美國政府：電影與歷史文獻之旅
本課程使用強大的電影和關鍵的歷史文本來呈現美國政府的動態世界，歷史、法律和現實世界的問題在強大的故事講述和批判性分析中相遇！
Courtney Runchey
平均評分：
4.9
評論數量：(54)
新星
包含什麼
14 現場會議
11 小時 40 分鐘 上課時間作業
每週 2-4 小時. Students will have a video movie to watch each week ~ 2 hrs. Other homework assignments will also be assigned each week that will take between 1-2 hours.項目
1-2 整堂課等級
Students will receive a grade at the end of class unless requested otherwise.進度報告
Students will receive feedback and progress reports throughout the class.我們無法翻譯此文，請刷新頁面並再試一次。
課堂經歷
英語程度 - A2
美國 9 - 12 年級
Embark on an unforgettable journey through American democracy in U.S. Government: A Journey Through Film and Historical Documents! This 14-week course uses powerful films and pivotal historical texts to bring the fascinating story of the U.S. government to life. Each week, we’ll explore a movie that sheds light on defining moments in American history and politics, from classic dramas showcasing the inner workings of Congress to gripping stories of civil rights movements. Students will witness how the voices of individuals, leaders, and movements influenced the principles of justice, power, and democracy that define the nation today. But it’s not just about watching films! Alongside these cinematic stories, we’ll delve into core documents like the Constitution, The Federalist Papers, the Gettysburg Address, and famous Supreme Court cases. Through engaging discussions and hands-on activities, students will analyze these texts to uncover how the ideas behind them shaped our government—and continue to influence modern life. Each week, students will be encouraged to ask critical questions, make connections to current events, and debate the core ideas that drive civic engagement and responsibility. By the end of this course, students will not only understand the key functions of the U.S. government but also gain an appreciation for the complexities of democracy, the importance of active citizenship, and the impact they can have on the future. If you’re ready to think critically, explore engaging stories, and make history come alive, this is the course for you! Join us to experience American government in a way that’s interactive, thought-provoking, and truly inspiring.
學習目標
NCSS Standard 1: Civic Life, Politics, and Government
To understand how civic life, politics, and government interact and influence each other.NCSS Standard 2: Foundations of the American Political System
To investigate the foundational ideas, documents, and debates that shape the U.S. political system.
教學大綱
課程
遵循 Teacher-Created 課程標準
與 National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)對齊14 課程
超過 14 週課 1:
Introduction to U.S. Government
In-Class Topics Covered:
- Overview of the Constitution and its significance.
- Introduction to the three branches of government: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.
- How democracy functions in the U.S.
- Explanation of course structure, including film selections and historical texts. 50 分鐘線上直播課
課 2:
The Constitution and the Bill of Rights
In-Class Topics Covered:
- Creation and significance of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
- Powers of Congress and the legislative process.
- Representation in a democratic system and challenges faced by legislators. 50 分鐘線上直播課
課 3:
The Executive Branch and Presidential Leadership
In-Class Topics Covered:
- Role of the President in enforcing laws, managing foreign policy, and wartime leadership.
- Responsibilities and limitations of presidential powers.
- Overview of checks and balances among the three branches. 50 分鐘線上直播課
課 4:
Civil Rights and the Role of the Supreme Court
In-Class Topics Covered:
- Overview of the judicial branch and its role in protecting civil rights.
- Landmark cases that have shaped American society.
- Civil rights vs. civil liberties and their importance in a democracy. 50 分鐘線上直播課
其他詳情
學習需求
This course is thoughtfully designed to support diverse learning needs, including ADHD, Dyslexia, and ASD, using structured routines, multi-sensory activities, and flexible assignments.
父母的引導和規範
Parental Guidance Statement for U.S. Government Class
This U.S. Government class aims to enhance students’ understanding of American political institutions, historical contexts, and civic principles. To bring real-world applications and discussions into the classroom, students will watch several films related to themes in government, history, and political theory. These films provide unique insights into the political process, individual rights, and the ethical dilemmas faced by public officials.
Movie Ratings and Content Advisory
In this course, we will be exploring various aspects of U.S. government and political processes. To provide a deeper understanding of these concepts, students will watch films that highlight themes of governance, decision-making, and political responsibility. Many of the selected films are rated PG-13, but two of them, The Report and The Ides of March, are rated R.
