Writing About Media with Peter Elbow

"... the DVD provides a wealth of segments from educational films produced by the Media Education Foundation, as well as clips from mainstream cinema and television (both programs and commercials) that can be used as a foundation for lesson plans (a detailed PDF curriculum containing classroom strategies and several writing exercises is also included). The idea here is to use popular culture to motivate students towards an analytic approach to media, developing a sense of critical interpretation that would -- in turn -- lead to better academic writing skills. ...Writing About Media offers an intriguing supplement to general writing and composition studies. Recommended."

"In line with its goal "to inspire critical reflection on the social, political and cultural impact of American mass media," the Media Education Foundation has compiled excerpts from several of its longer productions about the cultural impact of popular media and advertising, and invited University of Massachusetts Professor Emeritus and author Peter Elbow to create a writing curriculum based on this material... The organization of, and accompanying descriptions of media clips are helpful and clear. MEF's production values are consistently high; excerpts from MEF-produced programs are entertaining and visually attractive. Although the basic format is similar in each clip -- incorporating expert commentary with vintage and contemporary footage -- each has its own look and pace, and the curriculum should sustain student interest over viewing of multiple clips. The use of popular high-end programs, music videos, and advertising dating from the late 2000's increases its appeal, while the curriculum text will be useful for teachers, especially those comfortable with Elbow's informal style. For its organization and wealth of teaching ideas, this program is highly recommended for high school and college-level teachers, including those wishing to incorporate more writing into area studies."