Living Legends Video Griot Project

Monday
-I will open the lesson by telling an interactive story with a historical perspective, using music and visual imagery. At the end of the story students will answer questions on the historical content.
-I will then explain to the students the history and definition of griot (keeper of oral history) and provide them with various examples. For example, students will watch 'The Language We Cry In' to see how the family song that has been passed down from generation to generation was able to connect a displaced family to their cultural roots.
Tuesday
-Students will watch clips from various documentaries to glean ideas on how to splice resources together to tell a story (i.e. A Great and Mighty Walk)
Wednesday
-Students will place themselves into groups of three.
-Each group will identify community elders that have participated in significant historical movements.
-Students will contact elders to set up meetings on Friday to listen to their stories and begin to outline their projects.
Thursday
-Students will research the elders and compose their interview questions.
Friday
-Students will interview elders and take notes.
-Students will set up video shoot slots for the following week.
-Students will conduct research on different terms and issues that come out of the initial interview
-Students will compile research, pictures, and music that will assist them in telling their stories.
Monday/Tuesday
-Students will shoot footage with the elders and around the city for their personal documentaries.
Wednesday-Friday
-Students will work on editing their footage.
-Students will turn their finished products in on Friday.
-Screenings will begin the following week in the presence of the elders.