Hathershaw College

Media Studies

Media Studies

Curriculum Intent

  • To encourage students to analyse and interpret a range of media texts critically
  • To teach students to understand the techniques used in media to convey messages and influence audiences
  • To equip students with the skills to navigate, evaluate, and create media in a world saturated with digital and traditional platforms
  • To foster awareness of how the media shapes societal views and cultural values.
  • To explore the historical, cultural, and technological contexts of media production and consumption.
  • To promote awareness of representation, bias, and diversity in media texts.
  • To build creative and technical skills
  • To develop practical skills in media production, including planning, designing, and creating media content.
  • to introduce technical tools and software for creating effective and engaging media projects.
  • To prepare students  for future opportunities in the media and creative industries.
  • To develop transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and project management 
  • To encourage independent thought
  • To support students in forming their own opinions about media texts and their impacts.
  • To cultivate confidence in expressing ideas through both written and practical work.
  • To foster an appreciation for global media

What your child will learn in KS4 Media Studies

 

HT1 HT2 HT3 HT4 HT5 HT6
Y10

Print and Television Advertising 

James Bond Spectre and film posters

Gaming Apps Fortnite

Situation Comedy Friends and Modern Family 

Newspapers Tabloid and Broadsheet

Music videos and websites.

Y11

Controlled Assessment Brief from Eduqas

 

Controlled Assessment Brief from Eduqas

Radio Drama The Archers

Revision of Paper 1 topics

Revision of Paper 2 topics

Examination

 Exam Specification

Media Studies SMSC Statement

 GCSE Media Studies encourages students to explore their creativity and reflect on how media shapes identity, values, and beliefs. By engaging with a wide range of media texts, students develop a deeper understanding of how stories, symbols, and representations influence personal and collective experiences. Through analysis and creation, they discover their own voice and the power of self-expression. Media Studies fosters critical thinking about the ethical implications of media production and consumption. Students examine issues such as bias, representation, and the impact of media on societal behaviour and attitudes. They learn to evaluate the responsibilities of media producers and their role in influencing public opinion. Discussions about media ethics empower students to develop a strong moral compass and understand the consequences of misinformation and stereotypes. Through collaboration and teamwork, Media Studies helps students build essential interpersonal skills. Students engage in discussions about the role of media in shaping social norms, cultural diversity, and public discourse. Group projects, such as creating media products, encourage communication, negotiation, and shared responsibility. This enables students to appreciate different perspectives and develop empathy and respect for others. Media Studies provides an opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity by exploring media texts from various traditions, genres, and global contexts. Students analyse how media reflects and shapes cultural values, traditions, and identities. By examining media representation, they gain insight into the importance of inclusion and the dangers of cultural appropriation or misrepresentation. Our GCSE Media Studies curriculum is designed to enrich students’ understanding of the world and their place within it. By fostering their spiritual, moral, social, and cultural growth, the course equips students with the skills and awareness needed to navigate and contribute positively to the media-rich society they inhabit.