Film IB Higher and Standard Level

Film IB (Higher and Standard Level)

FILM (SL)

International Baccalaureate

Campus: Cheadle and Marple (24.02.09)

This course is offered as part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. You will take 3 Higher Level subjects and 3 Standard Level subjects and complete components in Theory of Knowledge, Creativity Action Service and an Extended Essay.

Course overview

IB Standard Level Film includes detailed study of British, Hollywood, and World Cinema, and allows you to develop your own filmmaking skills alongside this. You will approach familiar and unfamiliar film texts from a range of perspectives, and discuss their technical and artistic features. You will also work on the pre-production, production and post-production of an original film text.

Areas of study include:

• Genre


• Representation


• Narrative


• The film industry


• Audience


• Technical skills

You will explore the world through the medium of cinema, and will be expected to show awareness of, and sensitivity to, other countries and cultures.

How you will learn

Viewing films is often a shared experience, and much of your learning will be done in group situations, watching films (and extracts) and developing ideas about them. Your practical skills will be developed through class workshops, and you will take part in your own filmmaking project as part of a small group. Individual research and writing skills will also be developed through a variety of methods, and you will need to manage your own workload effectively.

How you will be assessed

External Assessment (50%):

• A presentation in which you discuss the technical features of a short film clip, and the effects the director creates by using these. (25%)


• Independent Study: you will complete some detailed research about a film-based topic of your choice, and produce the script for a documentary exploring this topic. (25%)

Internal Assessment (50%):

• Film production: you will work as part of a small group to produce a short film.


• Portfolio of planning evidence and evaluative writing about the film you have made.

Special entry requirements

Standard college entry criteria for I.B., normally 6 GCSEs at Grade B or above in appropriate subjects.

It is not necessary to have a previous qualification in Media Studies, though if you have enjoyed study of the media, then you will enjoy this course too. You need to be committed to both the practical and theoretical sides of this course.

What students say about the I.B.

The I.B. is challenging yet great fun it educates students for success beyond school or college

I think I.B. students are much better prepared for University, as they have good time management skills and really know how to learn

Other useful information

It is hoped that we will make regular visits to the cinema, and to appropriate educational events, festivals and workshops.