GCSE Film Studies
Introduction
Film is an important part of many people’s lives. The WJEC Eduqas Film Studies GCSE aims to draw on learners’ enthusiasm for film and introduce them to a wide variety of cinematic experiences through films which have been important in the development of film and film technology. The films students study introduces them to a broad range of films from around the world as well as giving historical perspective.
The subject links with English and History to provide analytical and critical skills as well as developing social and historical perspective. Production is an integral part of students’ learning giving them the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and understanding of how films are constructed and applying this to their own creative films and screenplays.
What Will I Study?
Students will learn:
- How films are constructed through cinematography (camerawork and lighting), mise-en-scène (sets, locations, props and costume are used), editing and sound
- How films are organised into structures (genre and narrative)
- How films can be used artistically and as a way of communicating ideas and issues
- A wide range of contexts (social, cultural, historical, and political) that influence filmmakers
How will I be Assessed?
Component 1: Key Developments in US Film
This examination explores comparative study of US film, key developments in film and film technology and independent films.
- Written Examination: 1hour 30 minutes – 35% of qualification and 70 marks
Component 2: Global Film: Narrative, Representation and Film Style
This examination assesses knowledge and understanding of three global films produced outside of the US from contemporary UK films to global English language and non-English language films.
- Written Examination: One hour thirty minutes – 35% of qualification and 70 marks
Component 3: Non-Exam Assessment 30% of qualification. 60 marks coursework compromises of:
- One genre-based film extract (either a short film students produce or a written screenplay) based on a specific genre
- One evaluative analysis of the production where students analyse and evaluate their production in relation to professionally produce film or screenplays.
Films that will be studied are:
Component 1 – Key Developments in US Film
A comparative study of:
- Rebel without a cause (Ray, USA, 1955) and Ferris Bueller’s Day off (Huges, USA, 1986) 12A
US Independent Film
- Whiplash (Chazelle, USA, 2014) 15
Component 2 – Global Film
- English Language – Slumdog Millionaire (Boyle, UK, 2008) 15
- Non-English Language – The Farewell (Lulu Wang, China/USA, 2019) PG
Contemporary UK Film
- Skyfall (Mendes, UK, 2012) 12
Career Opportunities
Studying Film Studies at Woodcote opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the film, media, and creative industries. It provides a foundation for roles such as film directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and production design. Students can also explore careers in film criticism, journalism, marketing, and digital content creation. Beyond the film industry, the course develops critical thinking, storytelling, and technical skills that are valuable in advertising, broadcasting, and social media. Whether pursuing a career in filmmaking or a related creative field, Film Studies equips students with essential knowledge and skills for the evolving media landscape.
Exam Board: WJEC
Course Code: 60308898
Contact information
For more information please contact:
