Yale Film Analysis Resource

Click only on the left side links. Don't use the drop down on top left of page. A bit clunky with small photos, but includes a number of good video examples and all is explained simply and clearly.

Yale Film Analysis Resource

Film: A Favourite Scene

Write a short paragraph (150 words) that describes a favourite scene (five minutes or fewer of screen time). Name two techniques the filmmaker has used (how the scene is framed, for example. Are actors shown in closeup or far away?) Why did he or she use the technique in your opinion? It may be to make us laugh (as in the "spinning sign" in Romeo and Juliet) or to create a mood (the empty, ice-bound train we see in The Ice Storm).

If you have a copy of the film, bring it to class next week. If not and you know the URL for YouTube, put it in your answer. We will watch and discuss as many scenes as we can next Wednesday.

DOCUMENT: Examining Mis-en-scene (the basic vocabulary of film)

Something New; Something Interesting; Something Puzzling

Share with us your thoughts on new, interesting and puzzling things you've encountered since we began our study. Write no more than 200 words in a single or multiple paragraphs. Due before class on Friday, November 13.

Favourite Title, Couplet, Image, Actions

As described on your worksheet. Please comment before Friday.

HINT: Use two tabs to make it easier to copy and paste your favourites.

Write a List Poem

Beginning with "Life is the only way", write your own list poem using "A Note" as a model. Your poem must use the same number of words and structure as Szymborska's. Post a copy of your poem to the blog before coming to Wednesday's class. Be prepared to do a recital of your poem (please practice ahead of time!) and give some short remarks on the process you followed and any difficulties you experienced.

Paragraph: "My Experience with Poetry"

Write a 150-word paragraph that refers to your personal experiences with poetry. The experiences do not have to be at school, although they may be if you wish. Be specific please.

Your answers will be read out and discussed at the beginning of class on Wednesday, October 28 so please have your homework done before then.

I will be absent next week. Renuka will be your teacher. She will provide me with an overall mark based on your participation in the two classes.

Comment on Al Gore's Lecture

50 word comment, no longer. See the lecture again.

Narrative Essay (1st Draft; First 2 Paragraphs)

Post the first two paragraphs of your essay to the comment section for this post, please. Bring a full draft, word processed and double spaced, to class on Wednesday, October 14.