Media representations of different social groups (gender, ethnicity, age, social class)

AQA

GCSE

Candidates must analyse the extent to which media content constructs, reinforces, or challenges social identities. The study focuses on the selection and presentation of social groups (Gender, Ethnicity, Age, Social Class) through the lens of sociological theory. Analysis must move beyond description of stereotypes to evaluate the ideological functions of representation, including the concepts of symbolic annihilation, hegemonic control, and the 'male gaze'. Responses must contrast Pluralist views of media as a 'window on the world' with Marxist and Feminist critiques of media as a tool of social control.

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

Key Terms

Mark Points

What You Need to Demonstrate

Key skills and knowledge for this topic

Award marks for explicit use of sociological concepts: 'symbolic annihilation' (Tuchman), 'moral panics' (Cohen), 'chav' caricature (Jones).
Credit responses that link media representations to structural theories (e.g., Marxist view of working-class demonization as ideological control).
Candidates must demonstrate AO2 application by connecting specific Item evidence to sociological debates (e.g., linking a text on youth crime to 'folk devils').
High-level responses must evaluate the validity of traditional representations against new media trends (e.g., the democratization of content via social media).

Marking Points

Key points examiners look for in your answers

Award marks for explicit use of sociological concepts: 'symbolic annihilation' (Tuchman), 'moral panics' (Cohen), 'chav' caricature (Jones).
Credit responses that link media representations to structural theories (e.g., Marxist view of working-class demonization as ideological control).
Candidates must demonstrate AO2 application by connecting specific Item evidence to sociological debates (e.g., linking a text on youth crime to 'folk devils').
High-level responses must evaluate the validity of traditional representations against new media trends (e.g., the democratization of content via social media).

Examiner Tips

Expert advice for maximising your marks

💡In 12-mark questions, structure the response with a clear 'For' and 'Against' argument (e.g., Media reinforces stereotypes vs. Media challenges stereotypes).
💡Use the PERC structure (Point, Explain, Reference/Theorist, Critique) for main body paragraphs.
💡Allocate strictly 15 minutes for the 12-mark 'Discuss how far' question to ensure completion.
💡Always define the key concept (e.g., 'Gatekeeping', 'Agenda Setting') in the opening sentence.

Common Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

Presenting anecdotal descriptions of TV shows or personal opinions instead of sociological analysis.
Confusing 'sex' (biological) with 'gender' (social construct) when discussing media roles.
Asserting the Hypodermic Syringe Model (direct effect) as fact without critiquing it or acknowledging active audience theories.
Failing to provide a conclusion in the 12-mark 'Discuss how far' question.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Likely Command Words

How questions on this topic are typically asked

Identify

Describe

Explain

Discuss how far

Examine

Outline

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