Video is used in numerous ways at Big Creek Elementary to provide a multidisciplinary approach that will enable a deep understanding and retention of academic content at all grade levels. One way that cameras were used by 1st-8th grade students was to videotape the phases of conducting a research project and embed the video into a flipchart to be projected and presented. Another way cameras were used was that after reading a piece of literature, students worked in collaborative groups to choose a scene from the story to write an original script based on that scene. Students then designed a video storyboard, rehearsed and videotaped the scene, edited the video clips, added audio and effects, and then created a finished product that was shown to the class. Students also used the cameras to create “movie trailer videos” based on a variety of things--books, academic content, reports, etc.—and share them with others.

Video is a great way to increase understanding and retention of academic content.