5th-8th Graders learn how to become Video Producers in News Blog Course
by Rachel Jones
Intermediate and Middle School News Blog gives students in grades 5-8 the opportunity to investigate and share their passions and interests through digital storytelling. In just two trimesters, news bloggers have produced more than 75 multimedia projects on a wide range of topics from Dungeons and Dragons to what it means to have an Episcopal Identity. The opportunities are endless! Instructor and former journalist Rachel Jones pushes her students to consider what matters to both the storyteller and the audience, furthering their ability to empathize and recognize their power to be a voice for others. Students research, storyboard, perform interviews, shoot video, write scripts, record voice overs, and edit video. The videos are posted on the school’s Wordpress blog asesnewsblog.wordpress.com and shared across the school’s social media platforms. Beyond the process of producing a multimedia story, students cultivate a healthy curiosity, build social skills with both their peers and mentors, explore their creativity, and practice using technology that they otherwise would not see in an ordinary classroom. Perhaps most importantly, students are encouraged to consider the power of storytelling. Jones aims to inspire her news bloggers to understand that they can be real change-makers in their school and community. There is a reverence instilled for the role of storyteller for both its responsibility and privilege.
24 | TORCH
