Collaborative Course with Ballyclare High School
Specification/Examination Board: CCEA
Moving Image Arts is the study of films and film making through the process of making short films. Through hands-on experience, students develop the creative and practical skills needed to make moving image products. Students gain an understanding of the separate art forms that combine to create the cinematic experience: photography, cinematography, editing, art direction, sound design and animation. They also study the language and history of film and animation, through the work of a range of directors, artists and movements. This practical, exciting A-Level course is designed primarily for students who are creative and self-motivated. Pupils will learn to problem solve, work independently, develop and make their own ideas. They will develop excellent organisational skills.
Facilities and Resources
The newly equipped Media Suite provides state of the art filming and editing equipment to allow students to shoot on Digital Video cameras and edit their work. Classroom teaching will utilise interactive whiteboards, film clips and group exercises. Pupil work could also be entered for competitions. Pupils from this collaborative course were winners at Cinemagic in 2010 and 2015, alongside our pupil being awarded top marks in Northern Ireland.
Summary of subject content
The AS course comprises of 2 modules:
AS/1 is the practical side of the course where students produce 1 x 3-4 min film (final piece). Production research to accompany the films will be part of the assessment. Students will embark on filmmaking from September and learn to use cameras and digital editing packages. This module accounts for 60% of the A level, therefore candidates will need to enjoy researching art and film in order to create their own films.
AS/2 is the 1.5 hour online exam where students will analyse film clips. Classroom teaching will prepare students thoroughly for the exam with students analysing the styles of film directors and film movements. This accounts for 40% of the A level.
The A2 course comprises of 2 modules:
A2/1 is the film-making element to the A2 course. In the second year of the A level students produce 1 x 4-7 min film alongside an advanced portfolio. They will build upon the filming techniques they have learned at AS and produce more creative and experimental pieces for A2.
A2/2 is the 2 ¼ hour online exam where students will answer questions based on clips from set study areas and an unseen script.
Assessment methods
Students will be closely monitored throughout the course to ensure progress; they will be shown past pupils work and past papers in preparation for the examination. Unit AS/1 and A2/1 will be internally assessed and externally verified, AS/2 and A2/2 will be externally assessed.
Progression Opportunities
The moving image is a key driver of the creative industries. Moving Image Arts A level is ideal for students who wish to pursue Further or Higher education in courses such as Art, Film, Photography, Media, Graphics, Drama or a combination of any of these subjects. As this is a creative and communications course, Moving Image Arts will be a solid base for those seeking work in any visual related courses. With the film industry booming in Northern Ireland, now is the best time to join this exciting and developing industry.
Entry requirements for Moving Image Arts
Pupils meeting the criteria to return for AS Level study will be accepted on this course.
Art, English, Media, Performing Arts and ICT at GCSE are desirable but not essential.
