MI4007 - Film History

Teaching takes place in weekly lectures and weekly seminars, supported by occasional tutorials. Lectures s introduce you to key moments in cinema history or important debates relating to that history, whilst seminars will enable you to explore relevant themes and issues in relation to class material. Finally, tutorials support you with specific issues, not least concerning assessment.

You are required to make positive contributions to the learning experience. You are expected to prepare for sessions by studying books, articles, films and Internet sources, references to which are provided by the module guide and supplementary material posted on the e-Learning Portal. You are also encouraged to develop communication skills by taking an active part in group discussions.

Classes will involve group discussions with the tutor and fellow students, providing a constructive environment for the enhancement of knowledge and understanding of the subject, preparation for the assessment tasks, and the development of communication skills. Class material (such as Powerpoint slides, links to film clips and discussion points) will be accessible via the e-Learning portal, along with supplementary learning material (which may include web links, suggestions for further viewing and reading). A list of key and further reading material will be available on the eLP, and an electronic reading list will link you directly to key sources, allowing you to access them anytime and anywhere. The module will also incorporate assessment preparation sessions, with advice on how to approach the essay/exam components. Furthermore, the module tutor will offer set office hours for academic support

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
• An understanding of key features of the historical development of cinema from the 1890s to the present day

• An awareness of key critical debates associated with film history, and an ability to historically contextualise a range of films

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• The development of bibliographical and information-gathering skills in the preparation of assignments

• The development of communication skills

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

• An appreciation of the global and cultural contexts of film-making

The assessment strategy for this module is to encourage a breadth of knowledge through an essay (3000 words), chosen from a list of questions. The assessment tests bibliographical and information-gathering skills, and the ability to communicate ideas in written form. Electronic feedback will be given (via the eLP), and tutorial feedback is also offered; these aid the development of knowledge and understanding, and communication skills.

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The module introduces you to key developments in film history, from the earliest cinema of the 1890s, through to the emergence of Hollywood, currents in art and avant-garde cinema, and contemporary film-making tendencies, such as the blockbuster. You will engage with a range of national cinemas and historical periods to gain an understanding of some of the ways in which films have been manufactured, received and discussed. It involves weekly classes, involving lectures, screened material and group discussion tasks.