How to Use Video Essays in The Elementary Classroom

1. Conversation starter or lesson hook: Many of these videos serve as great two- to 10-minute introductions to topics relevant to classrooms across the curriculum.

2. Active viewing opportunity: Since video essays present often complex arguments, invite students to watch and rewatch videos and outline their theses, key points, and conclusions.

3. Research project: Have students find more examples that support, or argue against, a video's argument. Students could also write a response to a video essay.

4. Copyright lesson: Video essays are a great example of fair use. Show students that by adding their own commentary, they can use copyrighted material responsibly.

5. Assessment: Have students create their own video essays to demonstrate learning or media-creation skills like editing.