Media Studies

GCSE MEDIA STUDIES

WJEC

http://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/media-studies/media-studies-gcse/

Candidates will explore at least three topics for GCSE Media Studies. These topics must involve study of a minimum of three different media, including at least one print–based and one audio visual–based form. 'Media' will be interpreted in terms of generic forms rather than platforms although there is a requirement that the topics for the examination will be studied in relation to the convergent nature of the media.

Examples of different media will thus include film, television, animated film, radio, magazines, music videos, websites and computer games.

Each topic will be explored through the three study areas of the GCSE Media Studies framework and reflect the convergent nature of contemporary media.

Coursework will include one essay on genre, one essay on representation and a creative production – The two essays will be completed in the first year.

The exam topic is NEWS with a focus on television news and news websites. This studying although starting in the last term of the first year will be predominantly in the second year.

YEAR 10 – Students will study a basic overview of media including key terminology, detailed analysis of genre and representation and complete coursework essays. At least two PPE’s will be set based on genre and representation.

YEAR 11 – Students will focus on exam topics and complete production coursework. At least two PPE’s will be set on exam topics.

External Assessment: Written Examination Paper (40% of the final mark)

This paper will be 2 hours 15 minutes and will include 5 minutes to read the examination paper and approximately 25 minutes to view a set audio-visual extract or to study the set print-based material. Where appropriate, interactive media, such as websites, will be presented in a print-based format. The paper will assess candidates on a topic set by WJEC. Candidates will be expected to study the topic in a way which reflects the convergent nature of contemporary media.

The paper is divided into two sections. For each section, a different aspect of the topic, based on different media forms or platforms, will be set.

Section A: Thinking about the Media – Investigating will assess candidates on their knowledge and understanding of the set topic in relation to the main areas from the specification framework. Candidates will respond to stimulus material chosen by WJEC.

Section B: Thinking about the Media – Planning will assess candidates' planning and creative skills through a series of creative tasks demonstrating an awareness of the convergent nature of contemporary media.