Film Studies
Studying film allows students to explore one of the most influential art forms of the modern era, enhancing their understanding of storytelling, culture, and media. The Film Studies curriculum has been designed to transform and engage students within our school community, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper appreciation of cinema’s role in society. By analysing and creating films, students gain valuable insights into societal issues, global perspectives, and the impact of media, preparing them for careers in the arts or enriching their cultural knowledge.
Course Details
A Level Film Studies, Eduqas
Specification –https://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/film-studies-as-a-level/#tab_keydocuments
Course Description
A Level Film Studies is an engaging and comprehensive course that explores the art of film-making, film theory, and the cultural significance of cinema. Students analyse a diverse range of films, from classic Hollywood to contemporary global cinema, and examine how films convey meaning through visual and narrative techniques. The course covers key areas such as film history, genre studies, and critical analysis, encouraging students to understand and appreciate the complex interplay between film, society, and ideology. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to create their own short films, applying theoretical knowledge to practical projects. This course is ideal for those interested in pursuing careers in film, media, or the arts, or for anyone passionate about understanding the powerful medium of film.
Programme of Study
Component 1 – Varieties of film and film making
Component 1 of the Eduqas A Level Film Studies course examines American and British cinema across different eras. Students compare a Classical Hollywood film with a New Hollywood film, study two modern American films (one mainstream, one independent), and analyse two British films. This component fosters a deep understanding of cinematic evolution, modern filmmaking, and the unique features of British cinema, offering a comprehensive view of film history and its cultural impact.
Key details:
- Written Examination: 2hr 30mins
- 120 Marks (split into three 40 mark sections)
- 35% of the qualification
Component 2 – Global Filmmaking perspectives
Component 2 of the Eduqas A Level Film Studies course requires students to study a diverse range of cinematic traditions, including two non-English language films (one European, one non-European), a documentary, a 1920s silent film, and an experimental film. This component fosters a deep understanding of international cinema, non-fiction storytelling, and the historical and innovative techniques of significant film movements.
Key details:
- Written Examination: 2hr 30mins
- 100 Marks (split into four sections)
- 35% of the qualification
Component 3 – Film Production
Production is a vital component of the Eduqas A Level Film Studies course, allowing students to apply their filmmaking knowledge. It involves creating either a short film or a screenplay for a short film, with the screenplay requiring a digitally photographed storyboard of a key sequence. Students must also submit an evaluative analysis comparing their work to professionally produced films and screenplays, including at least three short films totalling 80 minutes from a specified compilation. The production brief, set initially for three years, offers four options: two focusing on narrative elements and two on character-led elements. The production element of this course allows students to demonstrate their critical understanding of filmmaking through a practical lens.
Key details:
- Non-exam assessment (NEA) completed over 12 weeks
- 60 Marks (production, 40 marks, evaluative analysis, 20 marks)
- 30% of qualification (production, 20%, evaluative analysis, 10%)
Home Learning
In the 6th form, you will be assigned weekly tasks to prepare for upcoming lessons. We expect students to be proactive and engage in independent learning by regularly reading around the subject. Once you’ve completed the assigned work, consider further enrichment activities such as researching upcoming topics or beginning your film revision notes.
Where can Film take you:
Further Study
Degrees / Courses in:
- Performing arts
- Broadcast
- Publishing
- Journalism
- Advertising and Marketing
- Film Studies
- Media Management
- Television Studies
- English Literature/Language
Careers in:
- Advertising and Marketing
- Broadcasting
- Social networking
- Design
- Film/Television Production
- ICT, journalism
- Publishing
- Creative Writing
- Human Resources
How can parents support their child’s learning
- Encourage your child to question how and why films are made.
- Encourage your child to stay up to date with what is in the news regarding the film and media industry.
- Encourage your child to explore a range of cinematic movements.
- Take an interest in your child’s learning when completing work at home.
Useful Links
- Exam Board – eduqas.co.uk
- BBC Bitesize – bbc.co.uk/bitesize
- Furturelearn – https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/collections/filmmaking
- British Film Institute (BFI) – https://www.bfi.org.uk/
