Our vision
We believe that pupils deserve and benefit from a broad and engaging Media Studies curriculum at GCSE and through Film Studies at A Level, rich in analytical skills, Media literacy and a knowledge of practical creative analogue and digital processes. Our aim is to inspire curiosity, support and nurture mature appreciation and questioning, which will prepare them well for future Media learning or employment within this rapidly developing Communications and Arts sector.
Media Studies Curriculum
Our curriculum is sequenced to give pupils the opportunity to:
- Develop a firm understanding of the Theoretical Framework of Media Language, Audience, Industries and Representation.
- Analyse complicated Media texts – print, web, or broadcast – confidently and methodically, in order to breakdown the codes and conventions used and discover the messages which are communicated through a variety of texts.
- Develop an enthusiastic and critical appreciation of the broader Media landscape, on all platforms; expanding their experience of genre.
- Demonstrate mastery of analysis through discussion and writing.
- Enjoy a wide range of historical and contemporary Media texts which help them to connect with the rapidly changing world around them.
- Develop cultural capital that will help remove barriers to achievement in school, future learning and the world of work.
- Develop a mature understanding of the Media representations of other cultures and sectors of society, which will enable them to empathise with others in school, within future learning and the world of work.
- Promote an inquisitive and questioning mind-set that does not accept ideas and opinions at face value – yet rather, look for Industry motives and Producer intentions.
- Write clearly, fluently and accurately in plain English, expressing arguments and ideas and showing appropriate application of relevant academic Media theories.
- Develop creative ideas through the production element of the course to establish purpose and satisfy an identified audience.
- Use a wide range of appropriate and ambitious Media-specific vocabulary with precision and purpose.
- Develop digital media literacy to produce original Media texts of which they can be proud.
- Vocally, articulate and express their ideas, views and opinions about a wide range of Media Issues and Moral Panics clearly, confidently and respectfully.
- Develop their individual character, regarding resilience, confidence and independence; presenting their ideas and supporting the contributions of their peers, so that they contribute positively to the life of the school, the Garforth community and the wider environment.
Our pedagogy is underpinned by a rigorous, systematic and well-structured approach to the teaching of the Theoretical Frameworks of Media. Use of teacher modelling, and the use of challenging and wide-ranging products, genres and forms. A range of strategies to develop innovative and imaginative creative responses. Constant support and feedback for both written and creative responses. Opportunities for students to act upon feedback and improve and redraft work.
We will enrich our curriculum by establishing cross curricular links. Providing suitable, regular clubs and visits. Encouraging students to support and contribute to the department and the wider school. Producing gallery and photography / film nights.
Our curriculum will enable students to learn in a sequential and progressive structure. Develop new skills through a range of different contexts to engage them. Understand what they need to do to improve. Feel valued and respected for their contribution. Develop a deeper understanding of British values. To explore and develop their spiritual, social, moral and cultural understanding.
- Encouraging pupils to experience a varied diet of film, TV, press & ICT media.
- Discussing and debating issues in the media and in the news.
Media is a lively and thought-provoking subject which encourages pupils to develop their creative, analytical, research, and communication skills, through exploring a range of media products and perspectives.
Assessment
The Media Studies qualification is currently made up of two elements which together combine analytical and practical production work:
30% of the GCSE grade is coursework-assessed through a practical media-making task.
70% is exam-assessed through two written exams involving a mix of multi-choice answers, short answers and extended answers.