In this class, we cover English (reading, writing, and analysis) with a distinct Media Studies slant. We look at how stories work not just on the page, but visually and structurally, too.
So far this year, we’ve sampled novels (The Mist), explored social psychology through Lord of the Flies, and spent term three studying the visual and narrative complexity of Arrival, and some other short associated texts.
In term four, we’re shifting from analysing media to making it. You'll do so by designing, scripting, and shooting your own short film based on one of the texts we’ve covered this year.
PLEASE NOTE: Anyone considering taking this class in term four who was not in the class for term three: you'll need to learn some stuff before you use it in context. I have a film techniques assignment I can give you to do in your own time, where you will learn a bunch of concepts around film techniques - this class is about using those techniques in a creative way.
Expect to:
- Adapt a specific chapter or scene from The Mist, Lord of the Flies, or Arrival into a short screenplay.
- Pitch your concept to the class.
- Scout locations, build shot lists, and digitally or hand-draw storyboards.
- Direct and film a short sequence, making intentional choices about lighting, camera angles, and sound.
- Edit raw footage into a polished final cut, adding sound design and atmospheric score.
- Write about how your directorial choices reinterpret the source material.
Also, please note: filmmaking is inherently collaborative, practical, and occasionally chaotic. We will continue using a hybrid approach, combining traditional practical methods with digital editing tools and AI software to speed up preproduction and concept design. However, film production requires active teamwork, strict deadline management, and a willingness to step in front of or behind the camera. If you aren't ready to pull your weight in a creative crew, handle constructive feedback, and collaborate through practical challenges, you may struggle with this term’s workflow.