Component 1 (Examined) 30%: Investigating Media Language and Representation
This component introduces learners to the knowledge, understanding and skills required to analyse media products
through the study of key areas of the theoretical framework - media language and representation.
Learners study media language and representation in relation to examples chosen by the centre from the following forms:
- Music video and video games - at least two examples
- Advertising and film marketing - at least two examples
- Newspapers and radio news/current affairs programmes - at least two examples.
In this component, learners explore and analyse how meanings and representations are constructed in media products through media language, as well as considering how they are influenced by social, cultural, historical and industry (including economic and political) contexts. Relevant theoretical approaches and theories are also studied.
Component 2 (Examined) 40%: Investigating Media Forms and Products
In this component, learners build on the knowledge and understanding developed in Component 1 by studying all four areas of the theoretical framework.
Learners study media language, representation, media industries and audiences in relation to:
- Television - a choice of three options, each including one product set by WJEC
- Magazines - a choice of three options, each including one product set by WJEC
- Blogs - a choice of three options, each including one product set by WJEC.
This component involves the detailed study of set products in a holistic way, building on the study of media language and representation in Component 1 to also consider industry and audience issues. Learners will explore the influence of relevant social, cultural, historical and industry contexts on the set products. Relevant theoretical approaches and theories are also studied.
Component 3 (Non Examined Assessment) 30%: Media Production
Learners create an individual media production in one form, applying their knowledge and understanding of media language, representation, industry and audiences in response to a choice of briefs set by WJEC. The forms that learners can work in include television, magazine, film marketing, music marketing and online options. The intended audience and industry context are specified in the brief.