16 Deep Analysis of a Film
Alejandro Leopardi
Learning Objectives
There are several objectives this assignment can cover, but I’d say the 3 top objectives include:
- Critical Thinking, Reading, and Writing,
- Information Literacy
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning.
This is a collaborative assignment that will require students to use the MC library for several purposes. First, the film can be found in our library’s collection. Second, students will need to conduct some light research using the library’s databases. While they can use other online platforms, our library will yield more useful results.
Purpose/Rationale
Instructions
Overview: Students will read Daphne du Maurier’s horror short story “The Birds” from her collection of short stories The Birds and Other Stories. As a class, we will discuss our thoughts on the story and its meaning. Then, we will watch the Alfred Hitchcock film, The Birds, in class. Additionally, we will watch a short segment from A Talk with Hitchcock where he discusses “The Birds.” As a class, we will discuss our thoughts on the film and its meaning. Students will answer the question: Is the purpose the same in both the short story and the film? Assignment: Students will develop a psychological analysis of Hitchcock’s The Birds in which they try to uncover why the birds attack humans. Students will be placed into groups. Each group will need to establish at least two specific reasons for the attacks. Groups will present their findings to the rest of the class. As part of this process, students will need to conduct research on birds – specifically, the birds included in the film. They will need to research San Francisco, specifically Bodega Bay where the film takes place. Groups will need to find sources, gather evidence, and develop a grounded argument that helps shed light on the attack of birds on people.
Format Requirements
In addition to the class presentation of each group’s findings, every member will submit a ~2-page reflection. This reflection will discuss:
- Their role in the group.
- Their thoughts on the psychology behind the attacks.
- How they developed their argument.
- What they have learned through the activity.
A minimum of 2 sources must be used. The presentation can be in any format individual groups decide PowerPoint, Prezi, video, photos, etc.
Rubric/Criteria
A rubric for this type of assignment might be a bit difficult to utilize, though I’ll continue to develop the assignment to see if I can create one that works. To assess students, I’ll review their use of rhetorical techniques, the supporting evidence, and the examples. The goal here is to develop a sound argument based on research and discussion with group members. This assignment will show students’ abilities to develop an argument, as well as work in a group environment.
