All grades  Project 4 weeks

Medieval Movie Magic Madness

Parthena S
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.7
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.9
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.7
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Students will embark on a creative journey to explore the medieval period through the lens of filmmaking, engaging in historical research and storytelling to create an original short film. This project will foster critical thinking and problem-solving as students analyze and compare historical accounts with fictional portrayals, while developing self-directed learning skills through peer and teacher feedback. By participating in this collaborative project, students will gain a deeper understanding of medieval innovations and daily life, and how these elements have influenced the modern world, culminating in a film screening for their families.

Learning goals

Students will analyze and compare different portrayals of the medieval period through written stories and films, focusing on how historical events are represented and altered in fiction. They will develop self-directed learning skills by using feedback and reflection to guide their creative process in making a short film. Through critical thinking and problem-solving, students will explore the impact of medieval innovations on modern life, fostering a sense of identity and belonging as they present their films to family audiences.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.7 - Compare and contrast a written story, drama, or poem to its audio, filmed, staged, or multimedia version, analyzing the effects of techniques unique to each medium (e.g., lighting, sound, color, or camera focus and angles in a film).
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.9 - Compare and contrast a fictional portrayal of a time, place, or character and a historical account of the same period as a means of understanding how authors of fiction use or alter history.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.7 - Analyze the representation of a subject or a key scene in two different artistic mediums, including what is emphasized or absent in each treatment (e.g., Auden's "Musée des Beaux Arts" and Breughel's Landscape with the Fall of Icarus).
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a short film set in the medieval period, integrating historical research and creative storytelling. They will develop character profiles based on roles such as knights, peasants, and royalty, and use these profiles to inform their film's narrative. The students will edit their film using digital tools, focusing on techniques like lighting, sound, and camera angles. The final product will be screened for families, providing an opportunity for students to showcase their understanding and creativity. Throughout the process, students will engage in self-reflection and peer feedback to refine their work and deepen their learning.

Launch

Begin the project with an immersive medieval fair in the classroom, where students participate in various stations representing different aspects of medieval life, such as a knight's training ground, a peasant's market, and a royal court. Students will engage in hands-on activities like crafting simple medieval tools, tasting period-appropriate foods, and trying on costumes. This interactive experience will spark curiosity and provide a tangible connection to the historical context they will explore and depict in their film project.

Exhibition

Students will host a Medieval Film Festival, inviting families and community members to view their short films. The event will include a red carpet entrance and a Q&A session where students discuss their research, character development, and the filmmaking process. Attendees can explore an exhibit of character profiles and historical artifacts created by the students, providing deeper insight into medieval life and its impact on modern society.