Media Studies (OCR)

This contemporary, accessible and creative course will allow learners to study the media in an academic context and apply the knowledge and understanding gained to the process of creating their own media productions. OCR’s A Level in Media Studies is designed to widen the intellectual horizons of the learner through the analysis of both global and historical media. The Media Studies course will foster the development of critical and reflective thinking to encourage engagement in the debates surrounding contemporary media. It is the intention of the A Level Media Studies course to inspire learners and develop an aspiration within them to continue learning beyond the confines of the classroom as well as developing personal and interpersonal skills that will serve them well both in Higher Education and in the workplace.

Course Content
Paper 1 – 35% of A Level
Section A: News and Online Media   This section focus on contemporary news in the UK, requiring learners to explore how and why newspapers and their online counterparts are evolving as media products.
Section B: Media Language and Representation   Learners will explore media language and representation, through the following media forms: magazines, advertising and marketing and music videos

Paper 2 – 35% of A Level
Section A: Media Industries and Audiences   Learners will explore media industries and audiences, through media products including radio, video games and film
Section B: Long Form Television Drama   Learners will engage in one in-depth study of television as an evolving, global media form.

Non – Examined Assessment – 30% A Level
Learners will create a cross-media product in response to an Exam Board directed brief.

Assessment Objectives
Successful students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate skills of enquiry, critical thinking, decision-making and analysis
  • Demonstrate a critical approach to media issues
  • Demonstrate appreciation and critical understanding of the media and their role both historically and currently in society, culture, politics and the economy
  • Develop an understanding of the dynamic and changing relationships between media forms, products, media industries and audiences
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the global nature of the media

A Level Results
2017 A Level results: 89% A*-C (National Average 79.7% A*-C)

Minimum Entry Requirements: 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths

Updated January 2019