"The Lost Book" Trailer Reflection

The theme of the movie trailer circulated around the concept of hard copy books becoming obsolete. Although the point of the film is not to necessarily make a negative comment about technology itself, it it does speak to the issue of individuals preferring some of the mindless entertainment some video games offer instead of exercising their imaginations through books. I do realize that although technology does enhance many aspects of social interaction, it has taken away, to a degree, the beauty of owning printed literature. Printed literature can sustain when technology fails and I think that although technology is now an integral part of our culture, this should still be recognized.

The plot was simple and consisted of a character representing "the printed novel" and another character representing a child immersed in video games. The child ignores the novel until technology fails him and he is searching for an alternative method of entertainment. He remembers the book and finds her in the library where she has retreated.

Editing the footage was a simultaneously rewarding and frustrating experience. Although the software was advanced, at moments it was difficult to manipulate and very painstaking. However, I am very pleased with the final result of this trailer as it was only the second time I have ever dealt with editing original footage. It took awhile to decide what song was appropriate and which scenes to chose. Although some areas of the trailer may be a bit choppy or vague, I still believe than any audience with an open mind will be able to grasp its message.

I definitely believe that a project of this nature aligns with the first standard of the ISTE NETS*T,"Facilitate and Inspire Student learning and Creativity". Developing a video trailer allowed us to utilize digital media to creatively express a real world issue. The prospect of shooting and editing footage allowed a diversity of choices and techniques regarding the presentation of the message we are attempting to convey. This outlet was more interesting to engage with than if we were asked to merely construct a written text concerning this topic. It was also exciting to create something that looked professional and it motivated me to explore the issue in question.

Although I do not plan on teaching, I can understand how this trailer project can enhance student learning and encourage individuals to pursue create outlets when trying to depict an idea. It would be interesting to ask students to develop movie trailers for texts or chapters in a book that are difficult to understand. The task of creating the trailer would make understanding the text seem less daunting and more of a necessity in order to develop something that is creative and innovative.

The Lost Book Trailer

Response to: Podcasting and Performativity:Multimodal Invention in an Advanced Writing Class

Leigh A. Jones' article regarding the merits of podcasting in the English classroom shed light onto several benefits of  expressing ideas orally before constructing written text.  Jones, in particular, states that podcasting gives students confidence that is not evident in their writing. Academic bravery, especially in the research paper, seems minimal, according to Jones.  However, when students are able to articulate themselves orally before writing their arguments, they are given an opportunity to develop an authoritative voice.  To possess authority over a research topic is crucial to its execution because the topic must be understood at an advanced degree before it can be subject to argument.

The benefits of podcasting also include the ability to effectively express ideas to peers and generate discussion.  Since podcasts can be performed repetitively until their authors deem them presentable, they can take considerable time enhancing the presentation of their argument.  This allows their peers to listen to a final presentation that is clear, methodical, well-organized, and confident. Substantial feedback can therefore be generated as the podcast serves as a rich template for discussion.

I think that podcasting would definitely improve both the creative writing process and the academic writing process.  If I am able to express my ideas aloud, not only will I gain a mastery over them, but it will also enable me to more effectively collaborate with my peers.

Response to: Teaching with Authors' Blogs: Connections,Collaborations,Creativity

Johnson's article expressed an innovative tool in the English classroom that seems to be undermined when considering its worth.  Incorporating authors' blogs into a curriculum, however, has proven to generate enthusiasm and critical thinking amongst the students who read their literature.  Johnson states several reasons why exposing students to authors' blogs are useful; most importantly, the blogs facilitate discussion between the author and the reader.  A connection with the author will entice the reader because it allows them to relate to the individual who has written the text they are attempting to analyze.  Understanding how an author's life experiences shaped their writing is crucial when considering the content of a novel- motives are vital to fully realizing any text.  Blogs also allow authors to clarify what they have written in case a misunderstanding or controversy has arisen.  These online databases give authors a megaphone for these important reasons; whether they are defending their text or they are connecting with their audience.

Personally, I believe that this teaching tool is invaluable.  I wish that I had been educated in the blogging age because there were so many questions about pieces of literature I read that simply went unanswered.  It was nearly impossible to discuss an author's work with the author themselves unless I desired to compose a letter and wait an incredible length of time for a possible response.  The internet provides swift communication and authors seem to design blogs specifically for this purpose- to discuss their writing and reveal more about themselves.  Students who are able to engage with the author and post blog entries themselves about works of literature will undoubtedly be more enthusiastic about their literary studies.  To actively participate in a such a manner will give students  motivation to understand the texts they are exposed to.  Reading will become a rewarding experience if they are able to openly express their thoughts concerning what they have read.  As opposed to a traditional classroom setting, every student will possess an equal opportunity to provide commentary on works of literature.