TEACHER: Mr. Boswell
WUP B-CC COORDINATOR: Mr. Kenton
OFFICE HOURS: lunch by appointment
TEACHER E-MAIL:
COORDINATOR E-MAIL:
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course is essentially two related classes rolled into one:
--a “hands on” laboratory where you will produce the school’s TV program, Wake-up B-CC (WUP B-CC), in order to learn the process of television production, the major pieces of television production equipment and their operation, and the functions of production personnel.

--an introduction to television studies from a critical perspective where you will examine the form, meaning and style of television “texts.” You will be introduced to the major elements of film and television form—scripting, shooting, mise en scène, sound, lighting, and editing. With a strong emphasis on news and narrative, the course examines television genres, stardom, and authorship.

OBJECTIVES:
When you complete this course successfully, your mastery of the subject will be evidenced by your ability to:
 Exhibit media awareness as it relates to being able to deconstruct TV programming
 Operate studio production equipment
 Write scripts and storyboards in a show-appropriate style with scripting queues
 Manage the timing of television productions
 Identify and produce basic components of television programming
 Be fluent in the vocabulary of television industry jargon
 Understand and appreciate the teamwork involved in television production
 Understand and appreciate the history of television and its social impact
 Handle technical and production problems.
 Effectively critique the strengths and weakness of video productions.
Probably most important, the course will provide an opportunity for you to create a variety of video pieces, allowing you to express personal creativity while developing the ability to conceptualize story ideas and effectively translate these ideas into video productions.
COMMUNICATION:
All scores for work--written or filmed--will be accompanied by direct feedback from the teacher, in writing or orally. Scores will be based a point system with more demanding projects being assigned more points possible. Anytime you'd like an update on your progress, check Edline or schedule a brief meeting w/ the instructor before or after class to ensure meaningful feedback. Parents wishing to discuss your progress need only to contact the teacher via email. Otherwise, the teacher will communicate progress regularly through interim reports.
RETEACHING / REASSESSMENTS:
All assignments graded by rubric can be reassessed. A reassessment must be requested by the student the same week the initial assignment is returned. The reassessment will be scheduled within five days of the return of the initial assignment. The assessment may be in the original format or an alternate format. Students are expected to seek additional help and guidance from the teacher outside of class, preferably after school.
LAB FEE / EQUIPMENT DEPOSIT:
To help off-set the cost of production materials and equipment maintenance, students are expected to pay a $15 lab fee at the school store before the end of the second week of classes. Also, students who wish to use school camera and lighting equipment must have their parents sign a usage agreement.
GRADING AND COURSEWORK
All projects and productions will be graded using a rubric listing standards and expectations tailored to particular assignments. Students will receive the rubric when the work is assigned. Generally, a grade of "C" on a project / performance is an indication of satisfactory completion of the assignment, both in terms of preparation and execution. Grades higher than “C” will be based on those elements of the project / performance that indicate a high degree of personal investment, thoughtful preparation (particularly through practice exercises), and a desire to surpass basic standards. No single assignment will be worth more than 25% of your grade.
Class Projects / 2 to 4 per qtr / 20 to 25 pts each (35%): Class projects are intended to instill in you a degree of confidence in visual reporting and storytelling and to provide a foundation in basic TV/video craft. Each short will be screened in class for discussion and critique. Final projects must be turned in on a mini-Digital Video (DV) Cassette or a DVD. You grade will be based on your assigned role for the project and your ability to:
  1. Avoid technical problems (clear sound, appropriate lighting, smooth camera work, thoughtful editing, etc.).
  2. Use technical elements to enhance the story or reporting (visually compelling compositions, lighting that establishes mood, variety of shots, good blocking, sound that enhances realism or mood, compelling editing choices, etc.)?
  3. Select and develop engaging stories with compelling subjects/characters (dramatic conflicts, subjects/characters we care about, specific tone to piece, designed to have an impact on a specific audience, etc.).
WUP B-CC Production Segments / 3 to 5 per qtr / 20 to 25 pts each (35%): Like your work on class projects, your work on B-CC’s studio show will be evaluated based on your assigned role and the your ability to use available technology and develop strong pieces (see above).
Media Literacy Worksheets, Practice Work / 3 to 5 per quarter / 5 or 10 pts each (15%): On occasion, you will be asked to complete worksheets or write short responses to a questions about your relationship with TV and how media organizations construct their information flow. By thinking about these issues, you will become better analyzers of information and better communicators.
Reading and Lecture Quizzes and Practice Work / 3 to 5 per quarter / 5 or 10 pts each (15%): At the teacher's discretion, you will be quizzed on readings and complete practice exercises in order to make sure you are ready for upcoming discussions and class projects.