Using Screenplays to Integrate Filmwork in the ESL Classroom

Abstract

Although the use of film in both ESL and EFL classrooms is widespread, the screenplay on which most films are based is almost non-existent as a language learning resource. However, its structured framework provides the opportunity to teach skills-based activities that are contextually clear, particularly when accompanied by the movie. The primary challenge in adopting screenplay work into a curriculum, especially for educators not familiar with the format, is in ensuring specific language-based learning objectives are being met, whilst also encouraging creative freedom amongst the students. To that end, this paper begins with an introduction of what a screenplay is before examining how utilizing a script can transform the traditionally passive activity of watching a movie, into a series of justifiable language tasks. The familiarity with the language used from these comprehension activities then becomes the foundation for an assessable filmmaking task where students write their own screenplay and subsequently shoot it. The final part of this paper provides instructions on how to implement the movie-making segment and marking criteria for grading.