AQA GCSE Media Studies Paper 1 2025 Mark Scheme

Get the official AQA GCSE Media Studies Paper 1 (8572/1) mark scheme from the June 2025 series — the final examiner-approved document used to award marks across all 84 marks of the exam. This PDF includes detailed level descriptors, indicative content, and examiner guidance for every question.

The mark scheme provides clear insight into how marks are awarded. For example, *Question 1 (page 4)* confirms the correct answer is **non-verbal code**, while *Question 2 (pages 4–6)* includes a full level-based marking grid (Levels 1–4) explaining how analysis of design and layout is assessed, including expectations for terminology and depth.

For the OMO advertisement, *Questions 3–4 (pages 7–10)* outline how students are rewarded for analysing gender stereotypes and persuasive verbal codes, with indicative content such as representations of 1950s femininity and the use of persuasive language techniques like repetition and direct address.

Higher-mark questions are supported with detailed guidance. *Question 5 (pages 11–17)* explains how to identify magazine conventions, analyse enigma codes, and evaluate social and cultural contexts using the Tatler front cover. *Section B (pages 18–23)* includes marking points for media industries and audiences, such as advantages of conglomerates and how personnel influence film production.
The final *20-mark Question 9 (pages 24–30)* includes extensive examiner guidance on evaluating whether social media influencers are positive role models, with references to audience interpretations and case studies such as Kim Kardashian and Marcus Rashford.

Use this mark scheme to accurately mark your answers, understand examiner expectations, and improve your extended responses. Pair it with the matching AQA 8572/1 June 2025 question paper for complete exam practice. Updated for the 2025/2026 academic year, optimised for mobile and desktop, and instantly downloadable.

This document is designed for GCSE Media Studies students preparing for the 2026 exam series, including Year 11 students studying the AQA 8572 specification, resit candidates aiming to improve grades, and independent learners.

It is also ideal for teachers, tutors, and revision providers who need accurate mark schemes for marking mock exams, standardising grading, and teaching exam technique. It supports detailed feedback, helping identify strengths and areas for improvement in both short and extended responses.