Animation Book Report

Students will choose a non-fiction book that interests them. They will have 3 weeks to read the book. Students are required to write a 5 minute speech describing the book. They will present the speech to the class prior to being given the opportunity to create animation (this is optional). Students will know ahead of time the animation expectations and will be instructed to use sticky notes to mark points of interest in their book. Students will work in teams (as there are limited cameras and facilities). Depending on their choices, students will work as a team to complete the animation project. Ex: As one students is creating their clay set or drawing their next scene, their team mate could acts as an assistant or consultant or work on own set.

There are 6 still digital cameras and 3 video cameras available for students to use. Designated stations with lighting are set up around the room and students are to use only the station assigned for their group. At the end of the class period, students will file supplies/boards/sets in safe place and down load images onto the computer designated for them so images are filed where they can reflect on previous days work.

There are 6 computers in the classroom with editing capability. Students will alternate with editing and shooting to allow less down time. While working in teams, students will use teammates as consultants during editing process. There is a sound bay set up in the room where students can create sound bites to be used for overdubbing. Students may use music or voice over to add depth to their project.

Once the editing is complete, students are to create an a digital file to be presented at a class potluck where families and staff are invited to enjoy the projects. Students will also have an open house where they will demonstrate the process to younger students (K-5) in the school and show them the finished projects.

The final outcome is expected to clearly communicate the essence of the book they read and demonstrate understanding while learning digital technology (digital cameras, sound editing and video editing).