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This course is designed for students in grades 6-12 and takes you through the entire process of creating a short film. From scriptwriting and casting to filming and editing, you’ll learn the essential skills needed to bring your vision to life on screen. Engage with industry insights, hands-on activities, and creative challenges to produce and showcase your very own short film.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

•Write a structured narrative script using dialogue, character actions, and scene descriptions.

•Collaborate with peers, giving and receiving constructive feedback to improve your project.

•Select effective film locations that support your story.

•Film and edit a short film using available technology, focusing on camera angles, pacing, and transitions.

•Apply sound design to enhance your film’s impact and create a compelling movie poster.

Lesson Titles

1. Writing a Script

Learn the basics of scriptwriting with Kat Coiro. Translate your ideas into a structured narrative using dialogue, character actions, and scene descriptions.

2. Location and Casting

Discover how to select the best locations and cast the right actors for your film. Learn about the importance of setting and character roles in storytelling.

3. Storyboarding

Visualize your script through storyboarding. Break down your scenes and plan camera angles, composition, and shot sequence.

4. Filming and Editing

Bring your storyboard to life. Learn how to film and edit a short film, focusing on camera work, scene transitions, and pacing.

5. Final Edits and Screening

Make the final edits to polish your film. Prepare for a screening event to showcase your completed short film to an audience.

Curriculum

Standards Addressed

Download Guide for Relevant Standards

Introduction

Course Overview
About Your Instructor

Video Lessons

Lesson 1 - Writing a Script

Lesson 2 - Location and Screening

Lesson 3 - Storyboarding

Lesson 4 - Filming and Editing

Lesson 5 - Final Edits and Screening

 

About Your Instructor 

Kat Coiro has always loved creating stories. Eventually, she realized that she wanted to be in charge of telling those stories. Beginning her journey as a filmmaker, Kat Coiro cast her close friends and even her dog in the creation of her short films. Since then, she has directed everything from television episodes in series like She-HulkModern Family and Brooklyn 99 to movies like Marry Me starring Jennifer Lopez and Owen WIlson. Kat Coiro encourages budding film directors to look to their passions and interests when searching for inspiration.