Classroom resources for Media Literacy Week

UNESCO’s Media and Information Literacy Week is being commemorated globally from 23 October this year. The Australian Media Literacy Alliance (AMLA) defines media literacy as ‘the ability to critically engage with media in all aspects of life’. This includes critical reflection on the various media we use and circulate to others, but also understanding how and why media are made, and possible impacts on audiences and wider society.

The following ACTF resources will help your students develop these important media literacy understandings and skills.

Light and colour learning resource (F-2)

This online resource introduces younger students to how light and colour are used in television to build stories and influence viewers’ moods. The resource includes a recorded 25-minute workshop and activities to extend on the ideas presented in the workshop.

Character and creature design resource (Years 3-6)

Combining ocean science knowledge with imagination and creativity, this resource unpacks the pre-production process of designing and developing the entertaining characters and creatures from animated series, The Deep.

Sound design learning resource (Years 4-6)

Through interviews with creatives, behind-the-scenes Hardball clips and short learning tasks, this resource helps students discover the importance of sound design in television. To apply their learning, students can then download our Foley Kit to create their own soundscape.

Media representations learning resource (Years 5-6)

Through short clips, advice from industry experts and interactive tasks, Year 5 and 6 students will learn how representations of people, places and ideas are intentionally constructed for the screen. They will consider the influence of representations on audiences, why media representations have changed over time, and learn practical tips for crafting representations in their own media making.

Story building and screenwriting learning resource (Years 5-8)

By working through the short learning tasks and video interviews in this online resource, students discover the collaborative nature of storytelling for the screen from MaveriX creators Rachel Clements, Sam Meikle and Isaac Elliot. The resource guides students in developing an original story and script.

Storyboarding, VFX and SFX (Years 5-10)

Storyboards use visuals to effectively communicate ideas during the filmmaking process, producing a blueprint for cast and crew ahead of shooting scenes. This resource incorporates clips and storyboards from classic children’s series Round the Twist, along with interviews from VFX Supervisor Dennis Nicholson. It includes tips for creating visual effects in the classroom.