Writing, Filming, and Creating a Short Film
Learning goals:
By the end of this lesson plan, students will be able to understand the key elements of scriptwriting, and they will create a short film script and film the short film.
Resources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QCK_qEp_PI
Learning activities:
Session 1-4: Scriptwriting
Session 1: Introduction to Short Films and Scriptwriting
Start the lesson by discussing what short films are. Show a few examples of short films and ask the students to share their initial thoughts.
Discuss the unique aspects of short films, including their length, purpose, and storytelling challenges.
Introduce the concept of scriptwriting and explain its importance in creating a short film.
Homework: Ask students to watch a short film of their choice before the next class session and come prepared to discuss what they noticed about the storytelling and scriptwriting.
Session 2: Analyzing Short Films
Begin the class by having students share their observations from the short films they watched.
Discuss the elements of a short film, including plot, characters, setting, conflict, and resolution.
Show one short film in class and lead a discussion on how the script contributed to the film’s success.
Session 3: Scriptwriting Fundamentals
Start by discussing the structure of a script, including the three-act structure commonly used in short films.
Explain the importance of creating well-defined characters and how to develop character profiles.
Discuss dialogue writing and how it should serve the story and character development.
Provide students with a simple script template or formatting guidelines for writing their short film scripts.
In-class exercise: Have students create a character profile and write a short dialogue scene between two characters. Share and discuss their work.
Session 4: Developing Ideas for Short Films
Begin by discussing brainstorming techniques to generate ideas for short films. Encourage students to think about themes, concepts, and experiences they want to explore.
In-class exercise: Conduct a brainstorming session where students generate ideas for their short films. They can work individually or in small groups.
Session 5: Introduction to Filmmaking
Begin by introducing students to the basic equipment used in filmmaking, such as cameras, tripods, microphones, and lighting.
Discuss the importance of pre-production planning, including location scouting and casting.
Session 6-7: Pre-production
In these sessions, guide students through the pre-production process, including location scouting and securing any necessary props or costumes.
Encourage students to cast actors for their short film and finalize the shooting schedule.
Session 8-12: Filming
In these sessions, students will start filming their short films based on the scripts they’ve written.
Encourage them to work in small groups, assuming various roles such as director, cinematographer, sound technician, and actors.
Provide guidance on shot composition, camera angles, and sound recording techniques.
Session 13-15: Post-production
After completing filming, guide students through the post-production process, including video editing using editing software.
Discuss the importance of editing for pacing, continuity, and storytelling.
Encourage students to add music, sound effects, and titles as needed.
Session 16-17: Screening and Feedback
In these sessions, students will present their completed short films to the class.
Encourage constructive feedback and discussions after each presentation.
Session 18: Conclusion and Reflection
Summarize the filmmaking process and discuss what students have learned.
Encourage students to reflect on their experiences during the scriptwriting and filmmaking process.
Discuss the importance of collaboration in filmmaking and how different roles contribute to the final product.