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Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Activities
Newsroom Adventure Kickoff - Students visit a local news station or host a journalist for an interactive session on the role of journalism in promoting civic virtues and democratic principles. Students will be inspired to think critically about their own projects. (20 min)
Community Walk Exploration - Students walk around the school neighborhood to observe and discuss local issues or stories that matter to them. They take notes and capture initial video footage, focusing on elements they find intriguing or impactful. (20 min)
Group Discussion and Brainstorming - Back in the classroom, students share their community observations and brainstorm potential story ideas, emphasizing the connection between their findings and civic virtues. (20 min)
Video Production Basics Workshop - Students learn the basics of video production, including storyboarding techniques, camera operation fundamentals, and introductory editing skills. This will enable them to create compelling video reports. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Initial video footage and notes from the community walk.
2. A list of potential story ideas developed during the classroom discussion.
3. Group storyboards outlining the narrative and key elements of their chosen story.
4. A reflective journal entry from each student discussing their observations and personal connection to the story ideas.
5. Feedback from the guest speaker session, highlighting students' understanding of the role of journalism.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local community leaders or organizations to plan the community walk.
2. Gather video recording equipment such as cameras or tablets for student use.
3. Prepare discussion prompts and brainstorming materials (e.g., chart paper, markers) for the classroom session.
4. Organize a workshop space with necessary video production materials, including a projector for demonstrations.
5. Arrange for a local journalist to visit the classroom or connect virtually, ensuring they understand the project's focus and goals.
Week 2
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Activities
Story Idea Development - Students select their top story idea and begin outlining their video report, focusing on the civic virtues and democratic principles they wish to highlight. (20 min)
Research and Scriptwriting - Students conduct research on their chosen topic, gathering facts and statistics. They begin drafting a script for their video report, ensuring clarity and engagement. (20 min)
Interview Preparation - Students identify potential interviewees and develop thoughtful questions. They practice effective communication techniques to ensure meaningful dialogue during interviews. (20 min)
Storyboard Creation - Students create detailed storyboards to visualize their video reports, mapping out scenes and transitions. This helps them organize their ideas and plan camera shots. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed storyboard outlining the structure of the video report.
2. A list of interview questions related to their selected civic issue.
3. A written reflection on how their project aligns with civic virtues and democratic principles.
4. Initial video footage of practice interviews and observations.
5. Peer feedback forms highlighting areas for improvement and strengths in project ideas.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for storyboarding, including paper, pencils, and storyboard templates.
2. Research and compile a list of local civic issues and democratic principles that are age-appropriate and relevant to students.
3. Prepare video equipment, such as cameras or tablets, and ensure they are charged and ready for use.
4. Coordinate with local journalists or media experts to participate in feedback sessions via virtual conferencing.
5. Create a feedback guide that students can use to assess each other's projects constructively.
Week 3
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Activities
Interview Execution - Students conduct interviews with selected community members or school staff, practicing effective communication and empathy to gather insights for their video reports. (20 min)
Review and Reflect on Interviews - Students review their interview footage, reflecting on the quality of information gathered and identifying key quotes or moments to include in their video reports. (20 min)
Script Refinement - Using insights gained from the interviews, students refine and finalize their scripts, ensuring clarity and alignment with civic virtues and democratic principles. (20 min)
Production Planning - Students plan the logistics of their video shoots, including selecting filming locations and organizing props or materials needed, while considering innovative approaches to storytelling. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Video footage and initial storyboard drafts representing students' chosen community issues.
2. A reflection journal entry where students analyze how their video projects align with civic virtues and democratic principles.
3. A mid-project exhibition plan outlining key elements of students' video reports and preparation for showcasing work-in-progress.
4. Feedback from peers and teacher through a collaborative reflection workshop to refine video journalism projects.
5. A list of interview questions and potential interviewees for community engagement in students' video reports.
Preparation 1. Gather video equipment such as cameras, tripods, and microphones, ensuring they are charged and ready for use.
