About this publication

This support material was prepared with the assistance of the senior examining team. It should be read in conjunction with the Diploma Programme Film guide (published in March 2008 for first assessment in 2010).

This document outlines the requirements for higher level (HL) and standard level (SL) internal and external assessment and provides samples of assessed student work. The samples of work provided are actual student work and are presented in their original styles, which may include spelling, grammatical and any other errors.

The purpose of this support material is to:

• provide teachers with examples of the kinds of work that can be undertaken

• provide teachers with further guidance on selecting suitable topics for the independent study, and to assist students with researching, writing and presenting the independent study

• offer some guidance about the terminology needed for each component

• show the application of the assessment criteria and why the student work received the marks awarded.

In addition to the samples of work by students there are further notes for guidance. These include:

• guidance on how to undertake and present work for assessment

• frequently asked questions

• a production portfolio checklist for students

• a production portfolio checklist for teachers

• a guide for students on how to reference sources.

External assessment

External assessment is worth 50% of the final mark at both HL and SL. It allows students to apply their knowledge and understanding of part 1 (textual analysis) and part 2 (film theory and history) of the course. The requirements for external assessment are:

• oral presentation

• independent study.

Samples of the presentation component can be heard in the assessed student work section, with examiner comments on these selected samples. All work included has been marked against the assessment criteria and achievement levels provided in the Film guide and is accompanied by comments from the examiners.

Internal assessment

Internal assessment is an integral part of the course of study in film at both HL and SL and is worth 50% of the final mark. It allows students to apply their knowledge and understanding of film ideas and concepts through the completion of a production portfolio. The requirements for the production portfolio are:

• the student’s completed film project

• the accompanying documentation.

Samples of internal assessment can be viewed along with the marks awarded for the work.