School: Kamaile Academy Public Charter School
Grade Level: Grades K-1
Teacher: Catherine (Rosie) Carpenter and Alex Livermore
Driving Question: How can we as keiki o Kamaile use various types of movies to develop our own opinion on what makes a good movie?
What did the students DO?
This media literacy group has been deeply engaged in understanding what makes a story impactful by using the “Consume, Analyze, Produce” method. Students have been watching and breaking down short films and movie clips to identify key literary and cinematic elements such as plot, character development, conflict, and resolution. These foundational storytelling skills not only support their regular academic studies but will also empower them to eventually create their own films in partnership with Purple Maiʻa later in the year.
- Understanding Story Structure Through Film: Students have been watching various short films and movie clips using the “Consume, Analyze, Produce” model. The current focus has been on identifying core story elements such as main characters, setting, conflict, climax, and resolution.
- Analyzing Film to Enhance Literacy Skills: By discussing and analyzing what they watch, students are strengthening their ability to recognize literary components that are also part of their school day curriculum. This helps reinforce comprehension and critical thinking across multiple subjects.
- Connecting Story Elements to Daily Learning: As students recognize what makes a story exciting or meaningful, they apply this knowledge to reading and writing tasks in their classrooms. They reflect on themes, character motivations, and structure, helping them become better readers and storytellers.
- Storyboarding and Planning Original Projects: Students have started to translate their understanding of story structure into visual planning by working on their own storyboards. These drafts will guide them as they prepare to write and produce original short films or skits later this semester.
- Preparing for PALS Hōʻike: Students have been working on presentations to showcase at the upcoming PALS Hōʻike. Their presentations will reflect their learning process and demonstrate their evolving understanding of what makes a story powerful and engaging.
By learning to analyze and construct stories, this group is strengthening both their literacy and creative thinking skills. Their participation in the “Consume, Analyze, Produce” process gives them the tools to become effective communicators and critical thinkers. The integration of short films, discussion, and creative planning prepares them not only for storytelling but for deeper learning in all subject areas. With the upcoming support of Purple Maiʻa, they will soon be empowered to bring their stories to life and share their unique voices with the broader community.