For students and families who prefer an alternative to these rated-R movies, I have provided PG-13 options that explore similar themes:
Alternative to The Report: Good Night, and Good Luck (2005, PG)
Alternative to The Ides of March: The American President (1995, PG-13)
Students may choose to watch either the original R-rated film or the suggested alternative, and assignments can be completed based on either film. I encourage parents to review the content of these films to determine which option is most appropriate for their child.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.
Parental Discretion Advised
I encourage parents to review the Common Sense Media summaries provided for each film, especially for The Report and The Ides of March. These movies contain mature content suitable for older teens with an interest in government and politics. The course will approach all discussions of film content with sensitivity, and class discussions will focus on the educational aspects of each movie, such as government operations, ethical considerations, and historical context.
Movies:
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
129 Min.
NR
Common Sense 8+
Parents need to know that this classic gem from 1939 includes lots of smoking (cigarettes, pipes, cigars) consistent with the era and some drunkenness. Even though much of the movie takes place in Senate chambers, there are still a few violent moments including a gun shot, paper boys punched and nearly run down by goons, and the main character punching crooked reporters. Punching aside, the titular Mr. Smith is an otherwise great role model, holding onto his strong convictions even when it seems like everyone is against him. Kids will not only get to see the Lincoln Memorial but learn a bit about how the Senate operates and see a filibuster in action.
1776 (1972)
166 Min.
Rated G
Common Sense 10+
Parents need to know that 1776 is a 1972 musical about the Founding Fathers in the Continental Congress in Philadelphia debating whether to remain as colonists or to break from England. Those used to more ponderous and dramatic presentations of our Founding Fathers as sanctimonious orators prone to dramatic proclamations of the glories of democracy might be surprised by the humor and outright bawdiness in some of the scenes. For instance, Thomas Jefferson tells John Adams and Benjamin Franklin that he has writer's block and can't come up with anything for the Declaration of Independence because he "burns" for his wife, who he has not seen in six months. Adams expresses similar yearnings, and Franklin then makes a joke about how at his age it's best to stick to writing because "the pen is mightier than the sword." A letter to the Continental Congress from George Washington reports on the general drunkenness of militia in New Jersey, and how their demand for prostitutes is greater than the supply of prostitutes in New Jersey, and that many have contracted venereal disease. Another Founding Father is constantly talking about or drinking rum while the Congress is in session. There is mild profanity, such as "son of a bitch," and "hell." This musical brings the Founding Fathers back down to earth and humanizes them, and shows that they could be just as divided, just as prone to good and evil, just as irrational temper, as any of us, especially the politicians of this or any other age. Teamwork, courage, and integrity are emphasized.
Lincoln (2012)
150 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Steven Spielberg's Lincoln isn't a biographical chronicle of Abraham Lincoln's (Daniel Day-Lewis) life in office but rather a political drama about the passing of the 13th Amendment and the end of the Civil War. The most sensitive issues in the movie are its depiction of war (severed limbs and bloody battlefields filled with dead soldiers are seen) and occasional strong language, including many era-accurate (but hard to hear today) racial epithets. But overall, the violence is much tamer than in war movies like Saving Private Ryan or Glory, and Lincoln is an educational, entertaining drama that even some mature 5th graders might be ready to handle, if they watch with their parents. (That said, it does move somewhat slowly, so kids hooked on fast-paced entertainment may not be interested.)
12 Angry Men (1957)
95 Min.
NR
Common Sense 12+
Parents need to know that 12 Angry Men is a gripping 1957 drama that makes much out of a simple situation (the ordinary deliberations of a jury) and setting (the room where they have been sequestered). Jurors smoke cigarettes throughout the movie. Biased jurors state as a "fact" that minorities drink too much alcohol. There is one "damn." A young man is accused of stabbing his father to death. Jurors nearly come to blows over disagreements about the case. One juror threatens to kill another in the heat of the moment. The fact that this jury is made up exclusively of white males should be explained to kids as a sign of the film's time period. Despite its age, this drama still has a lot to say about the principles on which the American justice system is based, as well as issues of prejudice.
