A-LEVEL FILM STUDIES

Year One AS
Unit 1: We produce analyses of two film excerpts 1000-1500 words each. Students then produce a synopsis for an imaginary film sequence 400 words, its storyboard or screenplay 500-800 words and an evaluation 400-500 words. This work is informed by study of codes and conventions, narrative and genre, and how these factors target and are interpreted by audiences.
Unit 2: Students learn about the business of film making how it is financed, organised and how audience figures are obtained and used to inform product content. We analyse the motivations of producers and consumers of film products. 1 ½ hr exam stimulus response.
Unit 3: Students study British films and examine how values, norms and beliefs can be communicated through representations, stereotypes and characterisations. One film studied is listed by the Exam Board and students can choose from a wide range of themes and subjects to select a second for close study. 1 ½ hr written exam.

Year Two A2
Unit 4: Students can undertake their own research project 1000 words examining a particular director, performer or production team concentrating on the ways in which these people influence the way a film is made and regarded by the industry and audiences referencing a minimum of three different films and produce a 1000 word presentation script.
In addition students produce a piece of film journalism 2000 words or a screen play 2000 words All these assignments are internally marked and externally moderated.
Unit 5: Students will study a minimum of three films from a series of options determined by their nationality, genre or their historical period. 1 ½ hr exam requiring two synoptic essays.

Unit 6: Students learn to synthesize their knowledge in order to demonstrate critical skills displaying a detailed understanding of key concepts, an engagement with issues and current debates and an ability to make an informed, personal response to the film products. 2 hr exam.

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