2. Prepare storyboard templates and sample storyboards to guide students in planning their video reports.
3. Compile a list of local community issues that align with civic virtues and democratic principles for students to explore.
4. Set up a digital platform or shared folder where students can upload their video footage and access editing software.
5. Contact local journalists or media experts to schedule a 'Feedback Loop' session for students to gain insights on their projects.
6. Arrange classroom seating to facilitate small group discussions and collaborative storyboarding sessions.
7. Prepare reflection prompts and worksheets to guide students in analyzing the impact of their video journalism projects.
Week 4
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Day 16
Activities
Filming Day - Students begin filming their video reports, using their storyboards as a guide. They focus on capturing key scenes and ensuring that their footage aligns with their scripts and the civic virtues highlighted in their stories. (20 min)
Footage Review and Selection - Students review the footage they captured, selecting the best clips for their video report. They use a checklist to ensure that the clips meet quality standards and effectively convey their message. (20 min)
Basic Video Editing Workshop - Students learn basic editing skills using video editing software, focusing on cutting clips, adding transitions, and incorporating text overlays that highlight civic virtues and democratic principles. (20 min)
Editing Lab - Students apply their new editing skills to begin editing their video reports. They work on sequencing their clips, adding transitions, and incorporating any necessary text or graphics. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Students complete their initial video storyboards, outlining the structure and key elements of their reports
2. Students film preliminary footage for their video reports, capturing interviews and community scenes
3. Students participate in the mid-project exhibition, sharing their current progress and receiving feedback from peers and teachers
4. Students engage in the 'Feedback Loop' with a journalist or media expert, incorporating professional insights into their projects
5. Students refine their scripts and video content based on feedback received from the exhibition and feedback loop
6. Students set personalized goals for the next phase of their projects during the one-on-one conferences
Preparation 1. Gather video cameras or tablets for filming
2. Provide access to video editing software or apps
3. Arrange a visit from a local journalist or media expert for the 'Feedback Loop' activity
4. Prepare materials for storyboarding, such as large paper and markers
5. Set up a space for a mid-project exhibition within the classroom
6. Create a schedule for one-on-one teacher-student conferences
Week 5
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Reflective Analysis Workshop - Facilitate a workshop where students analyze the impact of their video stories on the community, discussing alignment with civic virtues and democratic principles. (20 min)
Mid-Project Exhibition Preparation - Students prepare for an exhibition of their work-in-progress, selecting key video clips and organizing presentation materials. (20 min)
Mid-Project Exhibition - Host an exhibition where students showcase their work-in-progress to classmates and teachers, practicing effective communication and receiving constructive feedback. (20 min)
Feedback Reflection and Goal Setting - Students reflect on feedback received during the exhibition, setting personalized goals for further development and identifying areas for improvement. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Students will draft and finalize interview questions that align with their chosen social issue and civic virtues.
2. Each student group will complete the storyboard for their video campaign, outlining the sequence of scenes and key messages.
3. Produce initial video footage, including interviews, and begin compiling statistics for their social issue video campaign.
4. Participate in the reflection workshop, contributing personal insights on the impact of their video reports and how they promote civic virtues.
5. Prepare presentations for the mid-project exhibition, showcasing work-in-progress video reports and receiving feedback.
6. Engage in one-on-one conferences with teachers to set personalized goals and identify areas for improvement in their projects.
7. Receive and incorporate feedback from the local journalist or media expert into their video reports, refining their storytelling approach.
Preparation 1. Gather video cameras or devices with recording capabilities, ensuring they are charged and ready for use.
2. Prepare a selection of interview questions related to civic virtues and democratic principles that students can use during their video campaign.
3. Collect data and statistics relevant to the social issue students have chosen to highlight in their video campaign.
4. Set up a classroom space for the reflection workshop, arranging seating for small group discussions.
5. Organize the mid-project exhibition space, including any necessary technology for showcasing videos, such as projectors or screens.