All the King’s Men (2006)
128 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 14+
Parents need to know that this intense political drama will probably be of little interest to their kids. Women are sexual objects for men. Some women dance onstage wearing scant clothing and striking provocative poses, while another young woman, romanticized in soft light, appears both naked in a river and undressing for sex with her partner. A politician travels with a bodyguard who carries and shoots a pistol. Two bloody shootings, one of which is a suicide. Characters frequently smoke cigars and cigarettes, and a couple of them are alcoholics.
The Post (2017)
115 MIn.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that The Post is director Steven Spielberg's historical drama about how the reporters, editors, and publishers of the Washington Post decided to follow the New York Times' lead and publish the top-secret Pentagon Papers in 1971. Starring Meryl Streep as Post publisher Kay Graham and Tom Hanks as executive editor Ben Bradlee, the drama is sociopolitically relevant and clearly a response to the current presidential administration's antagonistic relationship with the press. The movie promotes the sanctity of freedom of the press and its ability to expose political deceit and corruption. Graham's character also exemplifies how difficult it used to be (and still is) for female bosses to lead without being second-guessed or undermined. There's not much iffy stuff in the movie except for a few swear words and a quick opening scene that takes place during the Vietnam War. Families who watch together can discuss how the story relates to today and why freedom of the press is an important hallmark of American society.
On the Basis of Sex (2018)
120 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 12+
Parents need to know that On the Basis of Sex is a biographical drama about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's life from her time as one of a handful of women attending Harvard Law School in the late 1950s to her first groundbreaking gender-discrimination case in the early '70s. The movie is appropriate for teens and mature tweens. It includes a few scenes of non-graphic marital affection and intimacy, including kissing, embracing, and a glimpse of Ruth in her bra and slip. Language is infrequent but includes a few uses of words like "s--t" and "damn," plus one use of "f--k." Audiences will learn a lot about RBG's personal life and early career, and take away messages about perseverance, integrity, and the importance of equal opportunities for all. Felicity Jones stars as Ruth, and Armie Hammer co-stars as her supportive, loving attorney husband, Marty Ginsburg.
The Ides of March
102 Min.
Rated R
Common Sense 16+
Parents need to know that this engrossing, well-acted thriller paints an ugly picture of the political landscape; prepare to be disenchanted (if you aren't already). Teens drawn to the movie by co-star Ryan Gosling's presence may find it very cynical, insidery, and heavy-handed, unless they're students of election cycles. Expect frequent swearing ("d--k," "f--k," and more), heated verbal exchanges, a suicide (not graphic), and sexual content (including some suggested steaminess and references to affairs and their aftermath).
Alternatives to The Ides of March
The American President (1995)
115 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Sydney and Andrew (both unmarried) sleep together on their second date. Andrew's wife died of cancer, leaving him to raise his daughter alone, which may sadden teens who've lost a parent. There's some minimal cursing, and political rival Robert Rumson is quick to accuse Sydney of being a slut on national television. There's a lot of potential for mean-spirited digs in this film, and some of them are taken, but mostly it's an uplifting romantic comedy in which the president learns to stand up for what he believes in rather than sticking to what makes him popular.
Thirteen Days (2000)
145 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 14+
Parents need to know that Thirteen Days, a docudrama about the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, is exciting and suspenseful, even though the actual outcome is well known. The film is a recreation of a crucial incident in American history that's suitable for teens and mature tweens, as well as adults. There's frequent swearing used to heighten the emotional impact (i.e., "bastard," "asshole," "s--t," "Jesus Christ," one use of "f--k"). Because the film is set in the 1960s, smoking is a casual part of many of the meetings in the White House. Alcoholic beverages are consumed in several scenes, never to excess. President John F. Kennedy is seen taking a prescription drug on one occasion.
The Butler (2013)
113 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Lee Daniels' The Butler is a sweeping look at the history of African-American life in the United States, as witnessed by a black butler (Forest Whitaker) who spent three decades working in the White House. Since the movie chronicles the history of the civil rights movement, there are many scenes that portray hate crimes -- like two lynched men hanging from a tree and a black sharecropper being shot for saying one word to his white boss. White Southerners are also shown raping, killing, shooting, burning, intimidating, and otherwise terrorizing black protesters. Adults smoke cigarettes and drink; one character is an alcoholic who has a drink in most of her scenes. There's also some language (one "f--k," plus "s--t" and many racial epithets) and kissing, as well as the suggestion of an affair. Audiences will get an overview of how various presidents felt about race relations, as well as the methods and ideologies of the civil rights movement.
