Lesson Plan: Introduction to Film Study – "Barbie"

Class Information:

• Year Level: Year 11
• Subject: English
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Class Size: 25 students

Curriculum Alignment:

This lesson aligns with the New Zealand Curriculum for English (Level 6), focusing on the strands of Viewing and Presenting. Students will develop their understanding of the language features and structures of visual texts and how these features combine to create meaning and effect.

Relevant Curriculum Links:

• NZ Curriculum Online: English
• NCEA Level 1 English

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Identify and discuss key cinematic techniques used in the film "Barbie."
2. Analyse how these techniques contribute to the development of themes and characters.
3. Begin to apply film terminology accurately in a group discussion and written responses.

Resources Needed:

• DVD or digital copy of the film "Barbie"
• Projector and screen for viewing clips
• Whiteboard and markers
• Handout of key film terms and concepts
• Computers or tablets with internet access (if available)
• Film analysis worksheets

Lesson Outline:

Introduction (15 minutes)

1. Settling In (5 minutes): Briefly introduce the film study topic and its relevance to the NZ Curriculum standards for English at Level 6.

2. Introduction to "Barbie" (10 minutes):

   • Present a brief overview of the film, mentioning its director, significant cast, and the film’s reception.
   • Discuss initial perceptions and gather student knowledge about the genre and previous adaptations if any.

Viewing Segment (20 minutes)

1. Viewing Clips (20 minutes):
   • Show two key scenes from "Barbie" that notably use different film techniques.
   • Pause during key moments to ask students about their observations on techniques such as camera angles, soundtrack, lighting, and dialogue.

Group Activity (20 minutes)

1. Group Discussion (20 minutes):
   • Divide the class into groups of five.
   • Assign each group different scenes to analyze based on a worksheet that includes elements like theme, character development, and mood.
   • Students discuss in their groups and fill out the analysis worksheets.

Class Discussion (15 minutes)

1. Sharing Insights (15 minutes):
   • Each group shares their analysis with the class.
   • Facilitate a discussion that connects their observations to broader themes of the film.
   • Use the whiteboard to list the terms and examples mentioned.

Individual Activity (15 minutes)

1. Writing Reflection (15 minutes):
   • Students individually write a brief paragraph about how one of the techniques observed could influence viewer perception of the character or theme.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

1. Wrap-up (5 minutes):
   • Recap the main insights from today's activities.
   • Inform students about the next steps in the film study module, which might include a deeper analysis of themes or characters, or a comparison with another film.
   • Assignment of a homework task to watch another segment of the film and note additional use of selected cinematic techniques.

Follow-Up:

• Students to prepare for a more detailed film analysis essay as part of their assessment for this unit.
• Provide links to additional resources on NZQA about film analysis techniques and criteria for English Level 6.

By adhering to the New Zealand educational standards and focusing on the development of critical viewing skills, this lesson aims to enhance students' ability to analyze and discuss visual texts effectively.