Table of Contents
TipsforConductingFilmDiscussionsinClassrooms
This article provides a comprehensive guide to conducting dynamic and insightful film discussions that foster media literacy and deepen student comprehension.
Must-Know Film Distributors for Movie Licensing
Film distributors are essential for facilitating movie licensing across diverse educational and entertainment sectors, serving college majors, Parks and Rec programs, and PPR classroom needs.
What Films to Watch For Kwanzaa
Until the day that films featuring Kwanzaa are more commonplace, here are some films to watch that honor the African-American experience and embody the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
How to Create a Themed Film Marathon for Your Community
Hosting a themed film marathon offers much more than just an opportunity to watch movies it's a chance to create a memorable, engaging event that brings people together.
POST-VIEWING DISCUSSION FACILITATION
The post-viewing discussion is where the real learning magic happens Create a safe and inclusive environment that encourages thoughtful analysis and critical thinking.
1 Creating a Safe and Inclusive Space
Establish ground rules for respectful dialogue and encourage active listening Ensure all students feel comfortable sharing their opinions and perspectives
Establish Clear Expectations: Set clear expectations for respectful communication and active listening Emphasize the importance of valuing diverse viewpoints and avoiding personal attacks
Create a Supportive Atmosphere: Foster a classroom culture where students feel safe to express their thoughts, even if they differ from the majority Encourage constructive disagreement and respectful debate
Provide Multiple Modes of Participation: Offer various ways for students to participate in the discussion, such as verbal contributions, written responses, or artistic expressions This caters to different learning styles and comfort levels.
2. Asking Open-Ended and Probing Questions
Guide the discussion with open-ended questions that encourage deeper analysis and critical thinking
Move Beyond Recall: Avoid questions with simple factual answers. Instead, focus on questions that require students to analyze, interpret, and evaluate the film's message and techniques
Connect to Personal Experiences: Encourage students to connect the film's themes to their own lives and experiences This fosters personal engagement and deeper understanding
Explore Societal Issues: Use the film as a springboard to discuss relevant social issues and encourage students to consider different perspectives.
Promote Media Literacy: Ask questions that challenge students to think critically about the film's construction, purpose, and potential biases
3. Utilizing Diverse Discussion Formats
Vary your discussion formats to maintain student interest and cater to different learning styles
Whole-Class Discussions: Facilitate a structured whole class discussion, ensuring all students have the opportunity to contribute
Small Group Debates: Divide students into groups to debate specific issues or perspectives presented in the film
Socratic Seminars: Conduct Socratic seminars to encourage student led discussion and deeper inquiry into the film's themes.
Fishbowl Discussions: Use the fishbowl technique to create an inner circle of active discussants while the outer circle observes and listens
Student-Led Panels: Have students prepare and present their analysis of the film in a panel format, followed by questions from the audience
Creative Responses: Encourage students to express their understanding of the film through creative writing, artwork, or dramatic performances
By implementing these strategies, educators can transform film from passive entertainment into a dynamic tool for learning and critical engagement. Through careful planning, purposeful activities, and thoughtful discussion facilitation, films can ignite students' curiosity, deepen their understanding, and foster essential media literacy skills in the 21st century
KUUMBA (CREATIVITY)
Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child
Director Tamra Davis' documentary draws much of its strength and originality from a wealth of never-before- seen interview footage with enigmatic 1980s impressionist phenom Jean-Michel Basquiat Davis not only places Basquiat's success in its proper context his wildly impressionistic word-collages and almost childlike figures being a much-needed antidote to the clinical minimalism of the '60s and '70s but also puts into perspective his ultimate falling out with the critical establishment
Read our review of Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child
IMANI (FAITH)
Seven Candles for Kwanzaa
Narrated by Alfre Woodard, Seven Candles for Kwanzaa is an iconographic adaptation of the 1993 picture book written by Andrea Davis Pinkney and beautifully illustrated by Brian Pinkney Using minimal enhancement and less narrative structure, the program is a nevertheless impressive factual introduction to Kwanzaa, focusing on the vocabulary native to this American holiday as embodied in the various rituals, feasts, and festivities
Read our review of Seven Candles for Kwanzaa
As Kwanzaa celebrates the richness of African and African-American culture, these films offer a meaningful way to reflect on its principles, history, and traditions Whether you’re exploring themes of unity, selfdetermination, or creativity, each title provides a unique lens into the resilience and beauty of the African diaspora From family gatherings to moments of quiet reflection, these stories can spark conversations, inspire action, and deepen the appreciation of Kwanzaa's values This season, let the power of film bring connection, learning, and joy to your celebrations
