Teaching Tools

 
Youth Works celebrates and spotlights young filmmakers from within the Bay Area and as far across the globe as Ukraine and rural China. With works encompassing out-of-this-world visual effects, innovative hand-drawn animation, and intimate interviews, these young filmmakers do not shy away from pushing boundaries and displaying their talent. Through
their unique viewpoints, we peek into their communities, adolescence, and the growth and transformation that happens in early adulthood. From tales of fantastic journeys, radical self-acceptance, and feminine power, to understanding one’s culture and identity, these films introduce us to an up-and-coming group of cinematic voices carrying us one short at a time into the next generation of filmmaking.

 
Wondrous and whimsical shorts from near and far corners of the world grace our festival screen for the enjoyment of the entire family. A wooden puppet embarks on a journey of self-
discovery as she questions whether or not she fits in, while a mother-daughter rodeo duo connects to their roots and legacy. Explore where ideas and inspiration come from in thought- provoking found footage and experience the charming, and maybe a little gross, feelings of a young first kiss. These films and guide will help bring up topics that can be starting-off points for larger discussions around the themes of innovation, curiosity, and self-discovery.

 
Cartoon Saloon, the renowned Irish studio known for their beautifully crafted hand-drawn animation, is celebrating its 25th anniversary with Puffin Rock and the New Friends. When the last Little Egg of the season disappears under mysterious circumstances, Oona and her new friends race against time to bring the Little Egg home before a big storm hits Puffin Rock, putting the entire island in danger. This film and study guide will encourage students to thoughtfully consider two large themes: how climate change impacts where animals live and what it feels like to be a new member of a community.

 
This striking collection of shorts explores the imaginative and thought-provoking range that film as a medium can showcase. Topics traverse immigration and family secrets, the freedom to choose one’s path in teenagehood, and an athlete’s Olympic dreams. This selection by brilliant filmmakers telling stories from around the world features narrative, documentary, and animated films utilizing craftful scripts, stunning cinematography, and collaged animation to create a delightful assortment. A screening of this program and study guide complements a curriculum in English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Art/Media.

 
In the United States, math is a gatekeeper. In an increasingly algorithm-and-data driven 21st century, assumptions made about a child’s mathematical ability affect their odds of finding future success. Counted Out weaves together a mosaic of voices and stories across generations and professions to explain the detrimental effects of declining math skills on civic participation, legal rulings, and fulfilling careers. Taught in conjunction with this guide the film will engage students in meaningful discussions about math education, equity, and social justice.