The Report
119 Min.
Rated R
Common Sense 15+
Parents need to know that The Report is a fact-based drama about the efforts to investigate the CIA's use of torture to question suspects after 9/11. A few sequences demonstrate the kinds of torture used, including waterboarding, mock burials, and hands being chained to the floor. There are also scenes of shouting, kicking, etc. Male prisoners are shown naked, including bare bottoms. Language is fairly strong, with uses of "f--k," "s--t," "bulls--t," and more. Adults drink socially. The film starts off a bit dry, and it's never very dynamic, but it manages to work up enough outrage and suspense to make it worth a look for mature viewers. Adam Driver and Annette Bening co-star.
Alternative to The Report
Good Night, and Good Luck (2005)
90 Min.
Rated PG
Common Sense
Parents need to know that this drama includes some mild language and nearly non-stop smoking (Murrow's addiction is well known). The notorious Senator Joseph McCarthy appears in news footage, condemning people as "communists" in the HUAC hearings and on television, based on spurious or no evidence. A husband and wife employed by CBS must hide the fact of their marriage because it's against company policy. Coworkers drink at a bar after work. During Murrow's interview with Liberace, the famously gay pianist talks about wanting to find a good woman, something of an inside joke. A journalist is so unnerved by accusations that he's a communist that he kills himself (off screen, but other characters react to the news).
Selma (2014)
122 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Selma follows the events leading up to 1965's momentous Selma-to-Montgomery civil rights march organized by Martin Luther King Jr.'s Southern Christian Leadership Conference to campaign for voters' rights. Narrowly focused on the time leading up to the march, Selma provides a historical context for how each of the group's campaigns concentrated on raising awareness about a different issue in the segregated South. Expect several intense, disturbing scenes of race-based violence perpetrated against the non-violent protesters, including protesters being beaten bloody with sticks, weapons, and even whips. Others are killed, including innocent girls in a church that's blown up. Despite the historically accurate violence and the occasional strong language (ranging from "f--k" and "s--t" to frequent racial slurs) -- as well as a subplot about infidelity -- this is a powerful, educational drama that parents should watch with their mature tweens and teens.
The Social Dilemma (2020)
89 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that while The Social Dilemma doesn't necessarily break new ground in the debate about the dangers of social media, it certainly provides plenty to worry about and some ways to take action. The people interviewed are unusual experts, in that many of them helped create the most popular social media sites today. Now they are speaking publicly about how the business model behind these sites treats customers as products to sell to advertisers. Teens may see their own experiences reflected in a fictional narrative set up to show the effects of social media addiction, the psychological harm of relying on social media for positive reinforcement, and the results of widespread misinformation. Violence is seen in images on the news, including protests, riots, fires, mobs, and bombings. In fictionalized scenes, a young girl breaks open a plastic jar to get at her phone, and a teen and his sister are arrested at a protest. Addiction to social media is compared to drug use, and interviewees discuss rates of self-harm and suicide among teens and tweens. At the end, the experts make a few recommendations that we can all do to try to reduce the hold social media has on us. Language includes "s--t," "damn," and exclamatory use of "God." The documentary doesn't offer much diversity of experts/opinions.
外部資源
除了 Outschool 教室外，本課程也使用：
來源
Historical Texts and Documents:
- The U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights
- The Federalist Papers
- Letter from Birmingham Jail by Martin Luther King Jr.
- The Emancipation Proclamation
- The Gettysburg Address
- Key Supreme Court Cases (e.g., Marbury v. Madison, Brown v. Board of Education)
Movies:
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
129 Min.
NR
Common Sense 8+
Parents need to know that this classic gem from 1939 includes lots of smoking (cigarettes, pipes, cigars) consistent with the era and some drunkenness. Even though much of the movie takes place in Senate chambers, there are still a few violent moments including a gun shot, paper boys punched and nearly run down by goons, and the main character punching crooked reporters. Punching aside, the titular Mr. Smith is an otherwise great role model, holding onto his strong convictions even when it seems like everyone is against him. Kids will not only get to see the Lincoln Memorial but learn a bit about how the Senate operates and see a filibuster in action.
