We study films! GCSE Film Studies aims to place students’ experiences and creative ideas at the centre of the course.
Students will explore a wide range of films from the British, US and Global film industry. We analyse the key features of film form, genre, narrative and representation in a similar way to their study of poetry and plays in GCSE English Literature.Â
The practical film-making element allows students to develop their IT skills through editing and screen-writing software; as well as the principle camera-work skills needed to shoot on location. This is coursework based and allows students to be really imaginative. They will plan, shoot, edit and evaluate their own footage in order to meet the needs of the production brief.
film studies curriculum map
film studies core knowledge booklet
Film Fact Sheet – Juno
Film Fact Sheet – Tsotsi
Film Fact Sheet – Skyfall
Film Fact Sheet – Slumdog Millionaire
Film Fact Sheet – Dracula
Film Fact Sheet – The Lost Boys
Production brief 2022-2023
GCSE Exam Board: WJEC
You can find the current specifications here
The films studied are:
- Juno (2007) Reitman
- Tsotsi (2005) Hood, South Africa, 2005
- Skyfall (2012) Mendes
- Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Boyle
- Dracula (1930) Browning
- The Lost Boys (1987) Schumacher
As well as clips from a variety of other films
Working Independently
Below are a number of links to resources available to support independent learning:
Assessment in Film Studies
During the course, students will be assessed using past paper questions (stepped questions and essay responses) and knowledge tests. Furthermore, students will complete mock exams alongside their other subjects. Some of the course (30%) is assessed via a coursework unit where students create their own short film in response to a production brief; they will also write an evaluative analysis of their work.Â
Personal Development and Cultural Capital in Film Studies
‘Into Film club’ takes place weekly on a Thursday (after school) where students can watch and discuss a variety of films as part of a National Lottery funded online platform. Film Studies students are prioritised. For more information, visit: https://www.intofilm.
Who Teaches Film Studies
Teacher of Film Studies: Mrs. G. Christie, BA (Hons), P.G.C.E
Email: gchristie followed by @ng6.unity-ed.uk
Mrs Christie gained her BA Hons from the University of East Anglia and her PGCE from the University of Bath. She also managed a tuition centre for several years.
Teacher of Film Studies: Mrs K. Smith B.A. (Hons), P.G.C.E.
Email: ksmith followed by @ng6.unity-ed.uk
Mrs Smith studied Theatre and Performance at the University of Hull and completed her PGCE at the UEA. She has previously worked as  a stage manager, managing theatre productions in Norfolk and London.