Please note: The Foundation Portfolio examples provided in this resource have recently been checked and the comments adapted to fit the revised mark scheme for examination from 2024.
The candidate’s marks are at the top of level 5, except for AO3iv where it is a high level 2, therefore, using a best fit model, we can say that overall the portfolio fulfills the assessment criteria for level 5. if it were not for the lack of variety in the use of technical and creative skills to communicate ideas via the Creative Critical Reflection (CCR), it would have been given full marks.
AO2 The candidate demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of how meaning is created. They
offer some insight into the success of their own product and demonstrate an
understanding of the key concepts. There is a sophisticated engagement with all
four questions.
AO3 The finished product
shows sophisticated use of media language. It is clearly
the outcome of a process and is entirely convincing as a film opening. Its
meaning is clear to the viewer and demonstrates
insightful engagement with them. The appropriate use of elements
relating to film production is sophisticatedly handled
and codes and conventions are adhered to. The ability to research and plan a media product is sophisticated, with detailed evidence visible throughout the blog and within the film opening.
There is detailed evidence of decisions and revisions as part of the process,
indicating a clear sense of the process of the
production. Unfortunately, digital creative tools are used to limited effect in the CCR, with only one application employed.
Overall the portfolio presented in the blog below is an excellent example of what is expected at this level. There are a significant number of blog posts which are, on the whole, relevant to the brief. However, some of the preliminary materials are not directly relevant to the final outcome (see notes) and could be omitted from the blog without affecting the marks. Posts are clearly labelled and dated and follow a clear path from the start of the project to the final product and evaluation and CCR.
Research has been completed to a sophisticated standard across a range of tasks that are relevant to the final product. The Preliminary task, where appropriate, has also been taken into consideration when assessing the candidate. Planning is detailed, including a wide range of tasks that are clearly seen as contributing to the final production. This is a sophisticated and effective portfolio demonstrating a range of thoughtful, detailed, and relevant planning activities, for example, recce reports, casting information, scripting and storyboarding. There is, however, still room for improvement, for example, the inclusion of a screenplay and risk assessments. The production is sophisticated and is clearly readable as a film within its genre. The Creative Critical Evaluation is sophisticated but could be improved by a greater creative use of a range of appropriate digital applications to better demonstrate the candidate’s knowledge and understanding.
Cambridge International AS & A Level Media Studies
AO3 The finished product shows sophisticated use of media language. It is clearly the outcome of a process and is entirely convincing as a film opening. Its meaning is clear to the viewer and demonstrates insightful engagement with them. The appropriate use of elements relating to film production is sophisticatedly handled and codes and conventions are adhered to. The ability to research and plan a media product is sophisticated, with detailed evidence visible throughout the blog and within the film opening. There is detailed evidence of decisions and revisions as part of the process, indicating a clear sense of the process of the production. Unfortunately, digital creative tools are used to limited effect in the CCR, with only one application employed.
Overall the portfolio presented in the blog below is an excellent example of what is expected at this level. There are a significant number of blog posts which are, on the whole, relevant to the brief. However, some of the preliminary materials are not directly relevant to the final outcome (see notes) and could be omitted from the blog without affecting the marks. Posts are clearly labelled and dated and follow a clear path from the start of the project to the final product and evaluation and CCR.
Research has been completed to a sophisticated standard across a range of tasks that are relevant to the final product. The Preliminary task, where appropriate, has also been taken into consideration when assessing the candidate. Planning is detailed, including a wide range of tasks that are clearly seen as contributing to the final production. This is a sophisticated and effective portfolio demonstrating a range of thoughtful, detailed, and relevant planning activities, for example, recce reports, casting information, scripting and storyboarding. There is, however, still room for improvement, for example, the inclusion of a screenplay and risk assessments. The production is sophisticated and is clearly readable as a film within its genre. The Creative Critical Evaluation is sophisticated but could be improved by a greater creative use of a range of appropriate digital applications to better demonstrate the candidate’s knowledge and understanding.