Film (KS5) | ISB Secondary

Film (Pre-U)

The IB Film course aims to develop students’ artistic and analytical abilities by engaging them in both the study and creation of film. It encourages students to explore the expressive power of film as a global art form and a means of storytelling that reflects and shapes culture. Through critical viewing, collaborative production, and personal reflection, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the language of film and its role in society.

One of the key aims is to cultivate visual literacy and critical thinking. Students learn to analyze film texts, interpret meaning, and evaluate how technical elements—such as cinematography, editing, sound, and mise-en-scène—contribute to the viewer’s experience. They also study films from a variety of cultures and time periods to understand diverse cinematic traditions and perspectives.

In terms of outcomes, students will be able to critically evaluate films, compare works across different cultures, and apply film theory in both academic and creative contexts. They will gain practical skills in screenwriting, cinematography, directing, editing, and sound design, as well as developing experience at working collaboratively on film projects. Ultimately, students emerge as informed, reflective, and imaginative individuals capable of both appreciating and contributing to the world of film.

In order to meet these aims we will…

The IB Film course is intended to cultivate students as both film critics and creators, empowering them to explore the medium intellectually, creatively, and culturally. This is achieved through four coursework components:

Textual Analysis: A written analysis of a film excerpt.
Comparative Study: Comparison of two films from different cultures on the topic of the student’s choice.
Film Portfolio: Video show reel, reflection and documentation of practical production work across three different production roles.
Collaborative Film Project (for HL): A completed short film, produced in a team, with accompanying documentation and reflection.

The key goals and intentions of the IB Film course are:

1. Develop Film Literacy - Students learn how to analyze film texts critically by studying:

Film history
Film theory
Cinematic techniques
The cultural and ideological contexts of film

2. Encourage Critical Thinking - Students evaluate the meaning and effect of film elements such as:

Narrative structure
Mise-en-scène
Cinematography
Sound
Editing

3. Foster Creative Filmmaking - Students engage in practical production work, developing:

Original ideas and scripts
Technical production skills
Collaboration and problem-solving in filmmaking

4. Promote International-Mindedness

The course includes the study of films from diverse cultures and encourages understanding of:
How films reflect and influence cultural values
Global perspectives on filmmaking

5. Balance Theory and Practice

IB Film blends scholarly research with hands-on production. Students are expected to:
Produce short films
Analyze films in writing
Reflect on their own creative process

Students will be able to;

Demonstrate understanding of film language, including visual, audio, and narrative techniques.
Critically analyze films from a range of cultures, genres, and historical periods.
Apply film theory and criticism in written and oral responses.
Compare films from different cultural contexts, recognizing diverse cinematic styles and perspectives.
Create original film work, including screenplays, storyboards, and short films.
Use professional filmmaking tools and techniques (e.g., camera work, sound, editing, post-production).
Collaborate effectively in creative film projects, taking on a variety of roles (e.g., director, editor, writer).
Reflect critically on their own creative process, choices, and learning throughout the course.
Communicate ideas about film clearly, both in writing and through visual media.
Engage with film as an academic discipline, connecting practical skills with theoretical knowledge.
Meet formal assessment criteria, including textual analysis, comparative study, film portfolio, and collaborative film project (HL).
Develop transferable skills such as creativity, problem-solving, time management, and cultural awareness.

Subject Staff

Mr. R Edwards

Teacher

Curriculum Journey

Film Curriculum

Pre-U (Year 12 & 13)

Curriculum Outline

IBDP Film Subject Brief

Marking & Feedback

Framework Document

Which degrees does this IB subject complement?*

Media & Journalism

Film Studies

Animation

English or another language

Digital Marketing

Psychology

*The degrees listed are some examples of courses that the subject supports but this is not an exhaustive list. In addition, please note that these subjects are not compulsory for each degree. Please consult individual university websites for specific requirements for their courses.

ISB Secondary Parent Website

Film (Pre-U)