The cost of a mini DVD camcorder and accessory kit is $760, including shipping and <a target="new" href="http://www.donorschoose.org/html/fulfillment.htm" onclick="g_openWindow('http://www.donorschoose.org/html/fulfillment.htm', 300, 800, 'fulfillwindow');return false;">fulfillment</a>.
I work with students with learning disabilities at Oakland High School. For my project, my four Special Education classes will start out reading two screenplays. Students in my advanced classes will read the screenplay for the major motion picture “The Shawshank Redemption” by Frank Darabont, while students in my beginning classes will read the book “Monster” by Walter Dean Myers, which is written as a screenplay. After completion of the books, the students will work in groups of 2-3 to select a scene to film, choosing roles as directors, cinematographers and actors. The students will then create storyboards for the scenes and cue cards for the actors to read.
Once the preparations are complete, the students will film the scenes using mini digital video cameras, and then edit the scenes using video editing software. After the scenes have been edited and completed, the classes will all present the scenes in a screening, using an LCD projector. At this time, using a common rubric, the students and staff members involved will score the scenes and awards will be presented for best director, actor, editor and cinematographer. At the end of the project, all students involved will receive a DVD with all the scenes we have filmed.
This project will improve my students' educational achievement in many ways. First of all, this project provides an immediate and meaningful connection to difficult, grade level text for students with learning disabilities. These students are reading, and then re-reading and visualizing the material in order to determine how to film the scenes. Furthermore, the actors are reading the dialogue over and over to improve their lines, and this greatly improves their fluency as readers. Lastly, the students are improving their interpersonal skills by collaborating in small groups, and finishing a project by a determined deadline.
The classroom already has the texts, the computer and software, but we are in need of a digital video camera and camera bag in order to complete the project.
I believe this to be an excellent opportunity for my students to participate in a stimulating, project-based assignment, and who knows, we may have the next Francis Ford Coppola on our hands. Thank you for your consideration of my request.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Carter and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.