1776 (1972)
166 Min.
Rated G
Common Sense 10+
Parents need to know that 1776 is a 1972 musical about the Founding Fathers in the Continental Congress in Philadelphia debating whether to remain as colonists or to break from England. Those used to more ponderous and dramatic presentations of our Founding Fathers as sanctimonious orators prone to dramatic proclamations of the glories of democracy might be surprised by the humor and outright bawdiness in some of the scenes. For instance, Thomas Jefferson tells John Adams and Benjamin Franklin that he has writer's block and can't come up with anything for the Declaration of Independence because he "burns" for his wife, who he has not seen in six months. Adams expresses similar yearnings, and Franklin then makes a joke about how at his age it's best to stick to writing because "the pen is mightier than the sword." A letter to the Continental Congress from George Washington reports on the general drunkenness of militia in New Jersey, and how their demand for prostitutes is greater than the supply of prostitutes in New Jersey, and that many have contracted venereal disease. Another Founding Father is constantly talking about or drinking rum while the Congress is in session. There is mild profanity, such as "son of a bitch," and "hell." This musical brings the Founding Fathers back down to earth and humanizes them, and shows that they could be just as divided, just as prone to good and evil, just as irrational temper, as any of us, especially the politicians of this or any other age. Teamwork, courage, and integrity are emphasized.
Lincoln (2012)
150 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Steven Spielberg's Lincoln isn't a biographical chronicle of Abraham Lincoln's (Daniel Day-Lewis) life in office but rather a political drama about the passing of the 13th Amendment and the end of the Civil War. The most sensitive issues in the movie are its depiction of war (severed limbs and bloody battlefields filled with dead soldiers are seen) and occasional strong language, including many era-accurate (but hard to hear today) racial epithets. But overall, the violence is much tamer than in war movies like Saving Private Ryan or Glory, and Lincoln is an educational, entertaining drama that even some mature 5th graders might be ready to handle, if they watch with their parents. (That said, it does move somewhat slowly, so kids hooked on fast-paced entertainment may not be interested.)
12 Angry Men (1957)
95 Min.
NR
Common Sense 12+
Parents need to know that 12 Angry Men is a gripping 1957 drama that makes much out of a simple situation (the ordinary deliberations of a jury) and setting (the room where they have been sequestered). Jurors smoke cigarettes throughout the movie. Biased jurors state as a "fact" that minorities drink too much alcohol. There is one "damn." A young man is accused of stabbing his father to death. Jurors nearly come to blows over disagreements about the case. One juror threatens to kill another in the heat of the moment. The fact that this jury is made up exclusively of white males should be explained to kids as a sign of the film's time period. Despite its age, this drama still has a lot to say about the principles on which the American justice system is based, as well as issues of prejudice.
All the King’s Men (2006)
128 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 14+
Parents need to know that this intense political drama will probably be of little interest to their kids. Women are sexual objects for men. Some women dance onstage wearing scant clothing and striking provocative poses, while another young woman, romanticized in soft light, appears both naked in a river and undressing for sex with her partner. A politician travels with a bodyguard who carries and shoots a pistol. Two bloody shootings, one of which is a suicide. Characters frequently smoke cigars and cigarettes, and a couple of them are alcoholics.
The Post (2017)
115 MIn.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that The Post is director Steven Spielberg's historical drama about how the reporters, editors, and publishers of the Washington Post decided to follow the New York Times' lead and publish the top-secret Pentagon Papers in 1971. Starring Meryl Streep as Post publisher Kay Graham and Tom Hanks as executive editor Ben Bradlee, the drama is sociopolitically relevant and clearly a response to the current presidential administration's antagonistic relationship with the press. The movie promotes the sanctity of freedom of the press and its ability to expose political deceit and corruption. Graham's character also exemplifies how difficult it used to be (and still is) for female bosses to lead without being second-guessed or undermined. There's not much iffy stuff in the movie except for a few swear words and a quick opening scene that takes place during the Vietnam War. Families who watch together can discuss how the story relates to today and why freedom of the press is an important hallmark of American society.
