AQA GCSE Media Studies: Introduction to Media Studies and its Purpose

Welcome to AQA GCSE Media Studies: Unlocking the Secrets of the Media World

Introduction to Media Studies: What is it all about?

Media Studies is not just about watching TV or scrolling through your phone. It's about understanding how media shapes our world and how we interact with it. This fascinating subject explores the creation, analysis, and impact of various media forms like films, TV shows, advertisements, and online content.

Why Study Media Studies?

Think of this course as a superpower! Media Studies will equip you with:

• Critical thinking skills: Learn to dissect media messages, analyze their hidden meanings, and understand the power of persuasive techniques.
• Creative problem-solving: Develop your ability to think outside the box, devise compelling ideas, and effectively communicate them through media.
• Communication mastery: Enhance your writing, speaking, and presentation skills to confidently express your thoughts and interpretations.
• Understanding the world around you: Gain insights into how media influences our perceptions, values, and cultural landscape.
• Career readiness: Prepare for a future in media-related fields like journalism, advertising, film production, or digital marketing.

What will you study?

• Media Language: Discover the building blocks of media: how images, sounds, and text work together to create meaning and impact.
• Media Representation: Explore how media portrays different groups and individuals, revealing biases, stereotypes, and societal reflections.
• Media Industries: Uncover the complex world of media production, distribution, and consumption, understanding the factors that shape what we see and hear.
• Media Audiences: Investigate how audiences interact with media, explore their motivations, and analyze the influence of media consumption.

Assessment:

AQA GCSE Media Studies is assessed through:

• Paper 1 (35%): This written exam tests your knowledge of Media Language, Media Representation, Media Industries, and Media Audiences. You'll analyze unseen sources and answer questions about Close Study Products (CSPs), which are specific media texts you will study in detail.
• Paper 2 (35%): This written exam focuses on a deeper analysis of your chosen CSPs, including questions about television and online media.
• Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) (30%): This is your chance to shine creatively! You will create your own media product for a specific audience, demonstrating your understanding of media principles and your ability to apply them practically. You will also submit a Statement of Intent, explaining your creative decisions and the rationale behind your work.

Get Ready for an Exciting Journey:

Media Studies is a dynamic and rewarding field. Get ready to delve into the exciting world of media, explore its complexities, and develop your critical thinking, communication, and creative skills.