"Shutting off the Lights"

            During a recent mini lesson I understood the importance of showing films in class. I was helping a 6^th grade student with the novel holes. After he finished the novel we were having a “book-club” discussion. Going over the characters and getting the plot sorted out. After we were able to understand out the plot, it was easier to uncover thematic tropes. I realized the movie version would be so beneficial for beginning this lesson.

            Novels may introduce fear into the student. Maybe during the reading they skimmed and or skipped a few chapters. Showing the film adaptation can only benefit. The students will be able to see that characters they have spent a few hundred pages with come to life on a screen. Following the plot may become easier if the movie stays true to the text. Commonalities between the movie and the text will only benefit a classroom setting.

            Also, if the text and movie differ this too is a plus. Discussions on changes the movie has made can enhance classroom discussions. Choices the director has made can introduce students to cinematic terms. A lesson that was based on a novel now has become a lesson that integrated film to the students. Popular actors can invite the students to take more liking to the novel. Even book covers that use the movie poster can influence the student to choose a particular novel.

            Many may feel showing DVDs and movies may take away from class time. Yes, some may checkout once the lights go off and the movie begins to play. There is the same risk of loosing the same number of students during a regular class discussion. Guided notes may help to keep the students engaged. Showing movies in the English and or any classroom will help connect a lesson to popular culture.