To what extent does the first episode of Humans conform to conventions of the science fiction genre? [15] (25 minutes)
Points to consider
You would NOT get these handy points if you were asked this question in the final exam. However, this time round, you may use these bullet points for guidance:
- Conventional or unconventional?
- Allegory
- Issues of representation
- Generic paradigms
- Repetition and difference
- Comparisons with other science fiction media
- Media language (shot types, camera angles, sound, editing, etc...)
Basic mark scheme
13-15 marks
• Excellent knowledge and understanding of the extent to which Humans conforms to generic conventions. Excellent knowledge and understanding of the importance of generic conventions.
10-12 marks
• Good knowledge and understanding of the extent to which Humans conforms to generic conventions. Good knowledge and understanding of the importance of generic conventions
7-9 marks
• Satisfactory knowledge and understanding of the extent to which Humans conforms to generic conventions. Generally satisfying knowledge and understanding of the importance of generic conventions.
4-6 marks
• Basic knowledge and understanding of the extent to which Humans conforms to generic conventions. Basic and undeveloped knowledge and understanding of the importance of generic conventions
1-3 marks
• Minimal knowledge and understanding of the extent to which Humans conforms to generic conventions. Minimal if any knowledge and understanding of the importance of generic conventions.
Grading for this one is a little tricky, because a 15 marker is a short answer question that would usually be seen in the context of an entire exam. Here, each 'band' corresponds to a grade. In order to achieve an A*, you need 15 marks, which is WAY harsher than in the final exam!
Feedback
- Let's make this as clear and as straightforward as possible. In A-level media studies, you first make a point, for example 'yet another way in which Humans is a highly typical science fiction product is through it's themes of consciousness, and postmodern ideas of humanity'. Then, you back up this point using a super specific example from a key scene we have studied, making ample reference to media language.
- Make sure to link everything back to the question, your argument, that Humans is either highly conventional, unconventional, or both at the same time
- If you see the keyword 'genre' in a question, this is the question screaming at you to reference Steve Neale, and in particular his notion of repetition and difference
- On a related point, not enough students explored why genre exists, and what function it holds. Genre allows audiences to identify media products, and it allows producers to efficiently target certain very specific audiences. In short, it is an effective marketing technique. Therefore, Humans being both a typical and subversive example of the sci-fi genre allows it to more effectively target audiences