Problem Based Learning

Walden University 7106-1 Project Home Page


Logistics
Unit Title: The Door (Adapted from AFI, 2006)
Course Taught: Video Production (Technology)
Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 3 weeks

Goals
Problem:
What are the effects of lighting, sound and framing on the outcome of a screenplay within the following parameters?

This project requires students to work in teams within a few constraints to create a story that develops visual literacy cues. The focus of this project will be to build on the editing and storytelling skills learned in the previous project and to add lighting and small camera effects to the film product. In this project, a person is about to open a door. The person hears a sound and becomes mildly concerned. The person finds the door locked and searches for his or her keys. The person hears the sound again and becomes visibly apprehensive. As the filmmakers, the students goals are to build tension and growing panic, using any visual element or device that they can think of. The film will close with the person finally opening the door and getting to the other side safely. Here, the students will communicate the character's feeling of relief and safety.

Technology Standards:
ISTE NETS-S 1a. apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes
ISTE NETS-S 1b. create original works as a means of personal or group expression
ISTE NETS-S 2b. communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences using a variety of media and formats
ISTE NETS-S 2d. contribute to project teams to produce original works or solve problems
ISTE NETS-S 3b. locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information from a variety of sources and media
ISTE NETS-S 4b. plan and manage activities to develop a solution or complete a project
ISTE NETS-S 5b. exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology that supports collaboration, learning and productivity
ISTE NETS-S 6b. select and use applications effectively and productively
ISTE NETS-S 6d. transfer current knowledge to learning of new technologies

Content Standards:
My state and district have not identified content standards for my subject area. Illinois has performance indicators for teachers in the area of technology, however, they have not identified technology standards for students.

Prerequisite Skills:
Students have already created one video and have prior knowledge of how to work the camera and an introductory understanding of iMovie to edit the films. This project will assume the students have gained this knowledge, but can easily be adapted to include these skills. Some skills will be taught or retaught as the students raise questions in their groups.

Objectives, Outcomes or Framing Question:
Students will be able to:
  • create an original work using the parameters set out in the project.
  • experiment with camera angles and lighting to create visual effect.
  • evaluate other works to provide constructive feedback.
  • assemble shots in a logical order to visually tell a story.
  • justify shot and lighting assembly in a critique by peers.

References:

AFI (Producer). (2006). Lights, Camera, Education!: AFI K-12 Screen Education: Episode 01: AFI Screen Education Process. [Full Video]. Available from http://www.discoveryeducation.com/