Media Aesthetics

Film/ComS 121 Media Aesthetics
Instructor: Jenny Stark
Office: Mend 5012
E-mail: jenstark@csus.edu
Office Hours: Wednesday 3-6

Writing Assignment Example (with comments)

Description:
Overview and analysis of the primary aesthetic tools used to create messages in video and film. The basic properties of light, color, area, space, shape, sound, time and motion are defined and discussed as they relate to media production. Introduces students to the concepts and vocabulary necessary for effectively conceiving, producing or criticizing mediated messages.

Text: Film an Introduction: William H. Phillips

Supplies: Internet connection, access to SAC CT
access to Netflix and Hulu Plus
or other alternatives like Amazon Instant Watch, Youtube (in some cases) or Itunes.
Access to Powerpoint

GOALS:
A greater understanding of the technical tools used by films and television.
A developed awareness of messages that are being communicated through films.
An enhanced ability to analyze films.

Writing Assignments (45)
Final Paper (15)
Midterm 20
Final 20

Week 1
1-6 Introduction to Course & Syllabus

Writing Assignment: Feature Film Scene Analysis
Part 1: Read sample scene analysis: 579-602
Complete Writing Assignment 1(Introduction) Due Thursday 1/9/14 by 11 pm (4)

Read Chapter 1: Mise end Scene 11-59
Answer questions 1: Complete Sentences in short essay format(1) Due Thursday 1/9/14 by 11 pm
Powerpoint Presentation on Mise en Scene

Powerpoint Presentation on Imitation of Life
Watch Imitation of Life
Answer questions on Imitation of Life: Complete Sentences in short essay format (3) Due Sunday 1/12/14 by 11 pm (1)
Complete Writing Assignment 2 (Mise en Scene) Due Sunday 1/12/14 by 11 pm (1)

Read Chapter 2: Cinematography 61-107
Answer questions 2: Complete Sentences in short essay format except
when specified otherwise Due Sunday 1/12/14 by 11 pm (1)
Power Point Presentation on Cinematography
Complete Writing Assignment 3 (Cinematography) Due Sunday 1/12/14 by 11 pm (1)

Powerpoint Presentation on Rules of the Game
Watch Rules of the Game
Answer questions on Rules of the Game: Complete Sentences in short essay format Due Sunday 1/12/14 by 11 pm (3)

Powerpoint Presentation on Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Watch the first 10 minutes of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Answer questions linked here: Complete Sentences in short essay format Due Sunday 1/12/14 by 11 pm (3)

Week 2 Tuesday-Friday

Read Chapter 3 Editing
Answer questions linked here: Complete Sentences in short essay format (1) (Due Tuesday 1/14/14 11pm)
Powerpoint Presentation on Editing and Sound

Read Chapter 4 Sound
Answer questions linked here: Complete Sentences in short essay format (1)(Due Tuesday 1/14/14 11 pm )
Powerpoint Presentation on Editing and Sound

Watch Raging Bull
Powerpoint Presentation on Raging Bull
Answer questions linked here: Complete Sentences in short essay format (3)
(Due Friday 1/17/14 11pm)