In the words of the exam board (taken from the specification), this is the brief:
An extract from a new magazine aimed at a specific audience, to include the front cover, contents page and a double-page spread article, using some original photography.
To achieve an A grade you must do the following:
Candidates recall, select and communicate detailed knowledge and thorough understanding of media products and concepts, and the contexts in which they are produced and consumed. They use analytical techniques, underpinning concepts and a wide-ranging critical vocabulary to evaluate and compare media representations. They demonstrate an ability to respond in a logical and structured way, with precise and accurate use of terminology, supporting ideas and arguments with evidence. They research and plan their production work effectively. They draw on relevant products, concepts and contexts. They use a range of presentational skills effectively, showing understanding of how audiences are identified and how production is tailored to audience needs and expectations. They construct their product(s) using a broad range of production skills appropriately and effectively. They confidently handle technology, including ICT, and use the techniques and conventions of the chosen medium and genre creatively. They evaluate their product(s), making critical connections between the experience of carrying out the production and the key concepts.
The A* - C markscheme
Level 4 (46–60 marks)
Candidates will demonstrate:
- detailed and thorough knowledge and understanding of the texts studied
- thoughtful and insightful analysis and interpretation of the texts
- very good understanding of how texts represent social and cultural messages and values, including proficient identification and interpretation of those messages and values
- very good understanding of how texts use media language and areas of representation
- very good knowledge and understanding of the codes and conventions according to generic categorisations of media texts
- accurate use of technical terms and medium-specific terminology, as appropriate
- very good understanding of the effects of techniques on texts and audiences
- confident comparison of media texts, as appropriate
- appropriate use of some examples to support points made
- personal insights and engagement with objects of study and concepts.
Level 3 (31–45 marks)
Candidates will demonstrate:
- good knowledge and understanding of the texts studied
- sound analysis and interpretation of the texts
- good understanding of how texts represent social and cultural messages and values, including competent identification and interpretation of those messages and values
- good understanding of how texts use media language and areas of representation
- good knowledge and understanding of the codes and conventions according to generic categorisations of media texts • mostly accurate use of technical terms and medium-specific terminology, as appropriate
- good understanding of the effects of techniques on texts and audiences
- comparison of media texts, as appropriate
- appropriate use of some examples to support points made
- some personal insights and engagement with objects of study and concepts.
