TIPS FOR USING INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO AND
PUBLIC TELEVISION PROGRAMMING IN THE CLASSROOM

Instructional video is an enhancing and enriching resource for classroom teachers and is designed to match curriculum areas. It provides:

• A sharp focus
• Clarity of concepts
• A historical perspective
• Expeditions into the real world
• Visual experiences from beyond the classroom walls
• Enhancement of printed materials and understanding of contemporary issues
• Higher learning outcomes
• An introduction
• A reinforcement

I. Prior to the Video-Based Lesson

Teacher Preparation

1. Consider the learning objectives.
2. Consult the ITV Resource Guide (such as the OPB Teacher Resource Service Member Guide) to select appropriate programs.
3. Look through the teacher's guide for ideas and activities. Teachers should select segments targeted to meet lesson objectives and students' needs.
4. Preview the program. If necessary, determine order of segmentation.
5. Consider post-viewing activities.

Student Preparation

1. Ask students thought-provoking questions.
2. Explain why the video is being used.
3. Prepare students for important visual images.
4. Discuss major points covered by the program.
5. Provide focus activities or viewing directions for individuals, small groups or the entire class.
6. Present new vocabulary and/or review material necessary for understanding program content.
7. List key concepts on the chalkboard or overhead projector.

II. Focus for Media Interaction: Viewing Video

1. Engage students' viewing attention by having them watch or listen for specific information.
2. Give students a task to be completed during or after the video segment is shown.
3. Check to see if students completed the task successfully.

III. Viewing Activities

1. Keep lights on and watch the program with your students.
2. Segment the viewing of the program. Stop the video and ask key questions to stimulate on-the-spot discussions and critical thinking. Example: Based on what you have seen so far, what do you think will happen next?
3. Consider showing the video without sound. Narrate the program or ask a student to do so.
4. Darken the screen and use only the audio component.
5. Show brief clips. Only a 30-second image might be necessary.

IV. Post-Viewing Activities

1. Discuss the program.
2. Recognize diverse reactions. Help students relate the program to their own feelings and experiences.
3. Connect the program to prior or anticipated classwork.
4. Introduce extension activities, such as:
   • Creative writing
   • Long-term projects
   • Role-playing
   • Art projects
   • Video productions
   • Visits from experts