Shooting and Editing Techniques

Overview

This is the third lesson in the "Lights, Camera, Action!" unit designed for Years 4-6 students. In this 45-minute lesson, students will collaboratively film their group projects and learn foundational editing techniques using provided equipment. The focus is on applying filming and editing skills with particular attention to sound and visual effects to engage their audiences and enhance storytelling.

Learning Intention

• Apply filming and editing techniques to create a cohesive film.

Success Criteria

• Groups will demonstrate effective filming, including framing and camera movement.
• Groups will apply basic editing techniques to sequence their scenes coherently.
• Groups will incorporate sound and visual effects to improve narrative impact.

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NSW Curriculum Alignment

Content Descriptions

English / Literacy (Reading and Viewing, Creating Texts)

• EN4-3A: Plan, draft and publish imaginative, informative and persuasive texts, choosing and experimenting with text structures, language features, images and digital resources appropriate to purpose and audience.
• EN4-7C: Use interaction skills, varying conventions of speech according to group and setting.

Creative Arts - Drama and Media Arts

• ARTS4-8VA: Use the elements of drama, including role, symbol and contrast, to communicate meaning when devising and performing drama.
• ARTS4-9MA: Plan, produce and present media artworks for specific audiences and purposes, applying media codes and conventions.
• ARTS5-10MA: Experiment with media forms, including digital technologies, to shape representations in media artworks.

Personal and Social Capability

• Manage and resolve conflict constructively, negotiate roles, and collaborate with others in groups.

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Lesson Breakdown

Preparation (5 minutes)

• Briefly recap filming and storytelling techniques from previous lessons (Lessons 1-2).
• Explain today’s focus on filming and editing; emphasise teamwork and creativity.
• Assign students into small groups (4-5 students per group).
• Introduce filming equipment: cameras, tripods, microphones, and editing software (e.g., simple video editing apps suitable for age).

Filming Activity (20 minutes)

• Each group films their pre-planned scenes.
• Encourage use of framing techniques (rule of thirds, close-ups, wide shots) and camera movements (pan, tilt, zoom).
• Students to monitor sound quality: capture clear dialogue and add ambient sounds if desired.
• Teacher circulates to provide technical support and feedback.

Editing Activity (15 minutes)

• Students import footage into editing software.
• Guide them to:
• Trim and order clips to form coherent narrative flow.
• Adjust audio levels, add background music or sound effects.
• Incorporate visual effects if available (transitions, title screens, filters).
• Emphasise enhancing mood and storytelling through sound and visuals.

Reflection and Sharing (5 minutes)

• Groups share a short clip or highlight from their edited films.
• Facilitate a brief discussion:
• What filming and editing techniques did you use?
• How did sound and visuals help tell your story?
• What would you do differently next time?

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Teaching Strategies and Differentiation

• Scaffolding: Provide checklists for filming angles and editing steps. Use visual prompts to support students unfamiliar with technology.
• Peer support: Encourage collaborative roles within groups (director, camera operator, editor, sound technician).
• Technology integration: Use age-appropriate, intuitive editing software that allows experimentation without frustration.
• Assessment for Learning: Ongoing formative assessment through teacher observation of group collaboration and technical skills.

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Assessment

• Formative assessment against success criteria during filming and editing phases. Teacher observes:
• Effective use of camera techniques.
• Logical sequencing and editing decisions.
• Thoughtful use of sound and visual effects to support narrative.
• Self and peer assessment: Students provide feedback on teamwork and creative choices during reflection segment.

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Resources Needed

• Video cameras or tablets with video capabilities
• Tripods and optional microphones
• Computer or tablet with simple editing software
• Headphones for sound editing
• Checklist handouts for filming and editing guidelines

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This lesson empowers students to synthesise their learning by producing a tangible media product, reinforcing literacy, media arts, and collaborative skills aligned with the NSW curriculum. It connects creativity with technology while developing critical thinking in communication and storytelling.