6. Coordinate with a local journalist or media expert to visit the classroom for the Feedback Loop activity.
7. Ensure access to video editing software and provide tutorials or guides for basic editing techniques.
Week 6
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Activities
Advanced Editing Techniques - Students learn advanced editing techniques such as audio balancing, color correction, and special effects to enhance their video reports. (20 min)
Collaborative Editing Session - Students work in pairs to apply new editing skills to their video reports, providing peer feedback on the clarity and impact of their stories. (20 min)
Integrating Feedback - Students review feedback from peers and teachers, incorporating suggestions into their video reports to improve narrative flow and adherence to civic virtues. (20 min)
Finalizing Video Reports - Students finalize their video reports, ensuring all elements align with their storyboards and effectively communicate their intended message. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. A refined storyboard and script for each group's video report, incorporating feedback received during the exhibition.
2. An updated video draft that demonstrates improved editing techniques and storytelling elements.
3. Individual reflection logs documenting insights gained from the reflection workshop and one-on-one conferences.
4. A list of personalized goals for each student, outlining next steps for project improvement.
Preparation 1. Arrange for a classroom setup that facilitates group discussions and presentations.
2. Ensure necessary video production equipment is available, including cameras, microphones, and editing software.
3. Prepare materials for the reflection workshop, including reflection prompts and discussion guides.
4. Coordinate with local journalists or media experts to provide insights and suggestions during the 'Feedback Loop' activity.
5. Prepare templates for students to use during the peer feedback session.
6. Schedule and organize time slots for one-on-one teacher-student conferences.
Week 7
Day 25
Day 26
Day 27
Day 28
Activities
Peer Review Session - Students pair up to watch each other's video reports, providing constructive feedback on the narrative structure, clarity, and alignment with civic virtues and democratic principles. (20 min)
Incorporating Peer Feedback - Students use the feedback received to make revisions to their video reports, focusing on enhancing the story's impact and ensuring it aligns with their intended message. (20 min)
Sound Design Workshop - Students learn about the importance of sound in video production, including techniques for adding background music, sound effects, and adjusting audio levels for clarity and engagement. (20 min)
Sound Integration Session - Students apply sound design techniques to their video reports, experimenting with different audio elements to enhance the storytelling and emphasize key moments related to civic virtues. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Reflection sheets completed during the workshop, highlighting insights on civic virtues and democratic principles.
2. Feedback forms from peers and teachers collected during the mid-project exhibition.
3. A refined version of each student's video report, showcasing improved editing and incorporation of feedback.
4. Personalized goal sheets from one-on-one conferences, detailing specific areas of focus for the final weeks of the project.
Preparation 1. Prepare materials for the reflection workshop, including discussion prompts and reflection sheets.
2. Arrange for necessary technology and space for the mid-project exhibition, ensuring students have access to projectors or screens for presentations.
3. Gather video editing software and tutorials to support the editing workshop, ensuring all students have access to computers or tablets.
4. Schedule time slots and prepare individualized feedback forms for one-on-one conferences with each student.
Week 8
Day 29
Day 30
Day 31
Day 32
Activities
Professional Critique Session - Invite a local journalist or media expert to provide professional insights and feedback on students' video reports, focusing on storytelling, presentation, and adherence to civic virtues. (20 min)
Feedback Integration Workshop - Students incorporate feedback from the professional critique session, making improvements to their video reports and enhancing the clarity and impact of their stories. (20 min)
Polishing and Final Touches - Students focus on the final edits of their video reports, adjusting visuals, audio, and text elements to ensure a polished and professional presentation. (20 min)
Rehearsal for Virtual Newsroom Event - Students practice presenting their video reports, developing their public speaking and communication skills in preparation for the upcoming Virtual Newsroom event. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Students will submit a refined script for their video report, incorporating feedback from peers and teachers.
2. Students will produce an updated video report draft that reflects improvements based on received feedback.
3. Participants will complete a reflection journal entry detailing how their project aligns with civic virtues and democratic principles.
