Making Videos to Improve School Atmosphere

Students will use digital camcorders to create videos about a school topic of their choice. Options include:
- Bullying/cyberbullying PSAs
- "Thank you" video to teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week
- "What I Learned" on a field trip
- "What I Like About School"
- Seniors, "What I'll Miss About School"
- Etc.


Procedures:
1. Have students (in a class or a club) break into groups and think of topics for a video that will increase school spirit and morale. Once they have chosen and had the topic approved, they may begin storyboarding ideas.
2. In their storyboard, students should have an idea of the shots they would like to have, the people they will talk to, the sounds and effects they would like, and an idea of the overall outline/plot of the video.
3. Students may begin shooting once their storyboards are complete.
4. After shooting the video, students can bring their video to the computer that will be used for editing and upload it to the computer.
5. In a class, a day may be taken here to teach the basics of the video editing and podcasting software. In a club, groups can work one on one with the sponsor to learn how to use the software.

Using video editing software, podcasting software, and computer headsets students can create a professional looking video with captions, voice overs, and sound effects. Videos may be posted on the Media Club website or on the school website or any other medium by which faculty/staff, students, and community might see it to increase school spirit and