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    WJEC as-level Media Studies

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    Course overview

    The WJEC as-level Media Studies specification covers 2 topics with 0 learning objectives (603/1982/3). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

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    Ofqual Regulated: 603/1982/3

    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)
    603/1982/3
    Awarding Organisation
    WJEC
    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 WJEC as-level Media Studies

    WJEC AS-Level Media Studies offers a dynamic exploration of how media products are created, consumed, and interpreted in today's digital age. You will investigate a diverse range of media forms, including television, film, advertising, music videos, newspapers, and online media, developing critical autonomy and analytical skills.

    The course is structured around key theoretical frameworks: media language, representation, media industries, and audiences. You will apply these concepts to a range of set products and case studies, while also engaging in practical production work that allows you to demonstrate your understanding creatively. This specification balances theoretical depth with hands-on application, preparing you for both further study and a critical engagement with the media landscape.

    Assessment Structure

    The WJEC AS-Level Media Studies qualification is assessed through two components. Component 1 (Media Products, Industries and Audiences) is a written examination worth 60% of the qualification, lasting 1 hour 45 minutes, and totals 90 marks. Component 2 (Media Forms and Products in Depth) is also a written examination worth 40% of the qualification, lasting 1 hour 30 minutes, and totals 60 marks. There is no coursework or practical production at AS level; instead, you will develop production skills through non-assessed practical activities that inform your understanding of media language and representation.

    Why Choose WJEC?

    • WJEC's AS Media Studies specification is designed to be accessible and engaging, with a clear focus on contemporary media products that resonate with today's students. The set products are carefully chosen to reflect a diverse range of voices and contexts, ensuring that you can connect theory to the media you consume daily.
    • The assessment structure is straightforward, with two written exams that avoid the unpredictability of coursework moderation. This allows you to focus on developing strong analytical and essay-writing skills, which are highly valued by universities and employers.
    • WJEC provides extensive support for both teachers and students, including detailed specification guidance, exemplar materials, and regular CPD opportunities. This ensures that you are well-prepared for the demands of the assessments and can approach your studies with confidence.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between AS and A-Level Media Studies with WJEC?
    AS Media Studies is a standalone qualification that covers half of the A-Level content. It is typically taken in the first year of sixth form and can be used as a stepping stone to the full A-Level. The AS specification focuses on two components, while the A-Level includes an additional component on media forms and products in depth, plus a non-examined assessment (coursework) where you create your own media production. If you are considering a full A-Level, you will need to complete both years of study.
    Do I need to have studied GCSE Media Studies to take WJEC AS Media Studies?
    No, you do not need to have studied GCSE Media Studies to take WJEC AS Media Studies. The specification is designed to be accessible to students with no prior knowledge, although having a GCSE in Media Studies or a related subject like English can be helpful. What is more important is a genuine interest in media, a willingness to analyse a wide range of products, and the ability to write coherently and critically.
    What kind of media products will I study on the WJEC AS course?
    You will study a range of contemporary and historical media products across different forms. For Component 1, you will explore media language and representation through advertising, music videos, film marketing, and newspapers. For Component 2, you will focus on in-depth studies of television (e.g., a specific drama series), magazines (e.g., a lifestyle magazine), and online media (e.g., a social media influencer's platform). The set products are chosen by WJEC and are typically updated every few years to keep the course current.
    How is the WJEC AS Media Studies exam structured and what skills are assessed?
    The AS Media Studies qualification is assessed through two written exams. Component 1 (Media Products, Industries and Audiences) is 1 hour 45 minutes and includes short-answer questions and extended responses on media language, representation, industries, and audiences. Component 2 (Media Forms and Products in Depth) is 1 hour 30 minutes and requires you to answer questions on set products from television, magazines, and online media. Both exams assess your ability to analyse media products using theoretical frameworks, apply critical approaches, and construct coherent arguments.
    Are there any practical or coursework elements in WJEC AS Media Studies?
    No, there is no formal coursework or practical production component at AS level. However, you will engage in non-assessed practical activities throughout the course to develop your production skills and deepen your understanding of media language and representation. These activities are designed to support your exam preparation and are not submitted for marking. If you continue to the full A-Level, you will complete a non-examined assessment (coursework) where you create a media product and write a critical evaluation.
    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

    WJEC
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

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