Learning objective:

Practice writing about how gender is constructed technical

aspects

Possible AS Exam Question

Answer the question below, with detailed references to specific examples from the extract only.

1. Discuss the ways in which the extract constructs the representation of gender using the following:

• Camera shots, angles, movement and composition• Editing• Sound• Mise en scene

Keyword brainstorming in pairs

• Brainstorm key editing terms

• Brainstorm key sound terms

Some sound keywords• Score• (Non) Diegetic

• Amplification – made louder• Bass – a low tone• Cacophonous – a non-rhythmical noise• Crescendo – a build up of sound to a climax• Digital – computer generated sounds• Discordant – sounds that conflict, are inharmonious• Mechanical• Melody – a series of notes that form a distinct pattern• Monotone – a single tone• Oscillating – sound that goes up and down in pitch and tone• Rhythmic – a regular pattern of beats• Synchronised – sound working together with the visuals• Symphonic – a collection of instruments in an orchestra.

• Continuity editing – “invisible” editing (“match on action”, “shot-reverse-shot”) – linear narrative (flash backs)?

• Rhythm – pace of editing:– Quick for action sequences?– Slow for character studies?

• Cross cutting – alternates 2 (or more) lines of action that occur in different places, usually at the same time

• Transitions – uncommon in TV drama, except for straight cuts. They explicitly connect shots in some way. Examples include:– Fade– Wipe– Dissolve

• Effects – making the editing obvious:– Motion control: speed up, slow motion, freeze frame– Picture effects: black and white, split screen (vs cross cutting), captions,

tinting, colouring

Some editing keywords

Gender Stereotypes

• What are some of the gender stereotypes we would associate with men and women?.

Men:

BreadwinnerNot in touch with their emotions- rationalObsessed by sport and sexPhysically strongerImmatureCompetitiveAggressiveRuthless

Women:

Emotional irrational

Gossip

Mature and responsible MaternalDomesticatedPhysically weaker Supportive and sensitive

Keyword brainstorming in pairs

• Brainstorm general descriptive keywords (e.g. connotes, archetype)

For the following short clips

1. Watch clip – do not take notes2. Watch clip 3 more times – take notes on how

gender is constructed using 2 technical aspects

3. Compare notes with your partner4. Selected feedback to the group5. Watch clip again6. Write at least 2 paragraphs on the construction

of gender7. Peer assess – WWW and EBI

connotes

represents

symbolises

subverts

stereotypes

archetype

stock type

constructs

audience

post-feminist

post-modernantagonist

protagonist

complex

multi-faceted

patriarchal/matriarchal

status/power

portrays

subservient

passionate/dispassionate

tensionmood

atmosphere

appropriate

hybrid

tyrant

(anti) hero

reinforces

• Survivors (gender)• http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p006hp34

• Eastenders• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHjfdeVvJP0

Traditional gender stereotypes are subverted; Janine is a dominant, aggressive female, Barry a