Studies AS/A2

Media Studies AS/A2
Media Studies is designed to enable students to better understand how and why the media functions in the way that it does and how it impacts upon our culture.

Still from Foundation Portfolio - opening of film inspired by Se7en

What will I study on this course?
Students will analyse British television drama, looking at various micro elements such as editing, sound, representations, mise-en-scene and camera work and discuss how they might influence audiences reactions to popular programming such as Dr.Who, Eastenders and Holby City. To support this unit you will take part in a broadcast simulation and /or visit to a TV studio.

Also, students will study Media Industries focussing on the film industry using the case study of The Boat That Rocked and look at how it was launched using the theatrical trailer to spearhead the campaign. To support this unit you will take part in activities outside of College during National Schools Film Week.

Students will develop practical media production skills by making two texts: a preliminary exercise in continuity followed by the main project where students will produce a two minute opening sequence from an original fiction film.

How is this course assessed?
Coursework Portfolio including both production tasks; preliminary and main.
2 hour examination.

What kind of student will do well on this course?
You should be able to:

• Enjoy teamwork
• Be confident in front of or behind the camera
• Be willing to take part in debates and express your views
• Consider the impact of the media on society
• Be interested in how the UK film industry makes films and targets audiences.

Exam Board
OCR Media Studies AS H140 A2 H540