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WHY IS FILM IMPORTANT TO STUDENTS?
Digital literacy is an important 21st century skill that today's students should be equipped with in order to be well-rounded citizens of tomorrow. One component of digital literacy is media literacy, as demonstrated through the medium of digital storytelling. The need to both produce and consume media is a reality of today's global culture. There are so many stories to be told through film making, as evidenced not only by Hollywood, but also by the phenomenon of YouTube and reality TV. Everyday people are sharing their lives, thoughts, feelings, struggles, and triumphs on social media. |
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WHAT IS A FILM CHALLENGE?
A film challenge is the process through which students learn about elements of effective film making, utilize their skills to communicate their mastery of content, and produce a final film product that touches an authentic audience. As project-based learning and authentic assessments gain momentum due to the implementation of Common Core standards across the country, introducing students to the concept of digital storytelling has become more possible than ever before. For the last six years, I've been implementing film into the core curriculums I teach: Language Arts and Social Studies. While my goal is to help students effectively express their mastery of concepts on film, I think it is also necessary to educate them in what makes a good film through the use of technology mini-lessons. |
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Before students film:
It's important to front load student understanding of some basic concepts of film and video production. These are a few of the lessons that I deliver to my students prior to issuing film challenges:
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