Credit Points: 15
Study Time: 150 Hours

This unit explores the history of film style and the importance film technology has had in its development, paying particularly attention to fiction. It links to the other practical units in the course. Research and its context are central to this unit as is the investigation of the relationship between style and practice within the relevant historical context.

You will acquire and develop necessary research and study skills within a critical and theoretical framework, including essay writing, academic referencing, time management and research methodologies.

Outline Syllabus
(An indicative guide to the content covered in this unit)

• Introduction to research and study skills 
• Investigation of historical and contemporary practice analysed within relevant critical contexts 
• Analysis of fiction, documentary and experimental films 
• The relationship between film style and technology

Method of Delivery
Lectures, screenings, discussions, and individual tutorials.

Aims

A1 To introduce you to the major themes and issues related to film production.
A2 To improve your communication and presentation skills, both in written and verbal forms.
A3 To enable you to evaluate and reflect on your own progress and to contextualise your work.
A4 To develop your skills in working individually understanding the correct use of academic protocols.

Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit you will be able to:

LO1 Demonstrate an understanding of the major themes and issues as related to film production.
LO2 Appropriately communicate relevant information and ideas in written and verbal forms.
LO3 Demonstrate your skills in critical reflection and analysis.
LO4 Demonstrate the ability to work independently understanding the correct use of academic protocols.

Reference Material

Key
Bordwell, D. (1998). On The History of Film Style. Cambridge, MA and London: Harvard University Press.
Salt, B. (1993). Film Style and Technology: History and Analysis. (2nd ed.). London: Starword.
Salt B. (2006). Moving Into Pictures. More on Film History, Style, and Analysis. London: Starword.
Thompson, K. and Bordwell, D. (2009). Film History: An Introduction. (3rd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Thompson, K. and Bordwell, D. (2006). Film Art: an Introduction. (8th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.

Recommended

Corrigan, T. (2009). A Short Guide to Writing About Film. (7thed.). New York: Longman.
Gash, S. (1999). Effective Literature Searching for Research. (2nded.). Aldershot: Gower Press.
Greetham, B. (2008). How to Write Better Essays. London & New York: Palgrave.
Pirie, D. B. (1985). How to Write Critical Essays. [e-book]. London & New York: Routledge.
Redman, P. (2005). Good Essay Writing: A Social Sciences Guide. London, Thousand Oaks, CA & New Dehli: Sage Publications & Open University.
Turley, R, M. (2000). Writing Essays. London & New York: Routledge/Falmer.

Websites:

Skills for Open University Study // Skills4study.com // Skills4study.com (writing)

Additional guidance on primary and secondary sources and other appropriate material will be provided by your tutor and Subject Librarian