Media
Media Magnet Program (Grades 6-8)
Description
The Media Magnet Program at David A. Boody Middle School is a hands-on, project-based course designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to express themselves creatively through digital graphics, print media, computer animation, and more. This program prepares students for future opportunities in the media field by using industry-standard tools and techniques to create real-world projects for clients both inside and outside of the school district.
Throughout the course, students will develop practical skills in various forms of media production, including animation, filmmaking, journalism, photography, advertising, broadcasting, and podcasting. Students will learn how to lead and manage projects, work as a team, facilitate meetings, and present their ideas professionally. They will also have opportunities to showcase their work and receive constructive feedback through class critiques and collaborative team meetings.
Grade 6 Topics: Introduction to Digital Media
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Basic Media Concepts: Students are introduced to the foundational concepts of digital media, including the differences between digital graphics, photography, video, and animation.
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Photography: Students will learn the basics of photography, including framing, lighting, and composition, and create their own photographic projects.
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Introduction to Animation: Students explore the principles of animation and create simple animated projects using beginner-friendly software.
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Digital Graphics: Students will start working with graphic design tools to create digital visuals such as posters and digital art.
Grade 7 Topics: Exploring Media Creation
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Advanced Animation: Students deepen their understanding of animation, learning more advanced techniques and creating short animations using professional tools.
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Journalism and Reporting: Students learn the basics of journalism, including how to write articles, interview subjects, and report on events. They will create digital news pieces and gain experience in content creation.
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Advertising: Students explore the world of advertising by designing ad campaigns and learning about target audiences, branding, and messaging.
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Broadcasting: Students will get an introduction to broadcasting, including how to create and produce radio shows, podcasts, and video broadcasts.
Grade 8 Topics: Professional Media Production
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Project Management: Students will learn how to manage a media project from start to finish, including planning, organizing, and executing media projects on time and within budget.
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Client-Based Projects: Students will work on real-world projects for clients, both within the school and in the community. This provides practical experience in meeting client needs and expectations.
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Podcasting: Students will create and produce their own podcasts, learning about audio recording, editing, and storytelling to produce engaging content.
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Advanced Filmmaking and Editing: Students will work on more complex filmmaking projects, including scripting, shooting, and editing videos using professional-grade software.
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Presentation Skills: Students will practice presenting their media projects to the class, receiving feedback, and participating in critique sessions to improve their work.
Key Skills Developed
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Creative Expression: Students will develop their ability to communicate and express ideas through various forms of media, including digital graphics, animation, film, photography, and podcasting.
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Collaboration: Students will work in teams to create media projects, learning how to delegate tasks, manage group dynamics, and support each other in creative endeavors.
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Leadership and Management: By taking on leadership roles, students will develop skills in managing projects, timelines, and teams, preparing them for future opportunities in the media field.
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Professional Communication: Through presentations, client projects, and class critiques, students will build their confidence in public speaking, giving feedback, and presenting their work professionally.
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Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Students will tackle creative challenges and work through problems that arise during the production process, enhancing their problem-solving abilities.
Program Features and Highlights
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Hands-On Learning: Students create real-world media projects, giving them practical experience in media production.
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Industry Tools: Students use professional software tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro to create and edit their projects.
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Client Projects: Students will work on projects for actual clients, helping them understand how to meet client expectations and deliver quality work.
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Collaboration and Feedback: Students will participate in team meetings, give presentations, and engage in class critiques to improve their work.
The Media Magnet Program provides students with a dynamic and engaging way to learn about the exciting world of media. Whether they're interested in filmmaking, animation, journalism, photography, advertising, broadcasting, or podcasting, this program will help students develop the skills they need to succeed in the digital world.
The test is 50 questions long, all multiple choice. Answers are recorded on a Scantron Form so please bring in #2 (or HB) pencils and good quality erasers.
Here are some of the specific types of questions we are incorporating into the test:
- Reading Comprehension of a technical nature
- Multi-step problem solving
- Sequences & Patterns
- Puzzles
- Analysis of Charts and Graphs
- Critical Thinking
- Attention to minute details
- Logical thinking (AND, OR, IF THEN, etc.)
- Sequential thinking
- Concept Maps / Outlines / Flowcharts
- Engineering Design Process
- Empirical questions (experiment vs. experience/observation)
- Simulations/system modeling
- Scientific theory
- Comfort level with the internet and technology
- Ability to see and think in 2D and 3D
- Inherent ability to approximate/estimate
- Basic online research skills
- Basic arithmetic, geometry and early (they are in grade 5) algebra skills
- Basic computer application skills
- Awareness of social problems relating to technology
- Comfort with the use of symbols