4. Students will present their work-in-progress video at the mid-project exhibition, demonstrating their understanding of the content and storytelling techniques.
Preparation 1. Arrange a suitable space for the reflection workshop, ensuring access to audio-visual equipment for presenting video reports.
2. Prepare guided reflection questions that focus on civic virtues and democratic principles to facilitate the workshop.
3. Coordinate with a local journalist or media expert for the 'Feedback Loop' activity, confirming their availability and role.
4. Gather and organize necessary video editing software and resources for the advanced editing workshop.
5. Set up a feedback session framework where students can present their work and receive structured peer and teacher feedback.
Week 9
Day 33
Day 34
Day 35
Day 36
Activities
Final Review Workshop - Students conduct a thorough review of their video reports, assessing alignment with civic virtues and democratic principles, and ensuring all elements meet quality standards. (20 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Students pair up to exchange feedback on each other's final video reports, focusing on clarity, impact, and storytelling techniques. (20 min)
Feedback Integration and Revision - Students incorporate peer feedback into their video reports, making final revisions to enhance the narrative and presentation. (20 min)
Presentation Skills Development - Students engage in activities to refine their presentation skills, including practicing effective communication techniques for the upcoming Virtual Newsroom event. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed storyboard and initial video footage ready for peer review.
2. Refined video campaign draft, incorporating feedback from peers and professionals.
3. Participation in the mid-project exhibition showcasing the current state of student video reports.
4. Reflection notes from the collaborative workshop analyzing the impact of stories on the community.
5. Updated project goals and areas for improvement based on teacher-student conference outcomes.
6. Feedback received from local journalists or media experts to enhance video reports.
Preparation 1. Organize a collaborative reflection workshop space with seating arrangements to facilitate group discussions.
2. Prepare digital resources for the mid-project exhibition, including video playback equipment and presentation software.
3. Gather video production materials, such as storyboarding templates, cameras, tripods, and editing software.
4. Coordinate a 'Virtual Newsroom' event platform, ensuring access for remote participants.
5. Schedule and confirm participation of local journalists or media experts for the 'Feedback Loop' activity.
6. Prepare feedback forms for peer review during the mid-project exhibition.
7. Set up an online platform for students to share work-in-progress and receive comments from peers and teachers.
Week 10
Day 37
Day 38
Day 39
Day 40
Activities
Final Touches and Quality Check - Students perform a final quality check on their video reports, ensuring all elements are polished and meet the criteria of civic virtues and democratic principles. They make any last-minute edits to enhance clarity and impact. (20 min)
Virtual Newsroom Event Preparation - Students rehearse their presentations for the Virtual Newsroom event, focusing on effective communication techniques, such as clear articulation and engaging storytelling. They finalize any presentation materials needed for the event. (20 min)
Dress Rehearsal - Conduct a full dress rehearsal for the Virtual Newsroom event, allowing students to present their video reports in a simulated environment. Peers provide feedback on presentation style and clarity, helping each other refine their delivery. (20 min)
Refinement and Confidence Building - Students incorporate feedback from the dress rehearsal, making final adjustments to their presentations. Engage in confidence-building activities to prepare for a successful Virtual Newsroom event. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Complete a storyboard outlining the video report structure.
2. Conduct and record interviews with community members or peers.
3. Draft a script for the video report, incorporating civic virtues and democratic principles.
4. Edit video footage and compile a rough cut of the report.
5. Participate in a collaborative reflection workshop, sharing insights and feedback.
6. Present work-in-progress at the mid-project exhibition, receiving constructive criticism.
7. Refine video reports based on feedback from the journalist or media expert.
Preparation 1. Arrange a visit from a local journalist or media expert for feedback sessions.
