Watch the MAP 11 American Issues Documentaries
Watch the MAP 11 American Issues Documentaries
The Trial of Woodrow Wilson
American Issues Documentaries
MAP 11 write and film a documentary that connects to American history. By applying English skills such as story structure and persuasive communication, along with the filming techniques gained from media arts, students create five-minute documentaries on topics of personal interest. They explore issues within their communities, conduct interviews with professionals in relevant fields, and present their findings through compelling narratives. This project allows MAP 11 students to shed light on important topics that are often overlooked today.
History Trials
In history, students participate in two trials that develop their knowledge of American history while immersing themselves into the controversies of the 1900s. In both “The Trial of Woodrow Wilson” and “The Trial of FDR,” students use their newfound knowledge to either prosecute or defend these presidents for their decisions during the First World War and The Great Depression.
Interdisciplinary Days
As part of an event tying together The Great Gatsby unit in English with what they are learning in American History, MAP 11 students delve into the vibrant culture of the 1920s with fun activities held in the Annex. Students learneswing dancing, explor the Harlem Renaissance, and immerse themselves in the sounds of jazz and blues, gaining a deeper understanding of the era's artistic and social movements. Some students also contribute to the experience by signing up to bring store-bought or homemade food, which they share during lunch in the Annex.
Following the 1920s Day, students return to the Annex for an immersive 1930s Day, diving into one of the most challenging periods in American history — the Great Depression. Through interactive lessons and activities, students gain a deeper understanding of the economic hardships and societal changes that defined the decade.
In Media Arts classes, students watch Forrest Gump to practice analyzing key elements of storytelling, such as finding the inciting incident and climax. Building on this foundation, they participate in screenwriting lessons in English and Media Arts, in which they developed original film ideas and transformed them into screenplays for their upcoming “American Story” project.
East Bay Field Trip
Students visit the Rosie the Riveter National Park and Museum in Richmond to learn about the local war effort to build ships during WWII.
The second part of the day is a visit to the Oakland Museum of California where students learn about California Art, History, and Science.
Los Angeles Field Trip
Students visit Los Angeles for four days to learn about the film and entertainment industry. The visits include USC, The Zemeckis Center, Warner Bros. Studios, Universal Studios, a Broadway show at the Pantages Theater, and museum visits to the Academy of Motion Pictures and Getty Museums.
MAP alumni working in the area often meet up with the group to share their experiences of college and careers after graduating from SHS.