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Film Studies
Head of Subject: Mrs Amanda Corker
acorker@redruth.cornwall.sch.uk
Welcome to GCSE Film Studies at Redruth School
Film curriculum intent
Film is an important part of many people's lives. Those who choose to study it characteristically bring with them a huge enthusiasm and excitement for film which constantly motivates them in their studies. They experience a powerful medium which inspires a range of responses from the emotional to the reflective as they are drawn into characters, their narratives and the issues films raise. The root of that power is the immersive audio-visual experience film offers – one which can exploit striking cinematography, composition and locations as well as powerful music and sound. Film is one of the major art forms; in the age of moving-image and online content, it important to study a medium which has such a significant influence on the way people think and feel. Students will gain an appreciation and understanding of how Film (and any moving image) is shaped to create meaning and influence on the spectator.
What does the Key Stage 3 curriculum look like?
Although not explicitly taught at Key Stage 3, throughout Key Stage 3 English Film is used to support the teaching of narrative, character, themes and the exploration of core literature texts. At Key Stage 3, students can participate in Film Studies sessions in the LEAP Centre and participate in a film-making day during Redventure Week. This, in addition to the support given during the Options process, means students at Key Stage 3 can confidently select GCSE Film Studies as one of their Key Stage 4 optional subjects.
What does the Key Stage 4 curriculum look like?
You will study the following areas:
- US Film 1930-1960, US Film 1961-1990
- US Independent film
- Global Film
- Contemporary UK Film
You will study the following concepts:
- Film Technology
- Narrative and Genre Representation
- Film Style
- Film Criticism
You will study the key elements of film form including cinematography, mise en scene, editing and sound. You will also study the contexts of your chosen films and what was happening when the film was made.
How can you support film studies learning at home?
Film Studies requires a wide range of new subject-specific terminology, ranging from camera angles to editing techniques. Any support to help with the recall and application of these terms will greatly support students in exam success - this could be as simple as creating a display or a set of flashcards.
Watching and discussing the 6 core films studied can also support students in their learning, alongside a range of factsheets available from the exam board: GCSE Film Studies | Eduqas
Students are required to create their own screenplay and also have to option to create their own film. Any support you can give, from reading a draft to acting in their film, will be greatly appreciated. There is no requirement for any film equipment to be purchased in order to complete the course.
