Students will read sections of Spike Lee’s
“Do the Right Thing”
as a homework assignment and be prepared to discuss the structure and format of the screenplay in class. Simultaneously, lectures and hand-outs pertaining to the content and format of a professional screenplay will take place. The next step will be for students to view Oscar Micheaux’s
Within Our Gates
and Matty Rich’s
Straight Out of Brooklyn
so they can participate effectively in a discussion about the differences between silent films and the high tech movies of today. They will then be instructed to write a 10 minute silent short or commercial. Arrangements have been made with the visual art, drama, music and video departments to pass the “screenplay” on to them or input by their classes.
A special screening of the finished projects will be planned for viewing by students, parents, administrators and teachers.