Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to analyze and rate various Dreamworks movies based on themes, character development, and personal enjoyment. They will also practice their writing and critical thinking skills by composing a review for one of the films.

Materials and Prep

• Access to a selection of Dreamworks movies (e.g., Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon, Kung Fu Panda).
• A notebook or digital document for writing notes and reviews.
• Optional: A rating scale (1-5 stars) for evaluating the movies.

Before the lesson, ensure that the student has access to at least two Dreamworks movies for viewing. Familiarize yourself with the movies beforehand to facilitate discussion.

Activities

• Movie Viewing:

  The student will watch one or two selected Dreamworks movies. Encourage them to pay attention to the plot, characters, and themes. They can take notes on what they like or dislike about each film.

• Discussion Session:

  After watching the movies, have a discussion about the films. Ask open-ended questions about the characters, the story arcs, and any moral lessons they observed. This will help them articulate their thoughts and feelings about the movies.

• Movie Review Writing:

  The student will write a review of one of the movies they watched. They should include their rating, a summary of the plot, their favorite and least favorite parts, and any lessons learned from the film. Encourage them to express their opinions clearly and creatively.

• Peer Review:

  If possible, have the student share their review with a family member or friend for feedback. This will help them learn to accept constructive criticism and improve their writing skills.

Talking Points

• "What themes do you think are present in the movie? For example, friendship, bravery, or self-acceptance?"
• "How do the characters grow throughout the film? Can you relate to any of them?"
• "What was your favorite scene, and why did it resonate with you?"
• "How would you rate the movie on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, and what influenced your decision?"
• "Did you notice any humor or messages that were particularly aimed at a younger or older audience?"
• "What did you learn from the movie, and how might it apply to real life?"