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    OCR as-level Media Studies

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    Course overview

    The OCR as-level Media Studies specification covers 2 topics with 3 learning objectives (603/1943/4). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    • 2 topics
    • 3 learning objectives
    Ofqual Regulated: 603/1943/4

    Official Regulatory Specification

    Regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) in England

    View on Ofqual Register (opens the official government register in a new tab)
    Qualification Number (QN)
    603/1943/4
    Awarding Organisation
    OCR
    Regulatory Type
    GCE AS Level
    National Level & Units
    as-level • 2 units
    Sector Subject Area: Media and communication
    This qualification is officially accredited under the national framework. Credits and certified outcomes are recognised by employers, further education colleges, and training providers throughout the UK.
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    About this course

    About OCR as-level Media Studies

    OCR AS-Level Media Studies offers a dynamic and contemporary exploration of the media landscape, blending theoretical frameworks with hands-on production work. You will investigate how media products construct meaning, how audiences engage with them, and the role media plays in shaping our understanding of the world. The course is designed to develop your critical thinking, analytical skills, and creativity, preparing you for both further study and a range of media-related careers.

    The specification is structured around three core components: Media Messages, which focuses on media language and representation; Media Industries and Audiences, which examines the business and consumption of media; and a Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) where you create your own media product. This integrated approach ensures you not only understand media theory but also apply it practically, making your learning both rigorous and relevant.

    Assessment Structure

    OCR AS-Level Media Studies is assessed through two written examinations and one non-exam assessment (NEA). Paper 1, 'Media Messages', is a 1 hour 30 minute exam worth 50 marks (25% of the qualification) and covers media language and representation in print and audio-visual forms. Paper 2, 'Media Industries and Audiences', is also 1 hour 30 minutes, worth 50 marks (25%), and focuses on industry, audience, and the media ecology. The NEA is a practical production task worth 100 marks (50% of the qualification), where you create a media product (such as a magazine, music video, or website) accompanied by a written statement of intent. The total qualification is 200 marks.

    Why Choose OCR?

    • OCR's AS-Level Media Studies offers a balanced blend of theoretical and practical work, with the NEA contributing a substantial 50% of your final grade. This allows you to showcase your creative skills and personal interests, which can be particularly rewarding and can help boost your overall grade if you excel in practical production.
    • The specification is designed to be contemporary and relevant, with a focus on current media issues such as the impact of digital technologies, globalisation, and changing audience behaviours. This ensures your studies are engaging and directly applicable to the media landscape you encounter daily.
    • OCR provides a clear and well-structured framework, with a range of set products (texts) that are studied in depth. This gives you a solid foundation for analysis and helps you develop a systematic approach to deconstructing media texts, which is excellent preparation for university-level study.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between OCR AS-Level and A-Level Media Studies?
    The OCR AS-Level is a standalone qualification that is typically taken in the first year of sixth form or college. It covers the same core theoretical areas as the A-Level but in less depth and with a smaller range of set products. The AS-Level is worth 50% of the full A-Level if you choose to continue, but it can also be taken as a one-year course. The A-Level includes additional topics, such as the 'Media in a Global Context' and a more complex NEA, and is designed to be a two-year course. If you are unsure, check with your school or college to see which qualification they offer and what progression options are available.
    How much coursework is involved in OCR AS-Level Media Studies?
    The Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) is a significant part of the OCR AS-Level Media Studies course, accounting for 50% of your final grade. This involves creating a media product in response to a brief set by OCR, such as a magazine, music video, or website. You will also write a statement of intent explaining your creative choices. The NEA is completed under supervised conditions, but you will have ample time to plan and produce your work. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop practical skills in media production, which are highly valued by universities and employers.
    What set products (texts) will I study for OCR AS-Level Media Studies?
    OCR provides a list of set products that you will study in depth for the examinations. These are carefully chosen to represent a range of media forms, time periods, and contexts. For example, you might study the film 'I, Daniel Blake', the television series 'The Bridge', the magazine 'Vogue', and the newspaper 'The Times'. You will also study online media such as the website for the 'Biden campaign' or 'Attitude' magazine. Your teacher will guide you through these texts, and you will learn how to analyse them using the theoretical frameworks of media language, representation, industry, and audience.
    Is OCR Media Studies respected by universities?
    Yes, OCR AS and A-Level Media Studies are well-regarded by universities. The qualification develops critical analysis, research, and practical production skills that are relevant to a wide range of degree courses, including Media, Communications, Film Studies, Journalism, and Marketing. Universities appreciate the combination of theoretical knowledge and creative practice that the course provides. If you are considering a media-related degree, this A-Level is an excellent foundation. For other subjects, it also demonstrates strong analytical and communication skills, which are valued across disciplines.
    What career paths can OCR AS-Level Media Studies lead to?
    Studying Media Studies at OCR AS-Level can open doors to a variety of careers in the media and creative industries. These include roles in journalism, broadcasting, film and television production, advertising, public relations, digital marketing, social media management, and content creation. The course also equips you with transferable skills such as critical thinking, research, communication, and project management, which are useful in many other fields. Many students go on to study media-related degrees at university, while others may pursue apprenticeships or entry-level positions in the industry.
    Assessment and exam guidance

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    OCR
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name or select

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Account of process or features

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with BUSINESS-FACING outcomes

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine methodically showing cause→effect→outcome

    Evaluate
    9-12 marks

    Judge, weigh up evidence, reach SYNOPTIC conclusion

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