Watching a movie is a great stimulus to reflection and discussion on contemporary school issues (i.e. respect, rights, fears etc). Telling or writing stories can be a way of personal expression and freedom; telling or writing stories can be a way of changing society.
2. OUR EMB EXPERIENCE
The choice of the film “The Help” is closely linked to the issue of bullying, addressed by our project. The movie is based on an award-winning novel written by Kathryn Stockett. The story is set in Jackson, Mississippi in the early 1960s during a time of racial segregation. The Help is a story that focuses on important issues like racism and inequality, but also on important themes like unexpected friendship, courage to stand up for one's rights, the importance of sharing stories, growing up... That's why the novel/movie can be used in many subject areas.
The proposed activities and methods are easily transferable to other films related to various themes. These lesson plans are just examples of how a teacher can use “The Help” but also numerous films for an effective and innovative teaching.
The steps after identifying the objective are:
looking for the most suitable film
planning a series of preparatory activities for the viewing of the film itself
film watching
carrying out activities aimed at understanding and analyzing the messages contained in the film (comprehension cards, analysis cards of the visual message, questionnaires, worksheets, etc.)
developing products related to the issues addressed (hypertext, “to be continued”, role playing, posters, book covers, etc)
self-evaluation
3. SKILLS ACQUISITION
The analysis of the characters, the discussions conducted by class teachers and the analysis of cinematographic languages accompanied by the analysis of texts and posters allow the students to focus their attention on risk behaviors in order to learn how to recognize those involved in an incident of bullying.
The English version viewing allows pupils to improve their language skills. A power point creation contributes actively to the use of ICT tools and improves presentation skills. The analysis of cinematographic languages and that of texts and posters stimulates critical thinking.
4. OVERALL BENEFIT
Students enjoy film watching when they have the chance to get involved in interactive activities. They are very keen in giving opinions and reviewing films. The effects of a good film, well elaborated in class via various student-centred activities, are long lasting.
5. WHEN TO SHOW A FILM
Given the versatile school curriculums and teaching periods, the teacher is expected to plan such an activity beforehand. We recommend film watching:
On special world anti-bullying day
On occasions of substituting an other teacher as long as the material is thoroughly prepared in advance
In this guide you will also find material for the films: “In a better world”, Danish drama (2010) and “Ronan’s escape”, Australian short film (2010)