On the Basis of Sex (2018)
120 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 12+
Parents need to know that On the Basis of Sex is a biographical drama about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's life from her time as one of a handful of women attending Harvard Law School in the late 1950s to her first groundbreaking gender-discrimination case in the early '70s. The movie is appropriate for teens and mature tweens. It includes a few scenes of non-graphic marital affection and intimacy, including kissing, embracing, and a glimpse of Ruth in her bra and slip. Language is infrequent but includes a few uses of words like "s--t" and "damn," plus one use of "f--k." Audiences will learn a lot about RBG's personal life and early career, and take away messages about perseverance, integrity, and the importance of equal opportunities for all. Felicity Jones stars as Ruth, and Armie Hammer co-stars as her supportive, loving attorney husband, Marty Ginsburg.
The Ides of March
102 Min.
Rated R
Common Sense 16+
Parents need to know that this engrossing, well-acted thriller paints an ugly picture of the political landscape; prepare to be disenchanted (if you aren't already). Teens drawn to the movie by co-star Ryan Gosling's presence may find it very cynical, insidery, and heavy-handed, unless they're students of election cycles. Expect frequent swearing ("d--k," "f--k," and more), heated verbal exchanges, a suicide (not graphic), and sexual content (including some suggested steaminess and references to affairs and their aftermath).
Alternatives to The Ides of March
The American President (1995)
115 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Sydney and Andrew (both unmarried) sleep together on their second date. Andrew's wife died of cancer, leaving him to raise his daughter alone, which may sadden teens who've lost a parent. There's some minimal cursing, and political rival Robert Rumson is quick to accuse Sydney of being a slut on national television. There's a lot of potential for mean-spirited digs in this film, and some of them are taken, but mostly it's an uplifting romantic comedy in which the president learns to stand up for what he believes in rather than sticking to what makes him popular.
Thirteen Days (2000)
145 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 14+
Parents need to know that Thirteen Days, a docudrama about the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, is exciting and suspenseful, even though the actual outcome is well known. The film is a recreation of a crucial incident in American history that's suitable for teens and mature tweens, as well as adults. There's frequent swearing used to heighten the emotional impact (i.e., "bastard," "asshole," "s--t," "Jesus Christ," one use of "f--k"). Because the film is set in the 1960s, smoking is a casual part of many of the meetings in the White House. Alcoholic beverages are consumed in several scenes, never to excess. President John F. Kennedy is seen taking a prescription drug on one occasion.
The Butler (2013)
113 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Lee Daniels' The Butler is a sweeping look at the history of African-American life in the United States, as witnessed by a black butler (Forest Whitaker) who spent three decades working in the White House. Since the movie chronicles the history of the civil rights movement, there are many scenes that portray hate crimes -- like two lynched men hanging from a tree and a black sharecropper being shot for saying one word to his white boss. White Southerners are also shown raping, killing, shooting, burning, intimidating, and otherwise terrorizing black protesters. Adults smoke cigarettes and drink; one character is an alcoholic who has a drink in most of her scenes. There's also some language (one "f--k," plus "s--t" and many racial epithets) and kissing, as well as the suggestion of an affair. Audiences will get an overview of how various presidents felt about race relations, as well as the methods and ideologies of the civil rights movement.
The Report
119 Min.
Rated R
Common Sense 15+
Parents need to know that The Report is a fact-based drama about the efforts to investigate the CIA's use of torture to question suspects after 9/11. A few sequences demonstrate the kinds of torture used, including waterboarding, mock burials, and hands being chained to the floor. There are also scenes of shouting, kicking, etc. Male prisoners are shown naked, including bare bottoms. Language is fairly strong, with uses of "f--k," "s--t," "bulls--t," and more. Adults drink socially. The film starts off a bit dry, and it's never very dynamic, but it manages to work up enough outrage and suspense to make it worth a look for mature viewers. Adam Driver and Annette Bening co-star.
Alternative to The Report
Good Night, and Good Luck (2005)
90 Min.
Rated PG
Common Sense
Parents need to know that this drama includes some mild language and nearly non-stop smoking (Murrow's addiction is well known). The notorious Senator Joseph McCarthy appears in news footage, condemning people as "communists" in the HUAC hearings and on television, based on spurious or no evidence. A husband and wife employed by CBS must hide the fact of their marriage because it's against company policy. Coworkers drink at a bar after work. During Murrow's interview with Liberace, the famously gay pianist talks about wanting to find a good woman, something of an inside joke. A journalist is so unnerved by accusations that he's a communist that he kills himself (off screen, but other characters react to the news).
