Grading rubrics

You presented the key concept: it was clearly introduced, defined and supported with pertinent arguments: (3 pts)

2 – You illustrated the key concept with a film clip/image and explained the first’s significance within the second’s context, style, genre, etc. The illustration you chose was pertinent and helped us understand your point/interpretation of the concept (4 pts)

3- Your presentation initiated a class discussion about the film clip/image and/or analysis tools that you presented: (2 pts)

4. You gave me a copy of your outline: (1 pt)

The Vlog should synthesize material in order to come to a conclusion regarding the film’s purpose and pose interesting questions. You should seek to pose a question that you will answer and/or establish a thesis that you will support using the reading in connection with the film and examples from the film.  Your post should have a creative title and potentially invite other students to respond to what you have written. DO NOT summarize the film.

Look at the written samples provided in the “To read” section.

You can also watch this tutorial : How to make a great movie review

Do:                                                                                      Don’t:

- Give the title, filmmaker’s name, date of production         - Give a summary of the film

- Frame your analysis using the texts connected to the film - Read your text monotonously ;)

- Use an example from the film (scene, character, etc.)

- Your opinion and support it with strong arguments

30 points

Content: 15 points

15: Student’s post exhibits appropriate use of knowledge from course, application of logic and analytical skills, provides adequate support for arguments, and is an appropriate length (2-3 minutes).

12: Student’s post is strongly lacking in one of these content areas.

9: Student’s post is strongly lacking is two of these content areas.

6: Student’s post is strongly lacking is three of these content areas.

0: Student’s post is strongly lacking in all content areas or contains offensive/off-color content.

Style: 15 points

15: Student’s post exhibits good use of stylistic elements: grammar and spelling, paragraph structure, flow of ideas, and appropriate level of language.

12: Student’s post is strongly lacking in one of these stylistic elements.

9: Student’s post is strongly lacking in two of these stylistic elements.

6: Student’s post is strongly lacking in three of these stylistic elements.

0: Student’s post is strongly lacking in all of these stylistic elements.

• Task Completion. You clearly state a question or pose a problem and address it directly. Your essay offers a possible answer/solution and its conclusion should point to larger questions. Your essay should vary between 1500 and 2000 words in length (10 pts)

• Detail. You support your arguments with specific facts and filmic scenes. You discuss the form and the content of the film.  Don’t just tell – show. (20 pts)

• Insight. You make interesting points and you are able to offer insights and a fresh perspective on the topic. Simply regurgitating facts and ideas already reviewed in course materials is not as valuable as making and supporting a new and interesting point of view. (20 pts)

• Structure and Style. Your essay must have a clear and dynamic organization. It is organized in a clear and coherent manner. You present your ideas logically. An analysis must have a distinct beginning (thesis statement), middle (supporting details) and end (conclusion). Your essay should be reasonably free of spelling and grammar errors. (30 pts)

ALSO:

If you need help with these, check out these links (also available in the “To read” section):

- Youtube video on writing a thesis

- “Steps to write a paper”

- Read the sample essays

- Use the Libguides prepared for this course. Wikipedia is a place to start (for example to find information to decide which film you will want work with.

- Excerpts from Timothy Corrigan’s A Short Guide To Writing About Film:

         - Outlining (109-112)

- Essay or review (6-17)

         - Introduction and conclusion (121-126)

         - Topics for film analysis and writing + sample essay (36-81)

Don’t hesitate to look back at your notes and the texts read for class that present the conceptual elements needed for your analyses.

And remember: absolutely no summary of the film!

Use either Google site or Wix (or ask me if you want to use something else)

The number of clips and/or images, the length of your recordings and/or essays depend on your topic and manner of presentation. There is no prescribed number of images or specific word count as long as you pertinently present your topic according to the following grading rubric.

However, it should reflect a significant analysis with attention to the theoretical framework you decided to use to express your thoughts.

As for any work, organization is important: your thesis should be part of your introduction or “home” to the website; each scene studied should refer to the main thesis; you should also have a conclusion. Each paragraph needs to relate to each other AND to your thesis (a guarantee that you will not get off topic)

If you need help with these, check out these links (also available in the “To read” section):

- Youtube video on writing a thesis

- “Steps to write a paper”

- Read the sample essays

- Use the Libguides prepared for this course. Wikipedia is a place to start (for example to find information to decide which film you will want work with.

- Excerpts from Timothy Corrigan’s A Short Guide To Writing About Film:

         - Outlining (109-112)

- Essay or review (6-17)

         - Introduction and conclusion (121-126)

         - Topics for film analysis and writing + sample essay (36-81)

Don’t hesitate to look back at your notes and the texts read for class that present the conceptual elements needed for your analyses.

And remember: absolutely no summary of the film!

Purpose/Thesis (15 pts)

Your website presents a thesis that is clearly delineated and aims toward a focused, developed and organized interpretation of your selected film(s) using the tools prescribed by the theory you chose.

Images/clips/other evidence (20 pts)

The supporting material read/discussed in class clearly substantiates your analyses. You demonstrate that you are critically able to examine the films – i.e. delve below their surface elements – using the theoretical knowledge relating to your topic you have so far assimilated. Your study of the formal elements of film support its content or themes.

Originality (15 pts)

Your exhibit conveys interesting, fresh and original ideas. It reveals keen perception, mature judgment, and sound logic.

Mechanics (10 pts)

Your recordings/essays are free of spelling errors, must have correct punctuation and make good use of general syntax and grammar. The vocabulary is that of a college student. You avoided slang and clichés and used words that are informed, appropriate and concrete.

Project Overview: In this short film project, you will create a film with a clear message or purpose. Your film should demonstrate a thoughtful approach to the chosen film theory and pay careful attention to the elements of form, including editing, cinematography, and sound. The emphasis should be on visual narrative rather than excessive dialogue.

Steps to Follow:

Step 1: Purpose and Positioning (20 points)

• Define the purpose of your film. What message do you want to convey, or what is the primary goal of your film?

• Choose a film theory that aligns with the purpose of your film. For example: realism, formalism, feminism, Marxism, disability studies, or any other relevant cinematic theory.

• Clearly articulate how your film positions itself within the chosen film theory.

Step 2: Statement of Intent (20 points)

• Write a concise statement of intent. Explain your creative and artistic choices, the genesis of the story and your vision to underline your film’s relevance, and in relation to your chosen film theory.

• Address how you intend to use cinematic elements (editing, cinematography, sound) to enhance the viewer’s understanding of your film’s purpose.

Step 3: Script or Storyboard (30 points)

• Develop a detailed script or storyboard for your short film. This should include a breakdown of key scenes, camera angles, composition, and sound design.

• If using dialogue, keep it concise and impactful, focusing on visual storytelling which should be engaging and effectively convey the message.

Step 4: Execution (30 points)

• Create the short film based on your script or storyboard.

• Pay close attention to the form, including seamless editing, thoughtful cinematography (camera placement, movement, composition), and effective use of sound.

• Demonstrate a clear connection between the visual elements and the intended purpose of the film.

Grading Rubric:

• Purpose and Positioning (5 points): Clarity of purpose, alignment with chosen film theory.

• Statement of Intent 10 points): Concise and articulate explanation of creative choices.

• Script or Storyboard (15 points): Detailed and well-thought-out plan for visual narrative.

• Execution (30 points): Quality of the final film, effective use of editing, cinematography, and sound in conveying the intended purpose.

Additional Notes:

• Ensure your film adheres to ethical standards and content policies.

• Duration of the short film: maximum 4 minutes.

• Feel free to experiment with different visual storytelling techniques but ensure they align with your chosen film theory and purpose.