Watching American Manhunt The Boston Marathon Bombing / Activity Analysis

Art

• The child can analyze the visual elements and design choices made in the documentary, such as the use of color, composition, and typography in the title sequences.
• They can also explore the representation of emotions and storytelling through the use of visual imagery in the documentary.
• The child can create their own artwork inspired by the themes and events depicted in the documentary, expressing their personal response to the content.

English Language Arts

• The child can analyze the structure of the documentary, including how different narrative elements are woven together to create a cohesive story.
• They can identify and analyze the use of rhetorical devices, such as persuasive language and emotional appeals, in interviews or speeches featured in the documentary.
• The child can write a reflective essay or response, discussing their thoughts, feelings, and insights gained from watching the documentary.
• They can also engage in critical thinking and analysis by comparing the documentary to other sources of information about the Boston Marathon bombing.

Foreign Language

• The child can practice their listening skills by watching the documentary in a foreign language audio track or with subtitles in a target language.
• They can transcribe and translate key dialogues or interviews from the documentary to improve their language proficiency.

History

• The child can gain a deeper understanding of the events surrounding the Boston Marathon bombing by researching and discussing the historical context in which it occurred.
• They can analyze primary and secondary sources related to the event, such as news articles, interviews, or official reports, to develop their critical thinking and research skills.
• The child can explore the impact of the Boston Marathon bombing on American society, including changes in security measures and public attitudes towards terrorism.

Math

• The child can analyze and interpret statistical data related to the Boston Marathon bombing, such as the number of casualties, injuries, or the financial impact of the event.
• They can use mathematical modeling to explore the patterns and trends in security measures before and after the bombing.

Music

• The child can analyze the use of music in the documentary, such as the choice of background music to create a specific mood or enhance the storytelling.
• They can create their own soundtrack for a specific scene in the documentary, selecting appropriate musical elements to convey emotions or emphasize key moments.
• The child can research and analyze songs or musical compositions inspired by the Boston Marathon bombing, exploring how artists use music to express their response to tragic events.

Physical Education

• The child can examine the physical and mental challenges faced by the athletes participating in the Boston Marathon, including their training routines, endurance, and resilience.
• They can participate in discussions or research about the impact of the bombing on the marathon runners and the subsequent resilience and determination shown by the participants in returning to the race in subsequent years.

Science

• The child can explore the forensic science techniques used in the investigation of the Boston Marathon bombing, such as DNA analysis, fingerprinting, or ballistics.
• They can research and discuss the science behind the construction and functioning of different types of explosive devices used in terrorist attacks.
• The child can investigate the psychological impact of traumatic events like the Boston Marathon bombing on individuals and communities, exploring concepts in neuroscience and psychology.

Social Studies

• The child can analyze the social and cultural factors that contribute to acts of terrorism, such as political ideologies, religious extremism, or social inequalities.
• They can explore the role of media in shaping public opinion and creating narratives about terrorism, analyzing how the Boston Marathon bombing was covered in the news.
• The child can engage in discussions or research about the social responses to the Boston Marathon bombing, including acts of solidarity, community support, or debates on civil liberties.

Continued development related to the activity can involve encouraging the child to research and explore other documentaries or movies that depict real-life events or historical moments. They can analyze different filmmaking techniques, storytelling approaches, and use these findings to create their own short films or documentaries. This creative exercise will not only enhance their understanding of various subjects but also develop their critical thinking, research, and communication skills.

Book Recommendations

• The Boston Marathon Bombing: The Long Run from Terror to Resilience by Gary P. Pisano and Andrew W. Lo: This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the Boston Marathon bombing and its aftermath, including the social, political, and economic impact of the event.
• Stronger by Jeff Bauman and Bret Witter: This memoir shares the personal story of a survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing and his journey of recovery, resilience, and hope.
• The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America by George Packer: Although not specifically about the Boston Marathon bombing, this book explores the sociopolitical landscape of America and reflects on the events that have shaped the nation in recent years.