Media have embedded values and points of view.

Video link

Write -Up:

Explanation:

Within this project, we are focused primarily on the Formal Operational Stage in cognitive development. In this stage, adolescents and young adults begin thinking more abstractly. They are able to broaden their mindset on concepts such as morals, philosophical, ethical, social and political issues. This stage begins at the age of 12 and as they continue growing so does their cognitive development (Cognitive Development, 1995). When doing my research on an activity well suited for this core concept, I wanted it to be not only enjoyable but contain moral, philosophical, abstract, and creative components that would provide them with the correct understanding of the values that are hidden within their most popular shows, movies, books, and video games. I explained this concept using terms and examples that adolescents in this developement stage should be able to fully comprehend.

Activity Idea:

The activity I chose for this core concept is meant to assist in teaching how to recognize the values within popular media sources (movies, shows, comics, anime, and videogames). What this activity will consist of is recreating a scene from the well known Disney-Pixar film "Soul". After taking a look onto the deeper meanings within this film, I felt it would be perfect for the Formal Operational Stage because this film discusses many lessons that arise in every day life. This core concept is centered around content and the messages within the provided media.

Foreseeable Difficulties:

The only forseeable difficulties that may arise is if there is not a method of being able to have a device that records and also not having internet access to view the scenes provided on Youtube. If this is the case then I would recommend downloading the provided scene scripts to then have the written versions. This is still perfectly fine and they have a chance to be creative with the scenes. If recording is not an option, just have a parent/guardian be apart of watching them recreate the scenes.

Lesson Plan

Learning Objectives:

• To gain the understanding that media has embedded values and points of view.

• Using their creative side and imagination to recreate a scene from a popular film.

• To learn that there are messages in all sources of media entertainment and sometimes you have to break it down by section or scenes to grasp what the author/producer wants the audience to takeaway.

• To create a form of content that is holding values that are useful to be knowledgeable on in the real world.

Project Materials:

• Phone, computer, or tablet that can access Youtube and also a device that can record if possible.

• Optional: someone to take part in this activity with such as a parent/guardian, pet, friend, or sibling.

• Any fun props you may want to inlcude within your chosen scene.

• A space where you are able to recreate your scene.

Activity procedures:

For this activity you will be putting on your acting hats to recreate a scene for the Disney-Pixar film "Soul". You will be able to choose from four different scene options that will be provided below. Each scene is a little different, some are on the more funny side while others are more serious or musical. You may use any recording device you have to film your take on your scene and if you aren't able to use a device to record, have a partner watch you act out your scene. This is a fun activity to explore your creative side but also keep in mind the main objective which is to uncover those hidden messages/values in that given scene. Once you have completed your activity feel free to show your friends or family!

Assessment:

For your assessment, you will be taking what you learned from your scene and writing down 4 values, hidden messages, or lessons you found. There are no right or wrong answers here because everyone interprets certain lessons differently. For the second part of this assessment, think about how this can be added to your life whether it's now or in your future.

Google doc- Assessment

PDF- Assessment (PDF)

Takeaway:

Listed below I will have a Google Doc, a PDF, and a QR code that summarizes the main points of Core Concept 4.

Google Doc- Takeaway (Center for Media Literacy, 2005).

PDF- Takeaway (PDF) (Center for Media Literacy, 2005).

"Soul" Scene Options for Activity

If for some reason the links above do not work, they are inserted below in order of which they appeared on the page!