Computer Skills Curriculum
Word Processing Lesson Plan

Title: Computer-generated Effects

Other Curriculum Objectives that can be addressed by this lesson plan
English Language Arts: 1.3, 2.1, 3.1; Computer Skills: (Gr. 7) 2.2; Information Skills 1.1

Grade: 7
Competency 2.2: Describe the advantages for using computers to generate various types of productions.

Measure 2.2.3: Upon viewing segments of a video (e.g., Star Wars, Tron, or Star Trek), describe computer-generated effects used in the video.

Materials: VCR and large screen monitor; commercials, a movie or video segments containing computer-generated effects (Beauty and the Beast, Deep Space Nine, Jurassic Park, Aladdin); Computer-generated Effects worksheet (included).

Time: One-two class periods.

Terms: computer-generated effects, animation, digitized effects, laser effects, cartoons, morphing, virtual reality

Glossary

Activities

Pre-Activity:

    Teacher Preparation:

  • Obtain and preview two or more videos or video segments containing computer-generated effects to use with the class.
  • Check with your media professional if you have questions related to copyright.

Activity:

  1. Discuss the term computer-generated effects with the students.
  2. Show a segment(s) of video containing computer-generated effects.
  3. Have students identify the ones found in the video segment.
  4. Have students identify some computer-generated effects that they have seen in recent movies or on television.
  5. Assign students a two to five day period to keep a log of television programs, movies or commercials that they watch. Students should also record the computer- generated effects observed in the program, movie, or commercial.
  6. Provide class time for the students to share a few of the effects that they have found.

Enrichment/ Follow-up:

  • Have students tape a commercial that shows computer-generated effects and bring it to class to share with other students.
  • Take a field trip to a local television station to learn more about the types of computer-generated effects that are used. If possible, have one of the media professionals describe the types of training needed for this job.

Measure

Show students several video segments with computer-generated effects and have them list the effects in that portion of the video.