Preference Subject
Single Award

The mass media plays an increasingly important role in contemporary society, providing us with information and entertainment. In addition, the media plays an important part in shaping attitudes and social values. This course is designed to enable students to develop a practical and critical understanding of the role of mass media in society.

Students will develop their ability to:

• Respond critically and analytically to a range of mass media texts
• Gain a broad knowledge of the industrial and commercial nature of media production
• Investigate the nature of media consumption by different audiences
• Enhance their skills in the planning and creation of media products, developing their own ideas
• Engage with the developing world of media technologies

Areas of Study include:

• Media Language
• Audience, Institutions and Representation
• Television and Film
• Radio and Pop Music
• Newspapers, Magazines and Comics

Scheme of Assessment includes:

Coursework: 50%
Section A Three coursework assignments each looking at a different media. This will involve written and practical work.
Section B Students are required to undertake a practical production from conception to realisation. Students may work individually or in small groups.

Controlled Test: 50%
The controlled test is set at two tiers; Foundation (G - C grades) and Higher (D - A*)

This will include pre-release materials and students will be expected to prepare for the test through independent research. The test will be based on a case study approach of one area of the media in detail. In previous years topics have included documentary, comedy film and newspapers.

Who should you see for further details? Email: Mr Field.