1. Exam question 1a
Learning Objective:
Consider how our use of digital
technology has developed through
our production work.
Understand how to structure an
answer on digital technology.
2. Marks and timing
• In the exam, you only have 30 minutes to
answer this question.
• Aim for 3 examples per section (i.e. 3
examples from each box on your sheet).
On your sheet, highlight the key examples
from each box that you will use.
3. The question:
How have your skills with digital
technology developed, and how
has this influenced your
productions?
4. The Mark Scheme
As in all Media Studies exams, you are
marked on three different aspects:
• Explanation / analysis / argument (10)
• Use of examples (10)
• Use of terminology (5)
5. For top marks
(out of a possible 25)
Explanation/ analysis/argument (9-10 marks)
• There is a clear sense of progression established by the
answer, and a range of articulate reflections on the
production process are offered.
Use of examples (9-10 marks)
• Candidates offer a broad range of specific, relevant and
clear examples of the use of technology in relation to
creative skills development.
Use of terminology (5 marks)
• The use of both production terms and conceptual media
terminology applied throughout is excellent.
6. The introduction
Your intro must have 3 sections (3 sentences):
1. Answer or give point of view to question.
2. Outline briefly what you made each year.
3. Explain to the examiner how you are
going to structure their essay.
You now have 5 minutes to write your
introduction.
7. PDQ Paragraphs
Point
- Make a clear point
Data
- Demonstrate what you mean with
detailed examples
Question
- Link what you’ve said to the question
8. Sample PDQ paragraph
Point
Photoshop was a key piece of technology for
both pieces of coursework.
Data
For my AS magazine, I used Photoshop to crop
and cut out my image. I also created my
masthead and cover lines in Photoshop. At A2,
however, I felt more confident with the
programme. I cut out my main image for my
magazine advert, but this time it was a faster
process and the impact was smoother and more
professional. I also used more of a range of
tools. For example, I created a spotlight effect
to focus the viewer on my ‘star’.
Question
The fact that I had so much practise with
Photoshop at AS led to my increased
confidence at A2. My use of the programme
9. Your essay plan
1) Intro
2) Examples from AS pre-production, linked to
explanation of how these were developed at
A2.
3) Examples from AS production, linked to
explanation of how these were developed at
A2.
4) Examples from AS post-production, linked to
explanation of how these were developed at
A2.
5) Conclusion – answer the question.
10. Homework
• Answer the question on digital technology.
• You may spend as much time on your
answer as you like.
