Film and Documentary Analysis Glossary

Use this glossary to help students analyse any film or documentary with the correct terminology and insight. Written in student-friendly language, the inquiry questions lead students to conduct their own independent analysis. Reuse this resource with any film study (I’ve used this with Lion, Bladerunner, Romeo and Juliet, The Book Thief, The Breakfast Club, Jasper Jones and Dead Poet’s Society). There are example analyses for students to use to model their responses on as well.

The glossary contains:

• terms and definitions e.g. camera angles, point of view, cross-cutting, voice-over, framing etc.
• prompt and staged analysis questions e.g. What is the significance of this location?
• an easy to understand framework for analysing film and documentary through mise-en-scene, cinematography, editing and sound
• tips and things to look out for when watching film and documentaries

Happy teaching!