Film Studies

Aims

The WJEC EDUQAS Film Studies specification is designed to introduce A level pupils to a wide variety of films in order to broaden their knowledge and understanding of film and the range of responses films can generate. As Film is one of the main cultural innovations of the 20th century and a major art form of the last hundred years, those who study it characteristically bring with them a high degree of enthusiasm and excitement for what is a powerful and culturally significant medium, inspiring a range of responses from the emotional to the reflective. Entry requirement It is not necessary for students to have previously studied GCSE Film Studies. Pupils can take Film Studies alongside Media Studies. Course structure

The Film A Level course comprises of three units. Two of these are exam based (70%), while the third unit focuses on practical coursework (30%). Unit One (35%) explores Hollywood Films from 1930 to 1940; American film since 2005 and British film since 1995.

Unit Two (35%) particularly focuses upon global film making perspectives and includes the study of documentaries, film movements and experimental film. Unit Three (30%) is the coursework production unit. Pupils will produce a short film and write an accompanying evaluative report.

Unit

One: Varieties of film and filmmaking Two: Global filmmaking perspectives Three: Short film and evaluation

Examined by

Written essay format examination comprising three questions: 2 hours 30 minutes (35%) Written essay format examination comprising three questions: 2 hours 30 minutes (35%) Coursework which is internally assessed and externally moderated (30%)

Higher Education and Career opportunities Film Studies A Level provides an excellent platform from which to take the study of the subject further at university with both practical and theoretical courses available. It combines well with a wide variety of subjects and can easily complement Drama, English Literature, Modern Languages, Media Studies, Music, and Art but also would sit nicely within an A level selection including sciences. Whilst it leads towards careers within the film industry and broader creative industries, pupils can always study the subject for its own sake and for the sheer enjoyment of film.