• Track. Target. Thrive.

    Track. Target. Thrive.

    Years in the video tech classroom have taught me one thing: seeing students bring their creative visions to life is pure magic. But let’s be honest, keeping track of everyone’s progress from one project to the next amidst the creative whirlwind can feel like, well, filming a live documentary –… Read More

  • From Brainstorm to Blockbuster: How Graphic Organizers Map Out Video Projects

    From Brainstorm to Blockbuster: How Graphic Organizers Map Out Video Projects

    Engaging students in video production is a fantastic way to develop creativity, communication, and critical thinking skills. The pre-production phase can be overwhelming for our young filmmakers, though. I’ve found that graphic organizers can make all the difference for them. Graphic Organizers: Building Blocks for Video Success Graphic organizers are… Read More

  • Level Up Club Leadership: Slay Paperwork with Google Sheets

    Level Up Club Leadership: Slay Paperwork with Google Sheets

    Tired of Paperwork Eating into Club Time? Use Google Sheets to Manage Your Student Group! Hey there, fellow club leaders and activity advisors! We all know the struggle. You’re passionate about your club, love working with students, but sometimes paperwork feels like it takes over your life. Especially when it… Read More

  • The Unsung Heroes: Why Organized Teachers Make the Grade

    The Unsung Heroes: Why Organized Teachers Make the Grade

    Picture this: a teacher juggling lesson plans, assignments, grades, and a million other things on a daily basis. It’s a chaotic dance, and without proper organization, it could easily turn into a disaster. I mean, let’s be real… we’ve all seen both ends of the spectrum, right? Some of our… Read More

  • Beyond Boredom

    Beyond Boredom

    So, you’ve found yourself in the captivating realm of video technology, ready to dive into the world of pixels, editing, and storytelling. Exciting, right? But let’s be real – keeping a video technology and production class engaged can feel like trying to play Monopoly blindfolded. Fear not, because I get… Read More

  • Crafting Killer Questions

    Crafting Killer Questions

    Hey there, budding filmmakers and creative minds! So, your students have just stepped into the exciting world of video production, armed with a camera, passion, and a boatload of enthusiasm (smidgen of enthusiasm?). But here’s the thing: to truly capture the magic on screen, your students need to master the… Read More

  • Framing the Future

    Framing the Future

    In the vast universe of filmmaking, understanding camera shots and angles is akin to wielding a powerful storytelling wand. It’s not just about capturing images; it’s about orchestrating a symphony of emotions, perspectives, and narrative nuances. (Not sure where to start? Check out this lesson on shots & angles –… Read More

  • Spoken Word Poetry Video Assignment

    Spoken Word Poetry Video Assignment

    Hey there, poetry enthusiasts and holiday cheerleaders! Guess what? I’ve got a festive treat for you that’s as delightful as a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace. Picture this: the magic of the holidays, the enchantment of spoken word poetry, and the creativity of your imagination, all rolled into… Read More

  • Cinematic Checklists

    Cinematic Checklists

    Ever find yourself reveling in the sweet, sweet satisfaction of ticking items off a checklist? There’s something oddly gratifying about the process – a sense of accomplishment, a roadmap to success. In a chaotic and exhilarating video production class, checklists can become your students’ best friend. I know how it… Read More

  • Seamless Morning Announcements

    Seamless Morning Announcements

    If you’re taking on a Video Technology and Production course for the first time and not sure where to start, I feel you’re pain. About 7 years ago, I moved from teaching strictly English Language Arts all day, every day to a position as a Library Media Specialist. I suddenly… Read More

  • From Selfies to Cinematics

    From Selfies to Cinematics

    Sometimes it feels like my students are in a constant state of posing for selfies and flashing duck lips. Their phones are an extension of their hands, and most of the time, when I need to figure out new technology, my students are the ones teaching me. So it’s always… Read More

  • Lights, Camera, Ethics!

    Lights, Camera, Ethics!

    Hey there, fellow educators and video technology enthusiasts! Ever wondered about the profound impact video content has on our lives? From entertainment to education, it’s everywhere, shaping perspectives and influencing culture. But with great power comes great responsibility, especially in the realm of video technology and production. The Significance of… Read More