ABSTRACT

A Level Media Studies is a comprehensive guide to the subject content of AS and A Level Media Studies, across all examining boards. It is specifically designed to meet the needs of both students and teachers with an accessible writing style, helpful notes on key theories and theorists and a range of learning exercises.

The book’s overall approach is gradual immersion, assuming no prior knowledge of the subject. Starting with an overview of the discipline, the book moves on to develop increasingly sophisticated ideas whilst repeatedly reinforcing the basic principles of media studies. Each component of media studies is illustrated with practical examples and guided exercises that demonstrate the application of theories and concepts. In addition, numerous case studies offer examples of media studies in practice. Working through these examples, students will acquire the skill set and confidence to tackle the analysis of media products and the discussion of media issues to the standard required at A Level. The focus is on contemporary media, but there is also full acknowledgement of historical precedents, as well as the significance of social, cultural, political and economic contexts.

With its clear structure and integrative approach, A Level Media Studies is the ideal introductory resource for students and teachers.

chapter Chapter 1|17 pages

This is media studies

chapter Chapter 2|34 pages

Media language: analysing a media product

An introduction to semiotics

chapter Chapter 3|26 pages

Fictions and realities

A television case study

chapter Chapter 4|38 pages

Media in a historical context

chapter Chapter 5|37 pages

Theory and debates

The media audience

chapter Chapter 6|40 pages

Media language and representations

Inequality and difference

chapter Chapter 7|48 pages

Social and cultural contexts

chapter Chapter 8|31 pages

Persuasion

Advertising, marketing and propaganda

chapter Chapter 9|27 pages

Media in an economic context

chapter Chapter 10|34 pages

Theory and debates in hyper-modern times

Where does meaning come from?

chapter Chapter 11|41 pages

Media in a political context

chapter Chapter 12|43 pages

Media shorts

A collection of readings