Film Studies
Course Overview
The course aims to develop the students’ interest in and enthusiasm for the study of film and the film industry. They will also engage with a wide range of films, developing skills of observation, critical analysis and personal reflection, as well as developing creative and practical skills.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of grade 5 in GCSE English Language and a love of cinema is required. This is an advanced and theoretical course and students must be motivated to watch films independently in a variety of contexts, complete secondary reading in film theory and write extended essays.
A Level Topics and Assessment
1. Varieties of Film
Section A: Hollywood 1930-1990
Section B: American Film since 2005
Section C: British Film since 1995
2. Global Fim Making
Section A: Global Film
Section B: Documentary Film
Section C: Film Movements - Silent Cinema
Section D: Film Movements - Experimental Film
3. Film Production
|
WJEC |
Unit 1: American and British Film |
Unit 2: Varieties of Film |
Unit 3: Production |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Length |
Written Exam: 3 Hours |
Written Exam: 3 Hours |
Non-Exam Assessment: Film Production |
|
Weighting |
120 marks 35% of A level |
120 marks 35% of A level |
60 marks 30% of A level |
Beyond the Classroom and Future Prospects
Students are given the opportunity to widen their production skills by running a Key Stage 3 Animation Club. They are also encouraged to enter their films in the WJEC Moving Image Awards. Film Studies is a subject that by its nature requires candidates to consider individual, moral, ethical, social, cultural and contemporary issues. A number of our past students have gone on to study film and film production at college and university with the intention of working in the film industry. Other pupils have progressed into a wide range of higher education courses and careers including teaching, media, drama, history and politics.
Student Experience
I chose Film Studies because I love the way films engage with audiences. The impact film has on society is remarkable. If a film can scare an audience, directly challenge contextual issues or offer a place of escapism, that is a success.