Let’s Talk Movies and the Classroom!
So, you’re a teacher and you’re wondering about showing movies in class? It’s a great way to spark interest and bring lessons to life, but it’s important to do it the right way. Or maybe you just want something for indoor recess or as a class reward?
Here’s the scoop on copyright and streaming movies:
- Copyright protects creative works. That means movies, TV shows, music, and more are owned by someone.
- Most streaming services don’t allow public showings. This includes classrooms, even if it’s just for a short clip.
But don’t worry! There are several ways to access movies legally:
- SWANK: If your district has purchased SWANK, follow the instructions here.
- eMedia: Did you know that there are thousands of educational movies available? Watch this video to learn more!
- PBS: Find documentaries on a variety of content areas, check out the Science offerings here!
What if the movie is not in SWANK or eMedia?
- Fair Use: This is a tricky one, but it basically means you can use small portions of a copyrighted work for educational purposes. Click here for details on Fair Use.
- Keep it short and sweet. Show only the parts that are directly related to your lesson.
- Focus on learning. Make sure the movie clip is a tool to help students understand, not just entertainment.
- Ask your school’s media specialist. They can give you specific advice on what’s allowed.
Where can I find materials to use with movies to increase engagement?
Teach with Movies: This site has movie summaries and lesson plans
What if I just want something to show for indoor recess?
- eMedia is a great resource!
- Storyline Online – Watch famous actors read aloud books!
Remember:
It’s always better to be safe than sorry. By following these guidelines, you can use movies in your classroom without any legal trouble.
Have fun and happy teaching!
