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Getting the Most Out of Video Projects



Lights, Camera, ACTION! Arguably the three most famous words any director will say on set, but once heard, everyone knows what they are supposed to be doing in that moment. And sure, that moment might take up to three, four, or fifty-two tries, but everyone is at least aware of their actions. So when we as educators ask our students to make a video project, are they also aware?

In the last five years alone, the ability to edit a solid video has removed itself from mostly being a mac-thing and become a multi-platform choice anyone with a device can do. Smartphones can easily download apps that will even piece together a video for you, free of charge!* So how does one go about planning a video project for students to complete?

Plan...plan…plan…

The Hollywood movie process goes through five stages; Development, pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution1. It is a similar process for student productions as well.

Development - This is where the project is explained to the students. Expectations, rubrics, and some examples are shown.

Pre-production - I would argue that this step is usually “winged” by students and they jump right into production, but spending just a bit of time in this category will greatly improve the final quality of any film project. Later on we will focus on this stage with examples about storyboarding.

Production - Actual filming

Post-production - Editing

Distribution - How are they going to share it with you?

So let us explore the pre-production step, and try to get the most out of this!
Here is an example of what a completed script might look like, and here is the template. Giving students a template that has them thinking about what type of camera shots they want helps to keep them focused during the production phase of the film. It also allows for everyone to be on the same page and following the same vision for what the expected final product should look like. Plus, you as the teacher get the added bonus of having an approval step before filming begins. I mean, you are technically the “producer” of all these great movies!

Another suggestion for helping students produce better content is to have them go through a filming tutorial. In this example the actor shows us some great tips for how to properly film (including how to hold your phone). Remember, the key to a great video product is all in the prep before filming!

In closing, your friendly integrator will always be happy to discuss further the video editing process, including how to use programs such as WeVideo and the built-in camera on a chromebook or laptop to record your movie. Integrators can do a short tutorial with your students and help familiarize them with the capabilities of our favorite video creation tools...and that’s a wrap!

Steiff, Josef (2005). The Complete Idiot's Guide to Independent Filmmaking. Alpha Books. pp. 26–28.

Doug Fordham transitioned this year into his new role of Technology Integrator after teaching five years for CCPS.  A former mathematics teacher in middle and high school, Doug enjoys coaching the James Madison University club Ice Hockey team in addition to spending time with his wife and adorable yellow labrador, Dakota.  Also, if you see Doug out in the world make sure to grab a sweet selfie with him!









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