Media Studies — Year 10

An introduction to the theoretical framework, with a focus on Media Language, key terms and entry level theories.

Students study two set products – Quality Street (1956) advertisement and This Girl Can campaign (2016). Set Products (study area): In the Eduqas GCSE Media Studies course, the Advertising and Marketing area of study in Component 1 introduces students to the analysis of commercial and non-commercial print adverts. Quality Street is a commercial consumer product advert set in a specific time period. Students are taught the key elements of targeting audiences and selling products through advertising, as well as historical and cultural context (the zeitgeist of the time). This Girl Can is a non-commercial campaign advertisement, designed to raise awareness and campaign for more women to get involved in sports.

In the Eduqas GCSE Media Studies course, the Magazines area of study in Component 1 introduces students to the analysis of magazine media. Students explore how magazines create meaning through their use of images, language, layout, and design, as well as how they target and engage specific audiences. They also investigate how social, cultural, and historical contexts influence magazine content and representation, including issues such as gender and identity. Set Products (study area): Vogue – Malala front cover (July 2021 GQ – Rahim Sterling front cover (July 2019)

In the Film Marketing area of Component 1 of the Eduqas GCSE Media Studies course, students examine how films are promoted to reach and engage audiences. This includes analysing film posters, trailers, social media, and other marketing materials to understand how they create interest, convey genre, and communicate key themes. Students explore the strategies used to target specific audiences and the way films are positioned within the competitive media landscape. This study provides insight into how the film industry connects with viewers and builds anticipation, helping students understand the commercial and creative aspects of media promotion. Set Products (study area): The Man With The Golden Gun (historical context) No Time to Die (contemporary context) Both films from the Bond Franchise.

In the Newspapers area of Component 1 in the Eduqas GCSE Media Studies course, students analyse how newspapers construct stories, represent events, and engage with audiences. They study both print and online newspapers, exploring elements like headlines, images, language, and layout to understand how meaning is created. Students also examine how newspapers represent issues, individuals, and social groups, as well as how ownership, regulation, and political viewpoints influence news content. Through this study, students gain insight into the role of newspapers in shaping public opinion and the media’s impact on society and culture. Set Products (study area): The Guardian (Jan 2022) Linking to Partygate. The Sun (Jan 2021) Linking to the UK’s vaccine programme and the Covid pandemic.

In the Radio area of Component 1 in the Eduqas GCSE Media Studies course, students explore how radio programs engage audiences and reflect cultural, social, and institutional contexts. This includes analysing aspects such as genre, format, style, and content, as well as understanding the role of presenters, music, and sound in creating distinctive programming. Students also examine how radio is shaped by factors like funding, regulation, and technology, and they consider how different stations and programs target specific audiences. This area of study helps students understand the unique qualities of radio as a medium and its ongoing relevance in a digital age. Set product (are of study) The Archers, BBC Radio 4 In the Gaming area of Component 1 in the Eduqas GCSE Media Studies course, students examine how video games engage players and convey meaning through gameplay, narrative, and design. They analyse how games target specific audiences, exploring elements like character, setting, objectives, and interactive features that contribute to player experience. Additionally, students consider the social and cultural impact of gaming, including representation and issues such as gender, diversity, and the effects of gaming on society. This area of study provides insight into the growth of the gaming industry and the role of games as a powerful form of modern media. Set product (area of study) Fortnite, 2017 and onwards.

In the Non-Exam Assessment (NEA which is worth 30% of their overall grade) component of the Eduqas GCSE Media Studies course, students apply their understanding of media by creating their own media product. Eduqas give a specific brief for students to respond and choose from. They engage in the entire creative process—from researching target audiences and planning content to producing and editing. They may work in formats such as print, online, or audio-visual media, using skills in design, language, and representation to fulfill the requirements of the brief. The NEA allows students to showcase their technical and creative abilities while applying theoretical knowledge in a hands-on project, preparing them for real-world media production and analysis. Requirements: 250 word statement of aims A media production, typically two key productions. Meeting deadlines on time and meeting the criteria.