AQA GCSE Media Studies Paper 2 2025 Mark Scheme

Get the official AQA GCSE Media Studies Paper 2 (8572/2) mark scheme from the June 2025 series — the final v1.0 examiner-approved document used to award marks across all 84 marks of the exam. This PDF includes full level descriptors, indicative content, and examiner guidance for every question.
The mark scheme provides detailed insight into how marks are awarded. The *level-of-response guidance on page 3* explains how examiners assign levels using a “best fit” approach, ensuring answers are judged on overall quality rather than minor errors.

For Section A (Television), *Question 1 (page 4)* outlines accepted definitions of indirect address and valid examples from the extract, while *Question 3 (pages 5–7)* includes a full 4-level marking grid (1–8 marks) for analysing diegetic and non-diegetic sound, with indicative content such as dialogue, background noise, and incidental music shaping meaning.

Higher-mark questions are supported with detailed guidance. *Question 4 (pages 8–11)* explains how to evaluate gender representation in 1960s television, including references to character roles, classroom dynamics, and power structures. The *20-mark Question 2 (pages 12–14)* shows how students must compare audience interpretations across **Doctor Who (1963)** and **His Dark Materials (2020)** using social and historical context.
For Section B (Newspapers), *Question 3 (page 15)* provides clear examples of political bias, while *Question 4 (pages 16–19)* gives extensive indicative content on analysing the **Daily Mirror** double-page spread, including preferred readings, bias, layout, and language.
The final *20-mark synoptic Question 5 (pages 20–24)* includes detailed guidance on evaluating media funding models, covering topics such as digital disruption, advertising, subscriptions, and the impact of technology on media industries.

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, 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 and helps identify strengths and weaknesses in both short and extended responses.