Teaching Tools

 
Fans (and especially super-fans) of Mickey Mouse will thoroughly enjoy Mickey: The Story of a Mouse. The film guides viewers through the history of the characterization of Walt Disney’s famous Mickey Mouse. For teachers, on the surface, it uncovers the full history of this world-known animated character, sharing the various iterations that Disney had for Mickey over the years. The study guide is intended to support educators in encouraging and prompting discussion on the role of icons, American culture, and art.

 
Over the course of these three shorts, Director Ben Proudfoot focuses intently on the remarkable and ingenious sides of his subjects without losing sight of their humanity. This meditative and patient practice in film portraiture creates engaging pieces that also touch on turning points in American History and how they relate to our lives now. The study guide is intended to support students to explore and reflect on personal stories and the societal and legislative influences.

Collected from many corners of the world, these true, not-so-true, and animated stories are sure to inspire laughter, curiosity, tears, and awe in the youngest filmgoers. This guide can be used as discussion points to delve into that history, and modern day reflections on personal connection. This guide is intended to flexibly support educators and families alike with creative discussion or writing prompts, and hands-on activities to share with students and kids.

King Coal explores the natural environment and social complexity of the Central Appalachia region. The film observes the influence of the coal mining industry on the communities’ history and local identity. Taught in conjunction with this guide, the film will encourage students to think about national history through the lens of the present cities and communities, exploring the relevance of the past in the current issues of the country, the landmarks and passing of the times, and local identities rooted on historic events.

Davina Pardo and Leah Wolchok’s documentary Judy Blume Forever is a radically honest and uplifting documentary about the world renowned writer Judy Blume. Through intimate conversations with the author and the people she has inspired, the film follows the journey of her life from childhood to present day and all her successes and mistakes along the way. The film touches upon the career building of a writer, her activism against book banning and censorship, and the unique challenges students face during adolescence. Used by teachers and families, this study guide will complement a curriculum in English Language Arts and other subjects, diving deep into the Judy Blume universe.