Selma (2014)
122 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that Selma follows the events leading up to 1965's momentous Selma-to-Montgomery civil rights march organized by Martin Luther King Jr.'s Southern Christian Leadership Conference to campaign for voters' rights. Narrowly focused on the time leading up to the march, Selma provides a historical context for how each of the group's campaigns concentrated on raising awareness about a different issue in the segregated South. Expect several intense, disturbing scenes of race-based violence perpetrated against the non-violent protesters, including protesters being beaten bloody with sticks, weapons, and even whips. Others are killed, including innocent girls in a church that's blown up. Despite the historically accurate violence and the occasional strong language (ranging from "f--k" and "s--t" to frequent racial slurs) -- as well as a subplot about infidelity -- this is a powerful, educational drama that parents should watch with their mature tweens and teens.
The Social Dilemma (2020)
89 Min.
Rated PG-13
Common Sense 13+
Parents need to know that while The Social Dilemma doesn't necessarily break new ground in the debate about the dangers of social media, it certainly provides plenty to worry about and some ways to take action. The people interviewed are unusual experts, in that many of them helped create the most popular social media sites today. Now they are speaking publicly about how the business model behind these sites treats customers as products to sell to advertisers. Teens may see their own experiences reflected in a fictional narrative set up to show the effects of social media addiction, the psychological harm of relying on social media for positive reinforcement, and the results of widespread misinformation. Violence is seen in images on the news, including protests, riots, fires, mobs, and bombings. In fictionalized scenes, a young girl breaks open a plastic jar to get at her phone, and a teen and his sister are arrested at a protest. Addiction to social media is compared to drug use, and interviewees discuss rates of self-harm and suicide among teens and tweens. At the end, the experts make a few recommendations that we can all do to try to reduce the hold social media has on us. Language includes "s--t," "damn," and exclamatory use of "God." The documentary doesn't offer much diversity of experts/opinions.
已加入 August, 2020
4.9
54評論
新星
教師專業知識和證書
學士學位 由 Northwood University
For more than 15 years, I've been deeply involved in education, spending the last 9 years as a homeschooling parent. My greatest joy lies in helping students delve into complex subjects by exploring various perspectives. In today's world, narratives hold significant weight, influencing our understanding immensely. I'm passionate about sharing diverse literature that captivates students and broadens their comprehension. In my classes, I bring history to life through a blend of novels and primary sources, delving into socioeconomic factors, religious influences, and the nuances of narration bias. Encouraging critical thinking, I prompt students to consider multiple viewpoints and the motivations behind historical events.
For over 7 years, I've taught at a local homeschool co-op, both in-person and online. One of my favorite roles has been leading middle and high school book clubs, where I not only introduce students to new books but also facilitate discussions on challenging topics. Having undergone diversity training and sensitivity workshops, I approach these discussions with care, ensuring that marginalized voices are heard and respected. Attending numerous professional developments, I've honed strategies for fostering inclusivity and highlighting multiple points of view.
My educational journey began with a B.B.A. from Northwood University, followed by a transition to pursue a teaching degree at Eastern Michigan University. Unfortunately, family circumstances led me to prioritize homeschooling my children over completing the program.
Across various homeschool groups and co-ops, I've taught a range of subjects including English, History, Finance, and Engineering. My passion for literature shines through in running book clubs and teaching classes on essay writing, grammar, and novel analysis. I've curated diverse book selections, fostering rich discussions on themes, characters, and symbolism.
Responding to students' interests, I initiated the Literature through Film series, offering an alternative way to explore classic literature through movie adaptations. This approach accommodated different reading paces and preferences, maintaining our focus on thorough novel analysis.
In my History classes, I employ a multi-faceted approach, incorporating primary sources, articles, and films to examine diverse perspectives and marginalized narratives. Similarly, in Finance and Entrepreneurship classes, I prioritize hands-on learning, guiding students through real-world applications such as budgeting, mortgage calculations, and investment tracking.
Continuing my professional development journey, I actively participate in events like EdCamp, NerdCamp, and NaNoWriMo, enhancing my teaching practices and staying abreast of educational innovations. I have also earned my ACE Educator from Outschool.評論
現場團體課程
US$20
每週每週1次，共 14 週
50 分鐘
即時視訊會議
年齡: 13-18
3-12 每班學員人數
