To the teacher: The following assignment can be appropriate in any social studies course, but it works especially well in

psychology and sociology. I generally use it as an extra credit or optional assignment. Additionally, it could work as
one choice for students completing a differentiated project or research paper.

Film Project and Paper

Objective: The purpose of this assignment is to elaborate upon your understanding of various concepts
learned and discussed so far in this course. The project/paper is due on _________________.

Process and product:

1) Choose a film that is relevant to the curriculum and that we have not watched in class. While deciding
what film to watch, be mindful of the cultural standards of your household, and engage your caregiver(s)
in a discussion of what is considered appropriate. Please see your teacher with any questions you have
regarding film selection.
2) Watch the film, analyzing the relevant components.
3) Type an essay of approximately five pages (double spaced, 12-point regular font) that includes the
components outlined below.
a) Begin with identifying information for the film, including the title and year of release. Then provide
a brief synopsis. (about 1 page)
b) Using concepts and terminology we have studied in this course, analyze the situations in the film,
and apply them to the curriculum. If you note inaccuracies and/or biases in the film, they would be
appropriate to note in this section of your paper. Have at least five examples from the film that you
apply to the curriculum. (about 2 to 3 pages)
c) Explain how the film has enlightened your understanding of the curriculum. (about 1 to 2 pages)

Rubric:
Appropriate film choice
and quality of synopsis
(20%)
Analysis of film in
relation to the
curriculum (40%)
Explanation of
enlightened
understanding due to
film (30%)
Use of language
conventions (10%)
Exemplary (A)
Choice is appropriate
and description of the
film is clear with
numerous relevant
details included
Film is clearly explained
and analyzed in light of
the curriculum in great
detail with at least five
clear examples
Excellent explanation of
personal enlightenment
due to film AND clear
evidence of new
understandings
Masterful use of writing
conventions including
strong transitions
between ideas, clear
organization, and
excellent
grammar/syntax
Proficient (B-C)
Choice is appropriate
and description is
provided with several
relevant details included
Film is explained and
analyzed in light of the
curriculum with fewer
than five clear examples
OR examples are not as
detailed as necessary
Explanation of what you
have learned present but
lacking relevant details
Clear organization, few
grammatical errors
Unsatisfactory (D-F)
Choice is not appropriate
and/or few relevant
details are included
Relationship between the
film and curriculum is
unclear and/or few
relevant examples are
included
Unclear, unfocused
presentation of what you
have learned from the
film
Grammatical errors
impede readability
and/or unclear
organization

Brooks/Greene Beyond the Board 2009