It’s an iMovie Time of Year
Type of technology: iPad
SAMR Model Rating:Modification
Grade level:4-9
Subject area:All
Cost:Free
It’s an iMovie Time of Year
As new topics are introduced in class, it’s a great time to think about pairings. No, not food and wine, but projects and apps. Social studies and iMovies are a great match. It’s a creative and entertaining way for students to make a presentation.
Your assignment sheet should be divided into two sets of requirements. One set will deal with content while the other will be required iMovie elements.
For a first project make sure to have the students include the basics:
Opening credits
Stills with narration
Live action
Stills with text
Music
Transitions
Closing credits
Research should come first. Once the students have the information, you can give them shot sheets or story boards to plan their work. This is a basic overview to plan what goes where, and in what form ( live action, stills etc.) Alfred Hitchcock planned all of his films this way. It’s a way to look ahead so that all gets done in a timely manner. Check out Google images for a variety of these
It’s possible to make a quick first project using the Trailer template, but it won’t be the most effective vehicle for most information.
Be sure to take into consideration the necessity for space and quiet if requiring a live action segment. This will also be a challenge when recording voiceovers.
Soundtracks can be tricky. The students in my class are limited to the music offered in the iMovie app. It’s worth talking about the choice of appropriate music to match the content. Music should enhance, not detract.
When including stills with text, remind students that ample time to read the information must be considered. This is not a written report. It must flow well.
Remember that no one needs to start out an expert. I teach fifth grade and the there are both experts and beginners in the room. Kids can work together, but it’s worth having everyone turn in their own movie, even if it’s essentially the same thing as their partner’s. This ensures that no one person does all the work.
Most of all, the kids will have fun, and everyone will improve their iMovie skills.