2. Prepare video equipment, including cameras, microphones, and tripods.
3. Set up a classroom station for video editing with computers and editing software.
4. Print out reflection worksheets for students to use during the collaborative reflection workshop.
5. Create a schedule for one-on-one teacher-student conferences.
6. Organize materials for the mid-project exhibition, including display boards and projectors.
7. Coordinate with an online platform for hosting the 'Virtual Newsroom' event.
Week 11
Day 41
Day 42
Day 43
Day 44
Activities
Video Campaign Planning - Students plan the structure and content of their video campaigns, focusing on raising awareness about a chosen social issue relevant to their community. They outline the key messages and calls to action. (20 min)
Interview and Statistics Integration - Students incorporate interviews and relevant statistics into their video campaigns, ensuring the information supports their key messages and calls to action. They practice effective communication skills to present their findings. (20 min)
Call to Action Development - Students develop compelling calls to action for their video campaigns, encouraging their audience to engage with the social issue. They focus on creating clear, impactful messages that align with civic virtues and democratic principles. (20 min)
Final Campaign Edits - Students finalize the editing of their video campaigns, ensuring that all elements, including interviews, statistics, and calls to action, are integrated seamlessly. They conduct a final review to ensure clarity and impact. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Revised video reports incorporating feedback from peers and journalists.
2. Participation in the mid-project exhibition, presenting work-in-progress video segments.
3. Completion of a reflection piece analyzing the impact of their stories and alignment with civic virtues.
4. Participation in the 'Virtual Newsroom' event, presenting live video reports and engaging in Q&A.
5. Completion of peer feedback forms during the exhibition and 'Feedback Loop' activities.
Preparation 1. Ensure access to video editing software and equipment for student use.
2. Prepare materials for the reflection workshop, including discussion prompts and examples of impactful stories.
3. Coordinate with a local journalist or media expert to participate in the 'Feedback Loop' activity.
4. Set up an online platform for the 'Virtual Newsroom' event, ensuring it can accommodate remote viewers.
5. Organize a mid-project exhibition space for students to showcase work-in-progress.
6. Prepare a feedback form for students to use during peer review sessions.
Week 12
Day 45
Day 46
Day 47
Day 48
Activities
Virtual Newsroom Event Execution - Students host the Virtual Newsroom event, presenting their video reports live via an online platform. They engage in effective communication, presenting their findings clearly and confidently. Family members and community stakeholders participate remotely. (20 min)
Q&A Session and Discussion - Following the Virtual Newsroom event, students facilitate a question-and-answer session with the audience. They practice listening to understand and communicating with empathy, discussing the impact of their stories and the civic virtues explored. (20 min)
Community Impact Reflection - Students reflect on the community's response to their video reports. They engage in a structured reflection session, discussing how their work aligns with civic virtues and democratic principles, and identifying areas for further community engagement. (20 min)
Project Wrap-Up and Celebration - Students participate in a celebration of their achievements. They share highlights from the project, discuss personal growth, and set future goals for continued engagement with civic issues. The session concludes with a group appreciation circle. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed video campaign addressing a social issue, incorporating interviews, statistics, and calls to action.
2. A reflective journal entry from each student on their learning journey, challenges faced, and how they applied civic virtues in their project.
3. Participation in the 'Virtual Newsroom' event where students present their video reports live, followed by engaging in a Q&A session.
4. Peer and self-assessment feedback forms completed by students to evaluate their collaboration, communication, and content expertise.
5. Final revisions made to the video reports based on feedback from the teacher-student conferences and the 'Feedback Loop' activity.
Preparation 1. Ensure all video equipment, such as cameras and microphones, are available and functioning for final editing and presentation.
2. Set up an online platform for the 'Virtual Newsroom' exhibition, ensuring all students and participants have access and know how to use it.
3. Prepare a feedback form for peers, teachers, and community members to use during the exhibition's Q&A session.
4. Organize a schedule for one-on-one teacher-student conferences to discuss final project touches and personal reflection.
5. Coordinate with a local journalist or media expert to attend the 'Virtual Newsroom' event and assist with providing professional insights during the Q&A.