1. Contemporary
Media Issues -
PoMo
What are the examiners looking for?

2. Overview of marking
Marked out of 50
20 marks for
Explanation/Analysis/Argument
20 marks for the use of examples
10 marks for the use of Terminology
Broken down into Levels 1- 4

3. Level One 0 - 17
In general simple ideas have been expressed, probably obtrusive
spelling, punctuation and grammar errors. Work could be illegible.
0-7 marks for Explanation/Analysis/Argument
Candidates responds with limited clarity, lack of personal
engagement, inaccuracy in recording key ideas, short, incomplete
or lacking relevance (ie you have not answered the question!)
0-7 marks for Use of Examples
a narrow range of texts used, a narrow range of theories
discussed, no debate acknowledged
0-3 marks for Use of Terminology
Very little specific Media theory buzz words used

4. Level Two 18 - 27
In general some simple ideas but appropriate ideas have been expressed
but there are still spelling, grammar and punctuation errors that are
noticeable
8 - 11 marks for Explanation/Analysis/Argument
Response does address the question in a limited way but all materail
included may not be on topic (rote answer). A partially coherent, basic
argument is included
8 - 11 marks for Use of Examples
Some examples of theories, text and key ideas offered, ideas about
debate around the issue is included, and an attempt to connect these
elements.
4 - 5 marks for Use of Terminology
Basic use of theoretical terms

5. Level Three 28 - 37
Relatively straight forward ideas are expressed with some clarity and fluency.
Arguments are generally relevant but may stray at times. Some errors in
spelling, punctuation and grammar but don’t obscure meaning
12 - 15 marks for Explanation/Analysis/Argument
Adaption of learning to question. Sensible, mostly clear balance of
media theories, texts and key ideas. Skillful attempt to include an
personal response
12 - 15 marks for Use of Examples
Examples of theories, texts and key ideas are connected together in
places. Clear argument is skillfully written in response to the question
6 -7 marks for Use of Terminology
Material is well inform by media theory though use of appropriate
theoretical terms

6. Level Four 38 - 50
Complex issues have been expressed. Style is fluent and appropriate. All
material is relevant to question. Structure is strong with only a few errors
(sentences and paragraphs)
16 - 20 marks for Explanation/Analysis/Argument
Excellent use of learning adapted to specific question. Clear, articulate
balance of theories, knowledge of text and personal engagement with
the topic (your opinion!)
16 - 20 marks for Use of Examples
Clear connection between texts, theories and key ideas throughout the
response. These connections are used to present a coherent argument.
8 - 10 marks for Terminology
Excellent command of theoretical language. All material presented is
informed by current media theory

7. What to include?
• Definitions of Pomo/issues with defining it
• At least three texts across a range of mediums
• At least reference to 3 theorists (specific point)
• 3 other Pomo ideas (eg Media Concepts, Parody/pastiche Self aware/
Self reflexive)
• Reference to Past Present and Future
• Key terminology – including the words phrases used by the theorists
• Central argument (your own opinion!)
• Problems with Pomo
• Texts that have been produced in the last five years

8. Essay Examples
• Read through the four examples. Two are
at Level 3 and two are at Level 4
• Make a ‘top ten’ list of essay writing
pointers
• What will make the difference between a
Level 3 and a Level 4

9. Homework Task
• Discuss two or more media texts that you
would define as ‘postmodern’ and explain
why you would give them this label.
• Due in Next Thursday!
• Before you hand it in mark it yourself
• EAA EG T