Make a Music Video

from Education World®

Description
Students work together to create a short music video for a familiar children's song.

Subjects

• Language Arts
• Music
• Fine Arts
• Theater

Grade Levels

• K-2
• 3-5
• 6-8
• 9-12

Objectives
Students will

• develop ideas for a music video,
• create props and/or costumes for the video,
• demonstrate creative thinking and writing skills,
• work together as a group to create a five-minute music video about a popular children's song, and
• learn about video equipment.

Keywords

music, video, song, popular, MTV

Materials Needed

• a camcorder
• teacher-selected recording of a children's song
• student-selected props and/or costumes for the video
• paper
• pens or pencils

Procedure

This project should be completed over several lessons. The teacher decides the length of time needed to complete the project; the length of the project depends on the ages and abilities of the students.

Prior to the lesson:

• Learn as much as possible about your video equipment.
• Talk to a your school media specialist for tips and suggestions, or consult a print or online source about video production.
• Select recordings of children's songs.

Part 1

1. Discuss music videos shown on television. Ask students what they think goes into making a music video.
2. Tell students that they are going to make a five-minute music video about a familiar children's song.
3. Ask students to name some children's songs they know. Play a recording of children's songs. Ask students to name songs that might work well as music videos. Write students' responses on the board. See Campfire Sing-Along for titles and lyrics of numerous popular songs that may be familiar to students.
4. Let the class vote on one song for their video.

Part 2

1. Have the class brainstorm ideas for the video.

Part 3 to Completion

1. Have students work together to write the script; choose the cast; make costumes, props, and scenery; and create a list of shots to be staged.
2. Let students practice the video, first without the camera, then with the camera. Note: The teacher should handle the equipment.
3. Complete the filming of the video. Review and edit the tape. Enjoy the finished project!

Variations

• Idea 1: If school rules permit, let students assist in filming and editing the video.
• Idea 2: Let older students work in teams to create the videos. Provide assistance when needed.

Assessment
Evaluate students' contributions and participation in the project.

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