AS/A2 Film Studies

AS / A2 Film Studies

WHY TAKE FILM STUDIES?
A Level Film Studies is a course for students with a strong enthusiasm for film. If you are interested in discussing and writing about films, analysing the camerawork, the soundtrack, the set-design, or researching how they have been produced and marketed to attract an audience, then Film Studies may be for you. Film Studies will develop your skills of critical analysis and essay-writing and combines well with a wide range of other A-level subjects, such as English, History, Drama, Business, Sociology.

WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF STUDY?
In the first year, you will study; Exploring Film Form. In this part of the course you will study how films make meaning through camerawork, editing, mise en scene and sound. You will then move on to study British and American Film. In this part of the course you will study a range of British and American films, as well as researching how the film industry operates both in Hollywood and in the UK. In the second year the focus shifts to include films from different parts of the world. You will have the opportunity to undertake research into a topic of your own choice, such
as the films of a particular director.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I NEED AND DEVELOP?
You will need to be open to watching films very closely, pausing and analysing the detail of particular shots, making detailed notes and putting together your own analysis in the form of written essays. In addition you will have the opportunity to work more creatively by designing a detailed photo storyboard. In the second year you will have the option of making a short film yourself.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
40% coursework; 60% examination. In both years the coursework
involves extended analytical writing tasks as well as creative work. Examinations will involve writing extended essays in answer to set films and topics.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
To develop your appreciation of film, visits to different cinemas may be organised, such as the Manchester Cornerhouse or the Vue Cheshire Oaks. In addition, Film students will have the opportunity of participating in the Media and Performing Arts Residential visit to New York.