Developing Fim Scripts:

We have been looking at film scripts in Writing this week, thinking about the features of scripts and how they differ from other genres of writing. There are similarities to plays but there are also the added descriptions of what the camera is doing. We have had to learn all of the names of the various shots and the reasons they have been emplyed by film makers. As a model we looked at a well loved scene from Harry Potter; the dreaded Dursleys on Dudleys birthday.

We began by improvising, exploring ideas connected to our learning about gender stereotypes and issues connected to growing up, the perilous journey through puberty. We then set out to brainstorm our own scenarios to develop into scripts.

This last one, not quite a full scenario but I'm sure you get the picture, or flavour! We are currently making story boards showing camera angles and writing the scripts.

We are also learning how to use iMovie so that we can effectively edit our work. You are invited to see the great results of the work on the 5th of December at Film Night: Tall Tales, Short Tales and Tales Which are About to Hit Puberty!

Positive Purpose: Terrariums and Succulent Gardens

Some students, as part of our Positive Purpose action groups, have begun developing tiny gardens, terrariums and succulent gardens in interesting pots and vases. The idea is that we will be donating them to elderly people in rest homes, something to beautify their rooms or units and also something which they might like to engage with and care for.

After busy lives, often caring for children, partners and even pets, some older people find themselves with nothing to actively care for. As a result of this they can experience a loss of purpose and sadness. We want to be able to contribute something positive to their lives and to their environments. Positive Purpose has health benefits for all of us but in the elderly can actually prevent the onset of Alzheimer's Disease. Psychology Today (psychologytoday benefits of living with purpose)suggests that having purpose has a protective effect on cognition. We are waiting to hear back from a few homes which we have contacted.

These are some examples of what they are working on.

Gender Equality!

Gender Equality: it seems necessary to shout it! GENDER EQUALITY!!!!!!!!! We are writing persuasive pieces, arguing our points of view, conclusively that women need to be treated fairly, paid as well as men and respected appropriately. Girls and women need to be empowered! We asked some students to share their thoughts and key things which they have been learning.

Tui noted that, 'Stereotypes are one of the main causes of predjudice". Marcia said that, "Stereotypes can make girls have bad thoughts about their body image" Ethan, via research found out that, "A lot of women and girls have less education in Sub-Saharan Africa". Lexi has found out that, "Since the Taliban have taken over Afghanistan, the loss of production as a result of women not being in the workforce has cost the economy 4.5 Billion dollars'. Georgia's work, reading and interviewing others has discovered that, "A surprising amout of girls like going to single sex schools".

The research is provoking a great deal of thought and in some cases, rage! We are in agreement that gender equality needs some serious attention. Our Sexuality and Relationships programme, Navigating the Journey supports this hightened scrutiny. Writing an argument is a complex activity requiring a deep level of planning. To do this we made mind maps, a useful tool to help guide the writing.

We have also set a deadline for this piece of work to get students used to the idea that we are all working to time constraints. These are a couple of the pieces nearing completion.

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