, popular culture and advertising as well the many internet-based varieties of ‘new media’ technology. We aim to keep students up-to-date with how new media developments influence contemporary society.
Media Studies is a popular option choice at GCSE and A Level
Key Stage 4
At GCSE, students follow the AQA syllabus. This is assessed in two ways:
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60 % coursework
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Students investigate media formats/ institutions such as tabloid newspapers, sitcoms, lifestyle magazines and the Hollywood film industry; they go on to use technology to produce their own media texts.
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| 40 % examination |
There is a focus on a specific media form. For past examinations, students have investigated Local Radio, The Music Press, TV Advertising, The Tabloid Press and Action Adventure Films
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Key Stage 5
At A Level, students follow the OCR syllabus. This is examined by 50% coursework and 50% examination. Students develop a more sophisticated understanding of media industries and learn more advanced production techniques.
The Eastbrook Media student can expect to learn a variety of skills beyond media knowledge. They will learn how to become creative thinkers and to plan projects – sometimes as a team – with design awareness. They will become experienced in desktop publishing, digital photography, image manipulation and film production. They will also learn how to communicate their understanding effectively in coursework essays, blogs and examinations.
Past students have gone on to be filmmakers, journalists,actors, lawyers, designers, teachers and television producers - but not just because they chose A Level Media Studies. They were successful becuase they chose a subjected they enjoyed and worked hard at it.
AS Focus
- production of music magazine
- TV Drama analyis
- investigation into a specific media industry
A2 Focus
- production of short film
- 'Media and Collective Identity' in british film and television
Contact
Head of Department - AndersonG@eastbrook.bardaglea.org.uk