Welcome to Echo Effect Class Space
This is your porthole to your class assignments, and other sites important to you as a student at Rainshadow.
Updates, Updates!
So, we are embarking on a move to a new building. The Echo Effect Class is also going to be embarking on some changes. Currently, a class workbook is being assembled for use in the class based upon the past 3 years of activities. The 2009-2010 school year is just around the corner... Hopefully everyone is having a great summer break!
Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father
I had no idea what I was in for when I began to watch this film. I knew very little about it, except that my husband thought it looked interesting and it received 5 stars on Netflix. As the story unfolded, I found myself emotionally tied to the story like no other story I have ever watched. It begins as a story to a baby about his murdered father. The film tells the story of Andrew Bagby through old film clips and interviews with friends and family. But, there's a twist... and the more you watch the film, the more frustrated you may find yourself. Distraught, really. It's almost difficult to even write about. Throughout the journey, you are introduced to Andrew's amazing parents. Their walk is one I wouldn't wish on anyone, and yet they face it with grace at every step. If we don't watch this film in class (mainly because it is so emotional), I strongly recommend you watch it on your own. You will not be sorry, though your entire world view may be different.
When Kids Get Life is a documentary that looks at the controversy behind giving individuals under the age of 18 are given a life sentence without parole. Several individuals commented on the film, stating that they felt the film tried to make its audience sympathetic to the teen murderers as opposed to those that lost loved ones. What do you think? Your blog for this week should discuss the film, and your opinions about the following:
1. Does the film try to persuade the audience of a specific opinion? What opinion does it promote?
2. How do you feel about teens getting a life sentence without parole?
3. Is there a time when teens should get a life sentence?
4. Is the environment the only thing that affects these teens? Do you think that is a viable "excuse" as to why the murders happen?
5. What did you like/dislike about the film? What would you have wanted to see?
6. Talk a little bit about the camera shots used-- was there one specific scene that stood out? How did the director use the camera to convey the story?
This assignment is due by 2/6/09