8+2: an Exercise in Composition

For this project we were to create a lesson with an assessment that we could use in our classes that we teach that focussed on the elements of composition.  That lesson with rubric can be found here.  Then we were to do the assignment and post the video which can be found below.  This was an interesting experience.  Often as teachers we make assessments for our students and then give them without any test.  Our first batch of students become guinea pigs for our experiment.  I guess that is why so often it feels like flying into the unknown with these new lessons and assessment plans.  In this case, I have completed the assignment myself.  This has a number of advantages.  First, I was able to work out a lot of bugs in the assignment now before any students look at it.  Second, I was able to create an example of what the finished product is to look like.  With untried assessments we often have nothing to show the students to demonstrate what we are looking for.  This solves that problem.  Third, it is proof that I know what I am doing.  Often in tech heavy classes students and teachers may not have as great a chasm between them, and sometimes the roles are even reversed.  So with this I am able to say, "Look, I can do this, and so can you."
I think that this will be an invaluable asset as I work toward creating a better quality curriculum for my students in my film courses.