Film Studies GCSE

Film Studies GCSE  Exam Board: Eduqas

(WJEC)

GCSE Film Studies has always enabled students, particularly those with a flair for English, to do something which pushes their creativity and analytical skills. Students who take this course are very motivated and the work they put in is reflected in the results. Many students exceed their targets and some by several grades. It is also the only GCSE option that gives students the opportunity to utilise and hone creative writing skills.

How the course is assessed

Paper 1: US Film (35%) Paper 2: Global Film (35%) Non-Exam Assessment: Production (30%)

Suitable Candidates

Students will learn the nuances of film form (cinematography, sound etc.), film structure (narrative, genre, etc.) and representational issues. In addition, they will also be taught how to comment on the social, historical and political context of films.

The two exams at the end of the course will test the above skills but also their understanding of six different films. These films have been chosen to expand and enhance their knowledge of the subject, including independent films, non-English language films and films made pre-1960.As well as these academic aspects of the course, students will also learn screenwriting and filmmaking skills. They will begin by being taught pre-production skills (such as script formatiing and storyboarding) before moving on to camerawork, sound design and editing. Alongside this, they will also be taught the skills needed to write their own movie screenplay. 30% of their final grade will be assessed in the creation of either a two-minute film or a short screenplay - created independently from an original idea.

Film Studies and filmmaking are incredibly rewarding and many of our former students have gone on to study it at university or begun burgeoning careers in the movie industry.

31

This course is aimed at students passionate about film, future filmmakers, creative writers, or anyone keen to think about film on a deeper level. As well as being an opening for anyone who wants to work in the film industry, it is also an opportunity for anyone who enjoys English, as the skills and knowledge are easily transferable. Film studies is good for anyone who enjoys a mix of critical thinking and hands-on experience. Post 16 Progression Routes

A-Level in Film Studies, Media Studies or Photography. A-Level in English Literature, English Language or Combined Language and Literature.

A variety of BTEC Media and Film Production courses

Student Comments

“As someone who studies AS Maths and Triple Science, I enjoy challenging subjects and Film Studies is one of them. I have experienced films that I would never have usually watched and learnt lots about the film making process. It is not all about watching movies! I have found it extremely entertaining and educational all the way through.”