Using film is a great way to capture pupils’ imaginations. I have made my own films to introduce new topics, with the help of Windows Movie Maker.
I created a video of myself as a secret agent who pupils needed to contact to obtain information for a mission.
The video showed me (in black tie and jacket, of course) explaining the mission to them. When the person on screen asked a question, I would answer it from the classroom.
Pupils thought this was great fun, and they produced some excellent newspaper reports based on the mission.
Although using Movie Maker can take a little time at first, quality short films can be produced in the classroom with a little practice
Martin Van Hecke is a Year 6 teacher at Higher Lane Primary School in Bury, Manchester.
