History through Film  (elective class)

Description:

This course will use film to approach significant problems in history. Students will be asked to rethink the relationships between "reality" and "representation" and re-conceptualize the boundaries between history and film.

The course will be arranged around the IMPACT of the individual in history.  We will examine the presentations and portrayals of individuals in history through the following themes

• Slavery
• Genocide
• The Cold War
• Waging secret war with an enemy
• Heroism in combat
• Organized Crime in America

For each theme students will view 2 or more films and read corresponding articles. Because of the nature of the course and the amount of time that must be dedicated to screening the films, this class will be very different than a traditional lecture based course. The course will require students to be self-motivated learners and emphasize individual readings of the assigned articles and thoughtful individual critiques of the films and readings.

At the conclusion of each film, students will complete a take-home analysis and critique of the film in writing.  Students who have difficulty with writing may want to consider whether this course will help them accomplish their goals, and all student should consider themselves duly warned. 

There will be a "mini" RESEARCH TASK on a topic of your choice related to history through film.   The research paper will be constructed in stages and may include the presentation of a film clip by each student. 

The final exam will consist of multiple choice questions and several written responses that will cover all the  themes (above).

Grading

Grading will be based upon the accumulation of points available throughout each quarter.  Quarter averages are determined by the amount of ACCUMULATED points that you have earned DIVIDED by the TOTAL amount of points available for each quarter.  You will be assessed and evaluated in the following areas:

1. Written film analysis/critiques (completed after each film) = 10 points each

2. Participation - in-class discussion is CRITICAL to the success of this course.  Be prepared to discuss films and articles.  Your opinion not only counts, but will be graded! 50 points

3. Research Task = mid-term grade (including film clip presentation) = 25 points

4. Final exam = 100 points (weighted to count as 20% of your final average)

5. Attendance - quite simply, you must be present to view films.  Only an extenuating/special circumstance will allow you to "make-up" any missed viewing of films.  Your attendance will count each marking period as a TEST GRADE of 50 POINTS.