Page 150 - Resources and Support for the Online Educator

108 Chapter 6: Real-World Writing

among young people. In completing this documentary project, students had to
gather relevant data from multiple sources, assess the credibility and accuracy
of each source as with any research project, and integrate the information in
documentary film writing. This led to conversations about bias and author’s
purpose. We addressed the danger of a single story, the importance of present-
ing multiple voices throughout the documentary, and the need to look at the
different arguments surrounding their topic. After the research was conducted,
students had to decide how they wanted to string together the facts. We looked
at the differences between TED Talks, which are straightforward lectures,
and Op-Docs, which blend a bit of narrative with information and argument
writing through visual storytelling. On paper and in writing, students can use
documentary filmmaking to make insightful arguments, illuminate different
perspectives, and analyze a subject. When we add a visual emphasis with film-
making, the writing and arguments are elevated. Students’ attention to detail
is expanded and literacy concepts developed.

Video and Filmmaking Tools

The two tools that my students and I use most often for creating videos
are iMovie and WeVideo. Free for MacOS and iOS devices, iMovie enables
students to use iPads to record and edit video. Available in free and paid
subscriptions, WeVideo also has some really cool multimedia editing tools,
green screens, and templates that teachers and students can use to create
film and video projects. For example, an actor can shrink themselves for a
special effect. If you’re filming in school and need a specific background, use
one of the templates or consult the lesson plans available in the Resource
Hub on the WeVideo website. If you are a Google school, WeVideo synchro -
nizes with Chrome. Green Screen by Do Ink is another video-making tool that
is popular in elementary schools. Available for iOS devices for a fee, Green
Screen enables you to create videos and choose a background to composite
in behind the scene.

Excerpted from Chapter 6, “Real-World Writing: Writing Skills to Succeed Beyond School.”

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