Using Documentary Films In Your Classroom “Film is one of the three universal languages, the other two: mathematics and music” (Frank Capra)
Jonathan Brusco Taught grades 4-8 and University Level. M.A. and California Credentialed. Taught at Private Catholic and Independent Schools Taught a variety of subjects in a self contained classroom and single subject environment. Currently teach 7 th Grade World Studies at The Harker School Been doing documentary films with my students for 4 years.
Why films? The average 8-18 year old spends 4 hours a day watching TV. (Yet they didn’t have time to finish their homework.) Kids relate to films so why not use these to educate them?
Technology is a tool with many uses. Having your students only do word processing and power point is not making good use of your technology. Being a teacher in the 21 st century is finding ways to adapt and incorporate new technology.
Today’s Agenda Introduce what a documentary short is. Discuss how it might be implemented. Technological and Equipment needs Curricular Objectives Sample Movie Film Structure Q & A
Documentary Shorts 5-10 minute films that discuss a specific topic. Usually coincide with social studies. Can be cross curricular.
Implementation In a self contained classroom – Should be cross curricular (usually Social Studies/English) – Will require thought out planning – Can be attached to school trips/events.
Single Subject Classroom More difficult due to time constraints. Can’t address as many cross curricular themes. Will be making more films. Might suggest a club…
Documentary Film Club Requires a commitment on both parts (student and teacher) Students often more involved. Groups more cohesive. Fewer films
Required Equipment One Computer for every 3 students. Backup drive DV tape or HD based cameras – Flip/Pocket cameras iMovie or Windows Movie Maker
Optional but highly recommended Wireless or wired lapel mics. Tabletop mics Tripods
Curricular Applications Very applicable to Social Studies – Topics can be focused or widely accessible. – Usually use as a Spring Activity (more content available)
Skills Standards 4.4 Understand digital applications appropriate to specific media and projects. 4.5 Know the key technological skills appropriate for occupations in the arts industry. 4.6 Know how technology and the arts are interrelated in the development of presentations and productions. 4.7 Understand how technology can reinforce, enhance, or alter products and performances. 7.7 Develop a personal commitment to and apply high-quality craftsmanship to a product or presentation and continually refine and perfect it. 8.4 Adhere to the copyright and intellectual property laws and regulations, and use and cite proprietary information appropriately.
8.5 Understand the ethical implications of the degree of influence media, arts, and performances have on individuals. 8.6 Understand liability and compliance issues relevant to the arts, media, and entertainment industries. 9.3 Understand how to organize and structure work individually and in teams for effective performance and the attainment of goals Know key influences on the origin and evolution of art, technology, media, and perfor mance (e.g., the influence of historical styles on contemporary idioms) Use technical applications in the creative process, where appropriate.
Topic Choice Field trips are an excellent opportunity to make a film Consider the capabilities of your students. Consider the breadth of the topic. Consider the potential for interviews.
Lets Watch a Film On Japanese Internment Camps during WWII 6 th & 7 th Grade students. Their first film project. Won Best Picture
Film Requirements 1.Minimum of 5 minutes long 2.Includes two interviews 3.Includes narration 4.Includes live video footage 5.Includes music 6.Includes Special Effects
Film Structure Make it like an essay (kids get that!) Introduction Key Point #1 (Interview – Narration) Key Point #2 (Interview – Narration) Key Point #3,4,etc… Conclusion and Opinion
Copyright Issues Think about how it will be used (for profit or public forum?) Photos (cite at the end credits) Music (Instrumental ok, others depends) Public Video clips (stay away from them) How will you make it available to others?
Resources Plans and worksheets – Contact me – Online Tutorials – In Store Courses – For Adults and for Students – Field Trips (FREE!) –
Questions? Thanks and Good Luck